The components of your home gym vary based on factors that include space, budget and goals. Basic components apply to any home gym, whether you're a seasoned athlete or a beginner who exercises for the health benefits. Take time to assess the space and your exercise goals to create a functional home gym space.
Space
For an effective home gym, you need plenty of space to hold the equipment. You also need open space to perform exercises such as jumping jacks, pushups and crunches. If you have exercise machines, the home gym needs to accommodate the footprint of the machines along with extra space around them so you can access them. The space also provides a safety clearance in case you lose your footing and allows you free movement on the machines. The height of the room is a consideration with machines. Consider how high you stand when using the machine. Check to make sure there is enough clearance in the room to freely use the machine without bumping your head on the ceiling.
Flooring
A home gym also needs a safe flooring material. Carpet makes it difficult for machines to sit level. Stable flooring that isn't slippery is ideal. Rubber, laminate or vinyl flooring options work for a home gym. An exercise mat place provides a soft surface for exercise moves performed on the floor.
Aerobic Equipment
Aerobic exercise increases your cardiovascular capacity by working the heart and lungs. You also burn calories as you perform aerobic exercises. Walking, jogging, biking, elliptical machines, jump roping and dancing fall into the aerobic category. If the budget allows, a treadmill, exercise bike or elliptical machine in the home gym offers an aerobic workout. A jump rope is an inexpensive piece of equipment for aerobics. Another option is an aerobic exercise video. Placing a TV and DVD player in the home gym allows you to do an exercise video. The TV also provides entertainment as you work out on other equipment.
Strength Training Equipment
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends strength exercises on at least two days each week. There are several options for strength training equipment in the home gym. A complete home gym weight lifting machine is an expensive option that provides several different strength exercises. A barbell set and weightlifting bench is less of an investment while still offering versatility for those who want to lift heavier weights. Hand weights, dumbbells, resistance bands and exercise balls are lighter and less expensive strength training tools for your home gym.
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