Are you tired of the constant rush to the gym, the long waits for equipment, and the ever-increasing membership fees? Are you seeking a convenient and effective way to stay fit without leaving the comfort of your home? If so, the best gym instruments for home could be your ideal solution.
Upgrade your home workouts with the best gym instruments for home.
Imagine having a personal gym setup that caters to your every fitness whim, available 24/7, right in your living space. With the right tools, you can sculpt your dream physique, improve your health, and boost your confidence, all while jamming to your favourite playlist.
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Amazon offers a treasure trove of top-notch gym equipment, from space-saving resistance bands to versatile adjustable dumbbells, catering to every fitness level and goal. And the best part? These best gym instruments for home are just a click away, ready to be delivered to your doorstep, transforming your home into a fitness sanctuary.
So, are you ready to say goodbye to the gym crowds and embrace the convenience of home workouts? Explore our handpicked selection of the best gym instruments for home, and let’s kickstart a fitness journey designed just for you!
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1.
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The HIWARE Ab Roller is a top-tier fitness tool designed to provide a complete abdominal workout for both men and women. Engineered for convenience and efficiency, this roller boasts an automatic rebound feature that guarantees a smooth and controlled exercise session. Its versatility allows for effective workouts targeting the abs, arms, and back, making it suitable for both home and gym environments. Crafted with high-quality materials, the roller ensures durability and longevity, promising a reliable addition to your fitness arsenal. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, the HIWARE Ab Roller offers an accessible and effective way to enhance your core strength and overall fitness.
Specifications of HIWARE Abdominal-Exercise-Rollers
Type: Abdominal Exercise Roller
Feature: Automatic Rebound
Usage: Home and Gym
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Target Areas: Abs, Arms, Back
Material: High-Quality Components
Compatibility: Suitable for Men and Women
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Automatic rebound for controlled workouts
May require initial practice for stability
Versatile use for various muscle groups
Not suitable for users with back issues
2.
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The Boldfit Adjustable Hand Grip Strengthener is an essential tool for improving hand and forearm strength, catering to both men and women. Designed with convenience and effectiveness in mind, this hand gripper offers adjustable resistance levels, allowing users to customize their workouts according to their fitness levels and goals. It’s a compact and portable device, making it ideal for home use, gym workouts, or even on-the-go training. With regular use, it helps enhance grip strength, finger dexterity, and overall hand endurance. Crafted with durable materials, the Boldfit hand gripper ensures long-lasting performance, making it a valuable addition to any fitness routine.
Specifications of Boldfit Adjustable Hand Grip Strengthener
Adjustable Resistance: Yes
Gender: Unisex
Application: Home, Gym
Material: High-Quality
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Portability: Yes
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Adjustable resistance
May be too challenging for beginners
Unisex design
Some users may prefer a non-adjustable grip strengthener
Compact and portable
Durable construction
Enhances grip strength and endurance
Also Read: Best Fitness machines for home: Top 10 picks to help you stay fit at the comfort of home
3.
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The PRO365 Home Gym Ab Roller offers an effective and versatile solution for core workouts, suitable for both men and women. Made with a durable stainless steel rod, this ab wheel ensures stability and longevity, making it a reliable choice for daily workouts. It comes with a 6mm safe knee mat, providing added comfort and support during exercises. The yellow roller adds a vibrant touch to the design while ensuring visibility during workouts. With its compact and portable design, the PRO365 Ab Roller is perfect for home use, allowing users to strengthen their core muscles conveniently. Plus, it comes with a 6-month manufacturer warranty, ensuring peace of mind with your purchase.
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Specifications of PRO365 Home Gym Ab Roller
Material: Stainless Steel Rod
Colour: Yellow Roller
Warranty: 6 Months Manufacturer Warranty
Additional Accessory: 6 MM Safe Knee Mat
User: Men and Women
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Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Durable stainless steel construction
Limited colour options
Comes with a 6mm safe knee mat
May require additional accessories for advanced users
Compact and portable design
6-month manufacturer warranty
Suitable for both men and women
Also Read: Transform your home gyms into complete workout studios with our top 6 picks for home gym equipment sets
4.
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The SILENCIO Sit-Up Bar is a versatile fitness tool designed to assist with sit-ups, push-ups, and abdominal curl exercises. Featuring a foam handle and a rubber suction base, this sit-up bar offers stability and comfort during workouts, ensuring a secure grip and minimising strain on the hands and wrists. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use at home or on the go, allowing users to incorporate core strengthening exercises into their daily routine effortlessly. The SILENCIO Sit-Up Bar is an ideal choice for those looking to enhance their abdominal workouts, aiding in weight loss and muscle toning. Whether you’re a beginner or a fitness enthusiast, this sit-up bar is a valuable addition to any workout regimen.
