How to Choose the Right Exercise Equipment for a Beginner
Thinking about starting a fitness journey? Awesome! Whether you're diving headfirst into a full-fledged program or just want to test the waters with a few workouts, figuring out where to exercise can be tricky. Gym membership? Home gym? The choices can feel overwhelming, especially if you're not sure what equipment you need.
Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this post, we'll break down some essential gym equipment that's both affordable and effective for home workouts. (We'll tackle exercises in another post – stay tuned! Or, if you're eager to get started now, head over to our website and drop us a line. We're always happy to help!)
Today we will go over Dumbbells, Barbells and Plates, Kettlebells and Resistance Bands, along with a quick thought on Machines and Stationary Equipment.
Besides bodyweight exercises (like push-ups and squats), most workouts require extra weight or resistance. This generally comes from an external source, like a dumbbell or kettlebell. There is not really a “wrong” way to use most equipment, but each has its own semi-unique set of exercises that it is generally used for. Knowing this can help narrow down the choices to only what you need for your specific goal, then you can get more as your goal evolves. Having the right set of equipment is important, you aren't going to buy 100lb dumbbells when you are a beginner, and you aren't going to use any dumbbells for something like a seated row, it just won't work. It seems obvious to some, but others have no idea what to use.
I will break down equipment you would typically find in a gym, that would be useful and worth having in the house. Each has its own set of pros and cons, just like anything else, but the biggest variables are the size, effectiveness, cost, and variability (in terms of how many exercises you can use that specific piece of equipment for).
First on the list, we have a classic.
Dumbbells
These are a beginner classic for a reason! While individual dumbbells can get pricey (and take up space!), adjustable dumbbells are a fantastic investment. They're a bit more expensive upfront but can save you money and space in the long run.
Barbells & Plates
Barbells are your go-to for larger, compound movements (think squats, deadlifts, and presses). These exercises work for multiple muscle groups simultaneously, which is a great way to build strength and endurance quickly.
Kettlebells
Kettlebells are my personal favorite! They're amazing for adding an extra stability challenge to your workouts. The unique shape and weight distribution of a kettlebell makes it a fantastic tool for full-body movements.
Resistance Bands
I used to underestimate resistance bands, but they can be surprisingly versatile! They're great for replicating exercises you'd typically do with cables.
Machines/Stationary Equipment
While machines have their place, they might not be the best starting point for a home gym. They can be bulky and expensive. If you're looking into stationary equipment, a squat rack and an adjustable bench are great options. Maybe a stationary bike, too!
Remember, this is just a quick overview! The best way to find the right equipment is to consider your fitness goals and preferences. There are many different training styles out there – experiment and find what you enjoy!
And if you're working with a personal trainer, don't hesitate to speak up about what's working for you and what's not. They can help you modify exercises and create a plan that aligns with your goals.
Finally, remember that fitness is a journey. Be patient with yourself, focus on proper form, and stay consistent. You've got this!
Look no further!
Joint Fitness offers beginners an opportunity to exercise and learn how to start their fitness program right from home. As a mobile training company, we bring the gym right to your house, no need for equipment at all. Prices are affordable and I am a NASM Certified Trainer, I work with you to smash your goals and keep going!