Stuff

I have been training clients virtually for a while now, so I am using whatever they have available to them in the way of equipment.  I’ve never been a person in favor of buying two of everything, so here is my short list of home fitness equipment.  Please note that none of it is essential; there are many perfectly good body-weight workouts that can keep us fit and healthy.  That said, here’s what is nice to have.

 

1.     Dumbbells.  If budget allows, the adjustable ones are nice because you get lots of weights and they don’t take up space.  If budget does not allow, a set of light dumbbells and some slightly heavier ones are good.  (Test this out in the store:  the light ones should be about right for ten lateral raises and the heavier ones should be about right for ten rows.)  Dumbbells can double for most things we can do with kettle bells and medicine balls (exception:  do NOT slam your dumbbells into the floor like a medicine ball.  You will not like the results.)

2.     Stability ball.  It takes up less space than a bench and adds an ab challenge to exercises.

3.     Slider disks.  These open up a variety of challenges for cardio in small spaces and also come in useful for clients with knee issues who need to strengthen the muscles around the knees.  Bonus:  they’re cheap and small.

4.     Yoga strap.  A belt or scarf also works.  Helpful for stretching and some stability-building exercises.  Alternatively, a resistance band with handles can be used for a lot of stuff.  Again, inexpensive, flexible, and small.

5.     Foam roller, tune-up balls, etc.  These help develop mobility and flexibility and they feel good.

6.     Mat.  Again, not necessary if you have a floor that is pleasant to lie on.  Nice for padding the knees in certain positions, but a big towel can also work.

 

What I have listed fits in about 9 square feet, so not a lot of room.