Hello my fabulous 50+ friend!!
Have you ever had a gym membership before? You know, one of those memberships that initially excited and inspired you, and then it gradually fizzled into something you paid for every month and didn’t use?
I thought so! I think we’ve all been there at one time or another, and it doesn’t feel great, does it?
Are you a 50+ woman who is interested in fitness training, but reluctant to go to they gym because:
- You feel like everyone there is younger and more attractive than you are
- You don’t know what to do with all that equipment
- You feel uncomfortable wearing gym clothes out in public
- You avoid the shower/change room in case someone sees you naked
- Trying new exercises may result in light bladder leakage
If you answered yes to one or more of these questions, you are definitely not alone!
Setting up your home gym
Today we talk about setting up your home gym, so that you can:
- work on your fitness in the comfort of your own home
- Gain strength and confidence to join a gym, keep working out at home, or some combination of both
Let’s start with where to put your home gym.
The good news is that you don’t need a home gym, or even a huge space, for at home workouts.
A room or corner about twice the size of a yoga mat is perfect.
Ideally the space is away from all that is going on in the rest of your home – in your office, basement, bedroom, den or guest room. In warmer climates/times of year, it could even be outdoors.
Once you’ve found the space, take the time to de-clutter and clean it, so that it is ready to go whenever you are.
Some inspiring photos or quotes on the walls will make it extra special. If you don’t have any, keep an eye out for something you can add in – through retail therapy, at a thrift store, or something a friend or family member is no longer using.
Next on the list is equipment.
All you need for a great at home workout is a supportive pair of running shoes/cross trainers. A yoga/exercise mat is a great addition to make floor work more comfortable.
That said, many of us have accumulated exercise equipment that is now buried in a box or closet, or piled in a dusty heap somewhere in the house. Now is the time to bust it out, dust it off and take inventory!
You likely have it because it seemed fun, looked interesting, or was recommended to you (I’m looking at you Thigh Master!).
If you still feel the same way, find a place to hang, stack or otherwise organize these items into your space. This happens to be a specialty of mine, so if you need help, let me know! For any items that seem scary, unsafe or just plain hilarious, maybe it’s time to clear them out.
Now it’s time to do some easy research.
We are blessed with Google, You-Tube and so many other platforms that enable you to find fun and effective workouts using your own body weight, and some of the equipment you already have.
A personal trainer can also work with you to design programming specific to you and the equipment you have/don’t have.
There are many trainers who are qualified and experienced with virtual training, to make it even easier. I happen to be one of them! If you have some questions, please reach out.
Variety is the spice of life, including your workouts
When it comes to working out at home, variety is the spice of life! It’s important to change up your workout every 1-3 months, and to intersperse your indoor workouts with heading outside to take in fresh air while you get fit!
Keep an eye on marketplace or in homes of your friends for great deals on equipment that is new to you because it is no longer getting used by someone else.
If you don’t like it, or when you get bored with it, pass it on to the next owner!
Changing it up keeps your workouts fun and interesting,
and increases the likelihood that you’ll keep your commitment to fitness going.
Remember that the home gym is for you.
When you get active and get moving, you’re going to feel more energy, less pain, and gain confidence in yourself for taking charge of your health. Be kind in the goals you set, go slowly, and celebrate your progress!
I’d love to hear from you about your home gym, whether you already have one, or if you’re inspired to create a space for fitness in your home now! Please post your questions and comments below! I’ll talk to you soon.
Love,
Jennifer
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