This has been the longest stretch I've gone without belonging to a big box gym since I was a newly minted entry-level PR person barely scraping by in NYC. Getting into a long-term relationship with a gym is almost as serious as getting into a long-term relationship with a significant other. My gyms have always been within walking distance, had classes that fit my schedule, and had enough location options that I could avoid the crowds. So that's what I tend to look for when committing. There just wasn't a good option near me, so I just bought packages at local yoga studios, a spin class here and there, and made use of my tiny apartment gym. With marathon training looming, I didn't need much. Now that time has past and I am getting bored/antsy with my workout limits. (There aren't even two benches to do these fancy squats I want to do!)
What I've found though is that my area isn't really catering to a young professional....more like someone who has retired or can do a 9AM class, which makes it really hard. Who can make a 9:15 cycle class? I mean come on!
There are gyms that are just equipment and therefore much cheaper, but I would have to drive 15 minutes to get there. GASP, 15 minutes you say, but it is on the highway and can get really backed up. Also, it is AT the mall...that's just like tempting you way too much.
Unfortunately it just isn't feasible to join a spin studio, a yoga studio, AND a gym to gain access to all the equipment. It really isn't even feasible to join even two of those.
So, instead I am thinking of building out my home gym a bit more. We already have a few essentials (TRX; varied dumbells, jump rope, glides, resistance bands, pull-up bar); plus a ridiculous amount of DVDs (thanks, friends)...so now I need to figure out what else is needed. My running list is below, but would love some other must haves.
1. Medicine Ball -- for slamming and ab work
2. Plyo-Box -- one of the most versatile tools you can have in your home gym...you can jump, squat, bench dip, and step ups.
3. Barbell & Weight Plates -- deadlifts and weighted squats are much easier to complete with a barbell
4. Bosu Ball -- another all purpose tool
5. Heavier Kettlebells -- right now we only have 3lbs and 5lbs...we need some heavier ones to do more workouts (Again Faster has some relatively inexpensive options)
6. Adjustable Step -- different from the plyo box, but something I can also lay on and step on
