You don’t need a fancy at-home fitness device to keep in shape while in self-isolation during the coronavirus pandemic — although that Peloton looks really nice right about now, doesn’t it? For those of us in tight spaces with even tighter budgets, there are plenty of ways to build the perfect at-home gym using small pieces of workout equipment. Here are six basic items to help get you started while gyms and other nonessential businesses are on lockdown.
Wrist weights
Wrist weights have come a long way and now offer a mix of comfort and fashion, making them sleek enough to run errands in — and you might even get some compliments. Bala Bangles, a trendy option created in 2018 and recently featured on “Shark Tank,” are weighted, bracelet-like bangles that come in a variety of poundage (1/2 to 2) and colors (more than 10, plus special editions). Another good option is Tone-y-Bands, which launched via Kickstarter in 2016 and offers silicone bracelets with adjustable weights (from 1/2 pound to 2 pounds) in seven colors.
Bala Bangles start at $40, Amazon.com or ShopBala.com; Tone-y-Bands start at $35, ToneyBands.com
Mats
A basic yoga mat will cushion your bones and joints while you work out and will make your downward dogs more comfortable. Despite a plethora of expensive options (Alo’s $100 mat offers a non-slip surface, even when wet, and Lululemon’s $68 reversible mat has a polyurethane top layer that absorbs moisture), there are plenty of inexpensive, quality options available. Try Amazon for popular choices like the GoYoga all-purpose mat, $12.99, or the thicker Incline Fit 1-inch mat with strap, $37.
Resistance bands
Loop resistance bands can help tone the lower body in even the smallest of spaces. You can work the glutes, calves, hamstrings and more with simple exercises like leg lifts — and there are a spate of apps to teach you how. Some brands, like Fit Simplify, include an instruction guide with their products.
Fit Simplify Resistance Loop Exercise Bands, $14.95, Amazon.com
Dumbbells
Having a set of dumbbells at home can help with strength training in a pinch — and can be used in front of the television while bingeing on Bravo. There isn’t a one-size-fits-all weight for everyone and every exercise, but a simple set of 5-pounders do the trick most of the time.
Gymenist Soft Non-Slip Grip Dumbbells, $15, Walmart.com
Tubed exercise bands
Owning long bands made of tubing with handles (or loops) at the ends can be like having an entire collection of weights in your living room. These heavy-duty resistance bands can work the upper and lower body and the back (they’re especially great for overheard forearm and tricep exercises). Some bands, like the Perform Better All-Purpose Exercise Bands, can be used with your own body weight or attached to a doorknob.
Perform Better All-Purpose Exercise Bands, $24.95, Amazon.com or PerformBetter.com
Gliders
Exercise gliders are one of the most underrated pieces of small fitness equipment — they’re easy to pack and can be used for the upper and lower body as well as the core (mountain climbers, planks, pikes). They come in all shapes and sizes and are smoother than a DIY option like a small kitchen towel. OG brand Valslide offers a thicker cushion than your standard glider and has a longer shape, great for feet and hands of all sizes.
Valslide Discs, $29.95, Amazon.com