I want to start a home gym…what should I buy?
I am often asked what products I recommend to start a home gym. You don’t need an entire room OR a whole lot of space to have a functional home gym. Below I have a few suggestions to get you started.
Dumbbells
Having a few sets of dumbbells – – minimally think one set of LIGHT and one set of HEAVY to start…for instance, a set (2) of 5s and a set of 15s or maybe 20s.
If you have the space and budget, I would ideally recommend to get a set (2) of each of the following:
5, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50. You can always add more, so no need to get them all at the same time.
Here are a few of my favorite pieces of equipment that I use and recommend….
While the rubber covered dumbbells are pretty, they don’t last as long as the old-fashioned iron ones. This is the type that I have.
5-pound dumbbells
15-pound dumbbells
Sets of Dumbbells
If you are looking for something that doesn’t take up much space and has a large variation in weight, I HIGHLY recommend the Bowflex SelectTech. They can go from 5-pounds to 50-pounds. I have been using them for 5 years and have not had a single issue with them.
Resistance bands
Bands are great for a home gym and/or to travel with. This set comes with a few “levels” of resistance so you can use them for different exercises effectively.
Weighted Ball
A weighted ball is great for squats, lunges and abs. Another piece that doesn’t take up too much space, it comes in many different weights. Here is a 10-pound one.
Foam Roller
After you’re done working out, it’s important to stretch and ROLL…here is a foam roller that I like.
These few items are a GREAT start to a home gym that will not take up a ton of space but will still give you the ability to vary your exercises enough to be efficient.
