Home gyms were probably one of the best things to come out of the pandemic, in my opinion. Having a gym right in your home makes working out more accessible. You can squeeze in a workout in a shorter amount of time without having to commute. You can blare whatever music you want in the comfort of your own home. You can shower at your own house instead of in a public gym setting. And, you can dance around to your music in between sets... well... actually I encourage this in any setting. It's called an active rest, right?
If you're building out your home gym, consider the following pieces of equipment.
SQUAT RACK
You'll want to decide what type of squat rack fits best in your space. A fold-in squat rack? A shorter free standing squat rack? A squat rack cage that bolts into the ground? Take some measurements of your space to see what suits your space.
Fold In Squat Rack
Rogue - this is the one I have!
Free Standing Squat Rack
Squat Rack Rig
BARBELL
Depending on what type of lifting you do, the barbell you purchase may vary. As a standard recommendation, I would consider either one of the following:
Rogue - this is the one I use!
PLATES
The type of plates you purchase will depend on the type of lifting you'll be doing, what type of flooring you have, and what feels most comfortable to you. I personally like using bumper plates. Bumper plates allow for a softer landing on the ground, plus they're easier to set up for deadlifts and hip thrusts, or other exercises that start from the ground.
DUMBBELLS
Depending on how much space you have, you may consider getting adjustable dumbbells vs getting a whole weight set.
Free Weights
Please note, when you're buying free weights, check to make sure you're getting a set. Sometimes the dumbbells are sold individually.
Adjustable Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells are great if you have limited space, or if you want a lower investment while still having access to up to 50 lb dumbbells.
BowFlex - these are the ones I have!
KETTLEBELLS
RESISTANCE BANDS
These three types of resistance bands have different purposes. Small Loop Bands are great for warming up the lower body. Long Loop Bands are helpful for pull-ups and exercises that are usually done with a cable. Handle Bands are versatile and can be used for full body, as well. Ultimately, any brand of resistance bands will do.
Small Loop Bands
Long Loop Bands
Handle Bands
BENCH
If you want to be able to do incline exercises, such as incline press, I'd suggest an adjustable bench.
BOX
A box is helpful for variations of step-ups, box jumps, and box squats. My go-to is REP Fitness. I'd recommend the medium size box for most people.
FLOORING
Some of you may decide to keep your gym equipment on the hard floor or carpet. If you're looking for some gym flooring, I would recommend looking at Home Depot, Lowe's, or similar. I purchased mine at Home Depot. The specific brand is not available anymore, but here is one similar.
MAT If you already have a yoga mat, perfect! If you don't, Amazon or Walmart will do just fine.
Amazon - this is the one I have!
BARBELL COLLARS
Almost any barbell collar will suffice. I got mine from Amazon. It doesn't look like they still offer the exact ones I have, but here are a couple similar to mine:
Please note, none of these suggestions are sponsored. These are my own recommendations based on what I have used and enjoyed.
