Having the right tools can help you reach your fitness goals.
Here are some of the gear I use to switch up my workout and make life more interesting. They keep my body constantly guessing — one of the keys to keeping the pounds off.
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The Total Gym®
One of the reasons why I got the Total Gym® was because of the variety it brings. The cable extensions help me focus on an area and work efficiently in a matter of minutes. I had been eying the Total Gym for years. Each time the commercial came on, I wanted to buy it. So, one day, while the infomercial was running, I caved. When my equipment finally arrived, I unpacked it right away, watched the instructional video and got to work.
The Total Gym is everything I had hoped for and allows me to work every area of my body. The gym comes in a number of models, but I have the Total Gym® XLS. I’ve had it for years, and it’s just as durable as when I first got it. It’s so fun to use!
Exercise (Yoga) Ball
I don’t use my exercise ball often, but it’s there when I want to change things up. I use it to get my heart pumping or to work my abs and arms. You can simplify or intensify your routine. The ball is versatile and makes a good seat when you’re lifting weights or balancing.
You can get one from Amazon or your local retailer. An air pump is often included. Some yoga balls include workout videos. I’ve tried both options.
Workout Shoes
Normally, I’m not crazy about shoes. In fact, I hate shoe shopping because it takes so long to find the right pair for my feet. I go for comfort, rather than appearance, but these shoes are both comfortable and easy on the eyes.
I love my Skechers so much that I got two pairs of the exact same shoes, one for home and the other for the outdoors.
Horizon Treadmill
My Horizon Treadmill is sturdy. I can’t say enough about the difference it’s made in my legs. I like it just as much as my Total Gym. I especially love how it lets me choose my speed and incline level. There’s the added benefit of being able to walk even when the weather is cooperating. It’s definitely a must-have for the home. I use it several times a week.
Tape Measure
I got tired of measuring myself with a traditional tape measure. So, I started looking for a better option. The Lightstuff Easy Body Tape Measure is what I now use. It makes self-measuring a breeze, and I no longer have to wonder if my measurements are accurate. I love this thing!
Non-Slip Dumbbells
I use everyday dumbbells that you can grab from a local retailer like Walmart or Amazon. They come with a matte, non-slip finish, which makes them comfortable to hold.
Elliptical
My Xterra FS3.0 elliptical really puts me to work. It’s sturdy, but a bit bulky. I use it for 20-30 minutes when I want to push myself harder. By the time I get off it, I can really feel the difference. You wouldn’t think that 20 minutes could get your lungs pumping, but with this elliptical, it does.
I can also change the resistance level and workout mode and track how much body fat I’ve burned off. It’s perfect for those days when I want to add in a high-intensity workout and keep my body guessing without injuring myself.
Gloves
Although I love lifting weights, the constant friction hurts my hands, and over time, calluses start to form. And calluses are painful!
The “Contraband Pink Label 5127 Women’s Vegan Weight Lifting Gloves” are a girl’s best friend. Not only are they lovely, but they are comfortable and pliable — working with me, not against me. I also wear them when I need additional traction for an exercise.
Traveling Bathroom Scale
It’s easy to get off track when traveling, but just because I’m on the road doesn’t mean I need to forgo my fitness. That’s why I got a mini-traveling scale, especially when I’m away for multiple days.
Because the scale is small, it fits in my luggage nicely. It’s also lightweight and accurate. Batteries are included in case you forget to pack them.
The last time I checked, the scale was unavailable, but I’ve included a link below for whenever it’s back in stock.
Walmart Grocery Pickup Subscription
Walmart Grocery Pickup was a lifesaver during my surgery. It’s a blessing that it’s available in my area. After my hysterectomy, I couldn’t get to the store, so I used Walmart Grocery Pickup and sent my daughter to grab the pre-selected groceries from the store for me. It was a God-send. All you have to do is click and buy.
After COVID hit, I started using Walmart’s home delivery service and love it. I’ve continued using it although things have settled down.
If you’re stuck at home after surgery and short on help, it can be a true timesaver. If you have InHome membership, you can even opt to have them deliver the groceries to your kitchen.
Motivational Books
Here are some of the books I’ve read to stay motivated:
- Eat That Frog!: 21 Great Ways to Stop Procrastinating and Get More Done in Less Time by Brian Tracy
- The Multi-Hyphen Life: Work Less, Create More, and Design a Life That Works for You by Emma Gannon
- How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie
- The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason
- Learn, Improve, Master by Nick Velasquez
- Speak with Impact by Allison Shapira
- Better Than You Can Imagine by Patrick Quinn & Ken Roach
Audiobook Subscriptions
I have a couple of audiobook subscriptions that I use frequently. One is Audible; the other is Chirp.
I love how I can add items to my wish list and get notified when there’s a sale. I also get recommendations when an author I’ve listened to publishes a new book. I tend to listen to audiobooks when I’m in traffic, running errands, walking or working.
