Setting up a home gym in 2025 is easier than ever, with a wide range of equipment designed for total body workouts. From treadmills for cardio to exercise bikes for endurance training, there are options for every fitness level. Multi gym sets help build strength without needing multiple machines, making home workouts more effective.
Best home gym equipment in 2025 helps you train smarter at home with top gear.
A home gym allows flexibility, eliminating the need for crowded gyms or long commutes. With the right equipment, you can create a workout space that suits your goals, if it’s weight loss, muscle building, or general fitness. Brands now offer high quality machines that fit different spaces and budgets. Investing in home fitness equipment means working out on your schedule, staying consistent, and reaching goals faster. With plenty of choices available, choosing the right gear depends on space, budget, and workout preferences. This guide covers the best home gym equipment in 2025, helping you make informed decisions for a well rounded fitness routine.
Let’s explore all the options to set up a home gym with the right equipment for your needs.
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The Lifelong FitPro LLTM09 Treadmill is a solid option for home workouts, featuring a 2.5 HP peak motor, 12 preset workouts, and a manual incline for variety in training. It reaches speeds of up to 12 km/hr, making it suitable for beginners and intermediate users. The built-in Bluetooth speaker lets you enjoy music while exercising. With a maximum user weight of 100 kg, it’s an effective choice for home fitness routines. A space saving design makes it easy to store after use. It’s one of the best home gym equipment in 2025 to bring to your home.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Users find this treadmill good for beginners and appreciate the affordable price. The Bluetooth speaker is a plus, but some mention the manual incline requires effort to adjust. A few buyers feel the display could be better, but overall, it’s a value-for-money choice for home fitness
Why choose this product?
The Lifelong FitPro LLTM09 is a budget-friendly home treadmill that covers the basics, including preset workout programs, speed control, and entertainment features. It’s a great pick for those looking for the best home gym equipment in 2025 while keeping things simple and effective.
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The Sparnod Fitness STH-3060 Ultra Slim 2-in-1 Foldable Home Use Treadmill is designed for those who want a simple way to stay active. It works as both a treadmill and a walking pad, making it ideal for home and office use. With a 4 HP peak motor and a 110kg user weight capacity, it offers a smooth walking or running experience. The foldable design allows easy storage under a bed or sofa. No installation is needed; just unbox and start using. It will be one of the best home gym equipment in 2025 for your home gym set up.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the convenience of its foldable design, making it easy to store under beds or sofas. Many find it smooth and quiet, perfect for home use. Some mention that it is best for walking and light jogging rather than intense running.
Why choose this product?
The Sparnod Fitness STH-3060 offers a hassle-free way to stay active at home or in the office. With a sturdy motor, space-saving design, and easy usability, it’s a great choice for those who need a simple, no-fuss treadmill.
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The Amazon Basics ABTR200 Motorised Foldable Treadmill is an excellent addition to any home gym setup. With a 2 HP peak motor, it offers speeds up to 12 km/hr, making it suitable for walking, jogging, and running. The manual incline adds an extra challenge, while the LCD display tracks time, speed, distance, and calories burned. It also features a heart rate sensor and a built-in music speaker for an engaging workout. With a 110 kg max user weight, it provides stability, and its foldable design makes it space saving. This treadmill is a solid choice for those looking for the best home gym equipment in 2025 to maintain fitness conveniently.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Many buyers appreciate the sturdy build and smooth operation of this treadmill, especially for home workouts. The foldable design is a highlight for those with limited space. Some users feel the manual incline could be improved, and a few mention the speakers are decent but not the best.
Why choose this product?
The Amazon Basics ABTR200 Treadmill is a reliable choice for home workouts, offering essential features like heart rate monitoring, speed control, and foldable storage. With a sturdy frame and easy-to-use interface, it’s ideal for anyone looking for the best home gym equipment in 2025 without spending too much.
