The fitness industry has a world net worth of almost 90 billion dollars. With 40% of Americans holding a gym membership, it’s easy to see where that cash comes from. The fitness market is getting closer to the sportsbook industries in major states like Texas as people begin backing themselves and prioritizing quality of life.
Health and fitness is a big business, but only some people with a membership to their local gym use it. Too many fitness enthusiasts join a gym on a monthly subscription, paying by direct debit, but don’t attend, failing to get their money’s worth. It’s a concern for customers, and many demand gyms work to improve the offers.
People sign up with good intentions but can’t exercise as much as they had hoped. Work and family commitments cause some to miss fitness classes after the first few weeks, negatively affecting their exercise program and confidence. As the weeks fly past, the gym keeps collecting from your bank, but you’re no fitter or healthier than when you signed up.
We all do it
We’ve all been there: young and old, newbie and experienced trainer. The guilt and shame of missing the gym affect us all occasionally. You agree to attend a family function on a night you’re scheduled to train legs, or you’ve endured a tough day at work and, after returning home, can’t drag yourself to the gym. One missed session turns into four, and it becomes almost embarrassing to return to classes. To make matters worse, you know you’ll be back to square one, the unfit newbie.
We all need the gym in our lives, even if we can’t train as often as we’d like. But feeling ashamed or disappointed in yourself only makes matters worse. Thankfully, there’s another option. You can join a gym that offers a pay-as-you-train plan. The most popular gyms allow members a cut-price rate when attending, charging non-members more. You can then organize a schedule that fits around work and family commitments. No more dull ache in the pit of your stomach when you miss a class.
That idea sounds great, but wouldn’t you miss a lot of training and get no further forward with your strength training and cardio goals? Not if you had access to a home gymnasium where you could lift weights, punch the heavy bag, or work on your endurance.
Burn fat and build muscle fast and effectively from your home. A quick shower, and you’re back to your usual activities. This article sounds good and explains how to do it on a budget. Keep reading as we list the pros and cons of creating a fitness space at home, finding the best location, equipment needed, and training regimes.
Pros and cons of a home gym
There are many obvious benefits to having a training space at home. These include;
- Workout anytime, day or night
- No gym fees
- Access to your shower
- Quicker training times
- Exercise more frequently
There are some drawbacks to having a training space at home. These include;
- Risk of overtraining
- You must keep the area clean
- It can be expensive
Location is key
The best place to start when planning your home gym is location. You can find the best space if you have researched and have a plan. Do you have a decent budget and can turn an existing space, like a spare room or garage, into a gym? You can then begin transforming the area and getting it just right. An empty garage is the best home space to create a gym.
You can create a pop-up gym anywhere in your home; it doesn’t need a permanent feature. Clear some space in a spare room, the dining room, or an area of your garden. Keep your equipment handy, take everything you need from the cupboard to exercise, and then wipe down and return, clearing the space again.
If you want a permanent gym in your home, you can target more extensive exercise equipment, such as treadmills. If you prefer a pop-up gym, go for more compact equipment. Choose a space, set a budget, and stay within your means.
Equipment needed
Let’s split this section in half, first looking at the options for those with a higher budget. The more you have to invest in your home gym, the more professional it will be and the higher standard of your space. Many online shops sell training equipment, so shop around for the best price possible. Here are some potential investments for your gym;
- Treadmill
- Exercise bike
- Weights bench
- Squat rack
- Pull-up bar
Check the prices for the above equipment online, and you’ll quickly realize your bill could grow. That’s why setting a budget and sticking hard to your limit is crucial. Think of the machines you enjoy using at a public gym and try to recreate those as best you can.
The wonderful thing about a home gymnasium, and the entire point of this article, is you can do it cheaply. There’s no need to purchase the most modern and expensive stuff. Remember, more expensive gym gear doesn’t get you any fitter any faster. Here is some affordable equipment when creating a training space on a budget;
- Mat for bodyweight exercises
- Skipping rope
- Boxing bag
- Tire and sledgehammer
- MMA dummy
Everything listed above will get you fit quickly and on a budget. All you need to get fit is to be moving and building cardio. A large gym mat allows you to work through circuits in a small space. The same small area is ideal for jumping rope, which is pound-for-pound one of the best exercises for fitness and a healthy heart.
Hitting a large truck tire with a sledgehammer is fantastic for increasing strength and speed, as are the boxing bag and MMA dummy.
Follow an online tutorial
Now you have all your training equipment and home gym, it’s time to get started. But where do you find a good exercise regime to follow at home? Many great online tutorials and training videos are available for free.
The best teach you new and exciting ways to train at home with little equipment. Some even require only a large water bottle or heavy rucksack. Research to find the proper training tutorials for you.
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