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Although nothing beats the grunting and heavy lifting you experience at the gym, the recently-initiated Movement Control Order (MCO) will likely have most exercise enthusiasts resuming their workout routines at home.
As the future is so unpredictable these days, maybe it’s time to invest in some affordable home workout equipment.
Here are some options worth considering if you’re ready to start your own in-house gym.
Since they are currently offering free nationwide shipping, let’s take a look at what growing sports equipment provider Decathlon has to offer.
Please take note that this recommendation is not a promotional stunt for Decathlon as we are in no way, shape or form sponsored by them in any way whatsoever.
Weightlifting Option
When it comes to lifting weights, Decathlon offers the right weight training kit ─ you can get a set of dumbbells, up to 20kg, for RM179.
Pros: Adjustable weights in an easy-storage kit
Cons: A maximum weight of 20kg may not be enough for our heavy lifting brethren
Resistance Training Option
Elastic bands can make a great addition to your exercise routine. As a one-stop-shop for sporting equipment, Decathlon has an array of elastic bands ranging from RM29 to RM69.
Pro: Great addition to your resistance training and is super versatile
Cons: You might need to purchase more than one band depending on your workout and gripping the band could lead to hand abrasions (we suggest putting on gloves or wrapping a towel around the respective area).
Sidenote: All resistance bands have a similar effect but we don’t recommend Decathlon’s three-pack mini rubber resistance bands, as they don’t provide much resistance and are unable to maintain their shape throughout the session.
Bodyweight Workout Option
For bodyweight workouts, get your hands on some suspension bands for RM45.
Pros: All you need is a steady door or a bar to hook them on while the adjustable length allows for a variety of workouts. It also fits into a little bag for easy storage.
Cons: You need a sturdy place to attach the bands unless you’re looking for a simple way to renovate your house or remove your doors.
Household Option
If purchasing new equipment is not advisable, try utilising household items as weights.
- Use unopened rice bags or a stuffed recyclable bag as a makeshift kettlebell
- Dust off thick dictionaries or use heavy books around the house as dumbbells
- Fill up your backpack and use it as a weighted vest
Pros: It’s free and readily available
Cons: Workouts may require a little more creativity and planning
If you don’t mind spending, you could get yourself a couple of gallon-sized water bottles for RM49 each.
As a gallon is approximately 3.5kg, these bottles will not only serve as weights but will come in handy when you experience your next water shortage.
Pros: Useful as both a water container and as makeshift weights
Cons: It will get lighter the more its contents are utilised
Regardless of how or what you use for your workouts, The Vibes Sports and Fitness team wishes you good health and happy lifting.
Stay home and stay safe. ─ The Vibes, 15 January, 2021
