How to Create an Affordable and Awesome Home Gym
by Cascade Ice on October 22, 2020
We are living in unprecedented times that call for more caution to be taken when it comes to exposing ourselves to COVID-19 by visiting restaurants, shopping malls and gyms. Which is why millions of Americans have opted to get their exercise from the comfort and safety of their home instead of workout facilities where germs are more easily spread. But what if you do not have a lot of money to spend? You can still build an amazing space to get your daily dose of exercise at home. Here’s how!
Identify the perfect spot
Some have an extra room in their home that could easily be converted to a workout space, but many do not. In the latter case, exercising outside when the weather is optimal is an option as well. The exact space you will need will depend on what types of workouts you plan to do. If you would simply like a yoga and stretching area, roll out your yoga mat and you are set! If you would like some weights, kettlebells or barbells, make sure you choose a space that will accommodate more room for you to perform various exercises with different types of weights. Make sure the room is well ventilated and comfortable. Add some music if you would like!
Use household items
Don’t have any weights or workout equipment and hate the idea of spending money on it? Try using household items. A sturdy chair or couch can be used as a bench for tricep dips and chest presses, in addition to tons of other exercises. Soup cans can be used as weights, and heavy reusable grocery bags filled with cans could be used as a kettlebell. Or look at your local thrift stores, discount stores or online swap sites to see if anyone near you is selling or offering used equipment.
Come up with workout routines
The Internet is a treasure trove of free workout inspiration! Whether you are looking for an intense, quick HITT workout or need pointers on weight-lifting exercises, most of it can be found for free on YouTube. Of course, there are other paid options that require memberships or even apps that will provide daily workouts. This takes the guesswork and the boredom out of working out at home, and some people report that it feels as though you’re in a group fitness setting, which can often keep your motivation going.
Recover like a champ!
One of the most important parts of any workout, whether it’s at home, outside, or at a gym, is recovery. If you do not stretch and hydrate after a workout, it can leave you with cramps, fatigue and soreness that will undoubtedly decrease your chances of making it a daily habit. So, what is the best way to make sure you reap all the benefits of at-home exercise? Make sure you hydrate! Plain water or fancy water (Cascade Ice Sparkling Water is a fantastic way to make sure you don’t get bored) – all that matters is that your body gets back the water that you sweat out during exercise. And taking 5-10 minutes to stretch after a workout can decrease your chances of getting injured. Plus, it feels great!Do you have a home workout space? Tell us in the comments below or share a photo! Remember to “like” and “follow” us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
