Build Your Home Gym:

Essential Fitness Equipment Guide 🏋️‍♀️✨

Are you looking to buy some fitness kit for your home workouts?

On a budget or not sure where to start?

Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered.

Read on to find my top 10 must haves for your home gym. Whether you are a complete beginner or you’re getting back into fitness, I have something for you.

A staple for any home gym, a good yoga mat provides comfort during floor exercises, yoga or Pilates sessions, or core exercises. Look for one with good grip and durability. Thicker mats are great for comfort but will make balancing exercises more challenging. Mats do not need to be expensive. I tend to get mine from Aldi (when they have them in special buys) or TKMax.

Versatile and small, resistance bands add resistance to your workouts, targeting various muscle groups. Perfect for strength training and toning. These are great if you have limited space or want to take them away with you. They are sold in a variety of styles and strengths. If you are fortunate to have a Decathlon shop near you, they have a great selection which you can try before buying.

An essential for strength training, dumbbells come in various weights, making them adaptable to your fitness level. They come in various styles and materials. I have a video explaining how to choose the right weight (link below). Get in touch if you want links to companies to buy from.

https://youtube.com/shorts/_AbGDz677dM?si=bbHozoxqvYk7HYsH

These are one of my favourite bits of kit. There are lots of exercises which can be performed with them and they are a great thing to own as well as a pair of dumbbells. Avoid the plastic ones or the ones with square handles. Again, get in touch if you want links to kettlebells I recommend.

Improve core strength and stability with a stability ball. Great for bodyweight exercises and challenging your balance. These take up a lot of space though so factor that in before buying.

Aid muscle recovery and reduce muscle soreness with a foam roller. Incorporate it into your post-workout routine for a self-massage. There are conflicting opinions around the effectiveness of foam rollers. If you like them then use them, if not, don’t. They come in different textures and sizes and don’t need to be expensive. I like the long ones as they can be used in some Pilates exercises.

This might seem like a strange one but tennis balls (or any other similar ball) are great for massage. I actually prefer them to foam rollers as you can target areas more specifically. Try rolling them under your foot to release any tension or lean against it pressed up against the wall to massage your back and shoulders. Ignore the strange looks you’ll get from your family!

You’ll either love or hate fitness trackers. I personally find it motivating (occasionally irritating) to track my exercise and activity. The cost of trackers varies dramatically. If this is your first tracker, don’t go for the top end model. Try one of the cheaper ones or even a second hand one to see if you like it first.

I am a big believer that you are more likely to exercise in clothing you enjoy wearing. Working out in sweatpants and your partners old t-shirt is unlikely to make you feel good about yourself. Invest in something you feel comfortable and confident in. Those of you who know me know about my Vinted obsession. There are some great bargains to be had on fitness gear. Tell me what you get if you buy anything please!

It can be incredibly hard to motivate yourself to workout at home. Make it easier for yourself by using online classes or workouts. There are options for every budget. Free workouts on YouTube, app subscriptions from celebrities, or online workouts from local instructors*. Choose what works for you.

*You can find my online course using the link below:

https://www.jobridgefitness.com/newpage

Building your home gym doesn't have to break the bank. Look for budget-friendly options and gradually expand your collection as your fitness routine evolves. Remember, the key is consistency and finding enjoyment in your fitness journey!

Get more tips on my YouTube playlist:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL7kWWKELW7YKB5szbhFwGQ02yH9VyTgf3

Please get in touch if you need any more advice about buying fitness equipment.

Have a great week,

Jo