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The Lifelong LLF89 Fit Pro Spin Bike is designed for home workouts, featuring an 8kg flywheel for a smooth riding experience. With adjustable resistance, users can control the intensity of their sessions. The LCD monitor tracks key metrics like time, speed, and calories burned, while the heart rate sensor helps monitor performance. Built for stability, it can handle regular use and supports a home fitness routine. Bring this spin bike as it’s a great option to consider if you are looking for one of the best home equipment in 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Many users appreciate the smooth cycling motion and adjustable resistance. The LCD monitor is helpful for tracking progress, though some wish it had smart features. A few users mention that the seat needs extra cushioning for comfort. Overall, it’s a solid choice for home fitness at an affordable price.
Why choose this product?
The Lifelong LLF89 Fit Pro Spin Bike is a reliable pick for those setting up a home workout space. With an 8kg flywheel, adjustable resistance, and an LCD monitor, it offers a consistent indoor cycling experience. A sturdy build and heart rate tracking make it one of the best home gym equipment in 2025 for maintaining fitness without stepping out. Great choice if you want to buy one of the best home gym equipment in 2025.
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The Fitkit FK4000 Spin Bike is built for home gym workouts, offering a 13.22 lbs flywheel for a smooth riding experience. With a 120 kg max weight capacity, it suits a range of users. The adjustable seat and handlebars ensure a comfortable setup, while the sturdy frame supports intense training sessions. The bike provides a stable and effective indoor cycling option, making it a strong choice for fitness enthusiasts. If you’re setting up the best home gym equipment in 2025, this is worth considering.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Many buyers on Amazon appreciate the sturdy build and smooth cycling experience. The adjustable seat is useful for different users, though some mention that assembly takes time. A few buyers wish it had more tech features, but overall, it’s considered a good value for home workouts.
Why choose this product?
The Fitkit FK4000 Spin Bike is a reliable option for setting up a home gym. With a sturdy frame, adjustable components, and a 13.22 lbs flywheel, it offers a consistent indoor cycling workout. For those looking to stay active, this is one of the best home gym equipment in 2025 to consider.
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The Cultsport Smartbike C2 is built for home gym workouts, featuring a 13.3 LBS flywheel and magnetic resistance for smooth cycling sessions. With a 110 kg max weight capacity, it suits various fitness levels. The adjustable seat and handlebars allow for a personalised fit, while the sturdy frame supports intense training. If you’re looking for the best home gym equipment in 2025, this spin bike is a strong addition for low impact yet effective cardio sessions. So, buy this spin bike for your workout at home and save your gym fees.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Many buyers appreciate the smooth and quiet operation, making it ideal for home workouts. Some users mention that the bike feels stable even during intense cycling, while a few note that assembly instructions could be clearer.
Why choose this product?
The Cultsport Smart Bike C2 is a solid choice for indoor cycling with a stable build, adjustable settings, and magnetic resistance for a quieter ride. It’s designed for users looking to set up a home gym with effective cardio equipment.
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The Welcare Maxpro MP 6066 Elliptical Cross Trainer is designed for home workouts, combining a smooth elliptical motion with adjustable resistance for varied intensity. The built-in LCD display tracks time, speed, distance, and calories burned, while the hand pulse sensor monitors heart rate. An adjustable seat ensures comfort, and the sturdy frame supports stability during workouts. DIY installation is supported via video call assistance. This elliptical is an excellent addition to home gym setups for those looking for an effective cardio solution. With this cross trainer, you can achieve the toned legs you’ve always wanted, making it one of the best home gym equipment in 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Many buyers appreciate its smooth operation and ease of use. They find the LCD display helpful for tracking progress and like the adjustable resistance for different fitness levels. Some users mention that installation requires effort, but the video assistance is useful. A few reviews highlight the need for a more comfortable seat.
Why choose this product?
It’s a solid choice for home workouts with an adjustable seat, resistance levels, and an LCD display. The hand pulse sensor helps track heart rate, while DIY installation support makes setup easier.
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The Cockatoo CE03 Advance Smart Series Elliptical Cross Trainer is designed for home workouts, offering a sturdy build and a smooth stride. It comes with an LCD display that tracks time, speed, distance, calories burned, and pulse rate, making it easy to monitor progress. The magnetic resistance system ensures a quiet and stable workout, while the adjustable tension levels cater to different fitness levels. With free installation assistance and a one year warranty, this cross trainer is a reliable choice for those looking to improve their cardio routine without hitting the gym.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Most buyers appreciate the sturdy build and smooth motion, highlighting its value for money. Many have noted that the installation support is helpful, making setup easier. However, some mention that the display is quite basic, and a few users found the size slightly large for small spaces.
