Exercise is more important than ever this year, as many of us are spending more time at home in front of the computer and less time outside commuting to and from work. Throughout 2020, cities and states have increasingly tightened restrictions surrounding gyms and fitness centers to limit the spread of COVID-19.
While some residential buildings—including all Draper and Kramer buildings—have fitness centers, access to those gyms are increasingly limited as buildings work hard to protect their residents and control the spread of the virus. And although gyms are open in some cities and states, those who are immuno-compromised or simply don’t feel safe working out in public may find several benefits from investing in a home gym.
Installing a gym at home may sound like an expensive endeavor, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we’ll dive into cost-effective options that can help you maintain a healthy lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Tip #1: Invest in the Proper Equipment
Many may rule out the idea of purchasing workout equipment as they assume they don’t have space in their apartments. However, several companies now make collapsible workout products, making it easy to store items under a bed, couch, or in the closet.
It is advised to purchase the following four items, as these can be used for a wide variety of workouts:
- Adjustable dumbbells
- Collapsible FID bench
- Pull up bar
- Workout mat
Although FID benches take up a decent amount of space, a collapsible bench can be stored out of sight. If you happen to have a second bedroom that isn’t in use, investing in barbells is a great option. Alternatively, adjustable dumbbells are ideal for those who are tight on space and are looking for a cost-effective option. Adjustable dumbbells allow you to change the weight load by turning a dial, helping you increase your endurance over time.
A pull-up bar is great for workouts that involve vertical pulling, which is something that can’t be done with dumbbells. Pull-up bars are also great for those who are tight on space, as they can be installed at the top of a doorway and stored out of sight when not in use.
Additional items to consider include fitness bands, a kettle bell, and workout mats. Workout mats are particularly important, as they help protect your floors from scratches and scuffs—something your landlord will thank you for and help ensure you get back your security deposit! Workout mats also help absorb the sound of jumping or using weights, which can otherwise disturb the neighbors below and around you.
Tip #2: Try Renting Equipment from Your Local Gym
Many retailers are sold out of hand weights at the moment due to the high number of individuals investing in home workout equipment. If you are having trouble finding weights or other workout equipment, consider contacting local gyms that are closed in your area, as many are renting out weights and other workout gear amid the pandemic.
Tip #3: Try Apps that Don’t Require Equipment
With many individuals working from home, space in apartments is becoming increasingly limited. The thought of purchasing adjustable dumbbells or an FID bench may be a complete impossibility for some, especially those living in studios or apartments that have been partially converted into home offices.
For those who are seeking an alternative option that doesn’t involve any workout equipment, the app Seven offers seven-minute workouts that don’t require any equipment. The app has several free workout options and an upgraded paid plan for $9.99 per month.
Tip #4: Watch Free Workout Classes
Home workouts are more popular than ever before. Although it may be tempting to invest in purchasing home workout classes, there are several free options available online right now that can help you ease into a routine. After trying out a few options, it may be worth purchasing workout classes to gain more advanced training.
Option #1: Les Mills
Les Mills offers several free workout classes on their YouTube channel, many of which are 30 minutes or longer. In addition to free workout classes, they also sell equipment on their website and have flexible financing options available.
Option #2: POPSUGAR Fitness
POPSUGAR Fitness offers free workout classes on their YouTube channel, many of which are led by celebrity trainers. Their website also has several articles detailing free workouts. You can select workouts that range from 5 minutes to 45 minutes as well as those involving resistance bands, kettlebells, dumbbells, and more.
Option #3: THENX
THENX offers free workouts through its website and YouTube channel. Led by Chris Heria, the free fitness classes range from beginner to advanced, making it an ideal option for those at any level in their fitness journey.
Your local gym may also offer free or paid subscriptions to workout videos online. This is not only a great way to stay in shape, but also an ideal way to support a local gym in your area.
Key Takeaways About Setting Up a Home Gym
When initially setting up a home gym, it may be tempting to buy everything at once. However, it is best to start small and work your way up. Start off by investing in a workout mat and adjustable dumbbells, and then work your way up to the “fancy stuff,” aka an adjustable bench, kettlebell set, elliptical (if there’s space), rowing machine, and more.
Staying active is crucial during this time, as many of us are spending more time at home than ever before. It is also important to start off small with your workout routines to avoid burnout. Start with a quick 10-minute workout on the first day and increase each workout by three minutes. This will not only help you avoid burning out, but will also help ensure you don’t pull a muscle or injure yourself by doing too much too soon.
Visit Draper and Kramer today for more tips on how to take care of your apartment, decorate your living space, lower your utility bills, and much more.
Staying active is crucial during this time, as many of us are spending more time at home than ever before. It is also important to start off small with your workout routines to avoid burnout. Start with a quick 10-minute workout on the first day and increase each workout by three minutes.
