Setting up a home gym is a great option for those who struggle to find the time to get out regularly. If you are able to motivate yourself to use the equipment alone, this might be a way to exercise more frequently.

The following guidelines will help you choose home gym equipment.

1. Identify your fitness requirements:
   
   

Home gym equipment frequently winds up as nothing more than an expensive place to hang clothes. To avoid this you need to be sure that you'll actually use whatever you buy. The first key to that is that it is something that you enjoy using.

Think of equipment you've used at the gym - what do you prefer using? You will also want something that will continue to challenge you as your fitness increase. Be sure, therefore, that anything you buy has the option to increase the resistance, incline etc.

You should also consider what type of workouts you want to perform - cardio, resistance, or both. Both aerobic and strength training are necessary to achieve all round fitness. The best option for both cardio and strength training is an indoor rower, such as the Concept II.

For cardio workouts, options include treadmills, exercise bikes, cross trainers, and steppers.

Cardio machines should allow you to work steadily for at least 20 minutes - this will build your aerobic fitness and burn calories. For strength training, multi-gyms can offer a good range of exercises, but do take up quite a bit of space. Alternatively, dumbbells and resistance bands are easy to store away and will provide a vast range of exercises.

• Cost:
  
  When buying home gym equipment you generally get what you pay for - robust equipment that will provide years of reliable use can't be manufactured cheaply.
  
  If your budget is really limited, then look for inexpensive options such as a skipping rope, resistance bands, or an exercise mat. Another great option is used equipment. Many people buy equipment, don't use it, then sell it. If you are buying used, be sure to test equipment first, or purchase from a dealer who can give you some kind of guarantee.
  
  There are bargains available, but consider some of the reasons equipment might be cheap. These can include:
  • It could be a discontinued model - if so, are parts still available.
  • A new, updated model has just come out.
  • It's cheaply made or low quality.
  
  
  
• Size and space:
  
  An item that looks small in a large showroom can be enormous when you try and fit it in your house. Always measure both the space you have available, and the size of any equipment you are considering buying.
  • Be aware of your ceiling height - low ceilings can easily be hit if lifting weights.
    
    
  • Weights can be very heavy - it's best to use them downstairs.
    
    
  • Beware electrical cables from machines - where are your sockets?
    
    
  • You'll also want extra sockets for music or a fan when you're working out
    
    
  • Plan for at least as much open space as equipment space.
  Use the following guidelines to determine how much room you'll need:
  • BIKES 10 SQ FEET
  • TREADMILL 25 SQ. FEET
  • ROWERS 15 SQ. FEET
  • FREE WEIGHTS 35 SQ. FEET
  • RESISTANCE BANDS 12 SQ. FEET
  • SKI MACHINE 20 SQ. FEET
  • CLIMBER / STEPPER 15 SQ. FEET
  • WEIGHTS MACHINE 25 SQ. FEET
  • MULTI STATION 50+ SQ. FEET

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