Gym memberships can be costly, and, for many people, it can be a struggle to find the motivation to pack a bag, get in your car, and head to the gym to use the machines or even join an in-person class. Connected fitness has changed the game for people trying to get fit. You can now workout anywhere and anytime, joining classes and working out on your schedule, not someone else’s.

So if you’re ready to ditch the gym and commit to an at-home fitness routine, setting up your home gym is the first step.

Here are some tips for creating your own gym at home!

Find a dedicated space

Whether it’s an entire room, your garage, or just a corner of your bedroom, it’s important to establish a dedicated space for your home gym. You’ll need a spot that has room for a yoga mat, free weights, and cardio or strength exercise equipment. Wherever your home gym is located, make it a space that feels positive and motivating. Try hanging inspirational quotes on the wall or painting it a calming color to really make it your own. Mirrors are also very helpful to ensure you’re using the proper form to prevent injury.

Invest in equipment

Once you establish your gym space, it’s time to outfit it with the right tools! It’s all about making your home gym an effective place to exercise.

Strength

Strength training is a great way to help keep your body balanced and strong. Investing in a strength training machine is a great way to perform trainer-led strength workouts with some cardio mixed in. Another great option is adjustable dumbbells that offer multiple weight options in a single set to conserve space. Resistance bands of different levels and even a weight bench are other great options to complete your strength training equipment.

Cardio

When it comes to cardio equipment, you have plenty of options available. Whether you enjoy walking and running or would prefer to hop on a bike, you can choose the best equipment for your needs. Consider adding a treadmill, bike, elliptical, or rower to your space to have cardio equipment always ready when you need it.

Recovery

Once your workout is over, it’s important to give your muscles the TLC they deserve. Light exercise equipment like a yoga mat and a foam roller is important to help with a stretching routine, either before or after a tough workout. Drinking BCAAs (Branched-Chain Amino Acids) is another way to help muscles before, during, and after a workout.

Keep it organized & clean

Once you have your equipment and your gym set up, keeping everything clean and organized will go a long way to making it a motivational, fun place to work out. When everything has its place in your home gym, it will make things easy to find, so you can focus on the task at hand!

Build a routine

They say the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step…but those next steps are important, too! Making exercise part of your daily or weekly routine will help you stay engaged and motivated every step of the way on your journey to fitness. Try joining a workout series on your machine or joining one of iFit’s monthly challenges to really push yourself. Simply scheduling a workout will help you stay motivated and accountable. You can also use the iFit app on your tablet or phone for off-machine classes like strength training or yoga.

Download the app

Stay motivated

Speaking of motivation, our iFit Facebook community is the best place to find motivation and accountability from your fellow iFit lovers. You’ll find hundreds of people on their fitness journey that encourage one another as they chase their goals. You can also join Live Workouts each week on your machine or tablet for fresh, new workouts that fit your schedule.

Creating a fun, motivating space to work out at home is easier than you think. With a dedicated space and the right equipment, you’ll be on your way to chasing your fitness goals!

Fitness

Shopping List

June’s Coast to Coast Challenge

Elliptical

June’s Coast to Coast Challenge

Around the World Challenge

Series Feature: Costa Rica Fast & Fit Series...

Follow us @iFit