Home Gyms

Choose a home gym that fits with your style

Some people just don’t see the appeal in going to a crowded health club weight room and sweating and grunting next to others who are also sweating and grunting their way through a grueling routine. Especially when just starting out it’s common to feel intimidated by the gym or self-conscious working out around others. There’s nothing wrong with that. That only part of working out that should be uncomfortable is the actual workout, and it should actually feel strenuous rather than uncomfortable.

Some people just like the convenience working out at home offers. They get up in the morning, get in a workout without waiting for any machines and still have time to eat breakfast and shower before work. If they miss their morning workout they can squeeze in a quick session at lunch or in the evening. Having a home gym really is an easy way to fit exercise into a busy schedule.

Knowing what gym to get

There are so many types of home gyms on the market that it can be overwhelming to try and choose the right one. You want a gym that’ll stand up to wear and tear over time and maybe more importantly, one that will be enjoyable to use.

When spending several hundred to several thousand dollars it’s only natural to want the best piece of equipment your money can buy.

What to look for in a home gym

• Does it let you do the exercises you enjoy? - If you want to tone your upper chest muscles with incline bench presses but your home gym’s bench doesn’t offer an incline position, you’ll probably end up disappointed. Make a list of exercises you enjoy or ones that you would like to incorporate into your routine in the future. If a home gym doesn’t accommodate the ones most important to you, it might not be the best choice.
• Does it come with a good warranty? - To make sure you get the most value for your money look into the details of the warranty. High priced home gyms often have warranties that cover 10 years of use. Short warranties for parts may indicate a gym with low quality equipment. Find out the details before making a decision.
• How big is it? - Will the gym fit in your home at its full size? Can it fold up when not in use so it takes up less space? These questions can be very important. Measure out the space where you’ll be keeping it and take your movement around the gym into consideration.
  

All aren’t created equal, there are different home gym resistance methods, and almost all have different combinations of attachments, benches and other capabilities. Your choice may mean the difference between a newfound level of fitness for you and a dusty space-hogging piece of junk blocking the television, so do a bit of homework and avoid buying the first home gym you see in your price range.