By Lauren Bedosky

Create a home gym with just three pieces of equipment.

You can build your own gym right in your living room with just a few pieces of low-cost equipment.

Resistance Bands 

Resistance bands are light, portable rubber bands. Some have handles on either end, while others are a closed loop. You can use resistance bands for a variety of strength exercises, including squats, shoulder presses and bicep curls. In fact, resistance bands allow you to get a full-body workout with a single piece of equipment. They also come in varying levels of thickness so you can adjust the resistance as you go. A thicker band means more resistance. 

Yoga Blocks

Typically made from a dense foam, yoga blocks are rectangular in shape and very lightweight. They are often used as props when practicing yoga, but they can be used for several general exercises. And, their small size makes them perfect for at-home storage. Blocks are great for any type of ab exercise where someone might normally use a weight or dumbbell, but prefer a lighter option. 

Dumbbells

Dumbbells are bigger and heavier than resistance bands, yet they offer similar benefits. American Council on Exercise-certified trainer Christ Gagliardi explains that they’re great for “a variety of exercises that can be performed with a single piece of equipment.” Dumbbells come in different weights, but you could get a great full body workout with a single dumbbell, he adds. Use dumbbells to add weight to squats, step-ups and lunges. Or, use dumbbells to work certain body parts, such as your arms and shoulders.

What to Wear

Choosing workout clothes is mostly a matter of preference, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Help protect your feet by wearing shoes if you’re at the gym, outside or using dumbbells.
  • Make a habit of checking the bottoms of your shoes at the end of every workout. Replace your shoes when the bottoms are noticeably worn to avoid slipping or falling.
  • Wear breathable layers if you’re exercising in the cold.
  • If you’re exercising in the heat, wear lightweight clothes that wick sweat. Nylon and polyester are good options.

At-Home Workout. Sign in to your plan website and go to Health & Wellness for at-home moves using these three pieces of exercise equipment.  myUHCMedicare.com

Consult your doctor prior to beginning an exercise program or making changes to your lifestyle or health care routine.