Strength Training Equipment for the Home

Strength training offers varied types of workout that can be completed almost anywhere. With the right equipment, it is possible to complete effective strength training at home. Sports coach Richard Mallett uses strength training as part of his training for the Ironman 2021 event.

Thick Yoga Mat

Strength training can be uncomfortable, and if an exercise calls for time to be spent kneeling on the ground a thick yoga mat can make all the difference. A thick mat will offer the knees, elbows and other joints extra support when doing high-impact exercises.

Kettlebells

Wherever a workout takes place, kettlebells are an essential strength training tool as they benefit a variety of exercises. Kettlebells are ideal for use with a range of strength exercises including bicep curls, squats and deadlifts. Unlike dumbbells, kettlebells force the user to work multiple muscle groups by challenging their balance.

Dumbbells

Dumbbells are an excellent equipment choice for compound and single lift exercises alike. Using dumbbells in strength training exercises can help to build muscle mass by using heavier weights and improve cardiovascular health by helping to increase the heart rate. Lunges, tricep kickbacks and shoulder presses can all benefit from the addition of dumbbells as they will challenge the body’s range of motion.

Resistance Bands

Originally designed for use in physiotherapy, resistance bands can help to tone small and large muscle groups. Resistance bands tend to vary in size and level of resistance and can be used to make low-impact exercises more intense. When compared to other exercise equipment, resistance bands are an economical way of improving fitness.

Stability Balls

Using a stability ball in place of a bench when working out core muscles challenges balance. Keeping steady throughout this type of exercise works multiple muscle groups, which increases the number of calories burned during a workout. Making use of a stability ball can also strengthen the core stability muscles, reducing the chance of injury. A stability ball can be used in hamstring curls, wall squats and glute bridges to strengthen the glutes, quads, arms and core muscles.