If you are thinking of setting up a home gym, you should consider several important points before you get started. Everyone has great intentions when they decide to set up a home gym, but those intentions often fall by the wayside. A home gym is only a great idea, but only if you plan to use it, otherwise it will be the most expensive place you have to hang clothing from.
Commercial Gym v. Home Gym
You will save plenty of money on expensive gym memberships by choosing to have a home gym but you need to keep a few things in mind. There is a certain amount of peer pressure involved when you go to a commercial gym. You would be more inclined to get a good work out a commercial gym with all the other members around you working out.
Spending a lot of money on equipment is a requirement to set up your home gym, but you can consider it an investment in your health. Over time, you are basically paying off the cost of that equipment by using it. Gym memberships can cost thousands annually, and it is not always convenient to get to the gym. Having a home gym means you can use that equipment any time that suits you the best, whether it is the first thing you do when you get up out of bed or the last thing you do in the evening.
Buying Equipment
When you go shopping for equipment for your gym, comparison shop to ensure you are getting the best deal. One of the best times to purchase gym equipment is right after Christmas time when all of the equipment tends to go on sale. Make sure you try the equipment out to see exactly how it works. Whether you are purchasing a treadmill, stationary bike or elliptical machine, it should be something you enjoy using. You will need to purchase cardio equipment as well as some type of weight training equipment. Some people prefer free weights while others like an all in one piece of equipment that uses large rubber bands. Check to see if the equipment you are purchasing has a warranty or a money back guarantee in case it turns out to be something you really do not like.
Choosing a space
The area that you set your home gym up in should be well ventilated and bright because working out in a dark, stuffy area is not that enjoyable. Consider if you would like to listen to music while you work out or watch television and install the appropriate equipment. The space you choose should not be in an area where children will play on it and injure themselves. It is also a really great idea to have a whiteboard on the wall where you can schedule in your work out times. Keeping track of how many workouts you have completed and when, as well as your results can be a great motivator for you to continue with your workouts.