Do you want to get a full body workout in the comfort of your home? You can skip the pricey athletic club fees and build a total exercise program with these essential products.

Your complete home workout should consist of three parts: a cardio section to increase your heart rate and strengthen your heart and lungs; a weight-training section to burn fat and increase muscle tone; and a stretching section to improve flexibility and keep your body supple and limber. If you're pressed for time, you can do the cardio and weight training on alternate days.

Before undertaking any new fitness program, especially if you haven't been active in a while, it is prudent that you consult with a doctor before you start.


Let's Get It Started

You can get a great cardio workout simply by taking a brisk walk. And if walking outdoors is not an option because of inclement weather or safety issues, you may want to invest in a treadmill. Manual treadmills are economical solutions for walkers, and if you're short on space, you can fold them up for storage. If you have a designated room or area in your home for working out -- or if you plan to run on your treadmill -- you'll probably want a sturdier, electronic model. See our Treadmills Buying Guide for more info on how to shop for a treadmill.

Bowflex 7-Series Treadmill

Be sure you have a good pair of shoes for your cardio workout. Walking, jogging, jumping rope -- all these exercises involve impact on your joints, and decent athletic shoes help protect you from stress injuries. When the cushioning in the shoes starts to lose its spring, it's time for a new pair.


Pump It Up

Weight training in your home doesn't mean you have to buy a complete home gym with benches and pulleys. Dumbbells are low-tech, inexpensive and don't take up much room. But they're useful for a variety of exercises, and they allow you greater control than a machine, so you can get more targeted results.

An exercise ball is another inexpensive way to get some toning at home. These neat inventions let you use your own body weight for resistance training work such as crunches and leg lifts. Most come with an instructional video or manual that shows you the right way to work out with the ball. You'll also need a hand pump to inflate the ball, so if you don't have one on hand, look for a ball that ships with its own pump.


Don't Forget To Stretch

Stretching is a vital part of any workout, so make sure you take the time to include it in your regimen. Whether you follow yoga, Pilates or a combination of both, stretching can help reduce your risk of injury by keeping your joints and muscles flexible. A yoga mat is useful for padding a hard floor, and it has the added benefit of slip protection. Incorporating yoga or Pilates into your routine can also help firm and tone your body, as well as reduce mental stress and tension for a greater sense of well-being. Here's to a happy and healthy new you!