Things to consider before buying the Best Home Gym Without a doubt, having your own gym set up at home is way more convenient than going to your local gym and paying the monthly membership fees. However, before purchasing from the sports store, you’re going to have to consider a number of factors. In this article, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know before setting up your own home gym.
Gym Equipment Types Before you embark on your fitness quest, it's crucial to understand the different types of gym equipment available. Picture them as your trusty companions in this journey to a healthier you! We have the strength equipment, which empowers you to build those muscles, and the cardio equipment, your allies in boosting cardiovascular health. So, which camp will you join?
Your Fitness Needs After you’ve determined the strength equipment and the cardio equipment, it’s time for you to choose what training program you’ll be going for. You’re going to ask yourself what you want to achieve by working out. Do you want to lose weight, build muscle, or improve your cardio? These guidelines will help you figure out which equipment is ideal for you.
If you’re trying to lose weight, you’d want a machine that will help you burn fat, such as an elliptical machine or a treadmill. If you want to build muscle, equipment that allows you to lift weights would be the ideal choice, such as dumbbells or a bench press. If you’re aiming to improve your cardiovascular health, you’d want to get a rowing machine or an exercise bike. You also have the option to set up a well-rounded workout routine, with both cardio and strength equipment in your arsenal.
To help you out, we’ve provided you with a list of gym equipment and their corresponding fitness goals:
Bodyweight training equipment: This equipment includes resistance bands, balance trainers, and TRX suspension trainers. They are excellent tools for building muscle and improving strength without the need for traditional weights.Dumbbells: These versatile wonders unlock a world of workouts, allowing you to target various muscle groups. From bicep curls to overhead presses, dumbbells are the go-to choice for anyone looking to improve their strength and flexibility.Weight bench: For those who desire to master the art of weightlifting, the weight bench is your regal seat. Strengthen your muscles and take your physique to majestic heights with a wide range of weightlifting exercises. The weight bench is not just a piece of equipment; it's your gateway to building a strong and chiseled physique.Barbell bar: With this mighty tool, you'll conquer the most essential strength exercises, including shoulder presses, bench presses, barbell curls, and formidable deadlifts. Become the hero of your own strength story as you lift and transform your body with every rep.Kettlebells: These are extremely versatile tools that are great for improving power and muscular endurance.Squat rack/Power rack: Supporting a number of various workouts using a barbell, this is great for strengthening your core and building muscle.Treadmill: This is ideal for individuals aiming to lose weight and improve their cardiovascular health.Elliptical machines and exercise bikes: Great for individuals who want to tone their muscles and improve their cardiovascular health without putting too much stress on their joints. Exercise bikes are specifically ideal for individuals who are recovering from an injury.Rowing machines: Ideal for individuals who want a full-body workout and are aiming to improve their cardiovascular health.Ski machine: For those who want to improve their endurance.Multi-station machine: This offers a number of strength exercises, allowing for a well-rounded workout regimen. There are models that feature weight stacks while others have cables.Budget Good news, fitness fans! Building your home gym doesn't have to drain your wallet. Whether you're working with a tight budget or have a bit more wiggle room, there's a variety of options for every price point. Start small with resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells and gradually expand your collection as your budget grows. Remember, investing in top-notch equipment is a long-term commitment to your well-being, so it's worth every penny!
Available Space Nobody likes a cluttered gym! Take a look around your designated workout area and make sure there's enough space to comfortably accommodate your chosen equipment. Keep things organized, free of obstacles, and you'll have the freedom to move and groove without restriction.
Equipment Features Before your purchase, you have to make sure that you’ll be able to take advantage of the equipment’s features. For example, if a treadmill has a built-in timer or safety features, it would definitely benefit you more than a unit without one. Aside from that, ensure that you’re getting equipment that is comfortable; otherwise, you’ll find yourself giving up on your training program altogether. Get a unit with adjustable settings that allow you to find a position that is comfortable for you. On top of that, keep an eye out for equipment that has padded seats as well as non-slip grips, since these will keep you comfortable during the most intense workouts.
Equipment Repair and Warranty It’s always best to ensure that the sports store and manufacturer will be able to cover equipment repair and maintenance. Warranty programs that are able to cover all types of equipment repair and maintenance would be the ideal choice. That being said, it’s always best to read the fine print before your purchase.
Ease of Use If you’re a beginner, it’s best to choose equipment that is easy to operate, such as a pair of dumbbells, stair steppers, or a stationary bike. However, if you’re an intermediate or advanced fitness buff, you might want to get something that offers a bit more of a challenge, such as rowing machines, treadmills, or power cages.
On top of that, be sure that the equipment you’ll be getting is easy to set up and take down. Getting equipment that is too complicated might demotivate you from following your training program, so it’s best to choose equipment that’s easy to use and simple.
Your Personal Trainer Why embark on this journey alone when you can have expert guidance? If you have a personal trainer or know someone in the fitness industry, tap into their knowledge. They'll recommend the best gym equipment tailored to your unique needs, and who knows, they might even hook you up with a sweet discount!
Ratings and Reviews This is a brilliant way to get an unbiased opinion about the equipment you’re looking at. When looking at the reviews, we recommend looking at the pros and cons segment, as this will give you a well-rounded idea of what actual users think about a particular piece of equipment. Since everyone’s opinion is different, be sure to take into account your own needs and preferences when taking a look at the reviews from fitness magazines, Amazon, or other online sources.