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If you want to create a gym that will provide you with a total
body workout (cardio, strength and flexibility) and you have a
budget of at least $1000, consider the following recommendations:
Treadmill – The best option for cardiovascular equipment
because it can be used for running, walking, and even some leg
strength training. Plus, workouts can continually be varied based
on speed, incline, even direction. And, it easily progresses as
fitness levels improve.
Full dumbbell set with weights ranging from 5 pounds to 50+ pounds.
– Great for light toning, to intermediate strength training
to building muscles. Less expensive than selectorized machines
and usually provides more flexibility and variety in workouts.
Fitness Ball – Provides exercise options for toning, strengthening
and stretching.
Resistance Band – Provides another option for strength
training. Can alternate use with free weights for a great challenge
that will help prevent plateaus.
Step Bench – Can be used for both cardio workouts and strength
training workouts.
If you want a home gym specifically for building muscles (or
just can’t afford cardio equipment), and can afford at least
$100, consider the following recommendations: Dumbbell set, Fitness
Ball, Resistance Band,
Jump Rope – Offers very challenging cardiovascular fitness
workouts at a very low price.
If you want a total body home gym but can only afford less than
$100, consider the following recommendations: Three dumbbells
sizes (e.g. 5, 10 and 15 pounds), Resistance Band, Jump Rope
If you are limited to purchasing just one very affordable piece
of equipment, consider buying a Fitness Ball. As mentioned above,
it provides many different exercise options. With the ball you
can get an upper body workout, a lower body workout, very challenging
abdominal workout and a stretching/flexibility workout. And, you
can get all of this for around $35.
Also, don’t underestimate what you can do with things
that are already in your house, like stairs, a chair, milk jugs
and others. There are a lot of exercises that require no equipment
at all. For example, push-ups, tricep dips, squats, calf raises,
etc. You can even create your own “weights” through
milk jugs filled with water or sand.
As you can see, there are a lot of options available for creating
a home gym that will meet your individual needs and will provide
a lot of workout variety. Even on a shoestring budget, you can
still make a wise purchase that will be invaluable in helping
you get more fit and healthy. And, you’ll enjoy all the
benefits of working out at home.
What are the benefits of working out at home? Well, here are
some highlights:
- No wasted time driving to and from a fitness club
- No waiting in line to use the equipment
- Workout on your schedule, rather than just when the health
club is open
- No expensive monthly membership fees or long-term contracts
- Motivation to workout as you pass by the equipment every
day
Of course, you will need previous knowledge of how to use your
home equipment or you will have to be willing to learn. But, it’s
not difficult. Most equipment will come with basic instructions
and a few sample exercises. You may want to enlist the help of
a professional to provide additional exercise options and guidance
that will ensure that you get the most out of your fitness equipment
through every fitness level stage.
For an affordable workout plan personalized to your individual
needs and available equipment, enroll in a WorkoutsForYou.com
online fitness program.
Written by Lynn Bode, owner of WorkoutsForYou.com.
Workouts For You provides affordable online exercise programs
to help you lose weight, tone-up, build muscles, increase stamina
and more.
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