Don’t let the word Gym scare you away!  I am not talking about going out and getting a leg press machine, a smith machine/squat rack, etc.  If you are ready to build an awesome home gym, pick up these essentials mentioned in this post on your next Walmart or Target run or even Amazon.

The key here is to purchase equipment that is very versatile, lightweight and can be stored in small spaces.  It’s always great to have the option of picking up a piece of equipment to enhance your at home workout, but if this is not an option for you at this point in time, just know that you can still get a great workout in with no equipment at all.  Equipment enhances your workout and your results. Click the pictures for more information.

Investing in a good cushioned mat is not a bad idea when you are doing any exercises that require you to be on your knees or on your back.  It yields a little more comfort and stability than performing the exercise on the floor alone.

These short resistance bands give you excellent resistance for your lower body.  You can even use them for upper body workouts.  These bands produce a great deal of burn that helps you sculpt your legs and build that bootay!

 

The long resistance bands are great for your upper body and can be used for stretching.  Wrap the bands around a door knob, a monkey bar or just throw it in your purse and get a short workout in on the go.

The stability ball works your core, your arms and your legs to build balance and strength.  You can also replace your desk chair with the stability ball to get a great core exercise in while you are at work.

These can be as simple as using 2 paper plates.  Place these under the balls of your feet or under the palms of your hand and start sliding and pushing.  This is a great way to increase your heart rate and boost your metabolism.

Skipping rope is an excellent way to burn tons of calories in a short amount of time.  This is a full body exercise.  You are literally using every muscle in your body when you jump rope.  Use this as a cardio option or in between your exercise sets.  Click here for a quick jump rope workout.

 

Dumbbells can be used to tone your entire body.  I recommend that you purchase at least 2 different weight options, if you are able to do so.  The dumbbells help you to sculpt your muscles.

The Kettle Bell delivers compound movements which involve more than 1 joint and works 2 or more muscle groups at the same time.  Kettle bells will help you to sculpt your butt, legs, back and arms.

If you are up for a good sweat, especially when it is cold outside, invest in a sauna suit.  This is a sure fire way (no pun intended :-)) to tap into your body’s furnace and burn more calories!  Who wouldn’t want to burn additional calories?

These are just a few essentials to give you options and to enhance your workouts.  If you decide to build an at home gym with these essentials or if you already have one, send me pictures!  I would love to see them.

Until Next Time,