You don't always have to pack up and hit the gym to get in your reps and exercise! Whether it's the price, the crowd, or the available machines, sometimes public gyms just aren't what you need when you're looking to get in a good workout. This is why many people utilize their own homes for all their fitness needs.

So how does one turn their house into a gym? You may not have all the high-end gear and machines that your neighborhood fitness center does, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still enjoy a solid workout. Read on for a handful of helpful at-home tips to keep you on track for all your exercise goals  

Create Comfortable Goals

And speaking of goals, these are a crucial part of effective fitness routines, either at home or at the gym. Your goals should be something you can achieve with an appropriate and comfortable amount of work. Only you are going to what what you’re capable of, so this part might take some practice. Once you have a good feel of what you’re capable of, you can start setting milestones to help you reach your fitness goals.

Consistency is Key

Once you have a set of goals that you’re set on, it’s time to create a workout schedule to help you achieve those goals. This consistency is crucial and is much about mental exercise as it is phsyical. Whether you’re planning on working out every day or 2 times a week, stick to your schedule. That’s not to say you can’t alter or change your workouts, but try to stick to your schedule as best you can. Your body will respond better when you have regular exercise sessions.

Stairs Stairs Stairs

Running stairs is an exercise used by athletes and fitness junkies the world ‘round. That’s how effective they are. They’re terrible. But they’re also wonderful. If you’re able (and you have access), walking up and down a flight of stairs is an excellent workout. It’s great for cardio, great for your legs, great for posture. You’ll hate it. You’ll absolutely hate it. But your body will definitely love it. 

Find a Good YouTube Workout

You’d be surprised at how many solid workouts you can find on YouTube. While many of these videos are merely hooks to get you to subscribe to more content, there are a near-endless amount, meaning you can use continue to search and find free workouts to your heart’s content. 

Upgrade Your Gear at Dick's Sporting Goods

While your house may provide the perfect location for a do-it-yourself gym, you may be left wanting more. That’s fine! There are a number of affordable machines you can install with ease available at your local Dick's, or from their online store. Exercise bikes, treadmills, weights, whatever specific routine you’re wanting to tackle, there’s equipment for it. Always do your research before purchasing, and never buy weights or equipment outside of your comfort level. Start small and simple and work from there.

Pick Up Cycling

Barring inclement weather, riding a bike is a perfectly good way to get some fitness minutes in. The best part about cycling is that any level of effort, whether it’s a slow cruise or intense sprint, is going to be beneficial. There’s certainly a difference in the benefits gained, but you never have to exhaust yourself to cash in on some of the best perks of cycling. 

Use Your Body

Who needs weights when you have a perfectly good body? Pushups, planks, squatting, yoga and so many other sorts of equipment-free workouts exist to give you a solid bit of home fitness. Many of these workouts are low impact as well, meaning you can hit your goals while taking it easy on your body. 

Time for an Upgrade? Shop at Dick's

Whether you’re a workout professional or just getting started, Dick's Sporting Goods can help you find your perfect fitness upgrade. From exercise bikes and rowing machines, to weights, benches, punching bags and more, Dick's has all the gear you need to maximize the benefits from your home gym.