A gym may be a popular place to work out, but it’s certainly not the only suitable venue for exercise. In fact, many people find that working out at home is the best way for them to fit fitness into their lifestyle. Although you might find the idea of working out at home intimidating, the truth is that anyone can enjoy a safe, effective home workout with a little research. For help, check out our list of home workout equipment for beginners.

Why do people choose to work out at home? There are many reasons. Some like the convenience; others appreciate not having to shell out their hard-earned cash for a gym membership. When you work out at home, you’re in charge. You don’t have to match other people’s schedules, compete for equipment, worry about other people’s germs, think about what to wear, or stress about looking silly. Instead, you can create an environment in which you are comfortable and focused on fitness.

Home Workout Equipment for Beginners

There are no hard-and-fast rules for home gyms. When setting up your space, you can choose what works best for you and your fitness goals. In fact, you can start small with a few basic pieces of equipment and add new items as your interests change or your budget allows. What type of equipment should you invest in? We encourage you to explore the following options:

Exercise Videos

Whether you are trying out a new activity or find the whole experience of exercising novel, it’s wise to have someone who knows what they’re doing show you what you need to know. In the gym, that might mean taking classes or working with a personal trainer. At home, exercise videos can serve the same purpose. Countless DVDs and online videos offer insight into practically every form of exercise. Why not take advantage of that expertise while you build your own knowledge base and confidence?

Yoga Mats

Even if you have absolutely no interest in yoga, you should consider stocking your home gym with at least one yoga mat. These widely available exercise accessories are ideal for virtually any exercise that involves getting on the floor. They also provide better traction for activities where secure footing matters.

Dumbbells

Dumbbells are a smart addition to any home gym. In fact, you probably want to invest in several sets in various weights. These multitasking hand weights can be used to perform a wide array of exercises, so you will get plenty of use from them.

Resistance Bands

A workout wonder used by beginners and experienced exercisers alike, resistance bands are affordable, easy to use, and even easier to store. Available in different lengths and resistances, they can be used for everything from strength training to cardio, so they’re a sensible pick for anyone searching for home workout equipment for beginners.

Exercise Bikes

Riding a bike provides a great workout for your cardiovascular system and can do wonders for your leg muscles. Plus, using an exercise bike inside your home means that you never have to worry about wind, rain, snow, or traffic. When shopping for an exercise bike, make sure that your new bike will fit comfortably in the space that you’ve allotted for it. It’s also wise to look for certain features, including a comfortable seat, wide petals, adjustable handlebars, and adjustable resistance levels.

Jump Ropes

Did you enjoy jumping rope when you were a child? There’s no reason not to have fun with it again as an adult. Using a jump rope is a fun, easy way to get your heart rate up and hone your cardiovascular fitness. When it comes to home workout equipment for beginners, jump ropes are hard to beat. Using one requires no special training, and jump ropes are readily available, incredibly inexpensive, and a breeze to store.

Heart Rate Monitors

How can you tell if your new exercise routine is really working? Check your heart rate. To calculate your maximum heart rate, subtract your age from 220. For a moderate workout, your heart rate should be 50-70 percent of that number. If your goal is a more vigorous workout, then your heart rate should be 70-85 percent of your maximum heart rate. How do you know what your heart rate is? You could use your pulse, a watch, and a little math, but a quality heart rate monitor will get you the answer you want much more quickly.

Treadmills

A treadmill lets you rack up some serious mileage without ever leaving the house. Whether you walk, run, or mix it up with intervals of both, a treadmill can be incredibly useful for cardio. Some treadmills fold up to reduce their storage footprint, making them attractive to those with little space to spare. Other features to look for include emergency shutoffs for safety, a sturdy frame for support, a thick belt for cushioning, and user-friendly controls for modifying incline, speed, and resistance.

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Are you ready to shop for home workout equipment for beginners? What should you buy first? That depends on you. Think about how you want to work out, the activities you intend to do, your fitness goals, your space, and your budget.

Whether you’re looking for a treadmill, an exercise bike, an elliptical machine, or strength-training equipment, Fitness Gallery can help you build a personalized home gym. We handpick each piece of fitness equipment sold in our stores, so you know that you’re getting high-quality products at a great value. Plus, we have top-of-the-line used equipment for those on a budget. To learn more, check out our online store, or stop by one of our showrooms in Denver (CO) or Highlands Ranch (CO). Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the perfect equipment for your fitness goals.