Adding a home gym to help with COVID moods.
Now more then ever, the luxury of having a home gym in a custom home has been so appreciated. A great way to get in shape is to have a state-of-the-art gym in your custom home. Whether you are building a new dream home or would like to add a home gym to your current home, it is the ultra-convenient option to stay on track, even during a time when it may be uncomfortable to go to a public gym. A stationary bike in the corner of the basement, or a treadmill in the bedroom that becomes a place to hang your clothes does not motivate you the way a home gym will. If you are building a new home and can allocate the space in the original plans, you can customize it specifically to your needs. If you are remodeling or creating space in your current home, you may need to be a bit more creative.
Once you have space determined that will become your new home gym, you will want to invest in some quality equipment that can make the difference from following through with keeping your workout routine and abandoning it all altogether.
Home Gyms: Staying Fit During COVID
Home gyms can be as simple or elaborate as your space and budget allows. The most important thing is to make a gym you will use, so create a well-equipped, inviting area and commit to your exercise regime. The best part of a home gym is the opportunity to squeeze in a quick workout between other tasks, or schedule a long, uninterrupted session whenever you want.
Some things to consider when you are building a custom home gym:
- Space
- Budget
- Cardio Equipment
- Strength Equipment
- Yoga/Pilates Space
- Entertainment Accessories
Space
Know the square footage available before you purchase equipment and consider the layout. Consider that the active area of some machines, like ellipticals with moving handlebars and pedals, will exceed the footprint, so account for extra room. If you are building a new custom home and can make these decisions, consider the ceiling height to ensure that you will have adequate clearance for items like stair climbers, treadmills and home gym units. Flooring selection is also important: traditional floorings like tile and wood floors are easy to clean but can be slippery. The best option for flooring is specialty rubber tiles that absorb noise, odor and cushion your body while working out. Other things to consider are the ventilation/cooling system, the view and the décor.
Equipment, Cardio, Strength and Yoga/Pilates:
Cardio is essential for fitness, and there are many options including treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, climbers, cross-trainers or rowers. If you are space-constrained, look for machines that are compact and have a low step-up height. Also, consider what motivates you and what piece of equipment you will use.
Strength training is just as important as cardio, and resistance training is necessary to tone muscles, maintain strength and boost metabolism. A simple solution is a set of dumbbells and a weighted barbell, along with a bench or stability ball. You can also use rubber and elastic resistance bands, which are inexpensive and come in different levels.
Yoga and Pilates allow the opportunity to work on flexibility and core work, which are integral for a well-balanced exercise program. An area in your home gym with space for a cushioned mat and a yoga mat is all you will need for both stretching and practicing yoga and Pilates.
Accessories in your home gym can complete the look and feel and help with motivation. Built-in speakers and large screen smart TVs to follow along with your online workouts help make the space more functional. Other considerations include a water cooler or mini fridge for bottled water, a towel rack and laundry basket for used towels. All of these accessories can make your workout more comfortable, enjoyable and motivational.
Enjoy the Outdoors
While home gyms are wonderful to have, the beautiful weather of summer also gives you the opportunity to enjoy your custom home outside for your work out! Take your yoga mat to your pier or deck and enjoy yoga under the trees or lakeside. Hop on your bike and go for a ride, take a walk, paddle board or go for a swim. We are all spending more time at home then ever, so finding ways to stay healthy and fit are imperative at this time.
