Would you like to have more definition for your shoulders? Perhaps your upper or lower arms could use some work. Even though your chest isn’t too bad, it would be nice to have pecs that are rock hard. While you may think that the only solution is to head for the gym several hours a week, you can invest in the right equipment and strengthen your upper body in the comfort of your own home. Here are three suggestions of what to purchase and include in your new home gym.
Weight Bench and Plenty of Free Weights
A staple of any home gym is a weight bench. Benches of this type are great for stretching exercises and also provide you with a firm but comfortable surface for lifting weights. Many benches are configured so that you can use them for exercises like sit-ups and leg rolls. When looking for a gym bench for sale, always take the time to learn more about the general construction, what type of maintenance is needed, and how much weight the bench is designed to support safely.
The right free weights are essential if you want to get the most from your weight bench. Choose a variety of weights ranging from some that are somewhat light to others that are much heavier. The goal is to incrementally increase the amount of weight that you can press. Don’t be discouraged if you have to stick with the lighter weights for a few weeks. In time, you’ll be able to add a little more weight, build muscle mass, and notice a difference in your endurance.
Gymnastics Rings
Gymnastics rings are a great way to add some fun to your workout. Make sure they are secured properly and it won’t take long until you are swinging along like a pro. Start with more basic routines as a way to get your arm and upper body muscles used to the movements. As you begin to notice that those routines are becoming easier, add a few more repetitions and try a more complex routine as part of the mix.
The placement of the rings is important to the success of your workout. Ideally, they should be around four meters off the ground and spaced at roughly the same span as your shoulders. Remember to check them now and then to make sure they are still firmly anchored in the ceiling.
Functional Trainer Machine
Having a functional trainer machine on hand builds on the work that you already do with the free weights. The design of the machine allows you to tone muscles on each side of your arms with greater ease. The exercises that you can do on the machine also increase the mass of your chest. Depending on whether you are lifting the weights upward or to the side, you’ll also begin to feel the effects in your stomach area.
Remember that even with the right equipment, it will take time to see results. In fact, you are likely to feel a difference before any changes in the mirror become apparent. As you strengthen your upper body, expect to notice an increase in general energy and a more balanced mood. The outward changes will not be far behind.
