2023 is here! And if one of your new year’s resolution for this year is to be more proactive in pursuing your fitness goals but you can’t really find a way to fit it into your schedule, then it might be high time for you to have your own home gym. While it will take a significant amount of planning and resources in the beginning, it will surely be worth it. Having a home gym or a dedicated training space is proven to be, not only, convenient but also cost-effective if you look at the bigger picture.
So, whether you’re just starting to build your home gym or you’re looking to beef up your existing one, you don’t have to worry, we got you covered. Toby’s Sports has prepared a curated list of home gym essentials to get you started.
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1. Dumbbells
Considered to be the most versatile among all gym equipment, dumbbells are a must have in any home gyms. A barbell needs two hands and have much less variety when it comes to the types of exercises you can perform; while dumbbells allow you to train specific muscles independently while also giving you the same benefits of a barbell if you choose to do bilateral movements.
When it comes to dumbbells, you can either choose to buy pairs at specific weights, which might be more durable but more expensive as you buy more and more pairs especially if you plan on progressively overloading, or go for adjustable dumbbells that could be a little pricey initially but is worth more in the long run. For regular dumbbells, we recommend the Core Rubber Hex Dumbbell, available from 5 lbs. to 35 lbs., because of its high-quality solid cast iron core and contoured, textured grip. For adjustable dumbbells we’d opt for the Core Selectorized Dumbbell Pair, because of its versatility and compact design.
2. Kettlebells
Kettlebells, like dumbbells, offer a unique variety of possible exercises for people. Unlike dumbbells however, you only really need one to fully maximize its benefits. Thanks to its shape and construction, Kettlebells makes more sense for more high-intensity, dynamic movements as compared to the slow but steady workout approach to dumbbells and barbels.
When it comes to kettlebells, you can also either choose to buy singular kettle bells at specific weights for its durability at a higher price point (especially if you’re planning to buy multiple kettlebells at progressive weights) or you can opt for adjustable kettlebells for its convenience and cost-effectiveness for the long term. For regular kettlebells, we recommend the Core Pro-Grade Competition Kettlebell which is available at 12 Kg to 24 Kg because of its ergonomic design to reduce grip fatigue. For adjustable kettlebells, we recommend the Core Adjustable Kettlebell 40 LBS for its convenience and versatility.
3. Resistance Bands
Resistance Bands should be a main stay in everyone’s home workout equipment. Aside from offering a unique variety of dynamic exercise, resistance bands are also a great way to add intensity and challenge to other exercises. You can also use them in tandem with other exercise equipment such as dumbbells and kettlebells.
For long stretch bands, we recommend the Core Stretch Band perfect for looping around an anchor such as training benches or poles for standing adduction exercises, leg curls, leg extensions, etc. For resistance bands we recommend the Core Resistance Bands that includes 3 resistance bands increasing in strength and flexibility, perfect for squats, lateral band walks, etc.
4. Training Bench
Having a good training bench is like having a good supporting character in a movie. They’re usually in the background, never taking the limelight, but they elevate the whole movie altogether. Investing in a good training bench opens up your home gym to endless training potential.
For training benches, we recommend the Ovicx Foldable Bench QB-2 because of its easily adjustable design with built in automatic locks and 2.95 inch heavy duty steel construction with an 800 lbs. capacity.
5. Cardio Machines
Last, but not the least, are Cardio Machines. Cardio is a key part in any person’s fitness journey. A great way to burn calories for weight loss goals and to promote cardiovascular health, having a solid piece of cardio exercise machine is an investment that pays for itself many times over. While biking and jogging outdoors is always an option, sometimes you just don’t have the capacity to go outside and you just want to exercise in the comfort of your own home.
For treadmills we recommend the Ovicx A2S Foldable Treadmill for its built-in workout programs that could motivate you to hit the treadmill regularly and its large accessible console with different functionalities. For spin bikes we recommend the OVICX Q200 Spin Bike for its heavy-duty steel frame, 6.5 Kg flywheel and adjustable knob for increased resistance, and multi-function console that tracks time, speed, and calories burned.
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If you like our home gym essential suggestions, here are a couple of ways you can safely shop with us:
🛒 Online purchase – Shop via TOBYS.COM.
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