Top 5 Items To Equip Your First Home Gym

During these times of social restrictions with coronavirus, I'm sure, like many others, you are looking for ways to still get your workout in while the gyms are closed or you are restricted to staying home.

I have compiled a list of my top 5 favorite items to purchase to get your workout in, and not totally blow the budget. I also made a point to keep the total purchase conservative to avoid investing in super expensive equipment just yet, as you may not use it as much once the gyms open up again.

Also, if you don't have a dedicated space and need to put everything in the closet when not in use, this list will work for that too!

1. Pull up bar ($135)

I prefer a fixed bar that is attached to the wall or ceiling. You will use this bar for many different exercises and need it to be stable. My personal top choice for this type of bar is the ROGUE P-3 PULL-UP SYSTEM. If you do not have the space to attach this permanently, then you can choose a different style like one that temporarily fits in the doorway, but keep in mind that type will limit your use since it is less stable.

2. Suspension trainer ($99)

My personal choice is the TRX Fit System. This system is extremely diverse with training options and allows for a wide variety of functional movements. This kit also is great for travel use as it has a door anchor that you can use in hotel rooms, as well as a suspension anchor that you can attach to your fixed pull-up bar at home or any other sturdy structure like playground equipment at your local park. This kit also comes with demonstration posters and online access to basic workouts to help you with movements.

3. Adjustable Bench ($129)

There a many options out there for this need, but one of the many out there that I like, the FLYBIRD Adjustable Bench is a great option. There are 6 adjustable back pad postitions and 4 seat positions. There are many benches to choose from however, so look at the specifications to see which one may suit you best. Your personal height and weight should be factored in when deciding which bench is best for you. This bench is also great because it can fold up and be put away in the closet or under the bed for easy storage.

4. Adjustable Dumbbells ($279)

Standard dumbbells or plated weights are pretty pricey ( approx $1 per pound) and can definitely break the budget if you are wanting a whole set. However, Walmart online has Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Pair 5-50 lbs. Buying this set gives the versatility of getting a set of 11 pairs of dumbbells, which would cost approx $574 and take up so much space, plus you would have to buy the rack to hold them. Instead, you have two dumbbells, small enough to store in the closet, and major cost savings.

5. Slam Ball ($35-$110)

Slam balls are a super fun gym "toy" for your toybox. I personally like ROGUE ECHO SLAM BALLS as they do not bounce, are sturdy enough to take a repeated beating, and gentle enough to still be used for wall ball exercises. This is also a great stress relieving tool. For those times when being stuck inside is driving you nuts, or when work stress levels are on the rise, just start slamming...you'll get out so much frustration and get a super workout too! (This can also be helpful for high energy kids or hormonal teens that need an outlet to burn off energy too!)

Now, as the title says, this is for your first home gym. It's also for the person who does not have a lot of space and doesn't want to spend a ton of money. There are many ways to modify this plan to adjust for more training options with more or less expense.

One more thing to consider, is your training plan. If you are unsure of where to start, there are online training options we offer that can help you get started based on whatever equipment you have. Even if you don't have any equipment, LEANWell can still give you a very challenging workout plan, and custom coaching services to help you reach your goals.

Your feedback is always welcomed, please contact me personally @ sandy@leanwellonline.com or leave a comment below if you have any questions!!

(Disclaimer: I do not receive any compensation for suggesting these items. I simply wanted to share what home gym equipment I like, and would recommend to others.)