5 At-Home Gym Must-Haves

Cardio: Peloton

The Peloton bike is the one piece of equipment that promises an invigorating cardio workout. The compact machine is versatile and comes with a host of perks, from changing the level of resistance to taking online classes where you can work out in groups. Unlike other cardio machines like the treadmill or rowing machine, Pelotons are easy to move around less intrusive. 

Strength Training: Dumbbells

When it comes to isolation strength training, all you need is a good pair of adjustable dumbbells. The benefit dumbbells have over, say, a barbell is that they recruit stabilizing muscles that the latter does not, given a barbell works your arms together, in tandem. By extension, they are better for isolation movements and facilitate movement patterns that barbells do not. 

Total Body Training: TRX

The TRX trainer and suspension system is the perfect addition to your home gym because of how little space it takes and how little is needed to set it up. It relies entirely on gravity and your body weight—the best, most enduring exercises being bodyweight-centric. You can also adjust the straps to make it as taxing as you want, depending on your fitness levels. 

Stretching: Foam Rollers

Foam rollers are small, efficient and easy to use. There’s no better accessory when it comes to stretching. As you place the muscle over the foam roller, it presses deep into the tissue and untangles any knots or points of tension that may be present—in ways that body stretches just can’t quite do. 

Yoga: Mat

A foam floor mat creates a soft, cushioned padding to protect you and your joints from the hard surfaces of your home. They are perfect for those that want to dedicate time to yoga, and when you’re done, you can just as easily roll it up and put it somewhere discreet. It can even be used as a base for heavier weight lifting exercise, making it an extremely versatile addition.