With gym membership fees on the rise, and health, safety and proper maintenance being a concern - have you considered configuring your own home gym? You need less space then you think, and a simple, effective home gym is less expensive then you probably think! The key is to focus on versatile, quality equipment.
A 2018 study showed the average yearly gym membership was nearly $1200 - and 27% of those people were using their membership less then 1 time per week, and some less then 1 time per month. Thats a per visit cost of $144! Its no wonder that so many people are researching their own home gym setups.
Studies show even moderate exercise has enormous health benefits including boosting our immune systems. If you are wasting your gym membership, then our top 5 home gym equipment essentials will be just what you need to get back on track, stay fit, healthy and strong.
1. FREEWEIGHTS
There is nothing more versitle then freeweghts. They can be used in a near endless number of combinations and exercises. There is a variety of shapes, sizes, weights and types. Having a small collection of different types is the best way to give you infinite options.
2. BARBELL & PLATES
Olympic lifting is a crucial part of many popular workout routines, from CrossFit to a range of strength and conditioning programs. Lifts can be a great way to change up training whilst still developing strength, power, speed and coordination. But technical assistance is definitely advisable for beginners - or consider a spotting rig that lets you work out alone.
3. WALL BALL OR MEDICINE BALL
Build explosive power with versatile weight balls. Popular in commercial gyms, they have the ability to build your core strength, improve balance and co-ordination.
4. PLYO-BOX
A plyometric box workout boosts the 'explosiveness' of the body, and come in a variety of jump heights so you can build up from smaller heights. They can stimulate the central nervous system to build speed strength. Plyo Box exercises are the ideal way to warm up for cardio conditioning and weightlifting - just what you need for your at home warm-up.
5. RUBBER GYM FLOORING AND JIGSAW MATTS
Flooring might sound boring, but dont overlook the importance of it. Rubber gym flooring will protect both your home and your equipment and keep you safe with suitable grip underfoot. Dropping heavy weights will permanently damage a typical residential floor, and could crack your weights, while rubber matts will also protect from moisture. They are easy to clean and can be moved easily to reconfigure your space.