She Strengthens

From Gym to Home: How I Saved Big on My Fitness Routine

The Shift to At-Home Workouts

When the pandemic hit, I was forced to abandon my beloved gym routine and find a new way to stay active from the comfort of my own home. It wasn’t easy, but with a little creativity and resourcefulness, I was able to create an effective and affordable at-home workout routine.

Cardio Without the Cost

I start each workout with a quick 5-minute cardio warm-up to get my blood flowing and muscles loose. Gone are the days of walking on the treadmill or spinning on the gym’s Peloton bike. Now, I opt for a few trips up and down the stairs in my high-rise building or a few laps around the block. And on days when I have a bit more time, I’ll bust out some dance moves to YouTube videos – it’s not the same as being in a studio, but it’s a fun and free way to get my heart rate up.

Investing in Weights

The biggest investment I’ve made in my at-home gym is a set of dumbbells. Over several months, I’ve acquired a range of weights, from 3 to 20 pounds. While it may seem like a lot, I’ve managed to get some of them for free or at a low cost. My roommate already had a 3-pound set, and my mom generously donated a 5-pound set from her own home gym. I used a Target gift card to purchase the 8-pound dumbbells, and the 10 and 20-pound sets were a bit pricier, but still a worthwhile investment.

The Game-Changing DIY “Cable Machine”

The best purchase I’ve made for my at-home gym is a DIY “cable machine” made from a set of pull-up assist resistance bands and an over-the-door anchor. This setup has allowed me to replicate the gym experience at home, and with the addition of a PVC pipe and end caps, it’s almost identical to the real thing.

Accessories and Extras

To enhance my workouts, I’ve also invested in a few accessories. A set of mini loop bands adds extra resistance to my glute workouts, and a yoga mat is a must-have for my hardwood floors. I’ve even repurposed some of my existing furniture to create a makeshift bench for step-ups and hip thrusts.

The Grand Total

With a grand total of $145.90, I’ve created an effective and affordable at-home workout routine that rivals my old gym routine. It may not be perfect, but it’s a great alternative to risking my health and the health of those around me. As the saying goes, “don’t let perfect get in the way of good.”