2022 Home Gym Essentials – Cardio, Strength & Flexibility Training
Happy New Year!
It’s been quite the challenging few years. In fact, just when we thought things were looking hopeful, Omicron has set us back. In our part of the world, gyms are again closed, and if you’re like me, working out is essential for my mental and physical health.
In this year’s first post, I’ll be highlighting our top home gym essentials for 2022. I’ve grouped our equipment into three categories, cardio, strength and flexibility training. For each category you’ll find space and budget saving options as well.
Also, for the complete guide on how we built our home gym from scratch, please check out How to Build a Home Gym.
If you would like information on our home gym essentials that require no machines and are great for small spaces please see, Home Gym Essentials (No Machines).
**Contains Affiliate Links. As an Amazon Associate I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.**
2022 Home Gym Essentials
Cardio
We have a few options for cardio in our home gym. The following are our most used cardio equipment pieces, from larger more expensive items, to smaller space saving budget options. There really isn’t an excuse to squeeze in a spot for cardio!
NordicTrack Commercial Series Treadmill (similar)
We rely heavily on our treadmill for the bulk of our cardio workouts, especially in the winter time. We have the NordicTrack 1750c, similar from Amazon is the NordicTrack Commercial Treadmill. We’ve had a NordicTrack for years, and it’s been both sturdy and reliable.
Echelon Smart Connect Fitness Bike
We haven’t yet bought a bike for our gym, but it is on our list for 2022. We are looking at the Echelon Smart Connect Fitness Bike or the Peleton. Both Echelon and Peleton bikes have monitors, making it easier to follow spin classes.
High Step Aerobic Platform and 4 Black Risers
One of the challenges of working out at home may be the lack of a cardio machine (and if you’re up north like us running outside in January isn’t ideal). If you’re short on space, I highly recommend an old school step aerobics class (again I rely on YouTube for my classes). We have The Aerobic Stepper, a classic when it comes to step workouts. I use ours with extra risers for a more challenging workout.
Wastou Speed Jumping Rope for Training Fitness
If space is at a premium for large equipment, a skipping rope is an excellent space saver option to get your cardio in. This Wastou Speed Jumping Rope is a great choice for all ages as they are adjustable, not to mention affordable. Quite often we use them for a quick warm-up before a workout.
Strength Training
Strength training is an integral part of any workout routine. We rely on a few tried and tested home gym equipment pieces to make the most of our workouts.
BRAVE HEART 2 3 5 8 12Lb Pair Neoprene/Vinyl Coated Dumbbells Set with Stand
Dumbells with various weights and a stand is our most used workout equipment in our gym. The Brave Heart Stand will accommodate most small spaces and budgets, making for an excellent workout.
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell with Stand
The BowFlex Select Tech 552, although pricier, is the best when it comes to small spaces, yet does it pack a powerful punch in terms of it’s weights. My husband has an in depth review of the BowFlex Select Tech 552, be sure to check it out.
Tone Fitness Kettlebell Body Trainer Set
Similar to the weights, it’s great to have a set of these, especially as kettlebell swings can be used as a cardio workout. We have the Tone Fitness KettleBells, I find them comfortable to use and they look great. Also, I’ll be like a broken record here, check out YouTube for really good beginner level kettlebell workouts.
Bodyweight Fitness Resistance Kit(TRX Style)
We’ve been using the Resistance Suspension Training System, (TRX style) workout for a few years now and love them. Can I tell you they are truly versatile, I use them for both cardio and strength training. (Again you have to check out YouTube videos for total body TRX style workouts). Also, wow, the range of motion you get for squats using these are unbeatable. We have ours wall mounted, but they can go over your door.
TheFitLife Exercise Resistance Bands with Handles
TheFitLIfe Resistance bands are light weight, affordable and provide a great low impact total body workout. We love these as they are easy to store as well.
Xtreme Bands – Resistance Loop Exercise Bands
A new purchase for 2022 is the Xtreme Bands Resistance Loop Exercise Bands. I’ve been having some pain in my lower back, so decided to introduce these for controlled strengthening exercises.
GoFit RAB Resistance Training Bar
Another new item for 2022, that my husband uses is The GoFit RAB Resistance Training Bar. Perfect to use with the FitLife Resistance band. You can simulate barbell curls, deadlifts, overhead press among others. Adding another dimension to resistance training.
Flexibility & Recovery Training
Recovery, flexibility is key to a good workout routine. Especially for us who are, ahem, over 40. The following are our most used items for easing our sore muscles.
Amazon Basics High-Density Round Foam Roller (Black)
Both of these foam rollers are SO good, one gets into the grooves etc, and the other massages out knots. Check out the ones we have, I’ve been using them for over a year with no issues. The black one, High Density Round Foam Roller and the green one Trigger Point Foam Roller (linked similar).
Amazon Basics 1/2-Inch Extra Thick Exercise Yoga Mat
I love our floor mat, not only for yoga, but this AmazonBasics Exercise Mat, provides a good cushion for the hard floors. I rely on the mat for any floor exercises and for stretching. Plus it’s easy to roll away once I’m done. It goes through a beating (especially when dropping weights on it), and it’s held up extremely well. A top recommendation!
Medcursor Neck Shoulder Massager with Heat
After gym recovery begins with a good massage for me. Love this portable back massager, by Medcursor, with heat. Just sit back, relax and let it do its thing, love!
Pack of 3 Spiky Hard Massage Ball for Foot, Back, Muscle Soreness Lacrosse Balls
Finally to deal with sore muscles, and hit those pesky trigger points, I rely on these Massage Balls. You can use them for muscle recovery and massage.
For the complete list of our home gym equipment, and how we built our gym, check out How to Build a Home Gym post, and get some ideas on how to create a more dedicated space to workout in.
Other Home Gym Posts:
Here’s to a better 2022 for all and good luck with your fitness journey. Stay healthy and safe!
0 Comments