Specifications of SILENCIO Sit-Up Bar
Material: Foam Handle, Rubber Suction Base
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Type: Sit-Up and Push-Up Assistant
Quantity: Pack of 1
Usage: Gym Workout, Home Exercise
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Foam handle for comfortable grip
Limited to specific exercises
Rubber suction base for stability
May not suit someone who is a begginer
Compact and lightweight design
Versatile use for sit-ups, push-ups, and curls
Effective tool for abdominal workouts
5.
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The SOLARA Unbreakable Resistance Band set offers a versatile fitness solution for both men and women. Made from 100% natural latex, these resistance bands provide varying levels of resistance to suit every fitness level. The set includes 11 pieces, allowing for a wide range of exercises targeting different muscle groups. Plus, buyers receive an eBook and instructional videos to guide them through effective workouts. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, these bands are perfect for home workouts, travel, or gym sessions. The durable design ensures longevity, even with regular use. Compact and lightweight, they’re easy to store and carry, making them an excellent choice for on-the-go fitness enthusiasts. With this band set, you have a comprehensive fitness tool that adapts to your evolving workout needs.
Specifications of SOLARA Unbreakable Resistance Band:
Material: 100% natural latex
The set includes: 11 pieces
Extras: eBook, instructional videos
Gender: Unisex
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Fitness level: Beginner to advanced
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Versatile for various exercises
May require space for setup
Suitable for all fitness levels
Not ideal for very advanced workouts
Comes with instructional materials
Potential latex allergies
Also Read: Best fitness machines for home workouts in India: 10 picks
6.
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The SLOVIC Dumbbells Set offers a convenient and effective solution for home workouts. This set includes two gym dumbbells, each weighing 5kg, making them suitable for a variety of strength training exercises. Made with anti-skid rubber, these dumbbells provide a secure grip, ensuring safety during your workouts. The compact design makes them easy to store, perfect for small spaces or home gyms. Whether you’re a beginner looking to start your fitness journey or an experienced lifter wanting to maintain strength at home, these dumbbells offer a versatile and practical option for your fitness needs. Upgrade your home gym with this durable and functional dumbbell set and enjoy a more personalized workout experience.
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Specifications of SLOVIC Dumbbells Set for Home Gym
Weight: 5kg per dumbbell
Material: Anti-skid rubber
Set Includes: 2 dumbbells
Suitable For: Home workouts
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Versatile Weight Options: With 5kg dumbbells, it caters to a wide range of exercises and fitness levels.
Limited Weight Range: This may not be suitable for advanced lifters requiring heavier weights.
Anti-Skid Rubber Design: Ensures a secure grip, reducing the risk of accidents during workouts.
Limited to Basic Workouts: This may not offer the versatility of adjustable dumbbells for varied exercises.
Compact and Space-Saving: Easy to store, making it ideal for small spaces or home gyms.
No Additional Features: Lacks extra features like adjustable weights or ergonomic design.
Durable Construction: Made with quality materials for long-lasting use.
Fixed Weight: Not adaptable to increasing strength or varying workout intensity over time.
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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
7.
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The BULLAR Steel Weight Plates Set provides an all-inclusive home gym setup, integrating key workout essentials. It features a 4ft curl bar, a 5ft straight bar, and sturdy dumbbell rods, offering a diverse range of exercise possibilities. Boasting a weight capacity of 40kg, it delivers sufficient resistance for effective strength training sessions. Constructed with durable chrome-plated steel, this set promises longevity while adding a touch of elegance to your home gym. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or are a seasoned athlete, this comprehensive set caters to all fitness levels, enhancing your exercise routine within the comforts of your home.
Specifications of BULLAR Steel Weight Plates Set
Material: Chrome-plated steel
Weight Capacity: 40 kg
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Included: 4ft curl bar, 5ft straight bar, pair of solid dumbbell rods
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Versatile Workout Options: Multiple bars and dumbbell rods for varied exercises.
Requires Space: This may not be suitable for small living areas due to its size.
Fixed Weight: Not adjustable, limiting progression for advanced users.
Complete Home Gym Solution: All essential equipment is included for a full-body workout.
Assembly Required: This may require assembly, which can be time-consuming.
Sleek Design: The chrome finish provides a stylish look for your home gym.
Additional Accessories: Lacks additional accessories that some may desire, like resistance bands or a workout guide.
