Home Gym Equipment Buying Tips
The purchase of equipment for your home gym is a major investment, so consider what type of workouts you want to do and at what level you're at. This will help narrow down your options to make a wise purchase that you will use frequently.
For example the wall-mounted smart home gym Tonal uses electromagnets to mimic the appearance of a cable machine, but also adds virtual classes (and data tracking) to give you a more complete at-home workout experience.
Space
Home gym equipment is a great way to stay in shape without the need to sign up for a gym membership. Whether you're planning to build an entire gym or simply want to add some fitness equipment to your living room You can do it by a bit of forward thinking.
Assess your fitness goals and training preferences to narrow down your options. If you're a fan of lifting heavy weights and exercise your muscles, look for equipment that is suited to this kind of training. If you're more interested in cardio on the other hand, consider investing in treadmills or other cardio equipment that is low-impact.
It is also important to think about the space you have for gym equipment as this will affect your overall budget. For instance, you'll likely want a good pair of adjustable dumbbells that can handle your strength training needs however if you're in a limited space, you might be able to work using a flat set.
Once you have a clear idea of what your requirements for training will be, map out the dimensions of your space using blue painter's tack to help visualize the layout. You can draw on the tape so that you can visualize how it will appear when the equipment is installed. This is especially useful in smaller spaces that cannot accommodate a full-blown gym.
Apart from a squat rack, you'll also need to think about adding benches to your set-up. This piece of equipment can be used for a variety of exercises, such as bench presses as well as decline and incline exercises. Make sure you choose benches that have lots of support and are easy to assemble.
Mirrors are essential for anyone who trains alone. They will ensure that they're doing the exercises correctly. Additionally, it can help you to see any areas that could be improved.
Functionality
Home gyms are a favorite option for those who want to cut out costly gym membership fees or exercise in a more private setting. Consider what kind of workouts you enjoy and how often you want to exercise before purchasing equipment. Depending on your needs you might require various types of fitness equipment or something more specific such as a functional trainer, dumbbells, or a weight bench.
If you're in the market for equipment for your home gym, it's important to also consider how much space can be devoted to a training space. Certain pieces of equipment weigh hundreds of pounds and require lots of space to store. Certain pieces, such as the well-known Life Fitness G7 home gym require just a 7-foot square space and can be folded away to provide space-saving flexibility.
You should also consider how easy it is to move and relocate the equipment in your gym at home. Some pieces are mounted on wheels and are able to be moved easily and others require professional assistance in moving. For families, this is particularly important as it's likely that everyone in the family will use the equipment.
If you're looking for an efficient home gym or traditional free weights, make sure to research the features of every piece of equipment. Make sure that it has an option that is appropriate to your body's shape and provides enough resistance to test.
Some of the best smart home gyms have built-in workouts and AI personal trainers who can offer a variety of exercises and challenges. This is a great way to keep your workouts fun and varied since you can add new elements without having the expense of hiring an individual trainer.
There are a variety of options for smart home gyms. While rowing machines are a popular choice however, other options can be equally efficient. For example the Freak Athlete Nordic Hyper Pro provides an array of exercises like nordic hamstring curls, GHD sit-ups, and 45-degree back extensions. It is able to support people up to 7 feet tall and features 14 different incline levels. It can be challenging to lift and lacks flexibility than the Tonal or the Vitruvian, but it offers an excellent workout experience at a lower price.
Aesthetics
The design of the equipment can play a role in its appeal. The bulky, heavy-duty equipment can be intimidating and take up space in a small space. However, sleek, compact pieces offer a variety exercise options that will keep users motivated and engaged.
When it comes to aesthetics, the most effective way to make your gym appear more inviting is to incorporate decor that matches your style. For instance, this space created by Joy Street Design features decorative mirror walls and beautiful wall sconces that can be used for task lighting. These accents add a bit of luxury to the space and make it feel more like a retreat rather than gym.
If you're concerned about the space-saving and budget-saving potential of gym equipment at home choose an elegant pulley system that is able to double duty as a complete-body machine. This model by BOS Fitness comes with a variety of attachments, such as an exercise machine that can row and triceps roping. It's also covered by a limited warranty.
For a more comprehensive solution, you can consider this all-in-one system from Bowflex. It has a small footprint and 210 pounds of strength. Although it doesn't exercise your legs as effectively as a leg press designed specifically for you but this piece of home gym equipment is ideal for those looking to save space and have their workout needs met in one unit.
Another way to add a sense of style to your home gym is to select pieces that fold or tuck away when not in use. For instance in this pool house turned exercise space designed by Curated Nest The hidden treadmill and stowable bench allow the space to be used as a guest room when not being used for yoga or other relaxation exercises.
Crisp white paint isn't the only option to make your gym feel elegant. A deep, moody tone such as the Farrow & Ball Hague Blue used in this Sunny Circle Studio room, can create a welcoming space for working out and coordinating your equipment. A soothing palette can help you concentrate on your workout as well.
Budget
Equipment for your home gym may be expensive, particularly if it is high-end. A basic set of weights, benches and machines may be cheaper than you think. Also, consider that the initial investment could save you money in the long run as you avoid the expense of gym memberships.
Before you start shopping make sure you know your goals and identify the items you use the most often. This will help narrow down your options and make smart choices that are within your budget. Also, stay clear of buying gimmicks that don't offer much benefit. For instance, pull-ups with an over-the-door design bars might not be sturdy enough to perform the adequate reps. Instead, invest in a quality pull-up bar that is built to last.
Then, take the time to search for the best prices. Compare both online and in-store deals. Also, look for refurbished or secondhand equipment that is in good condition. It's common to find great deals on gym equipment in the beginning of the year, when people are trying to keep their New Year's resolutions. You can also find even better deals as the fitness plans go by the wayside.
Ask about the warranties and return policies prior to purchasing new equipment. Ask about the cost of installation for large equipment like treadmills and squat stands. Don't forget about recurring expenses like flooring mirrors, TV mounting, and flooring which can add to.
A home gym might require some upfront expenses, but most customers find that they save money in the end as compared to paying for the cost of a gym membership. It is also less stressful to exercise at home compared to travel to a gym every single time. This could lead to you not working out and, in the end, regressing from your fitness goals.
Clean stationary cycling bike , equipment, and other items after each use. This will keep dirt and sweat from accumulating. Regularly lubricate moving components to keep your equipment running smoothly. This will prevent excessive use and wear, which can increase the chance of injuries. You should also invest in a journal to keep track of your progress and identify areas for improvement.