Why choose this product?
The Cockatoo CE03Advance Elliptical Cross Trainer is ideal for home fitness enthusiasts who want a low-impact yet effective cardio workout. With adjustable resistance and an easy-to-read display, it’s a solid pick for beginners and intermediate users. The included free installation assistance is a great bonus, ensuring hassle-free setup.
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Also Read: Best all-in-one gym machines for the ultimate home gym setup: Top 6 picks for you to consider
The ELEV8 by Reach Orbitrek 2 in 1 Exercise Cycle and Elliptical Cross Trainer is built for home workouts, offering both cycling and elliptical training in one machine. With adjustable resistance, users can control intensity levels, making it suitable for various fitness goals, including cardio and weight loss. The sturdy design supports up to 100 kg, and the LCD display tracks time, speed, distance, and calories burned. Bring home this cross trainer and achieve a fit body you desire to have wished for.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the smooth operation and dual-use design, making it a practical choice for home workouts. Many find the adjustable resistance helpful, while some mention that assembly takes time. A few buyers note that it works well for moderate cardio but may not be challenging enough for advanced users.
Why choose this product?
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The ELEV8 by Reach Orbitrek cross trainer is ideal for those looking to combine cycling and elliptical training in a single machine. It’s a great option for low-impact cardio and weight loss, with the added benefit of adjustable resistance to match different fitness levels.
Also Read: Pick from our top 10 mountain bikes to satisfy the adventure seeker inside you like never before
The Portl Ultra Gym Set is a complete strength training system for home workouts, offering up to 70 kg of digital weights and over 150 exercises. It supports full-body training, making it ideal for those looking to build muscle, improve endurance, or stay fit. The compact design ensures effective home fitness, while the advanced digital weight system allows precise resistance adjustments. This all-in-one exercise gym equipment is built for convenience and durability, helping users achieve strength goals without bulky gym setups.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
Buyers appreciate the wide range of exercises and smooth digital resistance adjustment, making it a convenient option for home workouts. Many like the space-saving design, while some mention that setup takes time. A few users feel that it’s an investment but worth it for serious training.
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Why choose this product?
The Portl Ultra Gym is ideal for those who want a complete strength training system at home without bulky equipment. It offers digital weight adjustments, multiple exercises, and a structured way to train effectively.
Also Read: Perfect compact workout machines to get in shape: Top 6 picks for walking pads to help you workout at home every day
The Kakss Professional Gym Training Home Gym Set is built for home strength training, offering neoprene-coated weight plates ranging from 10 kg to 200 kg. This 20 kg combo includes a kettlebell and a bonus skipping rope, making it a complete workout package. The durable plates provide a stable lifting experience, while the additional gear supports cardio and endurance training. If you are after muscle building or fitness, this home gym set is a convenient choice for varied workouts and stands out as one of the best home gym equipment options in 2025.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
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Many buyers find the weights durable and easy to handle, appreciating the neoprene coating for a better grip. The bonus kettlebell and skipping rope add value to the set. Some mention that the weight range is ideal for beginners, but advanced lifters may need additional plates.
Why choose this product?
This home gym set offers a solid strength training setup with durable weight plates, additional cardio equipment, and a flexible workout approach; all in one package.
The BodyFit Weight Plates Heavy 20 In 1 Multi-Bench Home Gym Fitness Package is designed for strength training at home. With 70 kg weight plates, it supports full body workouts, including bench presses, squats, and curls. The sturdy multi-bench ensures stability, making it suitable for beginners and experienced lifters. This home gym set includes barbells, dumbbells, and essential accessories to help you train effectively at home. If you are building muscle or increasing endurance, this home gym set provides a solid setup for consistent workouts.
What are buyers saying on Amazon?
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Users appreciate the durable build and versatile workout options. Many find the weights and bench sturdy, but some mention assembly takes time.
Why choose this product?
A complete strength training setup at home, supporting multiple exercises without needing a gym membership.
Which home gym equipment is best for a full body workout in 2025?
