Most bang for the buck

hgillesp

I am trying to get back into weight training but really don't like it the way I once did. I run, do lots of cardio, but recognize I need more weight training. I do pilates as well on a cheap home reformer. My question is, what do you all think is/are the best exercises you can do for the most effect, preferably at home? I have started doing kettlebell squats - 50 every few days. I am working on my push ups. Thinking of putting in a chin up bar. What else might I add that would take minimal time but help me tone and build some muscle? The kind of thing you can do standing arround,or while you are on the phone at work? I am fairly athletic, do lots of outdoor stuff - kayaking, running, golf, hiking. But, as you can see from the list, I am not really building muscle and at 49 I think I need to really focus on that. Thanks for any suggestions!

Shari325

No comment on question, only wanted to say - Gorgeous dog!

bubblygoldfish

Kettle bells are fantastic. Just google more kettle bell exercises.... only doing squats is limited, look into swinging exercises! Good for your arms/back/shoulders/core...

rainbowbow

are you trying to gain muscle? just want to make sure we're on the same page here.

It sounds like what you actually want to do is lose body fat and retain some of your current musle mass; however, your post contradicts that numerous times.

As far as exercises i would focus on compound movements (bench, squats, overhead press, rows, deadlifts, etc.). Are you willing to invest in a rack or an actual barbell or even a gym membership? Eventually body weight exercises will not be enough.

Please clarify on my question above and i can offer some more advice.

Anelda

If you have a smart phone, try the app "You are your own gym," and it is based off of Mark Lauren's book by the same name. It's a phenomenal BW program for people of all skill levels and for those who don't have the resources to join a gym.

Alehmer

Ross Enamait is the man for low tech, low buck, high effect workouts



Best equipment for the money.

Sandbag

About $20 for a bag and another $10 - $20 for more sand than you'll be able to lift at once for a long time.
Nearly endless exercises, anything you can do with a regular weight set and more, while working grip. In addition, throw it, slam it, drag it, sandbag don't give a damn.

Jumpstretch bands

The gold standard of resistance bands, can be used for nearly any movement, and is easy to throw in a suitcase or travel bag for exercise when not at home. Used by pro sports teams and powerlifters, easy enough to be used by anyone.

Plate-loaded dumbells

About $15 per, and used plates are usually just $.50 a pound at a used sporting goods store. Bars and 200lbs of weight will easily fit in a small corner

Gymnastic Rings

As long as you have a place to hang them, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better piece of strength equipment in the world.

Sycoholic

Well.... there's plenty of body weight exercises you can do with things you may have around the house. Dips, pull ups, push ups of all types, etc. Just Google body weight exercises and sort through them, compiling a list of what you can do with what you have around your house.

Now you talk about putting on muscle. If you want to bulk up you need weight. You're not really going to get big or pumped looking on bodyweight alone. To do so on the cheap I would suggest checking Craigslist for a used Soloflex. I paid $125 for one complete with butterfly and leg attachments. Just make sure the weight straps aren't dry rotted and spray them liberally with silicone for a day (best done in a plastic bucket). I'm a regular gym rat but find I can get an excellent workout at home on my Soloflex when I can't get to the gym.

hgillesp

Great ideas! Thank you. I do want to lose body fat, tone and gain muscle. Just trying to figure out ways to do it that I will follow through with. I know I am more likely to do things at home or during interludes of nonwork. Thanks for the nice words on my dog! She's awesome.