If you’re trying to decide whether to work out at home or the gym, there may be many questions running through your mind. Can I get the same level of quality in terms of equipment and benefits from your training as you get from a gym? Will it be harder to stick to my goals? While these questions are 100% valid, the answer is that you can get the same quality at home compared to the gym. In fact, home training offers many advantages, just like training at the gym does.

We’ll explain the pros and cons of at-home fitness training programs and what kind of equipment you would need to make your workouts effective.

What are the pros and cons of at-home fitness training programs?

While there are many benefits to working out at home, it’s not for everyone. We’ll explain the pros and cons of at-home fitness training programs below.

Pros of at-home fitness training programs

• No monthly gym fees
• Can be inexpensive (basic equipment like an exercise mat, dumbbells, and stability balls can be purchased cheaply)
• Saves time commuting to and from the gym
• More convenience since you can work out whenever you want
• No lines or waiting for your favorite equipment to become available

Cons of at-home fitness training programs

• It can be hard to maintain interest in your training
• You need to ensure your form is correct without any supervision
• It can be unmotivating to train alone
• Purchasing equipment beyond the basics can be expensive
• No socializing with others

What equipment do you need to train at home?

If you think training at home is right for you, get ready to set up your home gym. As with any activity, you can create a dedicated gymnasium for your workouts or simply store dumbbells and other equipment where needed. It will all depend on your budget.

Creating a home gym on a budget

Here are some things you can purchase cheaply if you’re trying to exercise on a budget:

• Exercise mat
• Stability ball
• Dumbbells
• Workout bench
• Heart rate monitor

Creating a full-scale gymnasium for your home

But if you are looking to set up a permanent training facility at your home, you might want to consider the following equipment:

• Free weights and dumbbells
• Cardiovascular equipment (rower, treadmill, cross-trainer, stationary bike)
• Dedicate weights machines (chest press machine)

Additionally, you may also wish to consider buying:

• Weights benches
• Heavy duty matting
• Mirrors
• Sound and or TV systems

Train at home without equipment

The great thing about working out is that you do not always need to have workout equipment. You can create a good fitness routine at home using nothing more than your own body weight. Your workout could include tricep dips, the plank, mountain climbers, lunges, and squats. As you progress, you can increase the reps and reduce the rest time between sets.

Another option for training at home is to follow a workout video. There are plenty of videos that you can find online depending on how you want to train — with or without equipment.

Join Bmorefitbody Posse and work with Baltimore’s premier personal trainer

Coach James, the founder of Bmorefitbody Posse in Baltimore, has more than 25 years of experience as a personal trainer. He helps his clients transform not only their body but also their entire lifestyle. James can work with you one-on-one to ignite your ability to change and meet all the fitness goals you want to accomplish along your journey.

When you’re ready to start your journey and transform your body and mind, contact our Baltimore personal trainer.