Many working moms want to go to the gym and workout, but it is challenging finding time to exercise due to a busy schedule. The idea of having a home gym sounds interesting, but what if you live in a small space and have limited options?

I live in a townhouse and use a bedroom as an office, study area for my daughter, guest room (I hide the bed in the closet), and designated a small area for exercise equipment. It is not a perfect scenario, but it works for me. There are many exercises that you can do at the comfort of your home. After you have a designated area where to exercise, you need to consider which equipment is ideal for small spaces and the types of workouts you will be doing.

Top Space-Saving Exercise Equipment

I am going to share exercise equipment that I use for varied types of workouts and that fit in small spaces. Some of these fitness products even fit in your luggage when you travel. 

Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are excellent for providing resistance to exercises that help build and tone muscles. They are particularly effective for targeting the glutes, hips, and legs.

I use Te-Rich Resistance Bands. These bands stand out for their strength, durability, and non-slip design. Crafted from high-quality cotton and latex, they ensure both comfort and reliability during workouts. Each set includes three resistance bands (small, medium, and large) and a convenient mesh carrying pouch for easy storage and portability.

Another option to consider if Te-Rich bands are unavailable at the time you decide to purchase are Renoj Resistance Bands. They have great reviews on Amazon. According to the reviews, they are flexible, durable material, and non-slip. The purchase also includes 3 sets of resistance bands.

Yoga Mats

Yoga mats are essential for activities such as yoga, Pilates, barre, and stretching. I use my yoga mat at home and when visiting local yoga studios, making it a must-have item for any home gym.

For those who enjoy hot yoga, I recommend exploring the yoga mats from Yoga Design Lab. These mats are eco-friendly, ultra-absorbent, and beautifully designed. While they are priced higher due to the premium materials, their quality and durability make them a worthwhile investment for regular yoga practitioners.

Light Weights

Light weights are a great addition to your home gym. I would recommend 2-pound, 3- pound, and 5-pound weights for beginners and Pilates, yoga, and barre-based workouts. If you feel these weights are too light, you can consider purchasing 7-pound and 10-pound weights.

Yes4All has a variety of dumbbells of different sizes (5 lbs to 20 lbs) to choose from and it is Amazon’s choice for light weights. The dumbbells are described as anti-roll and anti-slip and come in different colors. 

Another option for hand weights is Fitvids. They are anti-slip and anti-roll and come with a stand. These weights are 2-pound, 3-pound, and 5-pound weights. 

Home Fitness Barre

I fell in love with barre during Covid and did not want to keep using my chair or countertop as my barre. Therefore, I purchased the Booty Kicker for barre workouts.

The barre is sturdy and features built-in weight racks, though the weights must be purchased separately. The compact design, wheels, and foldable structure of the Booty Kicker make it convenient for storage under a bed or against a wall.

The Booty Kicker barre is versatile and can be used for a variety of workouts that effectively target the legs, core, glutes, arms, and abs. Additionally, a tablet holder is available for purchase, providing a convenient option for those who prefer to follow workout videos on their electronic devices.

Pilates Ball

A Pilates ball is lightweight, portable, and easy to store, making it a practical addition to home workouts. A Pilates ball can be used for a wide range of exercises, from strength training and core workouts to stretching and relaxation. Using the ball consistently helps improve core strength and activates muscles in the entire body.

The Live Infinitely Barre Pilates Ball is 9 inch, which is a recommended size by fitness instructors. This ball is BPA free, latex free, heavy metal free, and phthalate free. The package includes a pump to inflate ball and a free workout eBook.

Another option to consider is the ProBody Pilates Small Exercise Ball. According to Amazon reviews, it is easy to inflate and perfect for Pilates, barre, and any ab focused workout.

Bala Bangles Wrist & Ankle Weights

I have tried numerous wrist and ankle weights but none of them compare to Bala weights. Unlike other weights I’ve tried, which often slip off during movement, Bala weights are secure and perform well during all types of exercises, including cardio.

While they are on the pricier side, Bala weights are a worthwhile investment. They are comfortable, versatile, and feature an aesthetically pleasing design.

Portable Dumbbell Adapter 

I am a fan of Shark Tank and enjoy discovering many of the innovative products featured on the show. One product that particularly stood out to me was the Kettle GRYP. This tool turns dumbbells into kettlebells, offering a cost-effective and space-saving solution.

The Kettle GRYP is compatible with most adjustable dumbbells and many standard dumbbells with metal handles. I use it with my Bowflex dumbbells.

Portable Gym

During the COVID pandemic, my husband purchased the BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0 portable gym system. This compact and versatile equipment is ideal for full-body workouts. It includes a comprehensive set of components, such as:

• an instruction manual

• accessories

• a carrying bag

• a foldable VectorFit base

• a collapsible workout bar

• two handles

• two wrist/ankle straps

• two resistance bands

• door anchor with a ring

Users can access free workout routines through the BodyBoss app, with the option to subscribe for additional workout programs at an extra cost.

Wheel Foam Roller

The CHIRP wheels are great to use after a workout for muscle recovery. They are made of sweat-resistant foam padding, a soft EVA compression-sensitive mat, and a sturdy PVC-free ABS plastic core.

The wheel rollers come in different sizes. Each wheel offers different pressure levels, targeting the back, legs, and neck for relief and deep stretch. The CHIRP wheels are not only great for after completing a workout, but they are also effective when experiencing back pain.

Weight Training Equipment

If you prefer to weight train and have a place to put a bench, barbells, and dumbbells, I recommend the equipment below. I use this equipment with a strength training program from the Sweat app and easily can have a great workout without having to go to the gym.

Adjustable Bench

The FLYBIRD adjustable bench is made of wear-resistant leather and has a thickened pad making it good quality material with comfort in mind. The bench is well designed, allowing you to perform different types of exercises such as bench presses, shoulder presses, dumbbell row, tricep dips, and many more.

Adjust the bench for your purpose whether you need an inclination or a flat surface and target many muscle groups. It is lightweight and easy to carry, so if you need to move it from one corner to another like me, you will not have any problems.

Curl Bar

Why invest in multiple barbells and curl bars when you can have everything in one? The BowFlex SelectTechCurl Bar offers seven adjustable weight settings ranging from 20– 60 lbs. Simply turn the dial to select your desired weight, allowing you to efficiently target various muscle groups.

Adjustable Dumbbells

If you want to lift heavier weights without the need to purchase different dumbbell sizes and create clutter, the Bowflex SelectTech 552 is perfect for you. There are two dumbbells, and each dumbbell adjusts from 5–52.5 lbs.

Setting Up a Workout Space

If you want to invest time and money in a home gym or exercise area, you need space for the equipment. First, find a multi-purpose corner in your home. You will need to be creative and start reorganizing. Second, use storage solutions like bins, racks, or shelves for equipment. Lastly, opt for collapsible and adjustable items to maximize space.

Benefits of At Home Exercise Equipment

During COVID, many people began setting up their home gyms, but it’s never too late to create a space dedicated to your fitness journey. A home gym has many benefits such as:

• Saving time by avoiding trips to the gym

• Maintaining fitness without taking up much room in the house

• Fitting workouts into a busy routine

Final Thoughts

Staying active as a busy mom does not require a gym membership or a lot of space. You can exercise from the comfort of your home with the correct exercise equipment for your needs. Start small and be consistent.

What compact exercise equipment have you found useful?

Best wishes,

Mel