It’s no secret that moms can find infinite ways to work out each day without equipment. But sometimes you might need a little extra motivation or challenge to help keep things fun. I’m sharing the best exercise equipment to have on hand for quick, easy workouts. These are inexpensive, easy to use and portable. And great for beginners, too.
![woman jump roping on driveway](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/quick_workout_eleven-1-683x1024.jpg)
We recently talked about all the advantages (I mentioned 8!) quick workouts at home allow moms.
But perhaps you’re looking to switch it up or create a new challenge into your home workouts.
If you’re anything like me, you may find variety is key to staying engaged and motivated to workout.
Exercise equipment can do just this.
Now if you’re thinking that sounds “expensive, “bulky,” or “complicated,” I’m here to reassure you it’s not. Some of the most effective workouts can come from the simplest equipment.
These affordable options are easy to have around and inspire quality movement. They are also ideal for beginners.
Invest in one piece or all nine and create a home gym that you and your family will love.
Best Exercise Equipment for Home
Have fun working out and enjoy a full body workout!
1. Jump Rope
The number one item is literally my “number one” when it comes to easy exercise. Jumping rope is quite enjoyable! It’s also outstanding for muscle endurance and cardio. And ideal for “Driveway Workouts” while the kids play.
I’ve had the same style of jump rope since high school with weighted handles for added benefit– I just love it! While this Reebok style is longer available, here’s a similar 1-pound jump rope .
![Blue weighted jumprope and blue ball laying on sidewalk next to pink shoes](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_Exercise_equimpment_jumprope-683x1024.jpg)
2. Resistance Band/Tube
A resistance band with handles is a less bulky alternative to dumbbells and exercise machines while still working those muscles!
Made from a safe, rubber material, I feel confident strengthening my upper body, glutes, and hips around the kiddos. This requires virtually no storage, and you can toss right into your bag or stroller to take on the go.
![Red resistance exercise tube with handles](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_exercise_Equipment_resistanceband-1024x683.jpg)
3. Exercise Ball
An exercise ball is so versatile that you can work it into just about every workout. Improve stability, stretching, and even sit ups (think modification). It’s great to use with kids to roll and practice catching. Improve skills through play!
Available in different colors, they are super durable with anti-burst design. Many come with a pump and can always be deflated and stored when not using.
However, you can totally move it around the house– you can use as a chair or work on core while going about your dailyness.
![green, turquoise, and pink stability balls](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_exercise_equipment_Ball-1024x683.jpg)
4. Yoga Mat
It took me a while to add this into my exercise repertoire. I was totally fine with a beach towel most days. However, I will say my knees and back appreciate the yoga mat as it is much more comfortable and offers support and stability.
It’s fairly easy to clean, rolls up and can travel– I use mine inside or outside. This is a great piece to add to your home to create a “workout space” if you don’t have a designated room.
I’ve had this blue yoga mat one for 2 years (check out those ratings!). I still like to keep a beach towel nearby to catch the sweat but I’m also considering this exercise mat towel so I don’t have to always use a Paw Patrol or Minnie Mouse one.
![woman's hands rolling up yoga mat in home gym](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/best_Exercise_equipment_Yoga_Mat-1024x683.jpg)
5. Stop Watch
While time shouldn’t always be the main focus of your workout, watching the clock is part of it. For example, when doing short burst of exercises that up the heart rate (known as HIIT) managing the time is integral for both the work time and rest time.
A stopwatch is easy and avoids distraction from a phone. Or frustration because the screen dims or home screen locks. It’s a great way to involve kids as well— It’s durable for them to hold and be a “coach” learning numbers and pressing buttons.
Call me crazy, but I find the simplicity of it so motivating!
![yellow stopwatch](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_Exercise_Equipment_Stopwatch-1024x683.jpg)
6. Soft Hand Weights
For light resistance, soft hand weights are a must-have. They are easy to grip and safe around my kids.
There are so many ways to incorporate them. For instance:
- walking on treadmill
- walking around the block
- Adding into exercises/strength moves
- Arm exercises while sitting on an exercise ball
A similar product that would require no holding would be soft wrist weights. Imagine how convenient these would be with littles!
![woman holding soft hand weight in home gym](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_Exercise_Equipment_softweights-683x1024.jpg)
7. Fitness Tracker
Do you know how many steps you’re getting each day? You may surprise yourself when you add up all the errands, the up and down the stairs and chasing after the dogs and toddler. A fitness tracker can be a fun way to track those steps of daily living and challenge yourself when possible.
While I’m not much one for tracking everything (and so much happier without!), I do like the idea of being able to know more about sleep, heart rate, stress levels (it reminds me to deep breathe!!) or even record water intake.
I own the Garmin Lily and love the everyday look and simple features. Also, the Live Trac features gives an added layer of safety when out and about as you can share your location with contacts.
![Fitness Tracker on wrist giving alert to relax and deep breathe](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_Exercise_Equipment_Garmin-683x1024.jpg)
8. Treadmill
I had to add this to the list. While the largest and priciest option, a treadmill has so many benefits. And is so easy to use!
You can improve your heart health simply by walking while watching your favorite tv show or listening to music.
If you do majority of workouts with your kids, I don’t advise using it around toddlers due to safety concerns. However, it’s great with small babies contained in a bouncer or if you have older kids.
With inclines, declines and different programs you’re not going to get bored. And many treadmills are fairly easy to move. I’ve jogged, done intervals and even walking lunges all around our house depending on what season I was in- including the master bedroom with the baby monitor during naptime.
I use currently use a ProForm in a dedicated basement space now that kids are older.
![Woman's leg on treadmill during workout](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_Exercise_Equipment_treadmill-1024x1024.jpg)
9. Refresh Spray
Okay, so not exactly a piece of equipment but this incredible Refresh Body Spray is great to have on hand for workouts.
Refresh spray works as a:
- Deodorizer
- Hair Refresher
- Linen spray (think yoga mat)
- Mood booster
Whether you’re stretching or just need to sit and deep breathe, this helps calm and reduce stress. And a great option for when you don’t have time to shower. Also, it’s natural and safe to spray around kids and pets.
![Bottle of Refresh Body Spray next to gym shoe and hand weights](https://briefandbalanced.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Best_Exercise_Equipment_RefreshSpray-683x1024.jpg)
What do you love?
So, there you have it– The best overall exercise equipment to have at home. Do you use any of these? Do you have any gym equipment or products that you love? Drop a comment below and let me know!
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