The best home gym equipment for a full body workout includes an elliptical cross trainer, adjustable dumbbells, a power rack with a barbell set, and a multi-functional home gym machine. These options cover cardio, strength training, and muscle toning, making them ideal for anyone looking to work out at home.
How do I choose the right home gym equipment for my fitness goals?
If your goal is strength training, consider weightlifting equipment like dumbbells, barbells, and resistance machines. For cardio and endurance, a treadmill, rowing machine, or exercise bike works well. Those focusing on bodyweight exercises may benefit from a pull-up bar, resistance bands, and a dip station.
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What are the most durable and space saving home gym options in 2025?
For durability, steel-framed power racks, cast-iron dumbbells, and commercial-grade resistance machines are long-lasting. If space is limited, foldable treadmills, adjustable dumbbells, resistance bands, and compact workout stations are smart choices.
Is it worth investing in home gym equipment instead of a gym membership?
If you train consistently, home gym equipment pays off over time. It eliminates commute time, recurring gym fees, and crowded workout spaces. Plus, having a personal setup allows you to work out anytime, making it a worthwhile investment for serious fitness enthusiasts.
Factors to consider while purchasing the best home gym equipment in 2025 from Amazon:
When buying home gym equipment in 2025, consider the following:
Space and size: Evaluate your available space before purchasing bulky equipment like treadmills or multi-gym sets. Compact options like exercise bikes are space-saving.
Workout goals: Choose equipment based on your fitness focus. For cardio, opt for treadmills or bikes. For strength, multi-gym sets or dumbbells work best.
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Build quality: Look for durable equipment that can handle frequent use. Reviews are helpful in gauging quality and longevity.
Budget: Set a clear budget. Compare options to find equipment that offers great value without overspending.
Adjustability and features: Features like adjustable settings and built-in screens can enhance your workout experience. Multi-gym sets often provide more flexibility.
Customer reviews: Check reviews for insights into ease of use and overall satisfaction from other buyers.
Also Read: Transform your fitness journey with the 8 best gym instruments for home workouts and exercises
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Top 3 features of the best home gym equipment in 2025:
Cockatoo CE03 Advance Smart Series Elliptical Cross Trainer
Steel, Plastic
Full-body workout, Cardio
Smart app connectivity, adjustable resistance
ELEV8 by Reach Orbitrek 2-in-1 Exercise Cycle and Elliptical Cross Trainer
Steel, Plastic
Full-body workout, Cardio
2-in-1 design, adjustable resistance, compact
Portl Ultra Gym Set
Steel, Rubber, Plastic
Strength training, Full-body
Multiple exercise stations, durable
Kakss Professional Gym Training Home Gym Set
Steel, Rubber, Plastic
Strength, Full-body workout
Versatile, space-saving design
BodyFit Weight Plates Heavy 20 In 1 Multi-Bench Home Gym Fitness Package
Steel, Rubber
Strength, Full-body workout
Includes multiple weight plates and a bench
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FAQs on the best home gym equipment in 2025:
What is the best home gym equipment for cardio in 2025?
Treadmills and exercise bikes are popular for effective cardio workouts at home.
Which home gym equipment is ideal for strength training in 2025?
Multi-gym sets, adjustable dumbbells, and resistance bands are excellent choices for strength training.
Are foldable treadmills good for home use in 2025?
Yes, foldable treadmills are space-saving and efficient for home use while offering great workout options.
What is the best equipment for full-body workouts in 2025?
Elliptical cross trainers and multi-gym sets provide a great way to engage your entire body.
How do I choose the right home gym equipment for my needs in 2025?
Consider your fitness goals, available space, and budget when choosing gym equipment.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, with respect to the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Skiing can be a whole lot of fun when the snow starts flying. But your body can take a beating on the slopes if it’s not properly prepared.
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Sports medicine specialist Molly McDermott, DO, shares how to get ready for ski season with some workouts and strategies.
Ski training routine
Some elite skiers start training at the tail end of spring — about six months before they ever hit the slopes. Others may need less time. In general, Dr. McDermott recommends training at least six to eight weeks before your first outdoor adventure.
