Health and fitness has undeniably become a hot and trending topic over the course of the past year. This is good for its own sake, but it is also presumably our collective desperate attempt to escape the utter discomfort of sitting alone with our own thoughts for months on end. Given the nature of today’s technologically dependent world, it’s easier than ever to find whatever fitness tips you may need. Not to mention, people everywhere are sharing their workout routines all over social media platforms, and instructors have started live streaming their workout classes. These days it is almost more difficult to not work out. Despite the fact that most places are reopening—with regulations of course—some people still aren’t comfortable going out in public or being in a crowd, some people don’t have access to a gym, and then some of us (read: me) can’t afford an overpriced gym membership. Which leaves us with no other choice but to hopelessly create our own makeshift home gym. Now, it’s no secret that home workouts can be effective even without any equipment. But there’s also no harm in having a few basics lying around the house to spruce up your home workouts and keep you motivated. 

It took a hot minute, but I too grew tired of being cooped up in the house all the time and eventually succumbed to the pressure from society and started working out. Unfortunately, I’d be lying if I said this was a regular occurrence, but it’s not. Which sadly, is a direct result from my personal lack of motivation. This inevitably led me to purchasing some affordable, basic at-home workout equipment to help channel my inner (very inner) fitness junkie. These Amazon products are great for beginners, but overall, suitable for anyone.

1. BalanceFrom Go Yoga Exercise Mat

BalanceFrom GoYoga All-Purpose 1/2-Inch Extra Thick High Density Anti-Tear Exercise Yoga Mat with Carrying Strap — $21.59

Unless you’re an aspiring yoga guru, splurging on a yoga mat is absolutely unnecessary. This ½ inch yoga mat on Amazon’s best-seller list is the most affordable, making it an ideal choice for beginners or for anyone looking for some extra support during their home workouts. Available in seven different colors, this classic, all-purpose yoga mat is great for all types of workouts, not just yoga. It is lightweight and durable and even has a strap that makes storing and carrying it more convenient. I’ve had mine for a few months now, and it is still in great shape after having used it for a variety of fitness and exercise workouts. The double-sided, non-slip surfaces of the mat prevents injuries and makes it easier to maintain proper form during your workout.

2. Letsfit Resistance Bands

Letsfit Resistance Loop Exercise Bands with Instruction Guide and Carry Bag, Set of 5 — $9.59

The Letsfit resistance band set is yet another best-seller on Amazon. It includes five colorful bands, each with different resistance strength levels. It even comes with an instruction guide and a cute little mesh bag to conveniently store them in. Resistance bands are perfect for beginners or for those balling on a budget, as they are extremely versatile and increase the effectiveness of your workout. They can be used for yoga and Pilates workouts, as well as for stretching and strength training that target muscles in the arm, leg, glutes, and core. These bands are honestly all I need to complete an effective at-home workout. So, out of all these products, this would be my #1 recommendation.  

3. Amazon Basics Vinyl Kettlebell

Amazon Basics Vinyl Kettlebell – 15 Pounds, Pink — $27.99

A vinyl-coated, cast iron kettlebell is another piece of workout equipment that is great for cardio and strength training, but it can be used for other purposes as well. A best-seller on Amazon with a 5-star rating, this 15-pound kettlebell is an ideal starting weight for just about anyone, though there are other weight options available if need be. The wide, textured handle makes it easier to maintain a secure grip on the kettlebell, so you don’t have to worry about putting a hole through your wall during your workout.

4. DEGOL Skipping Rope

DEGOL Skipping Rope with Ball Bearings Rapid Speed Jump Rope Cable and 6” Memory Foam Handles Ideal for Aerobic Exercise Like Speed Training, Extreme Jumping, Endurance Training and Fitness Gym — $10.89

If you hate cardio as much as I do, then this is the product for you, especially if you enjoyed jumping rope as a kid. Jump ropes provide a fun, yet challenging and effective, cardio workout that targets endurance, stamina, and speed training. This rope is 9 feet long, but it can be easily adjusted according to your height, making it suitable for both children and adults. The handles are coated with 6-inch EVA memory foam to ensure a comfortable and strong grip, and the rope itself is coated with PVC to ensure durability and reliability while in use. I’m not going to lie, I still don’t love cardio, but this jump rope has definitely made cardio workouts less tortuous for me. 

5. Portzon Set of 2 Neoprene Dumbbell Hand Weights

Portzon Set of 2 Neoprene Dumbbell Hand Weights, Anti-Slip, Anti-roll — $28.98

Dumbbells, or free weights, are a must for muscle building. This cast-iron dumbbell set is the #1 best seller in Exercise and Fitness Dumbbells on Amazon, and it is available in various weights and colors. Similar to all the other products I’ve mentioned, these dumbbells take up minimal space and are a great addition to any home gym. They can be incorporated into essentially any workout and are designed to withstand years of use. I have the 5-pound weight, and I love the versatility of these dumbbells, having incorporated them into several of my workout routines.