Tips for setting up the ultimate home gym
It’s that time of year again. The one where we all quietly promise ourselves to get a little fitter, a bit stronger, and all around just more disciplined with getting exercise in.
One survey even found that of the 88% of Kiwis who made a New Year’s resolution in 2023, almost half (45%) of them had pledged to exercise more.
But when gym memberships can cost $80+ per week, it’s easy to see why those good-intentioned resolutions can end up thrown out the back door with the Christmas tree. Especially when you have a busy schedule!
One solution? A home gym. While the initial set up costs will likely be higher than $80, it could save you in the long run (and remove the excuse of the gym being too far away, or simply too crowded).
Essential equipment for a home gym setup
A good exercise routine is a recipe of two parts; strength and cardio. So if nothing else, you’ll need something that will work your muscles, and something that will get your heart pumping.
A treadmill, stationary bike, or cross-trainer are all great options for cardio. A set of weights, or even a full weight rack, could help you improve your strength – you’ll only have to pick them up and put them down again a few hundred times.
How to create a home gym on a budget
Is your budget feeling about as strong as your thighs after leg day? No problem – the best home gym equipment isn’t necessarily the most expensive.
One of the simplest, most affordable home gym set ups is nothing more than a good workout mat and a small set of weights. You can do a surprising amount of cardio with just a mat (hello, burpees), and with enough reps and small weights you can exercise your arms to exhaustion.
Then head online and find some free YouTube workouts or a good exercise app and follow their routines. Or, pair up with a gym buddy to help you stick to your routine and do a workout together online.
Another option is to buy one key piece of equipment this year, then another item next year, to slowly build up your collection. And of course, the second-hand market is your friend.
Maximising small spaces: tips for compact home gyms
Sometimes, there won’t be room to swing a kettlebell around, but your gains don’t have to suffer.
Even a simple hallway is usually enough space to lay down a mat and start pumping out sit-ups, burpees, squats, and lunges. But if you do have a room, a fold-out squat rack is a popular choice that folds flat when not in use.
A walking pad is another good option for compact home gym equipment. Designed for walking rather than running, these small, light-weight devices help you get your steps in – then can be tucked away in a cupboard or under your bed once you’re done.
How much does it cost to set up a home gym?
How long is a skipping rope? The cost of a home gym can be minimal – or it can be bigger than the weight on Arnold Schwarzenegger’s squat rack!
You could get some basics like a mat and dumbbells that will have you sweating and aching for just a small price, or you could opt for a middle-of-the-road set up for anywhere from $500 to $1,000. And if budget is no issue, your home gym equipment could cost you thousands.
The good news is, whether you spend a little or a lot, setting up a home gym is a great way to invest in your health and well-being. It's equally important to consider protecting the financial well-being of your loved ones. OneChoice Life Insurance could offer you the peace of mind you need in case the unexpected happens. Request a quote today to find out more.
Disclaimer: This article is an opinion only, provided for general information purposes and should not be relied upon as personal advice. You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care professional before starting any fitness program or before starting any new diet program to determine if it is right for your needs.
13 Jan 2025