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Getting to the gym consistently may not always be possible even though we have all the best intentions. Life does sometimes get in the way. And when it does, you can still get in a workout at home.

A few pieces of equipment at home always helps. I always recommend having a set of dumbbells and kettlebells of varying weight. I like this set from Yes4All. They are cast iron, but what I really like is the vinyl coating. Not only does the coating help protect the kettlebell itself by preventing corrosion, but also protects your floor and prevents noise.

For example, if you live in an apartment and don’t have carpet, or you’re working out upstairs in your house, the people downstairs won’t hear you when you put down your kettlebell between exercises.

Loop bands offer resistance when doing body weight exercises. I do have a workout that includes uses loop bands. For just eight bucks you can snag a set on Amazon. These bands from Techstone have a good rating and are durable. I use them at the gym.

Here is a variety of 10 workouts I have put together to do at home. You can choose to do the individual workouts or pick from any one of them for an even greater variety.

When using dumbbells or any weight bearing moves, start with a lighter weight and do as many reps as you can. Take a short break of 30 seconds and do a second set of the same reps. Take another 30 second break and finish a third set of the same reps. Make a note of that exercise, weight and reps. Over time increase those reps. And when you max out reps of 15 comfortably, increase the weight at least 2 pounds.

Once the weights you’re using, whether it be kettlebells or dumbbells, are at 15-20 lbs, decrease the reps to 8.

By following these recommendations of lower weight more reps to more weight and less reps, you’ll be building muscle.

Don’t have dumbbells, loop bands or kettlebell? That’s ok too! For beginners, just use your bodyweight and double the reps. Trust me, you’ll feel it!