If there is one thing we learned during the duration of the pandemic, it’s that we gym heads should have a home gym, anyone for that matter. Don’t get me wrong, it isn’t necessary to have a home gym to get in an effective workout. No equipment workouts happen to be some of the best, because all you need to bring is your body. But if you’re like me, then some days you might need something to work with.

And now that gyms are beginning to open again, and I have every intention to return, I realize that I could use a few more items in my basement. Not only to avoid another potential gym closure but for days that I just don’t feel like getting out.

It doesn’t take much to build a personal home gym especially when you’re on a budget too. I wanted to share some essential must-have items that will help aid you in your kickass workout.

Yoga Mat

Most of the time I am too lazy to even bring my mat out, but it’s much more comfortable than laying on the ground. Not only is it beneficial for yoga sessions, post-workout stretches, but it’s also good for a majority of exercises done on the floor.

Resistance Bands

I have a love-hate relationship with resistance bands. At first, the exercise can start off easy, but that can change real quick. Not only is there a huge scale of exercises that can be done with them, but I love is the variety of bands. You got skinny bands, thick bands, fabric bands, bands with handles. You got bands, bands, bands, say it with me.

Dumbbells

Dumbbells are a must! I would suggest having of few pairs of them in your possession. Depending on where you are at in your journey, you would want to have a light, medium, heavyset, something for every exercise. Though they can be quite pricey, I say they are worth the buy. I myself have a set of 5, 10, and 15 pound weights and I’m now looking to increase. Who am I?

Skipping Rope

Skipping ropes were so much fun back in the day, weren’t they? I still remember those jump rope games I played in the school courtyard with my friends, what a time to be carefree. Jump roping for exercise though, now that’s a different ball game.

Glider Discs

I don’t necessarily find glider discs necessary or essential, but it is definitely on my list of gear to have in a home gym. While I am a big fan of having good functional movement, I love the challenge that gliders bring to exercise, making you put in the extra effort.

Foam Roller

This is one of God’s greatest gifts to the creator of this product. The foam roller is my favourite for post-workout stretches or for when those DOMS (delayed onset muscle soreness) really start to kick in. They’re also super useful if you just generally have a tight body. For those of you who don’t know, I should probably preface that the roller can a bit uncomfortable at first, but it’s so worth it once that muscle tightness releases.

Lacrosse Ball / Massage Ball

Just another one of God’s heaven-sent gifts. Like the foam roller, the massage ball aims to target your trigger points. The aim is to target smaller muscles and release any pain or tightness you may be having. This is perfect for those relaxing stretch and release sessions that I hope you’re all having on a weekly business.

Additional Equipment

Barbells and Plates

This is definitely not a must-have item for all home gyms, but depending on your journey, this is something you might want to add. I myself don’t have a barbell just yet, but after this global pandemic I will definitely be making a purchase. Over the past few years my goals have changed in terms of fitness and I want to continue to make gains while out of the gym.

Pull Up Bar

Of course, you can get in your pull up and chin up action using a resistance band, but if you really want to work on your strength, this is a good way to go. This is also on my list of items to purchase, as with practice and time, those gains and accomplishments are sure to come through.

Above is my list of essentials items one must have in their home gym. Though I have linked where you can get most of these items, some are pricier than others. If you’re on a budget, I want to suggest checking out your nearest Salvation Army or thrift store, as many people donate equipment they no longer need.