Is investing in a home gym worth the time and money? We have the answers to figure it out!
While investing in your own home gym can have its benefits, it’s important to consider factors such as your fitness goals, budget, and available space before making a decision. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of having your own home gym, how much you should invest in exercise equipment, and whether it is an effective way to work out in your fitness journey.
A home gym is a good investment if you are a self-motivated goal oriented individual who is interested in working out on your own schedule, not looking for a social aspect, looking for an independent fitness routine, and aren’t in the market for a monthly gym membership.
Is Investing in a Home Gym a Good Idea?
Working out at home has many benefits, including convenience, flexibility, and reduced cost. With a home gym, you don’t have to worry about traveling to commercial gyms or waiting in lines for equipment to become available. You can also work out at any time, without having to adhere to the gym’s schedule. Moreover, a home gym can save you money in the long run, as you won’t have to pay monthly membership fees usually associated with a local gym.
Why is Working Out at Home Better
Choose a Workout Routine That You’ll Stick With
Working out at home has many benefits when compared to going to the commercial gym. According to Mayo Clinic, “Whether you prefer the peace and quiet of working out at home or the energy and motivation of a group fitness class, the most important thing is to choose an exercise routine that you enjoy and will stick with.”
There are many pros of a home gym when compared to a commercial gym membership. First, since you are working out by yourself or with a loved one, it is a judgment-free zone. There isn’t anyone looking at you so you can concentrate on your workout routines. Plus, you decide what fitness equipment you need for your fitness goals and create routines that are specifically for your physical health. You can also create a dream gym setup with just the equipment you need.
For example, if you like strength training and bodyweight exercises, a good quality adjustable bench press, a decent set of dumbbells, a set of free weights, weight machines, a pull-up bar, a squat rack, and weight plates might be your workout preferences. If you enjoy cardio exercises and a more intense workout or want to lose weight, a jump rope, rowing machine, treadmill, or exercise bike are home gym equipment to invest in.
How Much Should You Invest in a Home Gym?
Investments Vary From Person to Person
The amount you should invest in a home gym depends on your personal preference, fitness goals, and budget. If you’re just starting out and want to get into shape, a basic set of equipment such as dumbbells, and a yoga mat can be purchased for a relatively low cost. On the other hand, if you’re a serious fitness enthusiast, you may want to invest in more advanced equipment such as a power rack, Olympic weightlifting bar, and adjustable dumbbells. The cost of these items can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
Are Home Gyms Effective?
A home gym can be just as effective as a traditional gym if used correctly. The key to getting the most out of your home gym is to have a well-designed workout plan that is tailored to your fitness goals. It’s also important to use proper form and technique when exercising to prevent injury. In addition, consider the space you have for your home gym and how much room you will need for your workout. If the space is not big enough, you may need to reconsider your workout plan.
How to Build Your Own Home Gym Setup on a Budget
A home gym setup can be a good investment and just as effective as a traditional gym if designed and used correctly. The key to success is having a spare room or enclosed space like a garage gym dedicated to spending time working out, a well-designed workout plan, and using proper form and technique when exercising. Only buy equipment you need and not ones you don’t think you’ll use when setting up a home workout area. This allows you to work out in a controlled environment with fewer distractions.
Things to Consider for Home Gym Setup
What Do I Need to Set up a Basic Home Gym?
There are many different products and online apps and blog post articles available on the market that are great for you to work out anytime.
Popular Products for a Home or Garage Gym Are:
• Resistance Bands: Lightweight and portable, resistance bands are a great way to add resistance to your workouts and target specific muscle groups and strengthen muscle growth.
• Dumbbells: Dumbbells are a classic piece of workout equipment that can be used for a wide range of exercises. There are many different weight options available, so you can gradually increase the resistance as you get stronger.
• Yoga Mats: This is a must-have for anyone looking to practice yoga or perform floor-based exercises at home.
• Stability balls: stability balls are great for adding an extra level of challenge to your workout, especially for core exercises.
Online Apps Have Workouts and Fitness Programs:
• Nike Training Club: Nike Training Club provides a variety of workouts, from bodyweight exercises to resistance training to high-intensity interval training, all led by top trainers.
• Aaptiv: Aaptiv offers audio-based workouts that are guided by a personal trainer, making it easy to follow along and stay motivated.
• 7 Minute Workout: As the name suggests, 7 Minute Workout provides quick and effective workouts that can be done in just 7 minutes, making it a great option for those with a busy schedule.
Is A Home Gym Worth It?
Yes, A home gym saves you money in the long run if you plan and invest wisely. Adding workout equipment to your home can be a good idea if you have the budget, space, and commitment to use it. With convenience, flexibility, and reduced cost, a home gym can provide an effective way to create gym routines and reach your fitness goals. Just be sure to have a well-designed workout plan and use proper form and technique when exercising to get the most out of your home gym. Fitness expert, Denise Austin, agrees that consistent home workouts are just as effective as exercising at a gym.
Home Gym Vs. Gym Membership Cost Analysis
Budget: How Much Should You Invest in a Home Gym?
The initial cost of setting up a home gym can vary depending on the amount of equipment you want to buy and if you want to save money. This could be a simple set of dumbbells and a yoga mat that are very reasonably priced all the way up to extensive equipment like a treadmill that could cost hundreds. In addition, based on what type of equipment you go for, the maintenance and repair bills could add up over time.
Now compared to a gym, you may have to invest in an enrollment fee and a monthly membership which can range between $0 to $200. Unlike home gyms, the ongoing costs of transportation to and from the gym can add up as well as miscellaneous fees like lockers, rentals, towel service, and personal training sessions like strength training.
The pros of a gym membership are the variety and range of professional equipment that will keep your workout varied. Personal trainers are on hand and most gyms have a variety of scheduled fitness and cardio training classes which are fun and social.
Overall, the cost analysis will depend on your personal fitness goals, budget, and preferences. If you have a large budget and value convenience, a home gym may be the better choice. If you enjoy the variety of equipment, classes, and expert trainers and are willing to travel to the gym on a regular basis, a commercial gym membership may be the better choice.
Where to Purchase Home Gym Equipment
There are several places where you can buy home gym equipment. Consider factors such as the amount of space and gym flooring you have available, the types of exercises you want to do, and your fitness level. Here are some of the most common options:
- Sporting goods stores: Many sporting goods stores carry a variety of home gym fitness equipment, including dumbbells, resistance bands, exercise balls, cardio equipment, and more. These stores often have sales so you can save money.
- Online retailers: Online retailers offer a wide range of fitness equipment and can be convenient because you can compare prices and read reviews before making a purchase.
- Fitness equipment stores: Some stores specialize in fitness equipment, offering a wide range of options and expertise to help you select the right equipment for your needs. These stores may offer financing options and warranties, and some may even allow you to try out the equipment before making a purchase.
- Garage sales and secondhand stores: You can often find used commercial gym fitness equipment at garage sales and secondhand stores. This can be a cost-effective way to build a home gym, but be sure to inspect the equipment carefully to make sure it’s in good condition and safe to use.
- Manufacturers and distributors: Some manufacturers and distributors sell home gym equipment directly to consumers. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a specific brand or type of equipment for your home gym setup.
Make A Workout Routine Enjoyable
According to Johns Hopkins Medicine in Baltimore, “while both home gym workouts have their pros and cons, the most important thing is to find an exercise routine that you enjoy and that you can stick with. Whether that’s at home or at the gym is up to you.”