There are things to consider before deciding which type of resistance equipment to invest in, such as how much to spend, space available in the home to store equipment and your personal fitness goals. Exercise equipment does not have to be top of the line or expensive to offer an effective resistance workout.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are inexpensive, compact and can give you a total-body workout anywhere. Resistance bands come in different resistance levels based on the color of the band. It is a good idea to purchase a variety of different resistance levels, because some muscle groups will require more resistance than others such as exercises involving the legs.
Free Weights
Free weights incorporate the stabilizing muscles that allow you to perform the movements you choose to make and may be more effective in producing overall muscular strength and power gains, according to the American Council on Exercise. Dumbbells and barbells tend be an affordable option for a home gym. A barbell set may be a good choice with limited space available. The set usually is about 110 lbs and often times comes with its own carrying case for easy storage.
Exercise Balls
Exercise balls are a great addition your home gym, because they are small, inexpensive, and effective at strengthening the abs and lower-back. Because it is a little unstable and you must constantly adjust to remain balanced, use of the stability ball improves the functional strength, balance and flexibility of the body, according to Cindy Brotherston, CPT of Busy Women's Fitness.
Benches
Adjustable benches allow you to train with free weights using a variety of different angles, allowing you to target different muscle groups. Adjustable benches come in a variety of styles, and some even offer attachment options giving you the ability to add a leg extension/leg curl attachment or a preacher bench attachment for greater versatility. Step aerobic benches are also an inexpensive, effective bench, allowing you to use the equipment for aerobics, step-ups or even as a substitute for a weight bench.
Universal Machines
Universal weight machines, such as the Bowflex, offer the convenience of a total resistance training workout in one complete unit. Such machines are geared for individuals of all fitness levels and allow you train a variety of different muscle groups with a variety of exercises.
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