Not long ago I shared my at-home workout room essentials since working out from home has taken a whole new meaning in 2020. While I’ve always been used to working out at home, with our new home I was finally able to have a dedicated workout space. That meant fully customizing my space to be perfect for my favorite workouts like Tone It Up and barre. Most recently, I’ve grown my list of barre equipment as it has become my main type of workout and I simply enjoy it so much. However, I do have lots of experience with working out at home doing different programs so I wanted to share the ultimate guide to working out at home.
Find Your Program
First and foremost, you’ll need to find a program that you enjoy, will give you the benefits you’re looking for, and can be done at home. I personally have a few workout apps on my phone. My personal favorites? The Tone It Up app and XtendBarre on OpenFit. However, these are just a few. I also love the FitOn app, especially because you can get so many amazing workouts for free! Plus they have amazing trainers like Christine Bullock, Aubre Winters and Danielle Pascente.
While I don’t have their subscription, I have done The Class by Taryn Toomey enough times to know I love that program. If you’re looking for a workout that is just a tough physically as it is mentally, check that one out. Also, if you’re a FabFitFun member don’t forget that you can get free workouts on FabFitFunTV! That’s actually how I get my Barre Code workouts in. They do have a The Barre Code streaming service if you’re interested.
Amazon Prime also has great workouts included with your membership. My personal favorites are Lindsay Bushman’s barre challenges. Lastly, please note you have a wonderful free service at your fingertips and that is YouTube. You can find so many amazing free workout videos on YouTube, simply search for what you’re looking for a voilá.
My personal recommendation is to start with the free services to find out what you really enjoy. However, if you’re already set on what type of workout you want, find the apps that offer them and give it a go.
If you’re looking for Barre or Pilates I suggest XtendBarre and XBPilates on OpenFit or Christine Bullock’s FitOn app workouts. However, if Yoga is more of your thing, the Tone It Up app has a wonderful variety of yoga workouts. If you’re looking for HIIT, Danielle Pascente is your girl. Find her on the FitOn app or purchase her plans here. When you’re wanting a little bit of everything and feeling the burn no matter what class you take, Lindsey Harrod does the trick. If you’re into dance cardio, Aubre Winters has the energy you need. If you’re looking for running, you came to the wrong place because I can’t stand it. However, I heard Couch to 5K is good! The point is, there’s a program for everyone, you just need to try them to learn what you like.
Working Out At Home Equipment
I went into a great detail about my at-home workout equipment on this blog post, but since then I’ve added a few more things. Particularly, equipment to help me with my Barre workouts. I’ve been loving my new barre. It was relatively easy to assemble on my own and it’s been quite sturdy so far. I’m also loving a barre ball, pilates ring, and 2lb dumbbells because believe me, they get heavy in Barre.
If Barre is not your workout of choice, I recommend checking out Amazon for any equipment you may need. From barbells, to benches, to yoga mats, heavier dumbbells, kettlebells, and more they have it all. If you’re looking for aesthetically pleasing equipment (no shame in that) I highly suggest the Tone It Up collection at Target. They recently launched toning ropes but also have booty bands, resistance bands, sliders, a kettlebell, and more. If indoor cycling is your thing, you can go all out with a Peloton bike or find a more affordable one and simply use the Peloton app. Nowadays there’s tons of workout equipment perfect for your home. Just make sure it’ll fit the space and work for your program of choice.
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Safety First
If you’re working out on your own, it may be hard to know when you’re doing something incorrectly. However, preventing injuries is key here. Make sure that if you have previous injuries, you’ve been cleared by a doctor to work out. At the same time, choose a workout program that will work if you do have a history of injuries. For example, Barre and Pilates are both low-impact workouts (doesn’t mean they don’t get tough though). Get yourself a mirror and place it nearby so you can keep an eye on your form throughout the workout.
All of the instructors I mentioned above are great at reminding you of the right form, so just make sure you listen and adjust as needed. Lastly, it’s okay to take breaks. I encourage you to listen to your body and rest as needed. It’s especially important if you’re just starting your fitness routine and your body needs some time to adjust.
I hope you found this list useful. Let me know if you’ve tried any of the workout programs I mentioned or share your favorites in the comments below.