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As part of your routine, you’ll want to focus on ski workouts that build:
Strength
Endurance
Flexibility
Neuromuscular control (also known as muscular coordination)
Trying to jump into a sport when you haven’t intentionally trained is difficult and challenging, says Dr. McDermott. That’s especially true given the physical demands that come with skiing.
“You want to train your brain, nerves and muscles to really build stability and balance so you can have more control over how you jump and land,” she notes.
Ski exercises
Ski-focused training puts a strong emphasis on lower-body exercises, targeting everything from your glutes to your ankles. But you’ll want to take a full-body approach to ski exercises, which means working on your core and upper body as well.
“You’re going to have to make real-time decisions when you’re out on the slopes,” stresses Dr. McDermott. “You’ll need to strengthen your whole body to be able to do things like pivot or change direction, keep your balance, propel yourself forward and withstand the impact of skiing.”
Dr. McDermott recommends starting with just bodyweight exercises if this is your first go at it. More experienced athletes can focus on higher weights or machines. In general, she recommends doing three sets of 10 to 15 reps each. Then, as you work through your training, you can progressively load your weight, sets, reps or how long you exercise to continue building strength and endurance.
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Here are some workouts that lend themselves to skiing.
Dynamic warm-up
Warming up before any workout is key, especially right before you hit the slopes. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation agrees. Dynamic warm-ups and cool-downs are highly effective for preventing injury and improving performance.
Consider starting and ending your ski workout with five to 10 minutes of:
Jogging
Using an elliptical
Walking on a treadmill
“You’re warming up your muscles and then stretching them, as opposed to static, cold stretching,” explains Dr. McDermott.
Squats
“Squat maneuvers help make sure you have the coordination of your nerves and your muscles working together so your muscles are strong and keep your body aligned — in particular, keeping your knees from turning in,” says Dr. McDermott. “As squats become easier, you can progress to squat jumps.”
Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart with your toes pointed slightly outward.
Hinge at your hips, bend your knees and slowly lower your body (as if sinking into a chair).
Lower until your thighs are parallel to the ground, keeping your knees in line with your toes and your weight on your heels.
Hold the position for three to five seconds.
Shoot up quickly to your starting position by pushing through your heels.
Repeat this process for 10 to 15 reps.
Side-lying hip abductors
Hip abductor exercises help with skiing because they focus on balance, control and building strength in your hips, glutes and thighs.
Lie down on your side with your legs extended straight. Your right leg should be on top of the other and you should rest your head on your left arm.
Keeping your hips steady, lift your right leg so your knees are no longer touching. You should feel a stretch in your upper thigh and hip.
Slowly lower your right leg.
Repeat for 10 to 15 reps, then switch sides and continue.
Calf raises
Calf raises help improve ankle mobility and calf strength — all needed for those quick turns while skiing.
Stand with your feet hip-width apart, with your arms hanging at your sides.
Slowly lift the back of your heels until you’re standing on the balls of your feet.
Hold this position for one to two seconds before lowering back down.
Repeat for 10 to 15 reps.
Skater hops
“Skater hops are single-leg hops from side-to-side,” describes Dr. McDermott. “These are really going to help you in certain ski maneuvers.”
Stand with your feet hip-width apart and your hips and knees bent at a 45-degree angle.
Push off the floor with your left leg so that you jump to the side, landing on your right leg.
Keep your knees bent and your left leg crossed behind your right (as if you’re skating).
Then, jump back to the opposite side, crossing your right leg behind your left.
Repeat this process in quick succession for 10 to 15 reps, jumping as fast and far as you’re able.
To maintain momentum, it helps to swing your left arm forward as you’re pushing off with your left leg and vice versa.
Shoulder shrugs
“Shoulder shrugs are a good ski exercise because they help build the upper trapezius muscles that connect with your neck,” says Dr. McDermott. “They really work on your posture.”
Start by standing tall, feet hip-width apart.
While looking straight ahead, lift both of your shoulders and slowly roll them backward in a circle for 10 seconds.
Repeat the process by circling your shoulders in the opposite direction for 10 seconds.
Chin tucks
Chin tucks involve a gentle range of motion to improve posture and strengthen neck muscles.
While sitting or standing in a relaxed position, look straight ahead and lightly touch the bottom of your chin with your index finger.
Gently pull your head and neck back so your chin moves away from your finger.
