Home Gym Equipment Buying Tips
Buying equipment for your home gym is a significant expense, so you should think about the kinds of exercises you'd like to perform and the level you're at. This will help you narrow your choices and then make a purchase that you will use frequently.
The smart home gym Tonal, for example, employs electromagnets to mimic a cable machine. It also includes virtual classes and data tracking for an extensive workout at home.
Space
Home gym equipment can be an excellent way to keep healthy, without the commitment of an exercise membership. You can incorporate fitness equipment into your home, regardless of whether you plan to build a gym or not.
Assess best home fitness equipment and preferences to narrow down your options. If you're a fan of lifting heavy weights and exercise your muscles, look for equipment that can support this type of exercise. If you're more interested in cardio, on the other hand think about purchasing treadmills or other low-impact cardiovascular equipment.
You'll also want to take into consideration the space you have to put aside to store your gym equipment because this will impact your overall budget. For instance, you'll probably need a pair of adjustable dumbbells that are able to meet your needs for strength training, but if you have small space, you might be able to do with a flat set instead.
Once you have a sense of what your training needs will be, sketch out the dimensions of your space using blue painter's tape to help visualize the layout. You can draw on the tape so you can imagine how the space will look after the equipment is put in place. This is particularly useful in smaller spaces where a gym may be difficult to access.
You'll need to include a bench in addition to a squatrack to your set-up. This piece of equipment can be used for a variety exercises, including bench presses, decline and incline movements. Look for benches that are simple to build and provide plenty of support.
Anyone who trains on their own will appreciate having mirrors in their home fitness center, as this is a great method to ensure that you're doing exercises correctly. It can also help identify any areas that need improvement.
Functionality
Home gyms can be a great option for people who want to avoid expensive gym membership costs or exercise in a private setting. Take note of the type of workout you like and how often you want to exercise before you purchase equipment. Based on your requirements you might need a variety of exercise equipment or something specific like a functional trainer dumbbells, or a weight bench.
When you are looking for home equipment for your gym, it's important to take into consideration how much space you could afford to allocate to a training zone. Certain pieces of equipment weigh hundreds of pounds and require lots of space to store. Certain pieces, such as the well-known Life Fitness G7 home gym require only a 7-foot square area, and can be folded away for greater flexibility and space.
Another thing to consider is how easy it is to move and relocate your home gym equipment. Some pieces are mounted on wheels and can be moved easily but others require expert assistance in moving. For families, this is particularly important as it's likely that the entire family will use the equipment.
If you're looking for a high-quality gym at home or free weights that are more traditional, make certain to investigate every piece of equipment. Be sure to choose an option that is appropriate to your body shape and enough resistance to challenge.
Some of the top smart home gyms include built-in workouts and AI personal trainers who provide a variety exercises and challenges. This can be an excellent method to keep your workouts enjoyable and interesting by adding new elements without having the expense of hiring personal trainers.
While a lot of people think of rowing machines when it comes to smart home gyms but there are other options that can be just as efficient. The Freak Athlete's Nordic Hyper Pro, for example, offers various exercises including GHD sit-ups as well as 45-degree back extension. It can accommodate people up to 7 feet tall and has 14 different incline progressions. It is more difficult to lift and less flexible than the Vitruvian or Tonal, but offers an excellent experience for an affordable price.
Aesthetics
The way workout equipment looks can play a role in its appeal. The bulky, heavy-duty equipment can be intimidating and take up a lot of space in a tiny space. However, sleek, compact pieces provide a range of exercise options that will keep users engaged and motivated.
Decorate your space with a style to make your gym more welcoming. For instance, this area designed by Joy Street Design features decorative mirror walls and gorgeous wall sconces that can be used for task lighting. These features add a touch of luxury that makes this space feel like a welcoming retreat, rather than an exercise space.
If you're concerned about space and budget, choose an adjustable pulley system that can also function as a full-body machine. This model from BOS Fitness comes with a variety attachments, including an exercise machine that can row and the triceps roping. It's also covered by a limited warranty.
Consider this all-in one system from Bowflex to get a more comprehensive alternative. It has a small footprint and 210 pounds of strength. Although it doesn't strengthen your legs as much as a leg press designed specifically for you, this piece of home gym equipment is perfect for those who wish to make space and have all their fitness requirements met in one.
Another way to add a sense of style to your gym is to choose pieces that fold or hide away when not in use. In this pool house-turned-workout space by Curated Nest a hidden treadmill, stowable benches, and other pieces allow the area to be used as a guest bedroom when not in use for yoga or other exercise.
A clean white paint isn't always the only method to make your home gym look stylish. A dark, moody hue, such as the Farrow & Ball Hague Blue that is featured in this space designed by Sunny Circle Studio, helps create a more inviting space for working out while also coordinating with your chosen equipment. A calming palette will also help you focus on your exercise.
Budget
Equipment for your home gym can be expensive, particularly in the case of high-end equipment. A basic set of weights, benches and machines could be less expensive than you think. Be aware that the initial investment will save you money in the long run since you don't have to pay for gym memberships.
Before you start shopping make sure you know your goals and determine what you will typically use. This will allow you to narrow down your choices and make smart decisions that fit your budget. Avoid buying gimmicks or gadgets that aren't very useful. Over-the-door pull up bars for instance, may not be stable enough for proper reps. Instead, invest in a quality pull-up bar that's built to last.
Then, take the time to search for the best price. Compare the online and in-store prices. Also look for secondhand or refurbished equipment that's in good condition. It's common to find great deals on gym equipment during the early months of the year as people try to keep their New Resolutions for the New Year. You can then find even better deals after fitness plans are aborted.
Be sure to inquire about the return and warranty policies when purchasing new equipment. Ask about the cost of installation for larger items such as treadmills or squat stands. Finally, don't forget about ongoing expenses such as flooring mirrors, TV mounting and flooring, which can add to.
While creating a home gym may require some upfront cost but most buyers find it can save them money over time, compared to the cost of an annual gym membership. It's more relaxing than having to go to a gym each time you exercise, which could cause you to quit your workout and eventually reversing your fitness goals.
To keep your gym equipment in top condition, clean yoga mats and other equipment after every use to avoid sweat and dirt buildup. In addition, regularly grease moving parts to keep the equipment running smoothly. This helps prevent overuse and excessive wear, which can increase your risk of injury. It's also an excellent idea to invest in an exercise journal so you can keep track of your improvement over time and pinpoint areas for improvement.