As a woman who is nearer 40 than 30 and who has always struggled with her weight, exercising although a necessity, is also something that I struggle with. Over the past few years, I’ve struggled to lose weight even when eating healthy and working out, but I’m not done yet and hope that by the time I’m 40 I will be at my target weight of 9.5st – 10st.
I like working out at home as it is a great way to exercise. There are so many benefits to working out this way especially if you’re looking to avoid gym anxiety, save money on gym fees, and fit exercise into your daily routine more easily.
However, there are some drawbacks. If you choose to work out from home, you won’t have a huge selection of equipment available to you like you would if you were exercising at the gym. But worry not, because I’m here with the most essential workout equipment that any home gym needs.
To get a good workout, you don’t need to spend hundreds and you don’t need lots of machinery. Instead, look at the home workout essentials list below. In most cases basic items are just as good as the more expensive brands especially if you are a beginner.
Activewear
Before you start working out, you are going to need to invest in some good activewear. There is a lot of activewear to choose from and depending on the type of workout you are interested in you may need a different type of activewear that is more suited to your type of workout. For me, the following are essential items and are perfect for yoga, running, piyo, HIIT, other similar workouts and quick workouts on their own.
A good sports bra
The most important piece of activewear that a woman can own. If you are doing a workout that is of high intensity you should invest in a high impact sports bra. I was recently sent two high intensity sports bras from Yvette. They are comfortable, come in a range of designs, colours and sizes which are perfect especially if like me you are a woman who has a bigger bust size. I like that these bras are padded for comfort.
Running Leggings
If you are planning to add a run to your homework out leggings that supportive in all the right places are a must. There is nothing worse than your leggings rolling down or making you sore because they roll or bunch up. These running leggings fit well, have a supportive high waistline and two deep pockets (perfect for keeping your phone and keys safe).
Workout Tops
I like to wear a vest over my sports bra, I like something that I can move in and that is breathable. These tops come in a multipack of assorted colours, have a racer back and are lightweight. They are perfect to wear when working out or when out for a run.
It is also essential to have some good footwear, even if you are working out indoors. Any exercise that is high intensity is better when wearing comfortable, cushioned trainers.
Yoga Mat
A yoga mat is still an essential bit of kit for most home workouts. Make sure you find yourself a thick and comfortable yoga mat that will support your body, no matter whether you are stretching or working out. I even purchased a smaller mat to use when doing kneeling exercises and sit ups to give my knees and bottom a little extra padding – it is amazing how much this helps.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells are an essential piece of equipment for anyone looking to work on strength training or muscle toning. Dumbbells come in sets with fixed weights, and some in sets that allow you to adjust the weight of each bar. When choosing your dumbbells, make sure you look out for weights with a comfortable grip that will stay put even when you are sweating.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are extremely versatile and cost-effective, plus they take up very little room. You can buy resistance bands individually or in sets, and they come in a variety of resistance levels from super light to extra heavy, so make sure to choose the right bands for your strength levels.
Skipping Rope
Skipping ropes take up very little room and skipping is an amazing exercise that develops fitness levels as well as coordination. Skipping as a workout exercises your whole body, from your head, arms, legs, to your back and core. Since so much of your body is involved in this cardio exercise, skipping is also a great choice for those looking to gain stamina and focus.
Hula Hoop
Like skipping hula hooping is a great exercise that helps develop coordination and improves your fitness levels. It takes a little while to get into a good rhythm but once you can get the hoop moving it will give you a great workout. There are several types of hoops including weighed and smart hoops. I have a smart hoop and find it easier to use than a traditional hoop. I am not sure if it’s claims to lose weight are fact yet, but I think anything that gets you up and working out can’t be a bad thing.
Is there anything else you can think of that I need for a workout?
*This is a collaborative post – all thoughts and opinions expressed are my own*