Time and motivation are two of the biggest roadblocks that prevent my clients from getting to a gym on the regular. There seems to be this conception that fitness can only happen in the confines of a big box gym which is completely untrue.
A well rounded fitness practice is doable in a spare room, garage or a corner of your bedroom. It doesn’t have to be complicated or take up a lot of space.
Related:
- The Best home workouts for results
- 21 Day Fix Home Workout Results
- Piyo Home Workout - no equipment required!
My own home gym consists of just a few core pieces, and while I do have a gym membership, I rarely go because to be honest, I don't love the atmosphere of gyms. I find there’s generally always someone there doing something ridiculous that spoils the vibe, and getting to and from often takes too much time.
So here’s my basic equipment list for a simple at-home gym. I’ve also included an upper body workout that can be done with everything you see here. If you like that workout, I've got a lower body/glute routine I'm happy to share, so just send me a quick email and I’ll shoot it over to you.
Click here to download the Quick Upper Body Workout you can do from home.
The basics
10lb dumbells (pair)
15lb dumbells (pair)
20lb dumbells (pair)
Workout bands (a set that includes light, medium and heavy resistance)
Sliders (omg, these are the BOMB)
Yoga Mat (cheap mats suck, so spend a little to get one that won't disintegrate)
Not necessary, but fun to have
TRX System that can fit in any door (doesn't require a drill or hammer, thank God)
Bosu Ball (great alternative to a workout bench and just fun to do bounce work on!)
Question for you - Are you a die-hard gym goer, or can you workout at home? I didn't think I would be able to do the at-home gym thing, but it's actually helped me be more consistant with my workouts. I just wish I had more natural light in my spare room!
Caren is a certified yoga teacher, fitness instructor and author of The Fit Habit. Here she shares simple, low carb recipes, quick home workout ideas and practical ways to foster mind + body wellness.
Larissa
I've tried working out at home, but I find that I have a much more effective and efficient workout when I'm at the gym. The problem is I just have to get there. The motivation is lacking, especially since I used to be on a team and now trying to go to the gym solo is very hard! But I keep trying - and I'm taking the babiest of steps, but that's better than no steps at all!
c m
Something is always better than nothing, Larissa. It's good to have a few workouts you can do at home for those days when you just can't get out.
Alexandra
I always find it hard motivating myself to go to the gym. So will definitely be giving at home gym a try.
c m
Hey Alexandra, it's great for those days when you don't have much time. you really don't need much.
Marisa
I'm sooo glad I saw this. I was just trying to figure out how to keep exercising because we moved from our apt where I had a gym!! thank you so much! What do you use the sliders for?
c m
Marisa, sliders are great for lower and upper body workouts. Beachbody has a few workouts that use them (Piyo), but you could probably find workouts on youtube as well. They are AWESOME for the core!
Sarah Camille
I have most of these, but totally need to invest in some sliders. Working out with those really does wonders!!
c m
THey ROCK. I love me some sliders and they're a great tool for travel workouts.
Jocelyn
I love dumbbells and using them while on a balance ball! I should probably look into sliders!
c m
I love using dumbells on a balance ball as well. Great core work!