Exercising at home has become more popular recently as gyms have become increasingly expensive. Creating a home gym is not only convenient, but it can also save you money in the long run. These key pieces of fitness equipment are essential for any home gym, regardless of your budget, and they offer flexibility of use for a variety of exercises and muscle areas. Below, are some inexpensive pisces of workout equipment that will help you get started on your fitness journey:

1. Treadmill

Treadmills are a type of cardio equipment that can be found in most home gyms. Walking or running on a treadmill might not seem like the most exciting workout, but it is a great way to get your heart rate up and burn calories, and it offers the ability to workout in rain and winter. Also, you can adjust the speed and incline to make it more challenging. Stand on the belt and hold onto the handrails to use this equipment. Then, start the belt and walk or run at your desired speed. Treadmills typically cost between $1000 to $2500 USD for home gym models.

2. Stability ball

A stability ball is an excellent piece of equipment for your home gym. They are relatively inexpensive and can be used for a variety of exercises—including HIIT workouts, pilates, and yoga. They are great for working on your core and can also add an extra challenge to your strength training workout while doing body weight exercises or using free weights. To use the ball, inflate it to the desired level and then prop yourself up in a seated position to do crunches. Stability balls range from $15 to $50 USD, depending on the size and quality.

3. Rowing machine

Rowing is a low-impact exercise, making it ideal for people with joint issues. It is also a great way to build upper body and core strength. Rowing not only provides a great cardio workout, but it is also a great way to build muscle and tone throughout your entire body. To use rowing machines, sit on the seat and grasp the handlebars. Then, use your legs to push against the foot pedals and pull the handlebars towards you. Rowing machines typically cost between $150 to $3000 USD.

4. Jump rope

A jump rope is a great way to increase your heart rate and burn calories since it is a cardio exercise. Jumping rope is also a great way to improve your coordination. To use a jumping rope, hold the handles in each hand and jump over the rope as it swings under your feet. You can also do more advanced exercises such as double unders or skipping. Skipping ropes typically cost between $10 and $50 USD.

5. Yoga mats

An exercise mat is an exceptional piece of equipment that helps in providing a comfortable and safe surface to workout on. They also protect your floor from any impact. Exercise mats come in a variety of sizes, thicknesses, and colors. They are mostly used for floor exercises such as sit-ups, pushups, pilates, and yoga stretches. To use an exercise mat, unroll it and place it on the floor. Exercise and yoga mats typically cost between $10 to $50 USD.

6. Resistance bands

Resistance bands are a form of strength training equipment that comes in various levels of resistance, from light to heavy. The bands are great for toning your muscles and can be used in place of free weights for a variety of exercises—like shoulder presses, pull downs and biceps curls. They can be used for working on your arms, legs, and core and are great for rehabilitation after an injury. To use the bands, loop them around your feet or hands. Then, hold the ends in each hand and pull the band tight. You can use the band to do various exercises such as curls, presses, or rows. These bands typically cost between $5 and $30 USD.