Many people want a home gym, but they don't know where to start; they often purchase equipment that is too big or too advanced. There are three steps to building a home gym that is useful and motivational.
1. Find Right Space
The problem most home gym enthusiasts run into is inadequate space for the equipment they already purchased. Never buy gym equipment without knowing where it will go, and make sure that you measure the space.
You do not need a huge space for your workout, depending on the exercise routine you have or plan on using. However, some workouts do require more area, such a HIIT. If you are just starting out, you can likely make room within a bedroom, garage, basement, or another unused space in the house. Depending on your climate, you can even try setting up something outside.
2. Purchase Quality and Effective Equipment
People often assume that quantity leads to a better quality setup, but that is not always true, especially in a home gym. Most homes do not have space for multiple pieces of heavy, bulky equipment, so you need to focus on the necessities. When thinking about the equipment you want to purchase, consider the following three categories:
- Strength
- Cardio
- Recovery
When people think of strength training, they jump to the cumbersome weight and cable machines. There is no need for such large pieces of equipment, especially in a beginner’s gym. Instead, focus on small, portable weight training solutions, like kettlebells, dumbbells, resistance bands, stability balls, or balance discs. None of this equipment is particularly expensive, and it is more than enough to get you started.
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When it comes to cardio, the typical purchase is a treadmill, which is an excellent machine if you have the money and space for it. However, if you are tight on space or cash, consider picking up a jump rope — perhaps a weighted one for added resistance. Cardio is meant to increase your heart rate, which requires movement. If you do not want to spend any money on equipment, go for a jog or go up and down your basement stairs, anything to get your heart pumping.
Unfortunately, many people neglect equipment for recovery. Sure stretches are a decent way to cool down after a workout, but you can help your muscles a lot by investing in some foam rollers. According to some research, rolling out your muscles after a workout can reduce soreness and muscle fatigue.
3. Create an Inviting and Motivational Space
Your gym must motivate you to work out. If you do not even like to walk into the space, how will you feel about working out in it several times per week? Your gym should be filled with bright lights and colors. It would help if you filled the walls and gym with things that make you feel energized for a workout, including a playlist.
Remember, without action, a home gym is just decorative and pointless. The entire reason to bring the gym home is to encourage physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. How do you plan to make your gym a place you want to be, and do you have any tips for the rest of the Smarter Science of Slim community? Leave a comment below.
I, too, am guilty: too little space, too little planning, too much equipment purchased & little used.
terry ineed a weight gym with leg press n abt 200 lbs n it needs to be able to handle a 6’4″ person can u please help me.