Create a Home Workout Space

by Sally Whitaker

Choosing to work on your fitness at home has many advantages, including: less time away from home/family, no gym memberships or class fees, convenience, and the element of intimidation or self-consciousness is removed. It also presents some challenges, like staying motivated to put in the time.

Having an area devoted just to your workouts is important and does not require much space. A little planning goes a long way to build your home gym.

Location

Whether you have an entire room to devote to fitness equipment or just one corner, setting up a specific spot will help you to stay on track. Just like walking into the kitchen tends to lead us to grabbing a snack or drink, walking into your workout space will get you in the mindset to move.

If you have a space large enough to hold a plank or do a jumping jack, you have plenty of room.

Equipment

Yoga Mat - Great for yoga, Pilates, ab work, or more traction for standing and jumping.

Dumbbells - Start with just one or two pairs, a weight that is manageable for 8-15 reps of an exercise, and a weight that is just a bit heavy. Check for sales to continue to add to your collection.

Jump Rope - No treadmill, no problem. A jump rope will provide plenty of cardio and is great for interval training.

Resistance Bands - A couple resistance options for strengthening and stretching will enhance your workouts by providing many options without taking up a lot of space.

The above options are more than enough to get started. As you progress, you will be able to add more detailed options, like a punching bag, yoga blocks, TRX cables, or other activityspecific equipment.

Storage

If space is limited, proper storage is imperative. A bookshelf, basket, or even a storage tote are great options.

Treat your space just like you would a gym, and wipe down your equipment, roll up mats and bands, and make sure everything has a spot to be stored. This will help you to begin each workout with a clean space and in the proper mindset.

Accessories

What helps you when it comes to your workouts? Will you want music? A mirror to check form? Bright lights or a small lamp? Having what you need close at hand will keep you from having to break from your workout to go get it.

Plan Ahead

Creating a workout routine is important. There are many resources online and in print that will provide specific plans. Additionally, many personal trainers will do just one or two sessions with a client looking for an athome training plan. Utilize a calendar to plot out what you will do each day, including rest days.

Set up your space, create a plan, schedule your workouts just like other appointments, and make at-home fitness work for you.

You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting this or any other fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs. Do not start this fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it. If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while exercising you should stop immediately.

Sally Whitaker is a Pilates and Yoga instructor with 15 years of experience teaching group classes and private clientele, primarily in Independence, MO. During the summer months you can find her teaching Sunset Yoga at Armstrong Park in Grain Valley.