Fitness is no longer only for athletes and bodybuilders. More and more Americans want to embrace a fitness-first lifestyle, even if it means investing hours in consistent exercise routines despite tight schedules. But not everyone wants to commute to a gym every day and spend a fortune on monthly subscriptions.
Surveys show that the average monthly gym membership cost in New York State was 75.32 USD in 2021. That can be quite a bit when you add up the yearly bills. You may miss out on gym visits on several days due to work commitments, travel, or procrastination, which pinches even more. Setting up a gym at home seems a far better option for fitness lovers.
According to statistics, nearly 10% of Americans invested in home gym setups during the pandemic. Many have decided to continue because nothing matches the freedom, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness of having a personal exercise space at your home. You may want to join the bandwagon, but it seems like an expensive and complicated project.
Of course, creating space, buying equipment, and arranging a setup may sound like a lot of effort. But it is easier than you think, and the rewards make it worthwhile. Here are a few actionable tips for beginners looking to fuel their fitness with an exclusive workout space at home:
Find the Right Space
Space is the first thing you require to set up a home gym. With the average single-family home size in the US increasing since 2000, almost every homeowner can squeeze some space for a gym. You just need enough for your yoga mat and basic equipment. You can create space for a home gym in the guest room, balcony, garage, or even in an unused corner of your bedroom.
The exact space size depends on the size of your house and the workouts you want to accomplish. A heavy lifting regimen requires a whole room, while a small area is enough for a yoga or Pilates workout. Ensure privacy and good vibes because both can keep you going with your daily fitness session.
Invest in Quality Equipment
Workout equipment is the next essential on your home gym checklist. Once again, the right gear depends on your regimen. Yoga lovers can get started with a yoga mat, while cardio enthusiasts require a jump rope and a treadmill. But you must have a complete set of tools like dumbbells, resistance bands, and bumper plates for weight training.
Whatever your needs and budget, never cut corners with quality equipment. Buying durable bumper plates is a wise move for weight trainers because you invest once and use them for a lifetime. The best part is that they do not damage the flooring of your home, even if you drop them down. The quality rule applies to everything you stock up for your home gym.
According to Fringe Sport, weightlifting enthusiasts must explore their options in gear and equipment before picking them for their collection. You can seek information and insights online when investing in a home gym as a beginner because choosing the right equipment can make all the difference.
Design Your Setup
Identifying the space and buying equipment for your home gym is only a start. You need to design your setup to maximize the benefits. Ambiance matters the most when it comes to your workout space because you won’t feel motivated enough to spend hours working out in a dull, drab room. A neat and organized area is a game-changer.
The room should be clean and uncluttered, with proper storage facilities for your gear, as you don’t want kids and pets to get hurt. Plenty of natural light is a plus because it gives good vibes. Adding a mirror to your workout space is a good idea because it makes the area appear larger and helps with exercise. Include a music system to complete the feel.
Put Your Gym to Good Use
Once your setup is done, commit to putting it to good use and get the best results from your daily workouts. You can create a workout regimen that matches your schedule and fitness goals because you are more likely to stick with it. Finding a workout buddy is a great idea if you feel your motivation levels ebbing at some point. Make the most of the investment and stay ahead of your fitness milestones.
Summing Up
Setting up a home gym is easier than you imagine. Although it involves a financial commitment, you can maximize the value of your dollars by being consistent with your routine. Exercising at home is much easier logistically and emotionally because you need not push yourself to commute to the gym. Follow these tips to start your fitness journey and get the best results.
