With the new year, I’ve taken on some new goals. Nothing like a fresh start to get you motivated and wanting to do things better than before. This year, no matter what the circumstance, I have made it a goal to get moving! My ideal place to go when I want a great workout, is my local gym. But lets face it, that’s definitely not always an option as a busy mama of two. Here are my top recommendations for home work out equipment you can use in home, and get just as great of a workout without all the fancy machines.
1. Jump Rope
Cardio, is a necessary evil. When you think of calories you think of running long distances, or running for a long period of time. Although running is a great form of cardio, it’s not superior to any other exercise. Personally I prefer doing short high intensity bursts of cardio, wether that be sprints, jump squats, or jump rope. In my experience high intensity intervals have just always worked better for me when it comes to weight loss. And jumping rope definitely gets that heart rate up!
2. Sliding Discs
I LOVE using sliding discs for mountain climbers, and ab work. It makes working abs a little more enjoyable and are a must have if you are working your abs on a daily basis.
3. Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a great way to use weight to your advantage. I love using resistance bands for back, shoulder, bicep, chest, and even leg work. There are so many workouts you can do with resistance bands, you really can’t go wrong with them . Not only are they versatile, but they come at a fraction of the cost in comparison to free weights.
4. Free Weights
Free weights are very versatile as well, and just like resistance bands, can be used for all sorts of exercises to target different muscle groups. I recommend trying the weight at the store and attempting to do a few reps with the desired weight. If you can pump out 20 reps easy, this probably isn’t the most challenging weight for you. On the opposite end of the spectrum, you should be able to do more than one or two, as you don’t want to hurt yourself. There’s a sweet spot that only you can determine for yourself. Remember to challenge yourself, but not kill yourself.
5. Kettlebell
I invested in a kettlebell for the same reason I invested in free weights, because resistance and weight is key when attempting to transform your body. Kettlebells are great for goblet squats, kettlebell swings, and stiff leg deadlifts, to name a few.
6. Glute Band
If you are trying to tone and sculpt your booty this is a must have! Glute bands will put resistance just where you need for trimming your legs and thighs. I have a heavy resistance band and love to do side walking lunges to help tone my outer and inner thighs with this baby. I also love hip thrusts with a pulse at the end using a glute band, as well as traditional squats while using my glute band. Believe me, with just a few reps using a glute band you will be feeling the burn!
Thanks so much for reading about my top six home workout essentials. Let me know if you have any questions below, or if you are interested in seeing more of the training aspect! Lots of love, xoxo
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