Although many are hopeful that the vaccines can help us return to the normal we once knew, the Delta variant brings a much bigger threat to everyone who steps foot outside. It’s clear that staying inside remains necessary. Fitness buffs, in particular, have paused their regular gym routines. As a result, some build a home gym to stay fit despite the ongoing pandemic. Here’s why you should do the same and know which equipment you need for your exercises.
Gym-Goers Choose to Stay Home
Despite the virus, some gyms in Texas or Indiana remain open. Mask-wearing varies depending on the state’s policies. Even with observed health and safety precautions, the risk of contracting the virus is higher when you’re exercising with others.
Plus, even if you may be protected with a vaccine and want to continue your fitness routine, you may still be at risk of getting the virus. That’s why many fitness buffs around the world express the same sentiment that it’s much better to exercise and build a home gym.
Nirbhay Metha from India says he doesn’t want to go back to commercial gyms anymore. Similarly, Ben Barbanel from the UK has also expressed his intention of never going back to the gym and relying on technology to work out. Plus, Shylah May has also been fond of home workouts, and she’ll stick to that routine.
Why It’s Better to Build a Home Gym
Well, aside from the obvious spread of the virus, building a home gym can help you save some cash and time in the long run. Run Repeat reveals that an annual gym membership charges less than $500. But it can go upwards of $950, depending on the gym.
For one, you no longer have to share gym equipment (and a shower) with other people. That thought alone keeps you safe from getting the virus or spreading it to others.
Sure, you’ll be surprised at how expensive most gym equipment is. But most quality gym equipment can last a few years. With proper use and maintenance, home gym equipment can last up to seven to ten years.
If you have a home gym, you no longer need to commute, drive, or walk to your nearest gym. Therefore, you’ll no longer have to spend a few bucks on a bus ride or gasoline for your car when you can immediately use equipment at home.
Although a trainer may not keep a close eye on your form, you can always subscribe to online exercises. Most of them will give you detailed instructions on moving properly or remind you of your form when you exercise.
Equipment You Should Have to Build a Home Gym
Before you splurge on equipment you might not even need, it’s best that you assess which ones you’ll regularly use. Think about the exercises you usually do at the gym, for example, cardio or strength training. From there, determine which equipment is best suited to complete your daily workout routine. But, if you don’t have the luxury of having an ample space to fit all of the gym equipment you need, there are space-saver options.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells won’t take up too much space in your home. You can store them by using a drawer or a sturdy rack. Examples of dumbbells you can purchase are from Core Home Fitness or BWSS. You can move up or down a weight, depending on your workout.
Price range: $299 to $499
Mat
A mat is essential to your home gym. Even if you won’t do yoga, it’s best when you do exercises lying down. Plus, it’s an alternative if you don’t have a carpet. The ones from Yoga Zeal or Lululemon are worth buying.
Price range: $79 to $145
Suspension Training System
This one has different straps, which you can use at home or on the go. You can anchor the straps on a sturdy pole or column, and you can work up a sweat with the right exercise. A highly recommended suspension training system comes from TRX.
Price: $167.95
Bike
A bike is another useful gym equipment when you want to build a home gym. It’s not bulky like most treadmills or ellipticals. And in a few minutes, you can burn a lot of calories.
Price range: $130 to $399
Treadmill
Standard treadmills do take up space, but there are some you can fold and store. Plus, you can even multitask with some treadmills that you can put under your desk while working from home.
Price range: $270 to $600
