With the COVID-19 pandemic raging, many people now realize the importance of staying fit and healthy. Many research studies have shown that physically active people with a healthy lifestyle are less likely to get infected with the virus. However, with the health protocols in effect, going to the gym or attending group fitness classes is not an option.
So, what do you do if you still want to stay fit and healthy? The answer is simple — bring the gym into your home. But how do you do that? Here’s how to set up your home gym so you can stay fit and healthy during these trying times.
Have a dedicated space.
One of the keys to successful home workouts is having a dedicated space for your gym. It can be a room, a corner, or even a small area in your house where you can set up your equipment. Nonetheless, a dedicated space will help you stay motivated and focused on your fitness goals.
You don’t need ample space to set up your home gym. Although it’s ideal to have a separate room for your gym, it’s not necessary. What matters is that you have enough space to move around and do your exercises without worrying about hitting or breaking something. This way, you can focus on your workout and getting results.
Prep your area before setting up.
Like any room in your house, it’s best to prep your soon-to-be gym area before setting up. That means ensuring the floor is clean and free of debris, the walls are clear of anything that could fall and hurt you, and there’s good lighting. These things will create a safe and conducive environment for working out.
Many people choose to set up their home gym in their basement. If you’re one of them, you might want to work with a contractor for basement finishing and remodeling. This way, you can create a comfortable and functional space for your workouts.
You can add some home gym flooring to your space if you want. Many options are available, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs. In doing so, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for working out.
Invest in quality equipment.
Quality should be your top priority when setting up your home gym, not quantity. It’s better to have a few high-quality pieces of equipment than a bunch of cheap, flimsy ones. After all, you want equipment that will last for years and won’t break down quickly.
Some must-haves for your home gym include a set of dumbbells, a weight bench, a yoga mat, and a skipping rope. These things will allow you to do a wide range of exercises to achieve your fitness goals. When buying equipment, make sure to read reviews and compare prices. This way, you can find the best deals and get your money’s worth.
Don’t forget about recovery accessories.
Working out is essential, but so is recovery. After all, it would be best if you gave your body time to rest and recover after a strenuous workout. Otherwise, you risk injury and burnout.
So, don’t forget to invest in recovery accessories for your home gym. These include a foam roller, a lacrosse ball, and resistance bands. These things will help you stretch and release tension in your muscles. As a result, you’ll feel less soreness and stiffness after your workouts.
You can find all the necessary equipment and accessories for your home gym online. Make sure to research and compare prices before making a purchase.
Keep your gym clean and organized.
Another essential thing to consider when setting up your home gym is sanitation. After all, you don’t want to work out in a dirty, cluttered space. So, make sure to keep your gym clean and organized.
To do this, you can create a cleaning schedule and stick to it. You can also designate a place for each of your equipment so you can easily find them when you need them. That gives you a functional, clean, organized space that’s also safe. Plus, you’ll be more motivated to work out when you keep your gym neat and organized.
Create a workout routine.
Once you have everything you need, it’s time to create a workout routine. It will help you stay on track with your fitness goals and avoid boredom.
Make sure to include a warm-up, cardiovascular, strength training, and a cool-down when creating your routine. You can also add in some stretching and flexibility exercises. And don’t forget to mix things up from time to time so you can make the most out of your home gym.
Now that you know how to set up your home gym, it’s time to start your fitness journey. With these tips, you can create a functional, safe, and comfortable space for working out. So, what are you waiting for? Start setting up your home gym today.