What to put in new home gym and will it fit?
Discussion
I have a decent shed I built a few years ago that I use as my wood workshop but am not really using it anymore so want to turn it into a home gym for me, the missus and two teenage kids.
I've never really done the whole gym stuff before so not really clued up on what to buy, the essential stuff to buy and what will actually fit in it without moving stuff around all the time.
The shed is a decent-ish size - 5m long x 2.8m wide and has decent head height with a pitched roof. The interior walls are 1920mm high plus all the open headroom within the pitch roof with the highest headroom being 2300mm at the peak of the pitch. Its watertight, and has LED strip lighting plus power/sockets with a small consumer unit with breakers so its all good to go for powered equipment.
Given the size of it, what do you reccomend putting in it for general fitness and losing a beer belly
I'm not looking to gain muscle as such but just want to improve fitness,weight loss as getting close to 50 now, but it also needs to be suitable for the two teenage girls too.
I'm thinking a decent treadmill, cross trainer and rowing machine but really not sure if they are the best things - or they will actually fit comfortably into the space i have to work with.
Do you have any suggestions on what would work and fit in best? Have a decent-ish budget too as want semi decent stuff so its hopefully a bit more enjoyable to use.
I've never really done the whole gym stuff before so not really clued up on what to buy, the essential stuff to buy and what will actually fit in it without moving stuff around all the time.
The shed is a decent-ish size - 5m long x 2.8m wide and has decent head height with a pitched roof. The interior walls are 1920mm high plus all the open headroom within the pitch roof with the highest headroom being 2300mm at the peak of the pitch. Its watertight, and has LED strip lighting plus power/sockets with a small consumer unit with breakers so its all good to go for powered equipment.
Given the size of it, what do you reccomend putting in it for general fitness and losing a beer belly
I'm not looking to gain muscle as such but just want to improve fitness,weight loss as getting close to 50 now, but it also needs to be suitable for the two teenage girls too.
I'm thinking a decent treadmill, cross trainer and rowing machine but really not sure if they are the best things - or they will actually fit comfortably into the space i have to work with.
Do you have any suggestions on what would work and fit in best? Have a decent-ish budget too as want semi decent stuff so its hopefully a bit more enjoyable to use.
In terms of cardio equipment, it's simply a tool to burn calories and thus lose weight, on that basis you should buy equipment that you a) feel comfortable using and b) don't mind spending time using. To give you an example, I hate running on a treadmill but actually don't mind a good rowing or spin bike session.
If this is the same for you, I would go for a Concept2 rower, pretty much the industry standard, used in gyms around the country and well supported. Obviously cheaper rowers are available but they're rarely as good (I had a genuine water rower once, it wasn't as good as a Concept2!).
For a spin bike stay away from the cheap brands, stick to Schwinn, Technogym or similar.
You could always look at something like an assault bike if thats your thing, or cross trainer for low impact, it really does depend on you and what you want, but I would budget also for some form of music and/or TV to take your mind of things during Cardio.
In terms of weights, personally I would go for a power rack with various attachments BUT it sounds like you don't need anything too serious so maybe look at a lever system gym, Powertec are supposed to be good although I've never used one. Might be a good use of space vs. functionality in your case....https://powertec.com/.
I hope this helps a little bit.
Edit - Just re-read your post....I know I've suggested a weights system and you said you don't want to build muscle. There are several benefits to including some weights training, especially as we get older, particular those related to maintaining existing muscle which naturally degrades with old age.
2nd Edit - Also consider ventilation, will it be too warm in the summer / cold in the winter?
If this is the same for you, I would go for a Concept2 rower, pretty much the industry standard, used in gyms around the country and well supported. Obviously cheaper rowers are available but they're rarely as good (I had a genuine water rower once, it wasn't as good as a Concept2!).
For a spin bike stay away from the cheap brands, stick to Schwinn, Technogym or similar.
You could always look at something like an assault bike if thats your thing, or cross trainer for low impact, it really does depend on you and what you want, but I would budget also for some form of music and/or TV to take your mind of things during Cardio.
In terms of weights, personally I would go for a power rack with various attachments BUT it sounds like you don't need anything too serious so maybe look at a lever system gym, Powertec are supposed to be good although I've never used one. Might be a good use of space vs. functionality in your case....https://powertec.com/.
I hope this helps a little bit.
Edit - Just re-read your post....I know I've suggested a weights system and you said you don't want to build muscle. There are several benefits to including some weights training, especially as we get older, particular those related to maintaining existing muscle which naturally degrades with old age.
2nd Edit - Also consider ventilation, will it be too warm in the summer / cold in the winter?
Edited by Pete102 on Tuesday 23 August 08:03
Edited by Pete102 on Tuesday 23 August 08:05
Pete102 said:
In terms of cardio equipment, it's simply a tool to burn calories and thus lose weight, on that basis you should buy equipment that you a) feel comfortable using and b) don't mind spending time using. To give you an example, I hate running on a treadmill but actually don't mind a good rowing or spin bike session.