Hold this tucked-chin position for up to 10 seconds before slowly extending your head and neck forward to the starting chin position.
Repeat this process for 10 to 15 reps.
Push-ups
“Push-ups are good for strengthening your shoulders, chest and core, which helps with balance and stability when you’re skiing,” says Dr. McDermott.
Kneel on all fours with your palms flat on the floor in front of you and your fingers facing forward. Hands should be shoulder-width apart and directly below your shoulders.
Lift your knees off the floor and straighten your legs.
Bend your elbows and tuck them to your sides as you slowly lower your chest and chin to the floor.
Push through your palms until your arms are fully extended. Don’t let your hips or back dip to the ground — your head, spine and butt should all be aligned.
Repeat this process for 10 to 15 reps.
Planks
This exercise targets your wrists, forearms, core and upper body — all areas that promote stability and strength while skiing.
Get into a push-up position, with your legs extended and your elbows directly beneath your shoulders.
Hold this upright push-up position for 10 to 15 seconds, with your abs engaged and butt and back aligned.
For a modified challenge, you can lower your knees to the floor while holding this position.
For a deeper stretch, you can rock your hips back and forth, or lower down to your elbows for a low plank.
Bridges
Bridges help strengthen your glutes, which help guide and direct your skis.
Lie on your back with your knees bent, feet on the floor and arms at your sides.
Squeezing your butt and abdominal muscles, push through your heels to slowly lift your hips toward the ceiling.
Keep your back straight and your arms pressed into the floor at your sides.
Hold this position for a few seconds, before slowly lowering your hips to the floor.
Repeat this process for 10 to 15 reps.
Oblique twists
Also known as a Russian twist, this exercise focuses on your abdominal muscles and core strength. It helps with skiing because it supports your ability to rotate, turn and move quickly.
Sit on the floor with your knees bent and your feet flat.
Lean back at a 45-degree angle and squeeze your abdominal muscles.
Extend your arms out straight in front of you and clasp your hands together.
Engage your core as you twist slowly to the right as far as you feel comfortable, moving your arms in the direction you’re turning.
Return back to center, pause and then twist to the left side.
Repeat this process for 10 to 15 reps.
Cardio exercises
Skiers can also benefit from cardio exercises that get their blood flowing and build aerobic endurance, like:
Cycling
Running
Swimming
Rowing
“Build cardiovascular and low-impact activities into your training routine to help improve your performance and increase your endurance,” advises Dr. McDermott. “Some days you can break it up into sets or you can do 30 minutes straight.”
A note before hitting the slopes
A big part of ski training is getting your body acclimated to cold-weather exercises. For athletes who live in areas where winter runs strong, it helps to train early and get that outdoor exposure as temperatures begin to drop during the fall.
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Others who live in warmer climates might benefit from taking cold showers, ice baths or lowering indoor temperatures weeks before heading out on a ski trip.
Once ski season begins, make sure you warm up before heading outdoors, stay hydrated and keep moving to keep your body warm.
“When you’re skiing, a lot of unexpected things happen,” cautions Dr. McDermott. “The weather changes and things happen really fast. So, you want to be physically and mentally prepared before you hit the slopes, making sure you’ve got the right equipment, the right clothing and you’re prepared in case of injury.”
One of the harder parts of committing to a training routine is knowing where to start, and that’s true of those who have never trained regularly before as well as more experienced people coming back after a break.
This 20-minute workout from fitness trainer Lindsey Bomgren, founder of Nourish Move Love on YouTube, is perfect for easing your way into a training routine, especially if you’re coming back from a break because of illness or any other reason.
The workout trains the whole body through two rounds of exercises that you can complete in 20 minutes, even with a quick warm-up and cool-down included.
You do need a set of dumbbells for the workout, with Bomgren suggesting 15-25lb weights as a rough guideline. If you have a set of the best adjustable dumbbells available, you can change the weight to suit each exercise as and when required.
20 Minute FULL BODY Comeback Workout (Easy Re-Entry After Sickness/Break) – YouTube
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The workout contains nine exercises, with some of those being done on both sides for 12 moves in total in each round. You do two rounds of the exercises, completing 10 reps of each move, or 10 on each side if appropriate.
