The saying from an old 2nd Wind Exercise Equipment commercial goes like this…”Why buy new when slightly used will do.” I like to go one better. Why buy the equiptment at all when you can make it yourself? Over the past few years, I have amassed a collection of fitness equipment without paying top dollar for it. Before I share some of my methods, I will say that I did pay full price for my Powerblock Dumbbells. Those, however, replace an entire set of 5-50 pound dumbbells.
My lastest, and new favorite, set of equipment are two different ETHOS resistance bands that cost me $30-35 each. Buying these while using bars and a platform that I already had have take the place of a $530 pre-packaged X3 system. With these, I can get more done in less time.
Another favorite of mine is a set of truck tie-downs purchased for $10 that take the place of a $150 TRX Suspension Trainer. By hanging them from the garage ceiling, I can do pull-up, dips, and any other exercise the TRX can for $140 less. (Sample TRX Workout)
The workout MURPH is done with a 20 pound weight vest. I have found that this workout can be completed with a $5 backpack from Goodwill and 20 pounds of sand from our sandbox.
There are a few other things in my collection. Instead of an expensive battle rope, fill an old hose with sand. Instead of a $40 plyo box, build one with some spare lumber. By designing it properly, I even made it a 2-for-1. It doubles as a platform for step-ups.
This all started with me being a cheapskate, but it has morphed into a source of pride. I love the fact that I can get a high-priced gym workout right in my garage. Speaking from experience.
