While there is nothing wrong with purchasing a gym membership, for many Americans the monthly fee carries a hefty price tag. This is especially true if you if you have trouble getting a workout in more than three days a week.
Why continue to pay for this expense when you could setup a home gym? This may cost more money upfront, but over the long run you are sure to save. Not to mention the fact that it will allow you to workout in a more convenient setting.
It is one thing to say that you are going to setup a home gym. It is another thing entirely to do so without breaking the bank.
Here are five tips for getting started:
1. Don’t Go Overboard
It is safe to say that you don’t use all the equipment offered by your local gym. For this reason, you should not feel compelled to purchase too much equipment for your home.
It is best to start with the equipment you know you will use. Not only will this save you money, but it will help keep your space organized as well.
2. Shop For Used Equipment First
Before you head to a local sporting goods store to load up on new equipment, consider anything that you may be able to purchase used. From local newspaper classified ads to Craigslist, there are plenty of places to search for used gym equipment. You may be surprised at what you find. Often times, you can locate used equipment that is in good shape and costs much less than buying new.
3. Don’t Worry About Aesthetics
Although there is nothing wrong with wanting a nice space for your workouts, the goal is to achieve something functional. Do you really need to paint the walls? Do you really need to add new flooring? Why not use an old television and radio instead of buying a new one?
If you are going to spend money, you should be doing so on the essentials. After all, you are in your home gym to workout – not to admire your decorating skills.
4. Use The Space You Already Have
Many people think that creating a home gym means knowing down walls or building an addition. Of course, this is not something you need to do. Instead, you should make due with the space you currently have. Do you have a spare bedroom that could be used as a home gym? What about a basement or garage? Get creative. You never know where you are going to find a little bit of space.
5. Utilize Household Items When Possible
Why buy new dumbbells when you could use milk jugs instead? There are many ways to get creative. Before you buy anything, look around your home to see if there is a way to save money.
With these five tips, you will find it much easier to setup a home gym on a budget.
No matter if you workout everyday or every so often, it is good to know that you can benefit from a home gym. This will help you save money and time while giving you a more convenient area in which to get your exercise.
Remember, working out 30 minutes a day a few times a week can go a long way in improving your health. There is no rule saying that you need to join an expensive gym in order to get the exercise your body needs. You can setup a home gym to achieve the same results.