How to... improve your fitness by exercising at home

Our experts solve your home dilemmas. This month, we focus on home gyms, whether you have a room for working out, or a small corner for yoga

- Lisa Hibberd

Q I have a small corner of my garage for working out - what equipment do I need to get started?

Personal trainer Gary Lockwood is CEO of 24/7 Fitness, and has over 25 years of experience in the fitness industry. He says...

'If space and budget allow, the ideal starting point for a home gym is a treadmill. It's a versatile piece of equipment that caters to all fitness levels - perfect for beginners aiming to hit their daily 10,000 steps, yet also capable of delivering a challenging workout by increasing the speed or incline.

For strength training, a set of adjustable dumbbells is a smart investment. These compact tools offer the equivalent of up to 18 different weights in one, saving both space and money. Pair them with an adjustable bench, and you've got a comprehensive setup for full-body resistance training. With just these two pieces of equipment, you can target all major muscle groups.

To round out your home gym, include a set of resistance bands and a high-quality stretch mat. These are perfect for mobility work, core exercises, and low-impact workouts like Pilates or yoga. Together, this setup covers cardio, strength, and flexibility in a compact footprint - ideal for anyone looking to build a functional, efficient home gym without breaking the bank or sacrificing too much space.'

Q I do yoga in my home office. How can I make the room more tranquil?

Alison Banks is an interior designer, as well as co-founder of stylish fitness brand Onyx. She says...