In a world reshaped by the pandemic, the shift to working out at home exploded when gyms temporarily shuttered. In fact, in 2020, the Global Wellness Institute (GWI) predicted that the pandemic would leave a lasting impact on consumers’ decision-making, including a focus on wellness. And with the increase in fitness apps, exercise videos, and do-at-home platforms (think Nike Training Club and Peloton), more people than ever continue to work out at home.
If you’re considering setting up a home gym, follow these tips from Chris Gagliardi, Medical Exercise Specialist with the American Council on Exercise (ACE).
IDENTIFY YOUR WELLNESS GOALS
Whether you’re training for a marathon, improving heart health, or looking for stress relieve, what you want to accomplish will guide what your home gym will look like. “Setting some specific goals regarding what you would like to achieve is the best place to start,” advises Gagliardi. This will help determine what resources, tools, and equipment will best support your goals.
PLAN FOR SAFETY FIRST
To ensure a safe exercise environment, prioritize space according to equipment sizes and recommended clearances. Larger items like treadmills require ample space, but also consider movement and range of motion for smaller pieces like mini trampolines. Be mindful of tripping hazards and injury risks, too. Safety first also means practicing safe form and technique. For this, Gagliardi recommends checking out the extensive ACE exercise library for valuable insights.
NAVIGATE BUDGETS AND SPACE
You might be able to dedicate an entire room to your home gym, spending thousands of dollars to equip it. Or you might need to carve out a corner of your apartment, spending $100 or less. “When working within a budget, multi-use equipment may be a good option,” suggests Gagliardi. Start by stocking some basic equipment, such as resistance bands, dumbbells, jump rope, and yoga mat.
Expand your home gym as your fitness evolves, your space allows, and your budget affords. He also suggests thinking about what you can achieve with what you already own that will allow you to spend more on a new piece of equipment.
CREATE THE RIGHT MOOD
“Personalizing your space really helps to take ownership of your home gym, your goals, and your health,” notes Gagliardi. Focus on the theme or the feeling you want to create when you enter this space. It could be a peaceful yoga studio, with soothing colors, candles, and plants. Or it might be filled with bold colors, loud music, and bright lights to inspire intense workouts.
TAP INTO WHAT INSPIRES YOU
Creating a space that motivates you will help lead toward success, Gagliardi point outs. “Do certain colors, imagery, music, smells, or cleanliness motivate you? Do certain words or phrases inspire you to change? Perhaps there’s a place for them in your gym,” he says.
Also, pay attention to any barriers that might make it difficult for you to get started with your workouts and what you can do to reduce or eliminate them. Gagliardi suggests that it can be helpful to establish a set of rules, such as no bringing work into the gym, no dress shoes, or no pets. “The key is to create a space that fosters activity and creativity.”
Regardless of goals, space, and budget, a home gym can work for anyone. Gagliardi emphasizes the importance of thinking of a home gym as a long-term investment in your health and well-being.
