Working Out Without Going Out

Working out in a gym packed with sweaty strangers just isn't Natalie Danford's style. So two years ago the New York City apartment owner decided it was time to give up some of the precious space in her bedroom to a home gym. "Aside from biking outdoors, I'm not motivated [to exercise] if I have to leave my home," says Danford. Her home gym — which includes a stationary bicycle, free weights, and a yoga area — gets her going five times a week.
If you're not a fan of working out with others, or you just don't have the time to get to the gym, a home gym could be the perfect solution. But before you slap down your credit card in exchange for the latest cardio machine, Dr. Jack Barnathan, president of New York Strength peak performance consulting and the director of fitness sciences for the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA), strongly suggests you get a doctor's OK to start an exercise program.

If you're not a fan Of Working Out With Others, Or you just don't have the time to get to the gym, a home gym could be the perfect solution.

With so much exercise equipment available for at-home use, you can set up a gym that meets your fitness needs (and available space) — and add to it as you go. Just getting started? ISSA–certified fitness trainer David Gluhareff "With a stereo throwing out some upbeat tunes, it's sure recommends a treadmill, adjustable dumbbells and weight bench, exercise to get the body in the mood to workout," says Gluhareff. bands, and an exercise ball. Once you've got the basics, he suggests adding He also suggests putting the workout room in a space the following equipment: a stationary bike or elliptical trainer, multi-exercise with windows "to allow the sunlight to come through." machine (like those manufactured by Bowflex or Powertec), and a punching bag. "The more you add, the more expensive it gets, but anyone can scan the Internet for the best deals on good equipment to fit their budget," says Gluhareff. "For example, new adjustable dumbbells can range from under $100 to more than $300. A good new treadmill can run - no pun intended - from $400 to $3,000 or more." Other equipment worth considering, says Barnathan, includes floor mats and, if you're lifting weights, a wall mirror so you can watch your form.

If you're having trouble picking the perfect equipment for your home gym, Barnathan recommends hiring a personal trainer who can help guide your choices. Once the equipment is set up, the trainer can also help set up an at-home exercise program that will help you get results -safely.

Whether you forge ahead with or without a trainer, Mike May, a spokesperson for the Sporting Goods Manufacturers Association, says you can set up a good home gym for as little as $500 to $1,000, "The quality of equipment [for home use] has improved dramatically over the last 10 years," he points out, adding, "buy used equipment [at a store like Play It Again Sports] and you get more bang for your buck."

Danford says she spent about $600 on her home gym, and it was worth every penny: "If I wasn't doing it at home, I would have quit by now."

Motivating Factors

Worried that you'll end up spending more time hanging clothes on your treadmill than walking on it? Our sources recommend the following tips to keep your motivation up:

• Bribe Yourself
• Make Your workout space a fun space so you'll enjoy spending time there
• Dress up for working out
• Set small goals