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Tulane Public Relations/FlickrMany of us have made promises that 2016 is finally the year we get in shape. It’s a tough resolution to stick to; gyms are expensive and crowded, working out is a huge time commitment, and more than anything else it’s physically exhausting. Sure, it’s supposed to be physically exhausting, that’s the whole point of it, but getting your body used to that level of exertion is a difficult process.
But we can do it. With enough willpower and determination, and with the amount of workout plans available online, you don’t need a personal trainer to keep you on track as long as you stay committed to the process. Below, Insider Picks has collected home gym equipment for various types of workouts; whether you’re looking to up your endurance or come out of the winter season with a set of washboard abs, there’s something here that could help you on your way.
Cardio
A punching bag
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrIf you put the proper time and technique into working the heavy bag, you can get a full-body cardio workout. This bag from Outslayer is reviewed as being made with high quality materials and built to last. Plus, in addition to getting a solid sweat going, you get to hit something, and hit it hard; a solid way to relieve whatever stress life may be in your life.
Outslayer 80lb Punching Bag, $114.95, available at Amazon.
A rowing machine
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrRowing machines can help improve your fitness level in a variety of ways; they can build and tone muscles, strengthen cardiovascular function, and improve your endurance. It’s a great way to burn calories, so if your main goal is weight loss, think about making it a part of your regular routine. Rowing is also a solid alternative for people with back and joint problems, as it places little strain on these areas as long as they're using good form.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine, $900, available at Amazon.
An air bike
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrThere are many stationary bikes to choose from if you’re in the market, but air bikes have a few features that make them a bit different from your SoulCycle bike. First, all resistance is created by you; the harder you pedal, the more the fan will push back. This allows to you change resistance at your own pace, making it the perfect piece of equipment for your home gym if you’re focused on high-intensity interval training. Also, unlike most stationary bikes, you’ll also be pushing and pulling with your arms while you move, providing an upper body workout as well.
Lifecore Fitness Assault Air Bike Trainer, $999, available at Amazon.
An elliptical machine
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrElliptical machines have been the subject of many a debate in gyms across the nation. While some purists believe the treadmill to be superior, there are many benefits to putting in time with the elliptical. To start, it’s a low impact workout; the gliding motion allows those with joint issues and back pain to work up a sweat without throwing their body out of place. Also, ellipticals lend themselves well to multitasking, so if you’re the type to read or watch "Survivor" while you exercise, this is a great addition to your home gym. While this model by Sole Fitness is pricey, most reviewers have cited that the quality is well worth the cost.
Sole Fitness E35 Elliptical Machine, $1,199.99, available at Amazon.
A treadmill
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrRunning is always a workout. If you can afford it, having a treadmill in your home gym can allow you to get your three daily miles in regardless of how much ice and rain Mother Nature throws at you.
Sole Fitness F80 Folding Treadmill, $1,399.99, available at Amazon.
Strength
Adjustable dumbbells
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrDumbbells are one of the most versatile pieces of equipment, and these adjustable weights by Bowflex only add to that versatility. With the turn of a dial, you have access to free weights from 5 to 52.5 pounds. For those starting a new workout regiment, this is a great feature that allows you to vary your workouts and continue to challenge yourself as you get stronger, rather than having to buy a new set of weights every time your biceps bulge out.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells, $299, available at Amazon.
A weight-lifting bench
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrIf you want to get a full workout in with your free weights, it’s helpful to have a bench that allows you to switch positions while keeping proper form.
Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable Weight-Lifting Bench, $289, available at Amazon.
Medicine balls
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrFor those who enjoy a machine-free workout, medicine balls are a valuable asset. Plan a workout of lunges, squats, sit ups, and curls, and you can get your whole body involved without jumping from machine to sweat-covered machine at an overcrowded gym.
SPRI Dual Grip 12 lb. Medicine Ball, $65.99, available at Amazon.
Flexibility
An exercise mat
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrHaving a comfortable, reliable exercise mat is important for anyone trying to start a regular yoga regiment. It’s also a great surface for ab work, pushups, and your pre- and post-workout stretches. This mat from HemingWeigh is about 5/8” thick, providing an extra bit of cushion compared to your standard yoga mat, allowing you to save yourself the soreness that comes with working on a hardwood floor.
HemingWeigh Extra Thick Foam Exercise Mat, $22.99, available at Amazon.
A foam roller
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrOnce you get into the swing of your regular workout routine, you’ll probably (well, definitely) experience some soreness on your off days. To help relieve that pain, snag a foam roller such as this one by TriggerPoint in order to roll out knots and tight muscles.
TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller, $35.94, available at Amazon.
On a Budget
A pull up bar
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrPull ups are tough. Some of us can’t even do two in succession without our arms giving out. But if you set up a pull up bar in a doorway of your home and make a point to do as many as you can each time you walk through, you’ll find improvement comes quicker than expected.
Iron Gym Upper Body Workout, $23.15, available at Amazon.
A jump rope
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrIt’s quite possible you haven’t picked up a jump rope since elementary school, but if you’re looking for a cheap, portable way to get your blood flowing quickly, a jump rope is a solid investment. Ten minutes of continuous jumps is the equivalent of about 30 minutes of running, so if you’re having difficulty fitting time for cardio into your schedule, this could be your solution.
King Athletic Jump Rope, $16.97, available at Amazon.
An ab wheel
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrAn ab wheel is a great way to mix up your core routine and flatten out your stomach. Just be careful jumping too quickly and too far into ab work, you might not be able to move the next day.
Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro, $34.99, available at Amazon.
An elliptical trainer
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrIf the low-impact cardio offered by elliptical machines is appealing to you, but you don’t have the space or money for a commercial unit, this model by stamina is a nice alternative. While you lose the upper body push-pull of traditional ellipticals, maintaining your balance forces you to engage your core while pumping your legs.
Stamina In-Motion Elliptical Trainer, $81.03, available at Amazon.
A minimalist treadmill
Tulane Public Relations/FlickrOf course it's nice to have top-tier equipment, but if you can't swing paying four figures for a top-tier treadmill, there are some more affordable options that will still allow you to get your run in come snow or rain or heat. This model by Weslo is fairly narrow, but in giving up a few inches of width you're saving a lot of money.
Weslo Cadence G 5.9 Treadmill, $287, available at Amazon.