Are you considering starting a strength training program? If you will be working out alone some of the time then think twice about a weight bench and free weights. Accidents happen and a mishap while doing a bench press can become a disaster. Consider, instead, a home gym system. You can get a body weight resistance system for a very reasonable price that can produce the same results as a weight resistance type system.

Figure a budget before you start shopping. The big names in fitness like Bowflex have enticing TV ads, but are they worth the extra money over the less expensive brands? When shopping electrical-mechanical equipment like treadmills, elliptical machines, and stationary bikes, the answer is probably yes. You may not need all the bells and whistles on the high end machines but you do want and need the durability and safety the big name brands will give you.

For home gyms that focus on strength training simplicity is key. A simple multi function home gym can give you years of workouts. All the line and pulley systems are built on the same principles, and with prices from under $300 to over $10,000 they all do the same thing. They all can do the job, just decide on how many extra toys you have room for or want to spend for and go from there. I purchased a very nice brand new Weider Body Works home gym for way less than the cost of a Bowflex and and it has performed as expected for over 4 years.

You will need a few things in addition to the gym equipment. Get a big mat or rubber pads so you don’t ruin the floor, and get a quart or two of matching paint to keep the walls looking good. You will mark up the walls and it just feels better to work out in an appealing environment.

If you want really simple strength and endurance equipment go for a Everlast heavy bag stand. You’ll need some gloves but little else.

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