Author: Shannon Boyce

You don’t need an expensive yearly gym membership to get in shape. In fact, you can do it from your very own living room. Just pop in a workout DVD or create your own routine. There are plenty of options to suit your budget and specific interests. If you want to work out at home these equipment essentials will make it a whole lot easier.

Resistance Bands

This first piece of at-home equipment is great for a couple of reasons. It costs less than $5, can be taken anywhere, and works for all fitness levels. Yes, the resistance band is a workout essential. They come in different resistance levels, so you can start with a medium strength and work your way up. These bands can be used in many different ways to build muscle. Tie it around your ankles or attach it to a door handle. This piece of equipment lets you get creative and really makes your workout count!

 

Exercise Ball

You may have seen people at the office sitting on one of these at their desks. Why? Exercise balls can be used to strengthen your core or even stretch your back. Sitting on one of these during your workout will definitely help get those abs toned. If you experience back pain regularly or just after you’ve done a hard workout, good news: this can help your spine, as well.

 

Hand Weights

To build muscle and really sculpt your arms, hand weights are a must. They are affordable and can help take any workout to a more advanced level. If you’re a beginner, start with 3-pound weights and work your way up so that your body is always being challenged. Don’t want to splurge on weights? Improvise! Things like soup cans or a heavy book can be used so long as you’re careful not to hurt yourself.

Yoga Mat

Okay, you may not be doing yoga, but that doesn’t mean you don’t need a yoga mat. You can find these at any fitness or department store. They range in price but are typically pretty inexpensive. Lay this down wherever you’re planning to work out. This will give you a little more cushion and support your back when you do any floor work exercises. Since they are non-slip surfaces, the mat will also prevent you from slipping and falling. Pick one in your favourite colour to add a little personality to any workout!

 

Heart Rate Monitor

Another essential piece of at-home workout equipment is a heart rate monitor. This is important as it lets you know if you’re overdoing it (or if you aren’t doing enough!). A heart rate monitor will keep track of your calorie burn and helps your heart rate to stay within a healthy range. Working out too hard can cause you to hurt yourself or become totally exhausted. Not giving it your all can cause you to see very little results during your next weigh-in. This handy piece of equipment will make sure that you find the right balance.

You don’t necessarily need expensive workout equipment to burn calories at home. Focus on using what you have and finding budget friendly alternatives. Whatever you do, remember to use the equipment carefully and do plenty of stretches before you do anything too strenuous.