Gear Up Wisely: Your Pre-Purchase Checklist for Exercise Equipment

If you’re looking to buy exercise equipment to stay on top of your fitness there are quite a few factors you should be considering. Exercise gear can be quite costly, but having some equipment at home offers convenience and flexibility. You just have to weigh up what is worth it for you. 

Like anything else you buy, make sure to read up on what you want to get. Research different options, read reviews and compare prices. Factor in durability and warranty, as well as weight restrictions — some exercise bikes, for example, can only take a maximum weight of 100kg — and only purchase equipment that will motivate you to stay on top of your routine. 

Determine your fitness goals. Write down your goals and figure out what kind of equipment would work for you. Think about what you enjoy doing and which areas you want to work on.

Consider what will actually fit in your home. For limited space, consider compact options like resistance bands, dumbbells or kettlebells. Yoga mats and jump ropes are also a great choice as they require minimal storage and offer a full-body workout. 

Exercise equipment can be costly, things like treadmills, stationary bikes and elliptical machines can break the bank, so if you don’t want to spend the big bucks, consider resistance bands, dumbbells, medicine balls and yoga mats. You could even have a look at second-hand gear online. 

Consider the equipment’s ease of use. This will ensure a more enjoyable home workout experience. If there is no complicated setup then you’re more likely to use the equipment more frequently. 

Know your limits! If you’re keen on building muscle with weight training then you need to determine how heavy is too heavy for your body. This includes using proper form, starting with lighter weights and warming up beforehand.

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