Every home has a story, and they are as vast and varied as the world is wide. But they all start with inspiration, and inspiration starts with our surroundings. That’s what home is. Family. Friends. A sense of place. An amazing view. It is all part of what makes a space a home because your home is where you truly live. As homeowners ourselves we understand that your best life begins with a home that inspires you.
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“To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep the mind strong and clear.”
– Buddha
You might be stuck indoors, but that should be no reason for you to cut back on your fitness goals. Staying indoors all day for a prolonged period of time often means many of us tend to gain weight quickly because of inactivity. Just a brisk walk in the morning and evening does not do the trick for everyone. This is why having a small gym or workout area in your home comes in pretty handy. The key here is your desire to sweat a bit and get fitter and everything you tell yourself that gets in the way is just an excuse. Even in the tiniest of homes, there is room for a home gym that gets the job done without splurging a fortune.
Small home gyms mean different things for different people. But there are some basics that work well in every space. Creating a home workout zone with what you already have or even with new equipment that you can find locally is not too hard. From the more extensive gym setup complete with complex machines and weights to something much simpler that is for yoga buffs, here are a few basic pointers that should help you move in the right direction. Here is to staying indoors, safe and fit in times of a global pandemic
1. When Size does not Matter
It is not very often that you hear the phrase that size does not matter in the gym; but when it comes to creating a home workout zone, this is well and truly a reality. We know a few of your friends who could finish a full body workout regime in an area that is no larger than a few square meters! And they manage to do all that without almost any equipment. So, do not tell yourself that lack of an access to gym and equipment are the reason why you are letting yourself go. A tiny niche in the hallway, space next to the kitchen or even your home office can be turned into temporary home gym with ease.
A simple treadmill, some free weights will suffice for just about any exercise you need to get fit. Small home size free weight kits are inexpensive, effective and fit just about anywhere a chair would go. Think about carving out a corner of the family room, living room, office etc. You don’t nee much space to create your own private workout space.
2. Storing Things Away
The key to transforming spaces like the home office and guest room into home gym is to have storage area where you can tuck away your fitness equipment when they are not in use. Everything from an empty closet to space under the bed could come to your rescue. A bin for towels and one for laundry provide additional ease while treadmills and stationary bikes that can be rolled away help as well.
3. It Could be a View or TV!
Everyone needs a bit of a motivation when they are working out and if you can have a home gym in a room where there is a lovely view on offer, then it is an absolute bonus. If that is not an option, then those who spend considerable amount of time can add a television to the setting so that they are not too bored. I find my workouts go by quicker when I watch a 1/4 or a 1/2 period of sports. I get focused on the game and before I know the treadmill is telling me my workout is complete.
4. Recreation Combined with Workouts
Attic and basements are great areas for a home gym as they offer privacy and keep out noises. You can even blast out your workout tracks in here without disturbing everyone else in the house. A popular choice in here is to blend a home game room with a gym and create a larger recreation and fitness zone. This is of course for those who have ample space to spare for both. One trend we are seeing is homes with formal living rooms and a family room are being transformed. The formal living room which is mostly unused is now becoming the homes game room, gym which makes sense.
Home Gym Essentials
5. What you need for a Workout
Everyone has a different fitness routine when they are at home and while some like to spend just some time on the treadmill along with a few stretches, others could opt for a more intense session that utilizes weights. Keeps the basics ready and plan for a gym that can accommodate two or three people at a time. Treadmills and stationary bikes do take up far more space than just a few weights and a mat.
6. Lighting, Mirrors and More
Anyone serious about lifting weights knows the value of a mirror – big or small. It helps in keeping your form correct. But from an aesthetic viewpoint, it makes the small gym seem much larger and creates an even layer of lighting. A few floor mats or carpet tiles for a non-slip flooring should complete your fabulous little workout zone at home that will serve you well even beyond the current predicament.
Get Inpried...
In the end it’s your space. Maybe it’s shared with others or perhaps it’s private. Small or large make the best of what you have. During this pandemic exercise is key to our mind staying healthy and our body’s ebing fit. Involve the family, your partner, your dog. Take it outside if possible with long walks, brisk runs and get your body moving. Stafe healthy… Stay Safe!
