Power at your fingertips

I don't think very highly of home gyms for several reasons. Firstly, I think you get a better workout if it's something that you're entirely committed to, so going to the gym helps you get into that state of mind. Secondly, I'm far more into resistance (i.e. weight) training and it's rather obvious that when you buy space saving home gym equipment, such as a Bowflex, you're making sacrifices. A system like the Bowflex will never stress your muscles the same way that iron does.

Now, with those considerations in mind, I do think there is a place for a small home gym in your basement or even your TV room. Sometimes it is just impossible to get to the gym but you still want to get in a quick workout so that you don't drift out of your routine. Two problems with home gyms are 1) cost and 2) space. Most of the work I do at the gym is on a Bosu ball or Swiss ball using dumbbells, which means that my space requirements are reduced with no need for benches. By using Powerblocks in conjunction with the exercise ball I can set up a pretty effective home gym in the corner of a room. The cost, I can't really help you with.

Powerblocks are adjustable dumbbells. They take up very little space but give you access to the equivalent of dumbbells ranging from 5-60 lbs or higher. There are a few different versions of the Powerblock and I recommend the Elite (~$450) because the Personal Set, while less expensive (~$300), can only be expanded to 60 lbs. By purchasing additional weight the Elite can get up to 130 lbs, should you ever find yourself getting as ripped as me/Arnold.

If you've been thinking about getting something for a home gym, look up an authorized dealer near you and head in to see if you like the feel of the Powerblocks. If you do, don't hesitate to drop the $450 on them.