Easy Home Gym Set Up

Skip the gym membership and set up your own home gym. Then get moving!

In today's fast-paced world, finding time for fitness can be challenging, especially for busy parents. I have found that having an at home gym is the situation I need to actually make working out a priority. If I have to drive to the gym, it isn’t going to happen. So now I workout in the mornings, a few times per week (before the kids get up). I have to get up early, but it makes me feel great. Sometimes I do 30 minutes and sometimes I do 15 minutes (usually because I slept in). Sometimes all I do is walk. I’ve found it really doesn’t matter, as long as it’s something. I previously shared some ideas on creating the time block to move in a previous blog.

But where to start and what do I need? Turns out, not much…

Here's the steps I used to create my home gym:

1. Assess The Space. Evaluate available space in my home—an extra room, a corner in the basement, or even a cleared-out area in the living room. I ended up putting the gym in the garage.

2. Define Your Fitness Goals. Identify your fitness needs and goals. Are you into cardio, strength training, yoga, or a mix? Your workout preferences will determine the equipment and space requirements. 

3. Choose Your Equipment Wisely. Start with the essentials based on your fitness goals. My gym is pretty minimal and it meets all my needs. Here’s what I have:

• Cardio: Exercise bike and walking pad

• Strength Training: Lightweight dumbbells, resistance bands, and kettlebells

• Mats and Accessories: Yoga mat (I like the extra thick ones) and towels

• (Free-ish) Apps: FitOn, Down Dog

1. Design Your Space. Optimize the layout for efficiency and motivation:

• Storage Solutions: I keep all my equipment on a cheap bookshelf. It’s my no-nonsense solution.

• Lighting: A well lit space is much more inviting.

• Flooring: This is definitely one thing I have splurged on. A few years ago I bought gym floor tiles from Costco (there are many options on Amazon) and they are perfect. 

1. Start Small, Expand Gradually. You don't need a full gym on Day 1. Begin with basics and gradually add more equipment or accessories as your fitness journey progresses. 

You can crush it!!

Please not that some of the links in this blog may be affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you - thank you for supporting The Mashup!