If this is the same for you, I would go for a Concept2 rower, pretty much the industry standard, used in gyms around the country and well supported. Obviously cheaper rowers are available but they're rarely as good (I had a genuine water rower once, it wasn't as good as a Concept2!).
For a spin bike stay away from the cheap brands, stick to Schwinn, Technogym or similar.
You could always look at something like an assault bike if thats your thing, or cross trainer for low impact, it really does depend on you and what you want, but I would budget also for some form of music and/or TV to take your mind of things during Cardio.
In terms of weights, personally I would go for a power rack with various attachments BUT it sounds like you don't need anything too serious so maybe look at a lever system gym, Powertec are supposed to be good although I've never used one. Might be a good use of space vs. functionality in your case....https://powertec.com/.
I hope this helps a little bit.
Edit - Just re-read your post....I know I've suggested a weights system and you said you don't want to build muscle. There are several benefits to including some weights training, especially as we get older, particular those related to maintaining existing muscle which naturally degrades with old age.
2nd Edit - Also consider ventilation, will it be too warm in the summer / cold in the winter?
Good stuff and thanks kindly If this is the same for you, I would go for a Concept2 rower, pretty much the industry standard, used in gyms around the country and well supported. Obviously cheaper rowers are available but they're rarely as good (I had a genuine water rower once, it wasn't as good as a Concept2!).
For a spin bike stay away from the cheap brands, stick to Schwinn, Technogym or similar.
You could always look at something like an assault bike if thats your thing, or cross trainer for low impact, it really does depend on you and what you want, but I would budget also for some form of music and/or TV to take your mind of things during Cardio.
In terms of weights, personally I would go for a power rack with various attachments BUT it sounds like you don't need anything too serious so maybe look at a lever system gym, Powertec are supposed to be good although I've never used one. Might be a good use of space vs. functionality in your case....https://powertec.com/.
I hope this helps a little bit.
Edit - Just re-read your post....I know I've suggested a weights system and you said you don't want to build muscle. There are several benefits to including some weights training, especially as we get older, particular those related to maintaining existing muscle which naturally degrades with old age.
2nd Edit - Also consider ventilation, will it be too warm in the summer / cold in the winter?
Edited by Pete102 on Tuesday 23 August 08:03
Edited by Pete102 on Tuesday 23 August 08:05
Shed is under a huge tree so is sheltered from the peak of the sun in Summer and have a heater for winter. Its also vented so should be ok I think.
I suspect it would be cheaper to get a family membership at a gym for 5yrs than to fully kit out your shed.
There will be much more and likely better equipment there, plus you get the benefit of classes/basic training and maybe even use of a pool.
Our local leisure group has a family membership for £90/m and there's 6 gyms, a 25m pool, a 30m pool and a 15m pool, and as many classes as you can shake a stick at including dance, yoga, pilates, HIIT, boxercise etc.
Doing "gym" doesn't even slightly interest me, but all the other stuff and swimming does.
There will be much more and likely better equipment there, plus you get the benefit of classes/basic training and maybe even use of a pool.
Our local leisure group has a family membership for £90/m and there's 6 gyms, a 25m pool, a 30m pool and a 15m pool, and as many classes as you can shake a stick at including dance, yoga, pilates, HIIT, boxercise etc.
Doing "gym" doesn't even slightly interest me, but all the other stuff and swimming does.
Personally I wouldn't bother with a treadmill as running outside is a much nicer experience and is a year round activity. Cross trainer and bike definitely, probably a watt bike if others are using it, otherwise a turbo and Zwift (or equivalent) set up as the engagement is higher.
Free weights and a bench, but also a telly and enough floor space to do classes of whatever description.
Free weights and a bench, but also a telly and enough floor space to do classes of whatever description.
Agree on Concept 2 rower, I notice they've just updated them. Model D has been replaced by RowErg with std legs. PM5 unit is bluetooth enabled, with battery which lasts forever. The rowing machine is a fantastic piece of equipment, but also a b
d and something you need motivation to use. If tight on space breaks into two pieces in seconds.
Watch some videos on technique, then build up to short distances. It will link to Strava, and more importantly the Concept 2 website - if you need motivation you can see where you sit in the UK or Globally in your weight & age group.
On the bike make sure you buy one with enough adjustment for everyone to use, but as mentioned buy something that will take some abuse. I have a Stages smart bike (it's quite pricey), which allows you to connect to pretty much anything, Zwift, Rouvy, Wahoo etc. It's so quiet compared to my smart trainer. It's not the best for a spin class, but great for anything else.
Free weights. Kettle Bells are very good. Plenty of stuff online, Caroline Girvan became a youtube star during lockdown. Her routines are very accessible for all levels.
