What are your current training goals? Maybe you’re hoping to bridge the gap between now and when the gyms reopen, or perhaps you have your eye on that personal best. Whatever your goals, you’re going to need a strong home-gym set up to see your through. Purchasing fitness equipment isn’t as straightforward as it should be, and if this is your first time, you may be wondering where to begin.
So, what is classed as a home gym essential? Well, it’s a piece of equipment that without it, you can’t train effectively. Some equipment can be easily substituted, or you can use bodyweight exercises to replicate the movements you want, but if your intention is to build muscle or maintain your current level of fitness, then there are some equipment essentials no home gym should be without. Read on to find out what you need.
Dumbbells and kettlebells
A selection of dumbbells and kettlebells are home-gym essentials. You can use dumbbells and kettlebells for exercising as they’re incredibly versatile and regardless of your fitness plan they’re easy to incorporate. Dumbbells and kettlebells allow you to go as light as you want, something which you don’t get with Olympic barbells and their associated weights. So, the mantra ‘start light to get it right’ is something you can apply while you work on your safe lifting and exercise technique.
If you’re focusing on specific muscle groups or joints, then you’ll benefit from having dumbbells or kettlebells at hand. From a chest fly to bicep curls, even lateral raises and dumbbell shrugs, you’ll be able to target specific muscle groups whilst resting others, or help you fix up those muscle imbalances. Alternatively, if your fitness journey is just beginning or you’re recovering from an injury then you’ll find dumbbells and kettlebells less intimidating and easier to handle than other advanced equipment.
Battle ropes
Looking to improve your coordination, burn calories, and incorporate a more challenging form of cardio? This simple yet highly effective piece of equipment is something everyone can use, regardless of your fitness or experience levels. Targeting your chest, upper back, biceps and triceps, you can even incorporate some squats and jumps into your chosen routines. Whether you make waves or slam the ropes you’ll get a high intensity, low impact workout every time.
Resistance bands
If you’re limited for space in your home gym, then resistance bands are an easy choice. These simple yet effective bands can help you build muscle, work on your flexibility and even improve the mobility of your joints. Perfect for those just starting out.
A “PLYO-box”
Looking for more of an explosive, regular workout? If so, an exercise box is a perfect addition to your home gym set up. The height of your box will determine the exercises you can attempt, but anything from box jumps to burpees, push-ups and Bulgarian split squats are possible. You can also use them in conjunction with other equipment making them a versatile home-gym essential.
Don’t forget
The little things can also make a big difference. Smaller essentials such as lifting gloves, hand wraps, a mat, medicine balls and of course a great playlist should also be in your home gym.
