Did you set New Year goals for getting in shape? Here I go over my favorite workout items for 2024 that I can’t live without and some tips for how to set up your home gym at a fraction of the cost.
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This year I am focusing on my fitness, but not just fitness but wellness. That means I am making an effort to choose workouts that not only with trim and tone and boost calorie burn, but will also help me build strength to prevent injury as well as decompress and relax. Whether you want the serenity of good stretching or pilates workout, or would like to take a scenic ride through France, these workout picks are sure to help you meet your 2024 fitness goals and at a price that make you feel less guilt for splurging on yourself.
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, finding time to hit the gym can be challenging. However, with the rising popularity of home workouts, creating your own home gym has become a convenient and effective solution to stay fit. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of setting up your home gym, making fitness more accessible and enjoyable within the comfort of your own space.
Why a Home Gym you ask?
- First off, the convenience and cost effectiveness. We all know one of the biggest problems of committing to a workout plan is showing up. After a long hard day, or if you need to hit the snooze once or twice, a home gym makes it easier to make sure you keep your commitment. The fact that you cut out the commute not only saves you time but money too. Now I know what you’re thinking, it’s expensive to purchase quality pieces of equipment. I’m here to help you with my top picks that help you get the best bang for your buck. Plus it may cost a little more up front, but you will save money in the years to come and you will not get stuck being charged for a membership that you forget to pause or cancel. If you are looking for more ideas on how to set up a home gym in your office, check out this article on The Ultimate Home Office Decor to Increase Productivity and Wellness.
Step-by-Step Guide to Setting Up Your Home Gym:
1. Select Your Dedicated Space:
- Choose a space that you can separate from your home living and sleep area. Some people love to make an office/workout space. This is great because if you occasionally work from home, you can workout during some of those conference calls or zoom meetings when you are able to. No guilt there, research shows exercise improves focus and retention! Some things to keep in mind are ventilation. Do you have a fan or a window you can use to keep the air going and fresh.
2. Assess Your Fitness Goals:
- Identify your fitness objectives, whether it’s weight loss, muscle gain, or overall wellness.
- Your goals will influence the type of equipment you need.
3. Invest in Essential Equipment:
- Cardio Equipment:My recommendation is a stationary bike.A study published in the “Journal of Sports Science & Medicine” (2017) found that stationary cycling significantly improved cardiovascular fitness. Participants who engaged in stationary cycling experienced improvements in aerobic capacity, heart rate, and blood pressure. In addition, stationary bikes are used for physical therapy due to muscles that are exercised as well as being easy on joints.A study in the “Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy” (2016) highlighted the low-impact nature of stationary biking, making it suitable for individuals with joint issues or those recovering from injuries. The smooth, circular motion of cycling helps reduce stress on the joints compared to high-impact exercises.
- Strength Training: Dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, and a bench are versatile choices. Here I will highlight a set that will allow you the versatility of use as dumbbells, kettlebells etc.
- Flexibility: It’s important not to underestimate the importance of stretching and spine alignment. Include a yoga mat, if possible a stability ball, and foam roller. If you don’t have room for a stability ball, prioritize a mat for stretching and a foam roller!
4. Create an Atmosphere You Want to Be in:
- Paint and decorate your room to keep you motivated. Install mirrors to check your form during exercises. I recently made this addition to my workout room and it has really improved my workouts and form. I love keeping myself accountable with a good mirror. Also, get a TV that allows you to stream workouts as well as music.
- Use storage to keep everything in its place. If it feels like a pro gym, you will feel better and be more motivated!
Below our my top picks for setting up the ultimate home gym!
This is still my favorite piece of exercise equipments that I purchased last year. If you are looking for one piece of equipment to amp up your workout you will not be disappointed with the Peloton Bike. The classes that are offered through Peloton are fantastic, with choices of music, type of workout and duration or take a nice scenic ride on the Lago di Garda ride. There are also different levels from beginning to advanced, and everything in between. Cycling is the workout of choice if you want to strengthen you knees or are recovering from a knee injury. You will not regret treating yourself to a Peloton. Get the Original Peloton Bike with update seat on sale at Amazon for $1145.00 from 1445.00
on sale for $1145.00 through Amazon.
If you’re like me and make an effort to reduce the toxins in your life, (I’m talking about real toxins here tsk tsk) you will love the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat. Yoga mats that do not contain toxins are pricier than the average yoga mat but if you are doing a yoga or pilates workout, it is nice to not you are not inhaling unnecessary toxic fumes. This mat is meticulously handmade in an emissions-free German facility with 100% latex-free PVC that has been certified STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX. In addition, these mats last much longer. Of the non toxic mats out there, and I’ve tried a few, you will not be disappointed with the Manduka Pro Yoga mat. It is easy to clean and, whereas some nontoxic cork mats have slip and need to be wetted down, this mat has fantastic grip. You can get it here in several different colors. Treat yourself to the serene yoga workout you deserve with the Manduka Pro Yoga Mat!
Ever since I used resistance bands to recover from a shoulder injury, I have loved using them as a quick workout and preventative care and strength training. Everyone should have a set of these at home! This Nenrsl Resistance Band set is complete with the door anchor and which lets you set your bands at the perfect height for varying exercises, close the door and you are good to go! They come in Green(10-15 lbs), Blue(20-25lbs), Red(30-35lbs) and are 600 mm in length. Whether you need resistance bands for physical therapy or just to maintain excellent muscle strength and toning, this band set has got you covered! These Physical Therapy Resistance bands are on sale for 16.99 at Amazon.
This set of dumbbells gives perfect versatility to a home gym. It comes with kettlebell, barbell and push-up stand. It’s easy to assemble and disassemble and stores away easily! Get the Adjustable Dumbbell set now for 27% off at Amazon.
20/30/40/50/70/90lbs Free Weight Set with Connector Limited Time Deal $109.49
Here at Friday Findz we do our best to seek out quality items that are free from environmental toxins. This home gym storage is made of carbon steel so it is durable and nontoxic. It is has just enough storage for mats and rollers and your dumbbell set and accessories while not taking up too much space. Plus it has wheels! Need I say more! Get it here for 69.99 plus $25% off with coupon. This is a great deal!
These mirrors are easy to install and allow you to get a good view of your posture and form, while giving your gym a little bit of style and the illusion of more space.
Creating your own home gym is a fun experience that is guaranteed to have a positive impact on your health and help you meet your goals. Home gyms have been on the rise since the pandemic and I think many people have decided they love the convenience and privacy that you get which allows you to stay on track. Cheers to a healthier, happier and fitter you!