It seems as if every January, a large number of people vow to get in better physical shape by making New Year’s resolutions. Most gyms and fitness centers can prove that a bulk of their new membership comes in January but by mid-February, all of those well-laid plans to hit the treadmill and weight equipment have all but died down.
During these pandemic times, many public gyms have yet to reopen. Many gyms on military installations have only reinstated access to service members, suspending family member use. Even if the ones in your local area are allowing customers, classes may be limited and equipment hard to come by due to social distancing. That said, if this past year has proven anything it is the absolute necessity for exercise both for physical and mental well-being.
Enter the at-home fitness space.
There’s no better time than when gyms are closed, the weather is cold, and your motivation is brimming with promise to consider setting up a dedicated area of your home for the sole benefit of getting or staying in shape. Below are six options depending on your space, budget, and level of commitment.
No cost and minimal space:
Create a YouTube playlist of your favorite yoga, Zumba, or hip hop instructors and clear some floor space near your television or laptop. There are thousands of accessible workouts that require no equipment or investment that can be done by moving about your living areas. If video instruction isn’t your thing, there are plenty of other free apps or routines that can be downloaded and done by using bodyweight exercises to build strength, endurance, and flexibility.
Low cost and moderate space:
If you are willing to spend a few dollars there is a wide variety of in-home equipment that doesn’t take up permanent space. Things like the TRX system, over-the-door pull up bars, jump ropes, hand or ankle weights, a yoga mat, and resistance bands can be stored out of sight and pulled out when you want to use them. Many of these items simply require a doorway or enough clear space for you to do the moves. An empty dining room, garage or bedroom floor would be ideal.
High cost and maximum space:
If you are the kind of person that likes to go all-in or gains extra motivation because you have spent significant money and effort to create an at-home fitness space, your options are unlimited. Consider dedicating an entire room, a garage, or attic space to set up a weight bench, a stationary bike–many of which now offer live-streamed, intensive cycling classes taught by professionals. Elliptical machines, treadmills, or rowers are also very popular for home gyms. Outfit the space with the right screens and sound and your exercise will feel like a completely immersive experience. And if you want to save some money on this type of equipment? Check your local Facebook Marketplace or NextDoor apps. There’s a good chance one of your neighbors will make you a good deal on the equipment they bought last year.
Finally, no matter the space you have available or the level of investment you can make into equipment, the best plan for exercise is the one you will actually do. Get moving so you are ready for whatever the New Year brings your way! Speaking of moving, if buying a home is on your radar in the coming months, keep a potential fitness space in mind as you begin your dream home wish list.