Bomgren demonstrates each move and sets the pace for the session, so you can follow her when possible, or slow down if you need to. Bomgren’s fellow trainer, Rachel, is also on hand to offer easier modifications of some exercises you can do instead.
In order to work as many muscles as possible in 20 minutes, the workout is mostly made up of compound exercises that recruit several joints and muscle groups at once, like squats and lunges.
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There are also some more focused moves like triceps extensions, and your core is also worked with some bicycle crunches and glute bridges.
It’s a fast-paced session that will not only get you fitter and stronger, but also help you prepare for longer, harder workouts if you are kicking off a regular workout routine.
Bomgren also includes a quick warm-up and cool-down in the video, which is invaluable and well worth doing. The warm-up will get you ready for the workout, so you can get the most out of the first few exercises, while the cool-down will help start your recovery and reduce any muscle soreness you might feel after the workout, especially if it’s your first session in a while.
If you are a beginner or finding it hard to match Bomgren’s pace throughout the session, you can also reduce the number of reps you do for each move to six or eight. This will give you a bit more time to complete your set, rather than rushing to do 10 reps and potentially sacrificing good form.
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The beauty of a standing abs workout is that you do not need a mat, much space, or to get down on the ground for any of the exercises. That makes it easy to fit into a busy day, whether you are working out at home, short on space, or prefer to stay off the floor altogether.
None of that means it is easier or delivers fewer results. Pilates instructor and Balance Body Educator Portia Page built this five-move, all-standing core workout to show that you can still challenge your abs effectively without a mat or traditional floor exercises.
Her routine focuses on strength, rotation, balance and power, training the core in an upright position that mirrors how it works in everyday movement and exercise. To get the most out of the workout, having a handle on how to switch your core on can make a real difference.
What is the workout?
1. Standing “Hollow” Scoop + Reach + Deep Squat
Stand tall, feet hip-width, knees soft.
Exhale and scoop your abs up and in (think: ribs to hips, belly hollow).
Keeping the scoop, reach your arms overhead, maintaining the scoop.
Keeping the arms up, bend your knees and sit back & down into a deep, low squat
Straighten legs, lower arms and lift heels into a balance
Repeat, moving slowly down and up
2. High Knee Twist with Extension
Lift your right knee to hip height slowly.
Rotate your ribs toward (not down to) the lifted knee.
Lower leg and extend behind while rotating & extending in the opposite direction.
Repeat 5-10x on one side, repeat the same amount on the other.
Make it harder: Lift the knee higher than hip height and/or hold arms overhead.
3. Lateral Side Crunch
Stand tall, hands behind your head.
Shift weight to one leg.
Lift the opposite leg out to the side.
Pull your ribs toward your lifted hip like a side crunch.
Lower leg and crunch to the other side.
Repeat 5-10 times on each side.
Make it harder: Keep the leg lifted the whole interval. Your obliques will file a complaint!
4. Woodchop Squat & Twist
Bring your hands together over your right shoulder.
Bend the knees slightly, then powerfully chop down toward the left hip.
Pause at the bottom, stop the momentum, then return slowly to start.
Repeat 5-10 times on each side.
5. Single-Leg Hover Hold with Rotation
Stand tall with arms stretched to the side, shift weight to the left foot.
Lift right knee to hip height.
Extend the right leg straight forward, creating an upside-down L-shape while rotating the upper body to the right, and bend the right knee.
Straighten the standing leg and twist back to center.
Repeat 5-10 times. Switch legs.
What’s so good about standing abs workouts?
Standing ab exercises challenge the core in a more upright, everyday way than floor-based exercises do. Instead of working from a fixed position on a mat, you are asking your body to remain stable while standing, moving and balancing, which naturally brings more of the core into play.
Pilates instructor Page explains that this routine works the core through rotation, anti-rotation and lateral stability, the types of strength you use when walking, lifting, or changing direction. Because you are on your feet, balance becomes part of the challenge too, and even small wobbles force the deeper muscles to switch on.
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She also includes elements of controlled power and standing hollow work, which asks the core to absorb and redirect force rather than just hold tension. The result is a stronger, more responsive midsection, without the need for any planks or crunches.
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