Avoid gym memberships with this home workout equipment

New year, new you, right? If you’re like the thousands (maybe millions) of people out there striving to lead a healthier lifestyle in 2018, then you may be considering a gym membership.

If you live in a condo with a gym, then you can ignore this post, unless the thought of hitting the gym with your neighbours makes you anxious.

We’ve listed home workout equipment that eliminates the need for a gym membership so you never have to leave the comfort of your home this chilly January (if your new year’s resolution lasts longer than January, then awesome, keep it up!).

Not everyone has an empty basement perfect for a new, fancy multi-purpose workout apparatus, so we focused on space efficient equipment that still allows you to get a whole body workout.

Skipping rope

Some people run, some people bike, and some people skip. If you don’t have the space for a new treadmill or stationary bike, then a skipping rope is your best bet to get that cardio in. Think it sounds easy? Then you’ve never skipped rope. It’s also a great way to warm up your calves.

Yoga mat

You can get any workout mat but a yoga mat is ideal because they’re designed to roll up for easy transportation and storage. Use the mat to do all your stretches, sit-ups, crunches, planking, etc.

Pull-up bar

Get a pull-up bar that fits in any standard doorway. These are usually pretty easy to store and if you have a designated workout area, you can simply leave the bar up on the door frame, saving you floor space. If your family or roommates don’t mind, put the bar up in a door that you use frequently and do a few pull-ups every time you pass through it.

Adjustable weights

You should get a weighted vest and ankle/wrist weights. When you get really good at pull-ups, push-ups, and other body-weight exercises, then you’ll appreciate having weights that you can add on incrementally.

Resistance bands

These come in a variety of tensions. Get a lighter one and a heavier one. These are great for toning, stretching, and doing a variety of other exercises. The range of exercises expands even more if you have a sturdy pillar or something to which you can attach the resistance band.

Exercise wheel

Also known as an ‘ab roller.’ This small workout machine is basically a wheel on a peg that allows you to engage your core with a few different exercises.

If you look for some good deals, you can likely purchase all of these items for around $200, which is much more affordable than an annual gym membership and personal trainer. And if you end up giving up on your new year’s resolution, you can sell the items or donate them! No need to sign any contracts or renovate a part of your home.

Good luck getting fit in 2018!