These 5 budget items are all you need to create an epic home gym

Always fantasised about setting up a home gym but think it’s too expensive? It doesn’t have to be. All you need are these five simple – and cheap – items. 

Exercise mat

An exercise mat isn’t just for yogis. You’ll be glad you invested in a on-slip surface for stability and grip – and your knees and butt will thank you.

This mat sports a carry strap for easy portability, and we love the vibrant colour! PVC exercise mat (3mm), R150 at MrP sport.

READ MORE: The best exercise for your body in your 20s, 30s and 40s

Adjustable skipping rope

A heart-thumping bout of skipping is an excellent form of cardio. Plus: It’ll tone up your legs fast. We like the textured grip handles on this one, which make for more secure handling.

Durable, compact and lightweight, it’s ideal for at-home aerobic workouts. Adjustable skipping rope, R80 at MrP sport.

READ MORE: We tested affordable running shoes for under R400… and they work!

Kettlebell

There are so many great strength moves you can do using this versatile piece of equipment. This one is sand-weighted with a vinyl cover, which helps reduce noise and prevents damage to your floors, so it’s perfect for indoor use.

You’ll develop strength, power, endurance and balance, and fry calories at the same time. Vinyl kettlebell (4kg), R100 at MrP sport.

READ MORE: The 12 best foods to burn fat and build lean muscle

Aerobic band

Originally a proven alternative to free weights and machines for the elderly and injured, elastic bands have been confirmed to boost muscle strength and functional performance in healthy folks too.

Get a full-body workout with this latex aerobic band, or use in conjunction with other equipment to provide resistance during traditional exercises. Medium latex aerobic band, R80 at MrP sport.

READ MORE: 7 ways to use dumbbells to build lean muscle all over

Dumbbell

Every fitster worth their salt should own a pair of free weights. The six-sided, rubber-coated dumbbell is designed to prevent rolling or sliding – saving those floors again.

It’s built to be strong and durable, so it’ll last. Hexagon dumbbell (5kg), R200, MrP sport.

This article was originally published on Women's Health.