Between increasingly salty gym memberships and expensive equipment, it would seem that physical activity is becoming something of a privilege. In addition, many people who want to work out at home feel under pressure, so they want to create a gym that can be the envy of a professional one. However, if you're willing to adopt some inexpensive alternatives to your favorite machines, building a gym will cost you a few hundred dollars (or less).
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Buying Aerobics and Fitness Supplies
Step 1. Look for exercises that don't require any tools
When it comes to aerobic activity and general fitness, great results can be achieved with a very small investment. The internet is full of helpful guides on how to do full, high-intensity cardio workouts without machines. Yoga and Pilates are also disciplines that do not require any equipment, or almost.
Step 2. Buy a foam roller, a versatile tool that has gained a great deal of fame in recent years
The simpler ones, but of good quality, are available from 10-20 euros. If you want to save even more, buy a PVC pipe from the hardware store and wrap it with a beach towel to get a DIY roller.
Step 3. Buy an ab wheel abdominal machine
If you want to train all the muscles of the abdominal corset (core), back included, or modify your training schedule a bit, there are several targeted exercises for the abdominals in addition to the classic crunches and plank. An ab wheel is a simple and immediate solution to your need. It is easy to find and you should be able to find one for less than 15 euros.
Step 4. Buy a non-bursting Pilates ball
It is the most versatile item in the world of fitness. It's great for doing situps, as it supports the spine and isolates the abdominal muscles. It allows you to work them much more effectively than crunches or sit-ups. However, you can also use it for many other exercises. In some cases it can replace a bench.
Step 5. Consider buying a cardio machine
You could choose an exercise bike. Good quality ones are usually available for 100-200 euros, while a treadmill of a similar quality can cost at least twice as much, even thousands of euros. The exercise bikes are also adjustable, so you don't have to worry about finding one that fits your body perfectly (as is the case with the elliptical).
Look for gyms that are about to close. They often sell the equipment. There is generally no cheaper way to buy good quality machines than this
Part 2 of 3: Weight Training
Step 1. Buy a good quality adjustable bench
If you can make a bit more investment in just one machine, go for this tool. With an adjustable bench, you won't need inclined, flat and declined benches. Instead of buying three, you will only have to invest in one, saving hundreds of euros. An adjustable bench is quite versatile and can be used for almost any exercise.
Step 2. Choose one or two sets of dumbbells
They are considered the best tools among those used to develop muscle mass. They are much smaller than other home gym machines and cheaper. If you can only buy one training item, this should be a dumbbell set. Dumbbells always set the stage for any low-cost DIY gym.
If you are already quite fit, you should buy a standard Olympic barbell, which weighs around 5 kilos (the bar) and can be loaded up to 90 kilos
Step 3. Prepare some sandbags
If you have any building material left over, you can recycle it this way. You'll also need old duffel bags. Fill them with sand or gravel and seal them tightly. You can use them for numerous resistance exercises.
Step 4. Buy some resistance bands
It is the simplest and cheapest tool there is. You can use it for the purpose of replacing dumbbells for all exercises that allow it. Look for a place to attach the anchor strap. You will be able to emulate all the vertical machines in the gym that allow you to train parts that you cannot exercise with other equipment in the house.
Step 5. Create a tow sled to train
This tool takes a little more elaborate DIY project, but is effective for strengthening the legs and body in general without breaking the bank. To create it, all you need is a tow rope and a large tire. Attach them and you can start training right away. More difficult projects usually involve welding work.
Step 6. Buy a pull bar
It is usually available for no more than 20 euros. Make sure the door jamb is solid so you can use it without any problems. Try to buy one that allows you to train your triceps and do push-ups. With such a tool, push-ups put less strain on the wrists.
Step 7. Invest in an Olympic barbell with rubberized discs
If you can afford it, this purchase will increase the level of your strength training. Compared to classic discs, these are more durable, as they are rubber coated and can fall to the ground without problems. The barbell allows for small increments of 100 grams-1 kilo in weight used. This is particularly useful for more trained people who are maintaining a stagnant condition.
Part 3 of 3: Complete Gym
Step 1. The gym should be secluded
This has nothing to do with budget, but try to do it in a quiet place. It will help you to train constantly because it will eliminate any distraction and encourage you to focus on the exercises. Regardless of the final expense, don't waste money on tools you won't use. Choosing equipment that is actually useful and storing it in a special space will allow you not to accumulate things that you do not need.
Step 2. Don't forget the floor
Unless the room you are going to train in does not have carpeting, it is definitely worth buying rubber panels, even if it is just for one corner of the room. In addition to being indispensable for yoga and stretching, they are useful for all other exercises. Training will be so much more comfortable because you won't stress your knees and joints too much.
Step 3. Keep a television or stereo in the room where you train
Inspired by professional gyms: try to distract yourself while playing sports. If you like to practice watching videos, a television is doubly useful. Music can also give you a boost. According to some studies, the right pace can stimulate longer workouts.
Step 4. Try buying wall mirrors
It is not just an aesthetic factor: being able to look at yourself while you train is useful to understand if you make mistakes during the execution of the exercises. Since you will often train alone at home, you will not have an instructor who will give you advice on technique.
