Home Gym Start Up

Going to a physical gym is nice but it is not for everyone. If 2020 has taught us anything, it has taught us that we need to be flexible and adaptable with our exercises. I have had a gym membership over the past several years but I would never go. In 2020, my hand was forced and I wasn’t able to go. But in the end, I always found an excuse. At one point, I did really well because I was paying for a trainer. He was great but I wouldn’t go on my own in between sessions.

Then COVID hit and gyms closed. I was “forced” to work out at home. I was “forced” to work out at home. As the avid fitness individuals were out of a gym, equipment flew off the shelves just as fast as they were stocked. I found myself spending most of 2020 building my gym to what it is today. However, to get started, you don’t need much, if anything.

Here’s what I learned.

Before You Get Started

1. You need to know what type of exercising you want to do.

If you are doing a specific routine, you may need certain equipment for that. For example, if you are doing yoga, you probably want to make sure you have a yoga mat. For the runner, you want to have running shoes. If you want to focus on strength training, you will find yourself needing a variety of weights. You’ll also need to consider how you will complete the exercises. Will you go through Pinterest, use apps, or videos on platforms like YouTube?

Once you know what type of exercises that you will be doing, you will need to know how much space you will need. Do you have available storage to keep your equipment out of the way? You don’t need to have a separate gym space. It could even be a corner of your living room. I do recommend taking the time to make the space feel welcoming and fun. You’ll be more inclined to use the space.

3. Do your research before buying your equipment.

Having exercise equipment is an investment. It’s an investment of your time, putting it towards your health, and it isn’t cheap. Do the research to ensure that you are getting the equipment that you need, want, and will be the most effective for your goals. If you are unsure of where to start but want to start getting items, look for used items online. Things may become more available as gyms begin to open. As you do your research or wait to find what you want, can you improvise in the meantime? There are a lot of ideas online that you could do to get you by as you get started.

Recommended Equipment

Once you know what you want, your list will be simplified. Equipment is expensive so don’t expect a full set up right away, unless you can afford it.

Here is what I recommend to get started.

1. Yoga mat – It is great for stretching and provides a layer of cushion for floor exercises. Having one does not commit you to doing yoga.
2. Set of lighter weights – If you can’t have a full weight set, a lighter set of weights can still build muscle when combined with repetition.
3. Bands – This small piece of equipment adds so much and can be used in so many different ways. These bands are a great way to add resistance to your workout.
4. Medicine ball – This condensed weight is great for abs and isolating muscles.
5. Good shoes – Unless you workout barefoot (which is a thing!), you will want to get the type of shoe that is best for the routine you have. If you are a runner, get running shoes. Good shoes will provide extra support during your exercise routine.
6. Jump rope – This may be a small piece of equipment but don’t discount it. You can get a great cardio routine in with a jump rope, assuming you don’t “jump” like me.
7. TV, tablet or smart phone – If you are using an app or watching videos to follow along, you’ll want something set up for this.

Bonus Items

If the above list works for you, I also have a bonus list that you can work towards as well.

1. Mirror – A great way to watch your form so that you don’t hurt yourself.
2. Set of medium and/or heavy weights – This will add variety to your workouts.
3. Bench – If you don’t have space for a bench, you can use a chair or the floor for certain exercises.
4. Stepper – Stairs are a great substitute though!

Motivation!

The most important thing that you need to have is motivation! Don’t have a home gym to just have a home gym. Just like investing in the equipment, invest in yourself. Having a set up at home is convenient, if you use it. Schedule the time to use your gym, just like you would if you had a membership somewhere. Find a program that you like and get started today. You’ll thank me later once the soreness wears off.

Did I miss something on my list of recommendations? What’s your one must have to your home gym?