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Home Gyms
If you are not a gym person, don't join a gym in hopes that someday you will be. There are two types of exercisers: gym people and non-gym people. A family may find itself balanced or it may find that the dominant gym trait has resulted in an unevenly divided household. Either way, you will definitely know into which category you fall. If you are not a gym person, joining a health club will be a horrifying experience for you. You will battle with yourself to exercise, each time opting for the cleaning/folding/telly watching/cooking/homework/work/father's work/scrap-booking task that is just lying around begging you to make it your excuse. If this sounds like you, trash the membership, buy an exercise machine
Variations of the Home Gym
Depending upon what type of body you have in mind, there may be exercises that are indispensable to your success; this is why the gym comes in different models. Now only does it allow you to personalize your workout (and you'll never have to wait for a machine), but it makes people admire your economical genius (i.e. it is cheaper than most memberships). Once you are settled, the home gym enables you to tailor your personal fitness regime in your home--plus it is a space saver!
- Lay flat or upright bench? I suppose this boils down to personal taste. Personally, I think the lay flat bench is more versatile and Iprefer to use this version, but if you are someone who constantly needs back support, then the upright bench is the one for you.
- Machine or free weight home gym? Machine home gyms are contraptions consisting of rods, wires, and pulleys, all designed to create your resistance and set up your workout station. These are good if you need something already set up. The free weight home gym is done with barbells or hand weights, and is a bit tricky if you are not aware of what to do with it. With free weights, you must balance, position, and choose the appropriate exercises all on your own. Before using either of these systems, figure out which one will challenge without hurting you or leaving you clueless. Both types serve as phenomenal exercise tools...if used properly.
- Obviously sturdy gyms are the best quality. Experts say that eleven or twelve gauge steel constructs the best models, and that welded machines are higher quality than the bolt-it-in-yourself ones.
- Test out the home gym and make sure it is comfortable. The seats should have adequate padding and be easily adjustable.
Might as Well Go All Out
Here are some ideas to get you started on expanding your fitness room:
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Dumbbells and weights |
It is always good to have some sort of cardio machine inside your home gym. Even if you are a runner, skater |
Cardio Workout Videos: This guide is a reference to several different cardio videos, including dance, aerobic, yoga, Pilates, martial arts, and kick-boxing. Low Impact Workout Videos: For a gentler workout that is not the most strenuous but still works. Best for beginners, cool-downs or warm-ups, and people recovering from an injury (who cannot go all out yet). |
Exercise Balls, Mats Things like exercise balls and mats are good to have around because they are so versatile. If you are exercising on a hard surface, I would urge you to buy a mat for stretching and any floor exercises that put pressure on your back, knees or other body part. Exercise balls can be used along with workout videos as part of weight lifting routines, and for doing aerobic exercises. Steps are often needed for certain aerobic workouts. |
Related Guides
External Links
- HowStuffWorks.com: A selection of home gyms and a guide to correctly choosing one.
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