Home Workout Essentials For Your Regular Degular Apartment
In 2023, I cancelled my gym membership. I thought I’d fallen out of love with fitness, but I’d actually just fallen out of love with my gym. My apartment isn’t particularly big, but I did a little rearranging, moved my desk toward the front door, and ended up with what I’m calling a “dedicated workout space”. The most important thing about the space is that whenever I feel called to exercise, there’s nothing to do or rearrange before I can get started. The new layout is perhaps “less aesthetic” but I know it’ll make it easier to stick to my goals. Minimize inertia. Maximize results.
After the rearranging was done, I went down the internet rabbit hole of home fitness and WOW - there are A LOT of products out there. I avoided purchasing specialty items that targeted specific muscle groups. Instead, I went with a bare bones approach, and managed to keep it pretty affordable. Before I share my equipment essentials, I challenge you to workout at home consistently for 2 weeks before buying anything. I, too, have a tendency to invest early, but it is important that a home workout routine not only fit your lifestyle, but also your preferences. Give yourself time to make sure it’s a good fit. Now, my essentials:
Adjustable dumbbells
I searched high and low for weights, but it was hard to balance affordability with versatility and the (limited) space I’d have to store them. The dumbbells I went with are usually around $200 but I found them on sale for $99 (linked here and here*). Each dumbbell can be adjusted in 5-lb increments, up to 25-lbs. There are heavier alternatives out there (sets of dumbbells* for purchase) but this option gave me the range I needed for upper and lower body, while not compromising on space. Note: Using adjustable dumbbells requires that you set them (not slam them!) down between sets. Consider other options if slamming your dumbbells is a non-negotiable (and apologize to your neighbor).
Resistance bands
No surprise here, except that in addition to short resistance bands*, I also purchased a pull-up bar* that came with longer resistance bands. These bands (with handles!) are perfect for building back muscles at home, something I wasn’t sure I’d be able to accomplish without a giant piece of gym equipment. Gotta start somewhere.
Mat
If you’re exercising on hard floors, a mat is a must. I’m currently using my yoga mat*, but I’ve got my eyes on this larger, shock-absorbing workout mat* and I’m thinking it’s time for an upgrade.
Core sliders
I am a huge fan of incorporating a yoga or bosu ball into my core work but my NYC apartment storage situation will not allow it. Instead I opted for these core sliders* as a space-saving alternative. They’re not 100% necessary (you can use a towel or rag under your feet to achieve a similar feel) but I do really like them!
Honorable mention: Bench or step
If you have a sturdy surface at home (i.e. a chair, bench, coffee table, or entertainment stand) then please skip this one. But if you’ve got the space, and want a versatile piece of equipment that can be used to work your arms, legs, or abs, this step* is a worthy investment.
I hope this post was helpful! If you’re a seasoned home workout veteran, let me know if I missed anything. Leave a comment if you’re jumping on the home workout train or if you try out anything I recommended. I would love to hear from you. As always, thank you for being here.
Melody (@mezonthemove), is a fourth-year medical student and online creator living in New York City.
