The problem with dorm rooms and small apartments is lack of space. Many of us have college kids or we have downsized ourselves into smaller homes. Here are ideas for the best small space workout equipment for you or your student.
First, it goes without saying that exercise is so important! It can have a “positive impact on depression, anxiety, and ADHD”, plus it can help a person to “feel more energetic throughout the day, sleep better at night, have sharper memories, and feel more relaxed and positive about themselves and their lives.” More great info from this great article.
We know that our kids will be stressed from academics, social situations, and various other activities in their college and/or work lives. One of the first things I always ask my sons is, “Have you exercised lately?” This could mean so many things! Going to the gym. Taking a walk. Going for a swim…
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Best Small Space Workout Equipment: 10 Easy Ideas
For me, exercise helps me to clear my mind, and this is a FREE way to exercise! Here are 10 benefits to walking that you might not know about – I totally agree with the creative thinking benefit.
I did some research, and found out that there are many options for exercise equipment for a small space that fit my criteria -low cost, and very little space. A lot of these options are also great for those of us as parents beginning to think about down-sizing!
Best Small Space Workout Equipment: Stretching
Yoga mat -This mat is great for ease of storage, and it comes in a variety of colors to match any dorm room. Blocks and a strap would be great additions! Here’s a cute carrier bag for your mat.
Pilates ball -I thought this one would be good because it comes with a handy exercise chart! It comes in a variety of sizes, so order the one that will fit under your bed or into a cabinet.
Pilates bar kit -There are so many to choose from. I liked the options and price for the picture below.
Balance ball -My son who has his personal training certification, swears by this thing. There are so many exercises that will work on this. It weighs only 12 pounds, and when inflated, stands only 10″ high, so again, this will fit under a bed or desk.
Best Small Space Workout Equipment: Strength
Smaller weights -These are great because you can order a set or one at a time.
Resistance bands set -This is different than the Pilates band set. I like the one below because It includes a carrying case, jump rope and lots of other options.
Kettlebell -These are great because it is also adjustable, and takes up hardly any room!
Pull-up bar -My boys all have this and have had since they were teenagers. It fits in a doorway.
Best Small Space Workout Equipment: Cardio
Under-desk elliptical -I liked that this mentioned low noise. In a dorm room or small apartment situation, that could really be a factor. This can also be used to exercise arms.
Foldable exercise bike -This is a little bit more expensive than the other tools that I have mentioned. However, it can be folded up, and stored in a corner, and is great for cardio. With Zooms, and other online options for class, a student could get a workout in, AND attend class.
Mini-tramp -This was my favorite go-to in college, and still today! I love my mini-tramp: it’s fun, it can be hidden under a bed or behind a door, and it is a great workout!
Jump rope -Might not be the best for indoors, but this is one of the best cardio workouts you can get, and it’s fun. And, it’s less than $10!
Best Small Space Workout Equipment: Workout games and apps
Exercise cards -There are many types of exercise cards to use to create unique workouts every time! There is also a way to use a regular deck of cards to create a great workout!
There are also exercise dice -who knew?
Internet videos and apps -These are great for on-the-go schedules, and this link has many FREE apps! And, here is a FREE BMI calculator to use as well. The image below is one of the newer apps. Most are free to start, which is a great way to check out whether you like it or not. Then you can decide if it is worth it to spend money each month.
There is actually a Kindle book which gives 3 options for different workouts in a tiny space! Check it out here.
Best Small Space Workout Equipment: Other helpful devices
Fitbit -This is another bigger expense. But, the price range is pretty large, and I found some off-brands for as little as $40. This will help track all areas of fitness, which is helpful when there are so many other things to keep track of in life!
Vibration plate for lymphatic drainage -There is just now research on this type of “exercise”. I bought this with some birthday money, and like to do it 2-3 times a week. I wasn’t doing it for weight loss, but stress relief. It does feel good to do this and just veg. I don’t work out on mine, but definitely could.
Jug for hydration -The best are the kind with lines for keeping track of the amount to drink, and with some sort of handle for easy transport. The one below has great messages as the day progresses.
Muscle roller -for post workout or the next day
Vapor Fresh -to deodorize equipment, shoes, laundry. It comes in powder, spray and wipes. The picture below is a 3-pack for all uses.
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