There's the saying, "Home is where the heart is." And for some homebodies, there's a preference that home be where the heart -- or cardio -- workout is, as well as the strength-training routine.

According to Adam Lindquist of 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment, there are many benefits to having a fitness area at home.

Why At My House?

With gym equipment just down the stairs rather than across town, it's more convenient to work out -- which Lindquist said makes it more likely equipment owners will follow through.

While most gyms offer a variety of machines, it's possible that none of them are the right fit for some users. When buying equipment for the home, customers can try out different machines in the store to ensure they are purchasing something that works for them. In addition, Lindquist said results will be more evident, because the machine has the right fit and the customized settings won't be changed from one workout to the next.

"You can use the equipment whenever you want," he said. "No waiting in line, no getting dressed to drive to a gym, no gas cost, no rising gym fees, no hassle."

And speaking of gym fees, by creating a fitness space at home, the equipment is purchased and belongs to the owner. "Gym memberships are rentals -- an expense that has no asset," Lindquist explained. "If you own, you have an asset you can sell or trade in if you get tired of it."

Unlike equipment at the gym, there's no worry of working out on a machine that hasn't been cleaned or has been in contact with something gross.

"Unfortunately, many gyms do not monitor the wipe-down of equipment after a patron has exercised. Your home gym can meet your hygiene standards, not the health club's," Lindquist said.

Finding Space

Because a home gym is created by the owner, each one is customized to fit. But no matter how fancy the equipment, if there isn't space for it, it won't do much good. It's important to purchase pieces that are easily accessible, and they come in all shapes and sizes.

"Most exercise equipment manufacturers have products that can be folded or take up minimal space for a mini gym in the corner of a bedroom or other tight spaces. They also manufacture large, multifaceted pieces of equipment that you can use in a true fitness room environment," Lindquist said.

Investing In Equipment -- And Health

For those on a budget, Lindquist suggests building your gym one piece at a time, and only purchasing quality equipment. While the initial cost may seem hefty, in the long run, the investment will pay off.

The cost-equals-results relationship with exercise equipment is apparent for two reasons, Lindquist said.

"Good ergonomics produces equipment that feels better and produces better results because you enjoy using it. Products with ergonomics take longer to produce and are manufactured under higher tolerances. Because of this, they cost more," he said. "Durability is another important factor -- this is something you're going to use."

"Remember, if the cheap equipment is broken or has things that drive you crazy about it so that you don't use it, it wasn't really cheap. It's the world's most expensive coat hanger!" said Lindquist.

Starting off with one piece of cardio equipment -- that you test for fit in the store -- and a set of hand weights is a good way to ease into creating your gym. And if that is too much of a commitment, Lindquist suggests using your neighborhood as your gym.

"Hand weights along with an exercise ball are an inexpensive and effective strength-training option that almost anyone can afford," he said. "Match that to a brisk outside walk and you have a good workout option."

It doesn't matter what workout routine you establish, as long as you set goals you want to meet.

"Many people have health club memberships but still don't go." Lindquist said it doesn't matter that you're paying dues every month.

"Accountability can happen a bunch of ways -- write it down and post it somewhere you remind yourself each day. Tell a bunch of people what you are going to do, and make sure they are people who will ask you about your progress," he said. "When people see you and start asking if you've lost weight, you'll be able to smile and tell them exactly how much."

Everybody's Doing It

Personal fit is one of the most important factors in designing your home gym. However, several pieces have attracted attention as advancements in exercise equipment are made.

"Elliptical cross trainers are becoming among the most popular because they are gentle on your joints, yet allow you to do both an upper- and lower-body workout, along with the cardio," Lindquist said.

Multigyms have also gained strides as a strength-training option because they allow many exercises on a single piece of equipment.

Regardless of what pieces are more thoroughly marketed, Lindquist urges future home gym owners to try out the equipment options before making a purchase.

"When you go to a fitness store, go in your workout clothes and be ready to spend time on many items," he said. "Being in the same clothing and mental state when you work out will give you the best likelihood of buying the best equipment to meet your needs."

No matter what choices are made, Lindquist said, "the most important thing is to buy products you will use."

More Resources

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