Let’s face it – we’re all busy. Many of us are so busy that we unintentionally neglect our gym memberships simply because we’re too exhausted after a full day to drive the extra mile to a facility. It gets like that sometimes — trust me, I know. But what a complete waste of money! It’s time we figured out a way to get our workouts in no matter how hectic life gets. One perfect solution to staying on top of our fitness goals would be to create an at-home gym or workout corner!

That way, we can really work out on our own time. Just think about those moments when you’re in a time crunch or have small children that you can’t step away from for that hour-long workout. Investing in a DIY home workout spot is totally possible, no matter the size of your space.

Workout equipment can be really expensive, which is why slowly stocking up for your home gym is the way to go. Some might not have much space in their homes to dedicate to a workout area, which is why furniture that doubles as storage is great for putting away all of your small equipment.

storage for at-home gym — Photo: Joss & Main

Interested in creating your own at-home gym? Here are some fitness essentials to help get you started in picking out your equipment:

Photo: Valerie Robinson

1. Yoga or gym floor mats

Great for preventing slips and stretching. They also protect your home floors while you put in work burning calories.

2. Kettlebells

Compact and very effective in toning the arms. Kettlebell swings anyone?

3. Jump rope

Very compact and an excellent way to get cardio and increase your heart rate.

4. Large medicine ball

There are so many exercises you can do on a medicine ball, such as crunches or push-ups.

Photo: Valerie Robinson

5. Resistance bands

Wonderful for lunges and making your muscles work a bit harder.

6. Dumbbells

Pretty standard and perfect for muscle toning. They can even be used to add resistance during a long walk.

7. Step

Steps are usually adjustable for height and make for a nice cardio session. If you do enough high-knee raises on this, you’ll see amazing results.

8. Weighted medicine ball

Many have a love-hate relationship with these, but you’ll thank yourself for having one handy because they help you complete the best ab workouts.

9. Foam roller

Your sore muscles will love this! After each workout, it’s important to stretch and massage your tight areas. That’s exactly what a foam roller does.

Although not necessary, for more advanced home gyms, you might eventually choose to purchase a treadmill or stationary bike if you have the proper space. But you can certainly do a lot with very little. Try not to focus too much on equipment needs and let your body do the work – crunches, running, squats and push-ups are free. The equipment can just enhance your experience.

at-home gym

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