Even though I love being active, the list of things I would rather do than actually go to the gym is pretty lengthy and even includes deep cleaning every bathroom in my house (my brother’s bathroom not included). It can be a hassle trying to plan your day around finding the time to actually drive to the gym for a workout, and on top of that, you have to pray that it’s not too crowded in the morning before work (and it usually is). Then there’s waiting in line for the stair master when you could’ve been done with your workout 30 minutes ago. And we won’t even get into the uber-macho gym buffs who act like they own the place.
Instagram has now been my favorite place to find great workouts that only require a few simple equipment pieces. It’s like having the benefits of a personal trainer without having to leave your living room (and without having to use the intimidating machines at the gym). Read on for all of the home workout equipment you need for an effective workout. The best part? They’re all from Amazon. So next time you want a great workout, all you’ll have to do is turn on your favorite workout video, move the coffee table to the side, and grab one of these must-have fitness items.
Resistance Loop Bands
Resistance bands look harmless but can add a ton of extra intensity to any of your workout moves. The more you stretch the band, the more tension you resist with each move. They’re great for strength training and stretching to create long, lean lines in the body. If you have a smaller apartment and don’t want to keep too much equipment around, these are definitely for you. This pack comes with five levels of resistance, making them ideal for wherever you are in your fitness journey. Try them with glute bridges, donkey kicks, and squats to lateral leg lifts.
3 color combinations available
Bosu Ball
A bosu ball is great for training your core because being on an unstable surface while doing simple exercises requires the rest of the body to be engaged in order to stay balanced. You can just stand on it and do bicep curls and shoulder presses, or you can use it more actively for squats and pushups. No matter what workout you decide to use it for (leg exercises, upper body, or cardio), you’ll be simultaneously getting the ultimate core workout.
2 colors available
Dumbbell Weights
Dumbbells don’t need much explanation: They’re used to gain lean muscle mass in an isolated area with a lighter weight and more repetitions. Though they’re mostly used for biceps, triceps, shoulders, back, and chest, they can also be used to add extra weight while doing squats and glute bridges.
Aerobic Exercise Jump Ropes
Jumproping is a great cardio alternative to running that also boosts fat burning and increases muscle engagement. It also brings back some fun into working out (remember how fun it was as a kid?). This jumprope has memory foam handles for ultimate control and comfort.
Bender Ball
I started using bender balls in my pilates classes, and I now incorporate them into my everyday workouts for the increased range of motion in core exercises. They allow for a more effective workout than just ordinary crunches. Plus, have you ever tried glute bridges with one of these in between your knees? Instant inner thigh burner.
8 colors available
Ankle Weights
Ankle weights are another great way to add strength training into your workout. Using ankle weights will help tone your legs and glutes by adding resistance to low-impact exercises and intensifying movements. They’re specifically great for lower-body and core workouts. If you only want to purchase one form of weights, get these. You can also hook them around your wrists or hold onto them to double as arm weights.
2 sizes available
Foam Roller
Foam rollers can be used to warm up before your workout or cool down after. They’re great for stretching to relieve muscle pain and soreness. You’ll never forget to stretch after your workout again with one of these (it hurts so good!).
4 colors available
