How To Create An Affordable At-Home Gym
If you're one of the millions of gym-goers that were affected by the mandatory quarantine, then "at-home" workouts have become a bit of the norm. If you're looking to create your own home gym, here are some affordable options to get you started.
Resistance Bands: Starting at $26.99
I love resistance bands mainly for two things; their range and mobility. What's great about this item is the wide range of exercises you're able to do. This includes bicep, back, shoulders, and leg workouts. This can be accomplished indoors and outdoors. Although a lot of websites are taking advantage of the demand by price gouging, there are good deals out there. Fitshop.ca ( a Canadian website) has bands that start at $26.99. You can also find similar pricing on Amazon.com. When shopping be sure to get the package that includes the door hinge that will allow you to do exercises such as lat pulldowns and leg extensions. It's affordable, simple, lightweight, and durable. A must-have for your home gym.
If you haven't used resistant bands before, here's a video for beginners.
Kettlebells: Starting at $22.70
Another essential and diverse piece of equipment is the kettlebell. What makes this item a nice addition for your home is the versatility it offers. Like the resistance bands, you can do a full-body workout with them. Routines like kettlebell swings will burn cardio and exercises for the biceps, shoulders, backs, and legs can all be accomplished while using it. What's also great is mobility as they can be used both indoors and outdoors.
Right now, treadmillfactory.ca is offering specials on their kettlebells for online orders only. Although most are on backorder, their cast iron supply has a good amount available to get you started all with reduced and affordable pricing.
You will also want to keep an eye out for kettlebellusa.com as they have announced new inventory that will be arriving online in May.
If you're fortunate enough to get your hands on a few, this kettlebell workout for beginners will help get you started with a few routines. We also spoke with Richard King who is a certified kettlebell instructor in New York City. Be sure to check out Episode 4 of our podcast for tips.
Dumbbells & Adjustable Weights: Pricing Varies
So when self-isolation became mandatory and the gyms closed, this was one of the first items that flew off store shelves. As it stands now, dumbbells and adjustable weights are in high demand which makes them hard to find in stores and online. However, there are a few options if you're thrifty. Websites like Amazon, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Kijiji (Canada) are good options for finding some. I highly recommend before buying these, you do your research by reading reviews and price comparison. I suggest looking for the adjustable weights (with a set with plates) if you can find them. This will conserve the amount of space in your apartment or home.
Workout Bench: Pricing Varies
So you have your resistance bands, kettlebells, and if you're lucky a good set of weights. What will make your home gym complete is the addition of a workout bench. This tool is ideal for chest, back and leg exercises. Unfortunately, it is another item that is in high demand and limited stock through online retailers. However, there are a few available if you're willing to shell out anywhere between $350-$500.
A basic bench will cost you about $250 during this time and an adjustable about $350 to start. I suggest looking for the adjustable as it offers a wide range of exercises you can do that will include shoulder, chest, and back incline routines. Again, because this item is limited you can either put the money up for a high-quality bench that will cost you anywhere between $600-$1,5000 or thrift shop through Amazon, eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Kijiji (Canada). As mentioned before, do your research before purchasing.
Finally, there was a YouTube video I seen a few weeks back by Garage Gym Reviews that provide great options for starting your home gym at an affordable rate. Keep in mind that some of these items may not be available due to high demand. However, be sure to have alternatives as well. With everything listed in this article you can have everything, you need for your home gym for under $500. I will also have updates on deals regarding fitness equipment in the future. So be sure to subscribe and follow us on Instagram @Fit.Health.Well and our Facebook Page @Fit.Health.Well for updates!
By; Jay Denson