8. Flexnest Adjustable Iron Dumbbells Set
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The Flexnest Adjustable Iron Dumbbells Set, crafted with precision in Germany, offers a versatile and efficient workout solution for both men and women. This set allows for easy weight adjustments ranging from 2.5 kg to 24 kg, catering to various fitness levels and exercise preferences. Its sleek black design adds a modern touch to your home gym, making it both functional and aesthetically pleasing. With a set of two dumbbells included, users can target different muscle groups or engage in full-body workouts with ease. Whether you’re looking to tone, build strength, or enhance your overall fitness, these adjustable dumbbells provide a convenient and effective solution right at your fingertips.
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Specifications of Flexnest Adjustable Iron Dumbbells Set
Design: German-engineered
Weight Range: 2.5 kg – 24 kg
Quantity: Set of 2
Colour: Black
Reasons to Buy
Reasons to Avoid
Easy weight adjustment
May be pricey for some budgets
High-quality German design
Requires storage space
Versatile for various exercises
Space-saving and sleek design
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Top 3 features of the best gym instruments for home:
Best Gym Instruments for Home
Type
Feature
Usage
HIWARE Abdominal-Exercise-Rollers
Ab Roller
Automatic rebound
Home
Boldfit Adjustable Hand Grip Strengthener
Hand Gripper
Adjustable grip
Home/Gym
PRO365 Home Gym Ab Roller
Ab Roller
6-month warranty
Home/Gym
SILENCIO Sit-Up Bar
Sit-Up Bar
Sit-ups and push-ups assistant
Home/Gym
SOLARA Unbreakable Resistance Band
Resistance Band
eBook, instructional videos
Home/Gym
SLOVIC Dumbbells Set for Home Gym
Dumbbells
Anti-skid grip, compact design
Home/Gym
BULLAR Steel Weight Plates Set
Weight Plates
4ft curl bar, 5ft straight bar
Home/Gym
Flexnest Adjustable Iron Dumbbells Set
Dumbbells
Easy weight adjustment
Home/Gym
Best value for money gym instruments for home:
The SLOVIC Dumbbells Set for Home Gym stands out as the best value-for-money gym instrument for home workouts. Offering a comprehensive fitness solution, these 5kg dumbbells are designed to effectively target various muscle groups. With their anti-skid rubber grips, they ensure a secure and safe workout experience. The set’s compact design is ideal for home use, allowing versatile exercises without occupying much space. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced fitness enthusiast, the SLOVIC Dumbbells Set delivers quality and affordability, making it a smart investment for your home gym.
Best overall gym instruments for home:
Are you seeking a top-tier addition to your home workout regimen? The HIWARE Abdominal-Exercise-Rollers stand out as the best overall product, combining efficiency and innovation. These rollers boast an automatic rebound feature for seamless and controlled exercises, targeting the abs, arms, and back with precision. Crafted with durability in mind, their ergonomic design ensures both longevity and user-friendly experience. Whether you’re a fitness newbie or a seasoned pro, the HIWARE rollers offer unparalleled quality, making them the ideal choice for elevating your fitness journey at home.
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How to find the best gym instruments for home?
Finding the best gym instruments for home involves considering your fitness goals, available space, and budget. Start by identifying the type of workouts you enjoy and the equipment needed to support them. Research various brands and read customer reviews to gauge quality and durability. Look for versatile equipment that allows for a variety of exercises to keep your workouts engaging and effective. Additionally, consider the size and storage options to ensure the equipment fits comfortably in your home. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect gym instrument to suit your needs and preferences.
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.
U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness Program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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VICENZA, Italy — For the handlers of the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment, readiness isn’t just about the mission, it’s about maintaining the total health of their most trusted partners. Through the U.S. Army’s new Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program, the Vicenza-based detachment is redefining what it means to be mission ready, one paw at a time.
The Army established the K9H2F program under Army Directive 2025-16 to enhance the wellness, performance and quality of life of MWDs, Aug. 21, 2025. The directive mandates all Army MWD units to implement comprehensive health and welfare standards, aligning with Department of War and Army veterinary care policies.
Modeled after the Soldier Holistic Health and Fitness system, K9H2F takes a science-based, whole-dog approach addressing physical fitness, nutrition, behavioral health and recovery. For the 525th MWD team, that means every dog receives the same level of conditioning and care as any elite military athlete in uniform.
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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, conduct a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, conduct a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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“Our dogs are tactical athletes,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge assigned to 525th MWD Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade. “They train hard, they work hard and they deserve the same attention to fitness, nutrition and injury prevention that we give our Soldiers. The H2F program helps us keep them in top condition so they can perform safely and effectively in any environment.”
A key component of the directive, the Partner and Wellness program, ensures handlers and their assigned MWDs relocate together during permanent changes of station, strengthening continuity and the human-K9 bond.
