Going to the gym used to be a normal thing, but that changed recently. While some folks are going back to the gym, others opted for a garage gym. If that's you, the following are some good exercise ideas.
1. The Stationary Bike
When you have limited space, you need to find ways to do more with less. This makes the stationary bike the perfect solution. It sits in one spot yet allows you to bike, which is convenient.
All you need is the right workout music, and you could be on your way to a great workout. Biking allows you to work out many parts of your body, so this works on several levels, especially your lower body. Just make sure the stationary bike you purchase is high quality and comes with all the perks you want.
2. Kettlebell Training
Weights are wonderful tools to help you exercise, but they are also pretty bulky, especially for those with small garage gyms. A good alternative is kettlebells. These are more compact, and they still get the job done.
What's even better is that there are garage gym-focused online kettlebell programs that you can use to get the best workout you can. These programs take your space into account while ensuring you use those kettlebells effectively.
3. Leg Machines
You do not want to skip leg day. Those who make that mistake will have a disproportionate frame. Besides, having strong legs is just as important as building your upper body. If you were to bend down to lift something the majority of the weight will rely on your leg muscles.
To build your leg muscles you can use leg machines. A leg press machine will allow you to build your hamstrings and glutes. When using this machine make sure to always have your knees slightly bent. Locking your knees could damage them with a heavyweight. Having the right form for any exercise is important, but especially here.
You can also target your quads, with a leg Curl or extension machine. With this machine, you can build your quad muscle strength up to 220lbs. This allows you to have a more isolated training of the quad muscle.
4. Yoga
This is the perfect type of exercise for garage gyms. Yoga doesn't require too much from you. You need to stretch in various ways. It is as demanding as you want it to be, which means it's great for beginners or those who've been doing yoga for some time.
All you need is someone to guide you, and there are enough online yoga videos that you can use. Some folks even join live video classes. You don't need anything special for this practice except maybe a mat so that you don't have to do your exercises on the hard floor.
5. Squat Machines
Using squat machines is a great way to build and strengthen your quads, hamstrings, and glute muscles. Squat machines also aid in improving mobility.
If you’re in need of a good squat machine for your garage gym, look into hack squat, belt squat, and super squat machines. But, if you really want to target and build your glutes, a glute thrust machine can help you reach that particular fitness goal, while also improving core strength.
6. Treadmill
The treadmill gives you great use of space. The machine is easy to use. Going out to run is free, but it's also dangerous. For one, you may not be certain of road conditions, especially in cold or wet regions.
You also have to worry about cars. All that goes away if you use a treadmill in your garage. You'll get all your running done in one place. You will need some motivation now that you aren't in a gym, but online trainers are willing to help you push yourself.
7. Dumbbell Training
Dumbbell training is popular for a reason. They allow a versatile range of different muscle-building exercises with very little equipment. If you have the right pair of dumbbells you can do this type of exercise anywhere from your garage gym or your bedroom. Whether you are looking to tone muscles or build them getting into dumbbell training is easy. Pick up a pair of dumbbells that will give you a challenge, but not make you strain too much to finish a set.
Dumbbells can be hex or pro-shaped. Whichever one you choose you can achieve the same results. It is just a matter of preference. The hex-shaped will prevent your dumbells from rolling however the pro-shaped dumbbells can handle more stress in the event they are dropped.
When it comes to dumbbells, you can invest in a pair and get more as your need for more weight arises. Or, you can invest in a free weight package or a weight room package, which is more upfront, but cost-saving in the long run.
Some exercises that you can do with the dumbbells include the classic bicep curl, overhead extensions, chest press, lateral raises, and more. To complete an overhead extension, you would hold one dumbbell behind your upper back and raise it as far as your arms can extend over your head.
For chest press, lay on your back, have two dumbbells, and raise the dumbbells over your chest like you would with a barbell. Lateral raises are also a great exercise. For them, stand and hold your dumbbells are your side and raise your arms out straight sideways until they are perpendicular with your shoulders.
8. Dancing
In your garage, you can dance like no one is watching. It's great fun, and it's something you can do in your home garage gym without the need for additional equipment. You will need the right music and maybe an instructor.
Keep in mind that you don't have to see this instructor in person. There's an endless number of videos online with instructors that tell you what to do as you dance. These skills can not only aid you with your fitness goals, but they'll make going to a dance club more exciting.
9. Jump Rope
Jump rope can be demanding if you want it to be. You can go as fast as you want, and you can even add weights not only to your wrists and ankles but even the jump rope could be weighted. It's a simple way to work out, and it's perfect for a smaller garage gym.
Be sure to consider your space though. You don't want to hit a light bulb or something around your garage as you jump rope, which could be dangerous. Be sure to look into all of your jump rope options. There are smart ones that help count your jumps.
10. Cable Machines
There is a number of great cable machines you can have in your garage gym. From leg curls, leg press, hip abductors, and pulley systems. You can find one for almost every muscle group and can help you target that area that needs the most muscle growth. A pulley system allows you to do a variety of workouts for your arms and legs with weighted resistance.
11. Climber
A vertical climber or stepper might be the perfect tool for you. This is another piece of equipment that won't take up much space. This equipment forces you to work out your whole body.
You'll be working out your arms and legs, and you'll be building up strength and muscles. The machine comes with different settings. This means you may be able to change the level of difficulty on your tool. These devices can be expensive, but there are more affordable options if you are patient as you look.
12. Barbell Weights and Adjustable Benches
What is a garage gym without the classic bench press set up? Invest in an adjustable bench, and a squat rack and you can start training for greater upper body strength. Build your chest, delts, and triceps with a bench press. Or push your bench away and work on squats to build your thighs and glutes. When you don’t feel like using the barbell you can also use your bench for dumbbell exercises.
Conclusion
If you are looking to start a garage gym, here are twelve exercise and exercise equipment ideas you can try and incorporate. But, if you want to eliminate the need for various machines, you can opt for a garage gym package or a universal trainer.
Nevertheless, there are a variety of styles and types of equipment to choose from for your garage gym. You can start small with your setup and slowly work your way up to adding more equipment to your gym.
