DIY Gym Gear

Searching for the right gym for your needs can be daunting and maybe even overwhelming, not to mention down right pricey (do I really need to have lavender scented workout towels?). That’s why I’m always on the look out for cost-effective ways to get maximum results within my own home (can’t beat that price). For a minimal investment you can get just enough equipment to get you through most types of fitness exercises. Simply channel your inner MacGyver and use or create from what you already have at home.

1. Exercise or Aerobic Step: Use the bottom step of your stairs – you won’t be able to do moves that go over the top or across but it’s enough to do a variety of foot drill to get a good cardio and work the legs.
2. Dumbbells: Look in your pantry for equal sized cans or bottles of juice. If you need something heavier, use empty water or laundry detergent jugs (with handles). You can fill these with water, sand or small stones/rocks. Use your bathroom scale to ensure you get 2 of equal weight for each hand. You can create an entire array of weights using different sized bottles.
3. Heavy Weight: If you need something with a little more substance (for squats, deadlifts, clean and press, sandbag swings, etc) employ an old duffle bag or backpack. If you wear the backpack (as opposed to holding it with your hands) you can get away with putting books in it to weigh it down. If you need a more pliable weight that you can move around, use the duffle bag (it has built in handles) or a backpack filled with bags of sand, flour, rice or even kitty liter. If you don’t have an old bag to use – buy a LARGE sack of rice and reinforce any weak areas with duct tape.
4. Exercise Ball: Check your kids’ toys – they most likely will have the typical sized kids’ rubber ball (about the size of a soccer ball but more pliable) – this is great for ab exercises, squats, and pilates.
5. Mat: Use an old towel or blanket.
6. Multi-purpose Exercise Bench: A basic kitchen or dining room chair (no arms) is very versatile. Use this for step-ups, Tricep dips, Plank and pushup modifications (declined – feet are on chair; inclined – hands or forearms on chair), a ballet barre, or Prone pull-ups (place a broom over 2 chairs and lie underneath – pull your chest up to the broom). You could also use a large camping/picnic cooler.
7. Cardio & Agility Drill Equipment: Use Masking or duct tape to outline ladders and mark distances for drills inside or out. And of course use it to repair, reinforce and piece together any other equipment. Sidewalk chalk on your driveway can also b used to draw agility ladders and mark out sprint and other drill distances.
8. Lavendar – Scented Towels: If you desire this luxury simply invest in a few small towels, and lavender oil. Add a few drops of essential oil to a spray bottle of water. Dampen towels with cool water (not sopping wet), spray generously with lavender mixture, fold and place in the fridge just before your workout so they are refreshingly cool with the calming oils infused once you are done.