Small Equipment With Powerful Impact on Fitness
By Genevieve Cunningham
Sometimes we overthink getting fit. We think that we need the nicest gym in town, the best workout clothes, and the priciest equipment. While these things are all OK if you can afford them, they’re not actually necessary to get in good shape. If you would like to improve your fitness without breaking the bank, take a look at these small pieces of equipment that can make a big impact on your ultimate goal.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands can be used in a wide variety of ways. Sometimes we get stuck thinking that resistance bands are limited in their uses, but nothing could be further from the truth. Buy a set of bands in varying intensity, and then use them for your arms, legs, and even the core. Need ideas? Just do a quick internet search for some exercises that can be done at home with nothing but your own body and simple bands.
Ankle Weights
You have to be careful with ankle weights, but if you use them appropriately, they can help shape your legs. Buy a small set of ankle weights, and strap them securely to your ankles. Now do leg raises, knee raises, or even simple walking. You might be surprised at how much effort it takes to lift even a couple more pounds. If you’re really feeling creative, you can also strap them to your arms to give this piece of equipment multiple purposes.
Dumbbells
Dumbbells come in all different weights. They range from one pound all the way up. If you’re a beginner, choose light weights. As you become more engrossed in fitness, you can probably increase the weight a bit. Dumbbells can be used for bicep curls, tricep extensions, the chest fly, squats, lunges, torso twists … and the list goes on and on. These are simple, inexpensive pieces of equipment that can bring a lot of variety to your normal routine.
Chin-Up Bar
A lot of people are unable to do a chin-up, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try! Chin-ups work the entire body, and they’re incredibly hard. Buying a bar and hanging it somewhere in your house gives you a quick and easy workout option, and it also gives you a goal to work toward. Practice chin-ups every day until you can do a goal number (even if it’s one!), and don’t stop until you’ve got it down cold.
Getting in good shape does not have to be expensive. It can be affordable and a ton easier than you think. Use these pieces of equipment to get started, and you may notice that your health and fitness improve like you’ve never seen before.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Westminster, Colo.