No weights? No problem. We’ve compiled a list of the common goods that you probably already have lying around your house that can double as workout equipment. This will save you from panic-shopping for an entire home gym online. Really, anything that weighs anything and can fit in your hands can double as a dumbbell. So raid your pantry.
Unlike solid dumbbells, lifting items with unevenly distributed weight (think liquids and dry goods like rice) activates tiny muscles, challenges your stability, and recruits your brain to focus on the movements. All of this can make exercises even more effective. Try tying a plastic rubber band around any item that feels slippery to prevent yourself from dropping it.
Here is a list of items to use created by the PRO Group Fitness Instructors:
- Bleach, laundry detergent or other containers with handles filled with sand or water (if not already full)
- Bag of rice, beans or dog food (great for kettlebell swings)
- Soup cans
- Kitty litter
- Water bottles filled with sand or water
- Suitcase
- Kid carrier with or without child
- Backpack with books – or books on their own
- Kid in a blanket for sled drags
- Jar of change
- Socks full of sand or marbles
Ready to workout? Check out this easy at home workout you can do!
