With the abundance of information and equipment out there to get more out of a workout, it can feel daunting. And, let's face it, some of the equipment is straight-up intimidating, while some equipment looks like it won't do much.
Adding equipment to a workout can enhance your results AND increase neuromuscular control (a muscle's trained response to dynamically stabilize the proper joints). It's important to work up safely to add in equipment. Going from a non-active lifestyle to flipping big tires or performing a power clean right away is a shoutout to injury.
Every single new client I work with will always start the first few sessions performing basic body movements with no added resistance. The reason for this is to properly recruit the muscles that should be working and understand what they should be feeling during the movement. It is possible for our muscles to 'forget' what their job is and when they're needed. So many times, a new client (usually someone who is not new to exercise) will say they've never felt that during a deadlift or question why their knees always hurt during a squat but not during our sessions.
Personally, I think adding different types of equipment no matter your goal is a great idea (again, at the appropriate time). But, depending on your goal, certain types of equipment may be better suited for you.
For example, we know weights are king for fat loss and hypertrophy. Agility cones and ladders are great for improving cardio endurance. And balance discs and BOSU balls are going to challenge your balance.
We'll go over different types of equipment more in-depth later but generally, you're going to see cardiovascular equipment such as treadmills and ellipticals, strength training equipment such as kettlebells and dumbbells, functional equipment such as stability balls, and other equipment such as foam rollers and yoga blocks.
If you are considering adding equipment to your at-home arsenal, think about the space you have available, your goals, and your budget. If you are limited in space, I highly recommend investing in a set of resistance bands. They are great for beginners and easy to add in once you begin advancing - they're also great for travel because you know I'm here to limit those excuses.
If you're ready to start incorporating equipment, start gradually. Always learn proper form and stick with it.
Speaking of excuses, if you're sitting there telling me you don't have money or space or whatever for equipment, I got you. You can add in things like pillows, full water bottles, towels, heavy books, etc. If you're rolling your eyes at this, well, okay bye. But I'm telling you, this stuff can WORK as a temporary solution. Don't forget to check out garage sales and secondhand stores for equipment at a much more affordable price.
Remember to take it slowly while challenging yourself safely (did I mention I'm all about safety?!) and have fun with it.
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