Home Fitness: How to Choose Exercise Equipment and Where to Place It

Traditional Den by Arthur W. Mattes, Jr. Carpentry in Walnutport, PA

Cost-effectiveness and ease of access make home gyms an appealing alternative to traditional gyms, but you want to make sure you’re equipped for a full-body workout. This article lays out the fundamentals of a full-body workout and will help you choose the right equipment for your needs and where to put your home gym.

A full-body workout involves:

• Weight and strength training.
• Cardio.
• Core muscle strengthening.
• Building flexibility.

Weight and Strength Training

Life can be easier with some strength, and lifting weights is a great way to build muscle, and maybe burn some fat as well. A recent study conducted by health sciences faculty at the University of Sydney (http://sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2016/10/25/increasing-muscle-strength-can-improve-brain-function–study.html) shows that strength training can even improve thinking skills.

Suggested equipment: weight benches, power towers, dumbbells

Aerobics/Cardiovascular Workout

A full-body workout is incomplete without cardio, because it increases your stamina and can help you lost weight; it’s a good idea to begin your workout with a routine that will get your heart pumping.

Suggested equipment: treadmill, stationary cycle, elliptical

Core Training

Core training is important for strengthening the muscles around your abdomen, hips, and pelvic regions. Strong core muscles aren’t limited to six packs and flat abs; core strength can improve posture and may ease back pain.

Suggested equipment: rowing machine, gym ball, ab trainer

Where Can You Put Home Gym Equipment?

You can dedicate an entire room to your home gym, or you can keep equipment in the basement, garage, attic, or the corner of a room. Large equipment can be split up and kept in multiple places if you don’t have a single space for everything. Wherever you exercise, make sure you have proper ventilation and plenty of light.

Pros and Cons of a Home Gym

Pros

• Less expensive than gym in the long run.
• Just as effective as a traditional gym.
• Easy access any time of day.

Cons

• You may make mistakes without a trainer.
• Equipment is a big investment; if you give up on your training after a short time, that’s money wasted.

Your home is a great place start a workout routine. You can focus on strength, muscles, fat loss, cardio or do a bit of everything to get a full-body workout. It’s easier than ever to own and maintain a home gym; professional service providers can install and repair the equipment for you. Consult our Cost Guide for a complete cost breakdown of installing gym equipment in your home.

A few things to remember

1. Consult a physician before starting any workout.
2. Get the help of a trainer from time to time to determine if you are doing the workout correctly.
3. Never overdo a routine; know your limitations.

1 Comments

1. Sarmad Almuaibd, December 27:

   I am looking to install Powerline P2X Home Gym with Leg Press in my home and I am looking for the price. I am living in zip code 20124.

   Thanks