Home Workout Essentials

Starting a workout routine from home can be daunting. Whether you are used to taking classes at your local gym ( where they provide all of the equipment), or you are just starting an exercise routine for the first time, I have been there, and I am here to help navigate the confusion.  Due to the current health crisis, for most the local gym is no longer an option.  We are all spending so much time at home, right now is the perfect time to start or upgrade your at home fitness routine.

First you are going to want to download a fitness app. If you don’t want to pay for an app, you can look up free workout routines on Pinterest or YouTube.  I prefer to pay for an app because the instructors are usually trained and certified, and all of your workouts are organized into one spot. You can find some of my favorite work out apps in my current fitness routine blog post.

After some trial and error and trying MANY different apps and online workout classes, I concluded that I didn’t need a ton of equipment to do workouts from home. You basically need a couple of main items to begin and can slowly add to your collection over time.

Here is my list of essential equipment for home workouts:

1.) A quality yoga mat

2.) A set of weights ( I use a pair of 2 lb.weights and a couple of 5 lb. weights) 

3.) Resistance Bands

4.) A reliable pair of tennis shoes 

Optional:

These are a few of my favorite workout tools. They aren’t essential, but if you like yoga, barre, or Pilates, they are great options to have.

1.) A set of 2 yoga blocks 

2.) 1 pound Bala weights ( I use these for my wrists while walking and on my ankles for leg exercises.

3.) Pilates Ring. I use this for when I do Pilates and Barr workouts. 

4.) A mirror. I like to be able to check my form while doing my exercises. 

5.) A treadmill. When you live in a cold place like Chicago, a treadmill is a beautiful thing December-March. I love warming up with a 10-20 minute incline walk. Sometimes that IS my workout for the day. 

I have linked some of my favorite products below.

Xo 

Kate