BETA
This is a BETA experience. You may opt-out by clicking here

More From Forbes

Edit Story

In Pictures: Must-Haves For Your Home Gym

This article is more than 10 years old.


© Chris Rodenberg Photography/Shutterstock

You can create an effective and inspiring home gym, no matter your budget. Just make sure it contains these must-haves.



Courtesy of Precor

Aerobic Equipment

Whether it's a stair stepper or a treadmill, a piece of aerobic equipment is a home-gym essential. Think about your budget and the bells and whistles you really want, such as an attached flat screen or iPod hookup. One high-end option is Precor's EFX 5.37 Elliptical, which sells for $4,999. Use it to work out just your lower body or connect the convertible arms for a total-body workout.



© Chris Rodenberg Photography/Shutterstock

Mirror, Mirror, On The Wall

It's got nothing to do with vanity. Hanging a mirror on the wall of your home gym will allow you to check your form as you lift weights, so you can keep a proper posture. A mirror also can brighten up a small space, and, of course, help you track your progress.



© Comstock

Inspirational Pictures

Most commercial gyms aren't known for their inspiring décor. That doesn't have to be true of a home gym. While many people put up pictures of family or athletes they admire, the options are endless.



Comstock

The Multi-Station Gym

If you've got the space and sturdy flooring, a multi-station gym is a smart choice for a home gym. Machines such as Fitcore's popular Titan T1, which sells for $3,599, will keep you challenged by allowing you to perform a wide variety of exercises. If you're worried about getting bored, a multi-station gym is a home-gym must-have.



© iStockphoto

Flooring

If there's one thing you don't want in your home gym, it's carpeting, which will absorb sweat and can affect the way your equipment performs and holds up over time. Hardwood floors will do, but you've got plenty of other options, ranging from rubber matting to a spring-loaded floor that absorbs shock.



© Chris Rodenberg Photography/Shutterstock

A Touch Of Whimsy

While most gym equipment isn't known for its aesthetics, your home gym doesn't have to be all black and white. If it will motivate you to keep up your routine, consider painting the walls or adding whimsical touches like brightly colored children's mats or your own private juice bar.



© Shutterstock

Weight Lifting

If you've got the space and money, feel free to invest in an expansive dumbbell set, which could cost thousands of dollars. Or, instead, consider PowerBlocks--compact, adjustable-weight dumbbell sets that sell for hundreds, not thousands.



© iStockphoto

Temperature Control

Having your own home gym comes with certain perks, including control of the thermostat. If you don't have air conditioning in your space, consider getting a fan, even a $10 desktop model, to help circulate air in the room.



© Tom Grill/Shutterstock

Flexibility Equipment

Stretching and working on your flexibility are important (though often overlooked) components of a workout. While there are lots of equipment options, ranging from gravity-inversion systems to slant boards, you can also just throw a towel or mat on your gym floor and stretch the old-fashioned way.



Courtesy of Technogym

Resistance-Training Equipment

If you want to strengthen and tone your muscles, you've got to have resistance-training equipment. If you don't have a lot of space or money, consider buying a variety of resistance bands and a stability ball. On the other end of the spectrum, there's Technogym's Kinesis Personal Heritage, a $13,950 machine that allows over 200 resistance-based exercises using a system of grips, cables and weight stacks.