When I first started working out at home, my “gym” was just a Marcy bike and a set of dumbbells in my living room. Nothing fancy—just enough to get moving. Over time, a few friends started joining me for workouts, and my little setup slowly turned into something much bigger.
What started as casual sweat sessions with friends in the barn has now grown into in-person group classes (yes, guys too!), an amazing online community, and a full-time career in fitness and nutrition. My pole barn gym is now a space where people show up, work hard, and grow stronger together—and I couldn’t be more grateful for how it’s evolved.
And here’s the thing—it didn’t happen overnight. It took time, patience, and a whole lot of hustle. Small but mighty. This little piece helps support your spine and engage your core during sit-ups and crunches. Plus, it’s easy to store.
🛒 Budget Tip: Check Facebook Marketplace!
If you’re working with a tight budget, don’t skip Facebook Marketplace or local swap groups. You can find almost-new gym gear at a great price—because let’s be honest: people love buying equipment, but using it is a whole different story. 😅 Keep checking—you’ll be surprised what pops up!
🛠️ Real Talk: It Takes Time
If you’re building your own gym space, remember it doesn’t have to be “Pinterest perfect” right away. I added equipment slowly over several years—and it still gets upgrades here and there. Consistency matters more than the size of your space.
🧘♀️ Want to Work Out With Me In Person?
If you’re local to the Almont, Michigan area, you’re welcome to join one of my in-person group classes—open to both women and men! 💪
📍 Weekly Group Class Times:
• Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays at 5:15 AM and 6:15 AM
• Message me directly for availability and pricing
☀️ Don’t miss our “Sweaty Betty Saturdays” – most Saturdays at 8:00 AM!
💲 $5 drop-in for FIT IN THE MITT members (group classes or app users)
💲 $10 for non-members
📱 Check our Fit In The Mitt Facebook page for updates and class announcements!That’s why I’m sharing my best tips for building your own home gym setup—because you can create something awesome, no matter where you’re starting from.
💡 Thinking About Building Your Own Home Gym?
Here are my Top 5 Essentials to get started—whether you’re in a tiny corner of your house or slowly building out a bigger space:
🏋️♀️ 1. Dumbbells (10–20 lbs)
A solid pair or two is all you need to get started. Focus on proper form and progressive strength. You can always level up later.
💪 2. Resistance Bands
They’re budget-friendly, versatile, and don’t take up much room. Great for glute work, warm-ups, upper body moves, and core burners.
🏃♀️ 3. Cardio Equipment (or just a jump rope!)
Movement is movement. You don’t need high-end gear right away. Start with a jump rope or an affordable used bike, and upgrade over time with something like a rower or assault bike if it fits your goals and budget.
📦 4. Plyo Box (or step stool)
Ideal for step-ups, split squats, box jumps, incline pushups—you name it. A sturdy step stool can work just as well when you’re starting out.
🔄 5. Ab Mat
Whether you’re starting with a couple of dumbbells in your living room or dreaming up a full-blown pole barn gym, just remember: you don’t need fancy equipment to start. You just need the willingness to show up.
Progress doesn’t come from perfection—it comes from consistency, community, and a little sweat.
Keep showing up. You’ve got this. 💗
Nicole
Founder, Fit In The Mitt