Work Those Muscles Without Emptying Your Wallet
Gyms are the answer for a lot of people—they like the camaraderie, there’s an onslaught of equipment, and the atmosphere motivates them to keep going. But you don’t always need the gym to feel the same burn. In fact, plenty of simple gadgets get those results without breaking the bank!
1. Ankle Weights
Never underestimate the power of smaller weights. We’re certain you’ve seen these on little old ladies at the park, but ankle weights are the perfect accessory for low-impact cardio—or challenging bodyweight workouts. Use them on your ankles or wrists for your next workout and feel that surprising burn.
2. Foam Roller
Cooldowns are just as important as the workout, so it makes sense to invest in foam rollers. While they’re not a cure-all solution for sore muscles, they do wonders after strenuous routines. Some rollers even collapse into flat mats, which makes for easier storage.
3. Core Sliders
No one likes ab workouts, but core sliders add a pinch of slippery fun to the exhaustion. Bear in mind that when we write “fun,” we really mean a greater burn that pushes you for maximum results. Either way, it’s an inexpensive accessory that boosts your workout every time!
4. The Right Mat
Don’t settle for the carpet. Whether it’s for yoga or extensive training, you deserve a proper workout mat. There are dozens of available options, all ranging in cost and functionality, and some even come with awesome styles to suit your personality. That said, our personal favorites come with a good grip.
5. Adjustable Dumbbells
Did you know that you could adjust your dumbbells without swapping in a new set? Well, you can! They’re a great solution for anyone short on space who’s looking to up their game. Gone are the days of dumbbells in the corner—say hello to practicality and efficiency.
6. Resistance Bands
Of course, you don’t always need an arsenal of dumbbells and exercise balls for a proper workout. Some of the hardest burns come from bodyweight alone, and resistance bands only up the difficulty. They’re inexpensive and no larger than a headband, so you can store them easily too.
7. Cordless Jump Rope
We all know skipping is a lot harder than it looks! It’s a full-body workout that targets everything from your calves and triceps to your shoulders and back—that is if you have the space to use one. For years, we’ve struggled with ceiling fans and small spaces, but cordless jump ropes eliminate all that, giving you the burn you deserve in whatever space you have.
8. Dance Pole
Yes, yes. We know what you’re thinking. But get your mind out of the gutter because dance poles work your entire body! If you have the space and the stamina, they’re worth the investment for anyone looking to enhance their strength and flexibility.
Konstantin Mishchenko on Pexels
9. Indoor Bike
There’s nothing like a relaxing bike ride…in the summertime. Come the colder months, we’re cooped up inside with nowhere to go and no bike trail to explore—until now. Stationary bikes give you all the burn without any of the nasty weather. You can also invest in whichever one works best for you, some of which include their own workouts and apps.
10. Kettlebell
Kettlebells seem a little daunting at first glance, but they’re actually one of the best tools for your gym. They’re simple, affordable, and easily stored without eating too much space. Even if you’re not looking to invest in new weights, gadgets like the Kettle Gryp convert your existing dumbbells into kettlebells.
Ambitious Studio* | Rick Barrett on Unsplash
11. Mini Trampoline
As much as we vouch for childhood nostalgia, this mini trampoline is more about exercise than fun! Though, it’s still fun to target various muscle groups, especially with trampolines’ versatility. At-home workouts can include anything from low-impact cardio to HIIT.
12. Walking Pad
Not everyone wants to spend hundreds of dollars on a treadmill—but you can always invest in its smaller counterpart, the walking pad. High-end models will certainly cost more than others, but even the affordable ones give a good workout and can help beat those winter blues.
13. Ab Roller
There’s a reason ab rollers have been around for so long. They’re an affordable, simple tool that works your entire core and helps you achieve the results you want. They don’t take up much space either, allowing you to bust it out whenever it’s time for an at-home workout.
14. Pull-Up Bar
Hilarious online videos aside, proper installation will only result in a good burn, not a collapse on camera. This accessory makes the most of your at-home gym and can be used in your bedroom or designated workout space. Setup is easy, the price is reasonable, and you get the same results for less.
15. Smart Scale
While it’s important not to obsess over the numbers, weigh-ins are still crucial for tracking progress. Smart scales take those numbers to all new heights, tracking a plethora of useful information like fat-to-muscle ratios and heart rate. They even send reminders and can be linked to your fitness tracker.
16. Fitness Tracker
Speaking of fitness trackers, our workouts wouldn’t be the same without them. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on the latest tech, but you should research which one makes the most sense for you and your budget. Some models stretch well beyond calories and heart rates too; some trackers practically serve as smartwatches.
17. Joint Wraps
Depending on your workout, knee or wrist wraps make all the difference. These affordable, unassuming accessories offer added support in weight training and protect pressure points from injury.
18. Chopper
Anyone who’s been axe-throwing knows that it’s a surprising workout. The only thing more surprising is that you can now enjoy the activity at home! The Chopper Axe comes in two sizes, has its own app, and can offer the full-body workout you’re after. It won’t be long before you look and feel like a lumberjack.
19. Dumbbell Tower
You don’t need a cumbersome tower to complete that home gym. Sometimes all you need is a few sets of dumbbells neatly tucked in the corner. Small towers are a relatively inexpensive accessory that improves your fitness regimen every time—you can swap in different weights and easily store your collection for simple use.
20. Vibration Plate
Vibration plates have long been the center of many jokes, but don’t dismiss them so quickly. Once you get past the silly-seeming movement, you might notice that it improves your balance and can be used in a wide range of exercises.
KEEP ON READING
The Best Road Trip Trucks Ranked
Super Fly: The 5 Best Airlines In The World