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, incorporate Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program stretching after completing an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The K9H2F program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, incorporate Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program stretching after completing an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The K9H2F program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, incorporate Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program stretching after completing an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The K9H2F program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk)
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“When I PCS’d [permanently changed duty stations] to Italy, being able to bring my dog with me made a huge difference,” said U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, a patrol explosive detector dog handler assigned to the 525th MWD Detachment. “It helps us maintain that trust and teamwork that can’t be replaced. The PAW program makes sure that bond doesn’t get broken.”
Each MWD now follows structured conditioning routines designed to build strength, endurance and agility while reducing the risk of injury. Specialized diets, recovery protocols and enrichment activities round out their regimen, ensuring each dog remains physically capable and mentally resilient.
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Soyer, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk)
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Soyer, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Destiny Baker) (Photo Credit: Spc. Destiny Baker)
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Soyer, a military working dog, both assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Destiny Baker) (Photo Credit: Spc. Destiny Baker)
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According to U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Viridiana Lavalle, Military Working Dog program manager at Headquarters, Department of the Army, the initiative marks a major step forward in modern K9 care.
“Proactive and data-driven K9 care is essential for optimizing the performance and longevity of MWDs, directly impacting mission readiness and effectiveness,” Lavalle said. “By leveraging advanced analytics to monitor health metrics, exercise regimens and behavioral patterns, handlers can implement tailored care strategies that enhance the holistic health of MWDs.”
This strategic approach not only improves the physical capabilities of these vital assets but also supports K9 mental resilience, ensuring they are fully prepared for the demands of their critical roles.
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Soyer, a military working dog assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, completes a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk) (Photo Credit: Staff Sgt. Raquel Birk)
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Soyer, a military working dog assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, completes a narcotics detection training lane at Caserma Del Din, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 5, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Spc. Destiny Baker) (Photo Credit: Spc. Destiny Baker)
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“Ultimately, investing in comprehensive K9 care through data-driven insights enhances operational effectiveness, contributing to mission success and the overall safety of military personnel,” Lavalle said.
The holistic approach extends beyond the kennel. Handlers train alongside veterinary and behavioral specialists to better understand each dog’s unique needs, improving communication and enhancing mission effectiveness.
“The bond between handler and dog is everything,” May said. “When you have that trust, that connection, the dog performs with confidence. The H2F program helps us strengthen that bond through better training, stress management and recovery practices.”
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From explosives and narcotics detection to patrol duties across Europe and Africa, the 525th’s military working dogs play a vital role in safeguarding Soldiers and installations. The K9H2F program ensures those capabilities remain sharp on every mission, in every environment.
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, a patrol drug detector dog handler assigned to 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, runs as Beza, a military working dog, conducts a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, patrol drug detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, conduct a take-down training exercise at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf) (Photo Credit: Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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“Investing in our dogs’ health is investing in readiness,” said U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, a patrol narcotics detector dog handler with the 525th MWD Detachment. “They’re not just assets, they’re teammates. When they’re healthy, confident and capable, our entire formation is stronger.”
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Under the directive, the U.S. Army provost marshal general oversees program criteria and compliance, while the surgeon general of the U.S. Army coordinates implementation guidance. Commanders are required to meet new
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About SETAF-AF
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.
Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDSkennel and enrichment standards within 90 days, and the policy will be incorporated into Army Regulation 190–12 within two years.
For the Soldiers and K9s of the 525th MWD Detachment, holistic fitness isn’t just a program, it’s a commitment to excellence that keeps both handlers and their four-legged partners ready for any mission.
Members of the United States Marine Corps and the Bangladesh Army took part in a joint fitness and camaraderie-building exercise organized by the US Embassy. The Marine Corps Combat Fitness Test strengthened teamwork, trust and operational readiness among personnel from both…
How many times have you said, “I can’t believe it’s December already,” this year? If your answer veers somewhere between “a fair few” and “honestly, I’ve lost count”, you’re in good company. It’s become the seasonal equivalent of asking about the weather – a reliable go-to as the year starts winding down. And while I’ll spare you the usual cosy festive clichés, December is the month when gym plans loosen, and most of us swap weighted plates for quality time and mince pies.
Still, if moving your body is something that helps you feel grounded, there’s no reason you can’t carve out little pockets for it over the festive period (just as there’s absolutely no shame in pressing pause altogether). Research consistently shows that even short bursts of exercise can support both mental and physical health, which is why keeping one or two genuinely effective, at-home moves in your back pocket can be a lifesaver when festive stress starts simmering.