I'd also suggest a TV if doing a longer workout, I will happily watch a football match on the bike.
d and something you need motivation to use. If tight on space breaks into two pieces in seconds.Watch some videos on technique, then build up to short distances. It will link to Strava, and more importantly the Concept 2 website - if you need motivation you can see where you sit in the UK or Globally in your weight & age group.
On the bike make sure you buy one with enough adjustment for everyone to use, but as mentioned buy something that will take some abuse. I have a Stages smart bike (it's quite pricey), which allows you to connect to pretty much anything, Zwift, Rouvy, Wahoo etc. It's so quiet compared to my smart trainer. It's not the best for a spin class, but great for anything else.
Free weights. Kettle Bells are very good. Plenty of stuff online, Caroline Girvan became a youtube star during lockdown. Her routines are very accessible for all levels.
I'd also suggest a TV if doing a longer workout, I will happily watch a football match on the bike.
I cancelled my gym membership once lockdowns started. I didn't want to stop exercising so followed the advice of my youngest, a personal trainer (ex). He still maintains his fitness and has taken over his whole garage with a well-equipped gym for him and my daughter-in-law, who swam at a high level, and was a kick-boxer of some note.
Costs;
A simple weight bench with the normal adjustments. Cost (secondhand) £70.
Mat. That was £50.
Weights, again secondhand, weren't cheap, and heavy to carry. Mainly using dumbbells. I've noticed the local s/h sites have quite a selection.
I looked at some s/h treadmills, but all were a bit suspect. To tide me over, I bought a step. Still got it. Great when it's raining.
Mine's all set up in half my garage, apart from the step.
Advantages:
No waiting for machines.
No cleaning sweat off machines and mats.
Available immediately. No having to go anywhere.
I do a little every day rather than a lot 3 x a week.
Coffee straight after exercise.
No naff music.
Cheaper, much more so, in the medium term, let alone long.
As time goes on, you can buy specific equipment for those using.
Cons:
Initial setup cost a lot to find all at the same time. For me it was a bit over 2 x monthly gym fees for myself and wife. If I did it again, I'd pace the purchases.
No chats with staff for advice. That said, with a personal trainer in the family, advice is a text away.
A fair bit of space is taken up. I have a 20' garage. It's now a bit over 8'.
My method is not for everyone. Suits me and my wife. In fact, my wife reckons it is much better. She exercises daily whereas she sometimes cried off going to the gym as she couldn't face all the cleaning of machines.
Costs;
A simple weight bench with the normal adjustments. Cost (secondhand) £70.
Mat. That was £50.
Weights, again secondhand, weren't cheap, and heavy to carry. Mainly using dumbbells. I've noticed the local s/h sites have quite a selection.
I looked at some s/h treadmills, but all were a bit suspect. To tide me over, I bought a step. Still got it. Great when it's raining.
Mine's all set up in half my garage, apart from the step.
Advantages:
No waiting for machines.
No cleaning sweat off machines and mats.
Available immediately. No having to go anywhere.
I do a little every day rather than a lot 3 x a week.
Coffee straight after exercise.
No naff music.
Cheaper, much more so, in the medium term, let alone long.
As time goes on, you can buy specific equipment for those using.
Cons:
Initial setup cost a lot to find all at the same time. For me it was a bit over 2 x monthly gym fees for myself and wife. If I did it again, I'd pace the purchases.
No chats with staff for advice. That said, with a personal trainer in the family, advice is a text away.
A fair bit of space is taken up. I have a 20' garage. It's now a bit over 8'.
My method is not for everyone. Suits me and my wife. In fact, my wife reckons it is much better. She exercises daily whereas she sometimes cried off going to the gym as she couldn't face all the cleaning of machines.
stabilio said:
I'm not looking to gain muscle as such but just want to improve fitness,weight loss as getting close to 50 now,
As others have suggested, don't waste your ££££ on building a home gym if your main aim is to loss weight!Have a look the weight loss thread. It's managing your diet, accountability, motivation that will get rid of the weight, not fancy gym gear.
A single static bike will get you cardio fitness, but I can guarantee you will not loss any weight just by doing cardio, if anything over eatting post work outs will probably see the weight go the other way, I've been there and done it!!
Honestly save your money, effort, instead start actually doing something about your diet, the single most important tool in getting the fat under control.
https://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&...
You need a power rack plus a bar and plates. This will let you do the essential compound exercises without a spotter. It will be nearly indestructible and can take you from beginner to epic.
A concept 2 rower is excellent. Though if you train on it seriously it will cause you to look inside yourself and ask yourself who you really are as you battle to hold a specific speed to hit a target. Well that was my experience back when I rowed competitively
You might be able to rent a concept 2, or buy second hand and resell if required.
A concept 2 rower is excellent. Though if you train on it seriously it will cause you to look inside yourself and ask yourself who you really are as you battle to hold a specific speed to hit a target. Well that was my experience back when I rowed competitively
You might be able to rent a concept 2, or buy second hand and resell if required.
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