When it comes to building a home gym, choosing the right equipment can be a daunting task, especially with the abundance of deals during the upcoming Black Friday season. With expensive weights, bulky treadmills, and less-than-ideal workout apps on your tablet, you might be wondering which pieces of equipment are genuinely worth your investment. In this article, we’ve compiled a list of four essential items that offer both economy and versatility, ensuring you get the most value for your money.
Resistance Bands or Tubes
Resistance bands have emerged as a versatile and cost-effective addition to any home gym. A quality set typically includes five bands of varying resistance levels, handles, ankle straps, and a doorstop for securing the bands to different points. Priced around $30 / £25 / AU$50, resistance bands can mimic a wide range of muscle-building exercises found in a traditional gym setup. By simply attaching the bands to a door and using them creatively, you can replicate cable machine exercises, curls, presses, and more. For those serious about muscle building, power racks and heavy dumbbells are options, with potential discounts during Black Friday sales. However, resistance bands are a space-saving, budget-friendly alternative that offers similar results, making them ideal for beginners, seniors, or anyone looking to start their muscle-building journey.
Smart Mirror
Smart mirrors, though not widely popular yet, can be a valuable addition to a dedicated home gym. The 40-inch Echelon Reflect, currently available in the US for just $399 (originally $1,579), provides interactive workout guidance through the Echelon Fit app. While not touchscreen like its larger counterpart, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a mirror in their exercise studio, especially considering the significant discount. Unfortunately, the 40-inch model is not available outside the US, and other regions primarily offer the full-priced 50-inch touchscreen version.
Folding Treadmill
A cardio machine is a staple of any home gym, and folding treadmills like the NordicTrack EXP 7i (discounted in the US and the UK) offer a compact and cost-effective alternative to their full-sized counterparts. These treadmills provide all the benefits of a cardio machine while taking up less space, making them perfect for those with limited room for dynamic cardio or floor-based strength workouts.
Yoga Mat
A home gym is not just for physical exertion but also for relaxation and mental well-being. Yoga, a practice that combines physical and mental wellness, requires a proper yoga mat for better grip, sweat absorption, and comfort. While there are numerous options available, look for eco-friendly, non-slip mats within your budget. Keep an eye out for deals from reputable brands like Liforme and Lululemon for high-quality, durable mats that provide value for your investment. These mats can also be conveniently rolled up when not in use, allowing for easy storage, such as lowering a treadmill for cardio workouts.
In conclusion, building a home gym is a wise investment in your health and fitness. To maximize the value of your gym equipment, consider these four essentials: resistance bands, a smart mirror, a folding treadmill, and a quality yoga mat. These items offer versatility, economy, and space-saving features, making them ideal choices for both beginners and experienced fitness enthusiasts. With Black Friday deals on the horizon, now is the perfect time to create your home gym setup that’s truly worth the money.
