Setting up a home gym can be cost effective and convenient. As you build your home gym, there are a few necessary pieces of equipment you must have. A good way to set up your home gym is to keep the 3 components of fitness training in mind; cardiovascular, strength and flexibility training.
Great cardio equipment:
treadmill/elliptical/stationary bike. If you don't have enough space for those bulky pieces, a jump rope or a trampoline works just as well. A quality jump rope (a speed rope with a ball bearing) costs under $20. A trampoline is in the same price range and is a great option if you experience chronic/acute pain in your knees.
Great strength equipment:
Dumbbells are a must. Be sure to get at least 2-3 different weight amounts, ranging from a weight that you can lift for 15 reps to a heavier weight that you can lift for 8 reps. Resistance bands are another basic essential element to your home gym. They take up a minimal amount of space and can be used in a variety of ways. Medicine balls and stability balls can also be a great asset to your home gym.
Great flexibility equipment:
A yoga mat and foam roller are 2 basic tools necessary for your home gym. The foam roller is a 3' long, 6" round piece of sturdy foam material that acts like a deep tissue massager. It helps break up micro adhesions (knots) in your muscle tissue, which could be the source of pain, more specifically, knee pain.