“Fitness is built over weeks and months, so a short break over Christmas won’t erase your progress,” says Ania Gabb, personal trainer and Frontrunner Community Manager at ASICS. “But maintaining some kind of gentle movement will be good for your body and mind – and is even more fun when you get friends and family involved.”
So, consider this your cue to rally the group for some shoulder taps (the workout move, not a new routine your eccentric uncle unveils after lunch). Below, two top PTs break down why plank shoulder taps deserve a spot in your festive toolkit: a simple, equipment-free, full-body exercise you can squeeze in from the comfort of your living room.
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For more festive movement inspiration, head to our guides to Christmas Yoga, the best Christmas workouts, and five holiday workouts you can do from anywhere. Read how writers got on trying the Copenhagen plank, hover plank, and a regular old plank, here.
Plank Shoulder Taps Are The Perfect Festive Full-Body Move To Try This Christmas. Your Guide
What are plank shoulder taps?
If you’ve ever tried a YouTube HIIT session, you’ve almost certainly met the plank shoulder tap. They’re wonderfully faff-free but sneakily challenging – essentially a progression of the classic high plank, which has long reigned as one of the most reliable core-strengtheners out there.
“The plank shoulder tap challenges you to lift one hand and reach it across to tap the opposite shoulder, all whilst resisting the urge to let the hips sway, or the torso rotate,” says Les Mills personal trainer and presenter, Dan Raynor.
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In other words, it’s less about big, dramatic movements and more about control. A strong core isn’t built solely from endless crunches – in fact, studies continually show that these kinds of ‘anti-movement’ exercises (where you’re working to resist rotation) can do more for your posture and balance than dynamic moves alone.
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“The aim is to keep your body as still as possible whilst moving the arm,” says Hannah Wilkie, Trainer at Barry’s UK. She explains that it’s easy to pike your hips up or let them dip to the side, but that’s not where the strength is built. The slow, controlled hold is the magic.
What are the benefits of plank shoulder taps?
First up, they tick the big festive fitness box: they’re equipment-free and can be done in the smallest of living rooms (pyjamas optional).
But when you’ve got a Christmas film to get back to, and someone’s shouting that you’re up next in charades, efficiency matters too. Luckily, plank shoulder taps deliver a lot in a little time.
“Shoulder taps are a deceptively powerful full-body movement,” says Raynor. “They engage the shoulders and upper back for stability, while the deep core muscles (particularly the transverse abdominis) work hard to prevent rotation. The glutes also play a key role in maintaining hip alignment.”
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They’re also a brilliantly functional exercise – meaning the strength you build translates straight into real life. Think: carrying shopping bags, picking up little ones, or simply standing taller. Core strength underpins almost every daily movement, and shoulder taps train the particularly important kind: anti-rotational strength.
“Plank shoulder taps build anti-rotational strength, which is your body resisting the urge to twist,” explains Wilkie. “That move is essential for everyday movement, stability and balance.”
How to perform plank shoulder taps with good form, according to a PT
As with most strength exercises, but especially those targeting the core, the smallest tweaks can turn a move from ‘meh’ to ‘oh wow, that’s working’. That’s why both trainers agree: your setup matters.
“Set yourself up well,” says Wilkie. “Place your hands under your shoulders, with a long line from your head to your heels.”
From there, she adds, “tuck your pelvis to switch the core on.”
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Once you’re tapping, focus on staying steady. “Try to avoid the hips rocking, arching the lower back or shrugging your shoulders towards the ears,” she says.
And remember: modifying isn’t cheating. In fact, it can help you build strength far more effectively in the long run. “A half plank on your knees is a great place to start building strength safely,” Wilkie explains. If your wrists aren’t thrilled with the position, “elevating your hands on dumbbells can reduce pressure.”
Still not clear? Watch the handy tutorial below.
How To Properly Do a Plank with Shoulder Taps – Strength Exercises – Wellen – YouTube
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How can I make plank shoulder taps harder?
If you’ve already mastered a steady set of taps without wobbling, there are plenty of ways to level up, and none of them require any fancy kit.
The simplest progression? Add more reps or sets. But if you want something a little more creative, try narrowing your base.
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“Bringing your feet closer together makes shoulder taps harder because you have less stability to rely on,” says Hannah Wilkie, Trainer at Barry’s UK.
Feeling confident? She also suggests swapping taps for drags: “Pull a dumbbell or kettlebell across your body instead of tapping your shoulder. It’s a simple way to make the core work even harder.”
Les Mills personal trainer and presenter Dan Raynor also recommends playing with tempo. “Slowing down the movement forces the core to work harder to resist rotation,” he explains, “whilst adding speed to your taps can elevate the heart rate and add in an element of conditioning.”