So you want to start working out in the new year? Here’s the thing: you don’t need a lot of fancy equipment, or an expensive gym membership to get started. I’m a big believer that you can start with just simple body weight exercises and even walking. For most people who are getting back into their fitness journey (or starting a new one), starting small and working your way up is a great way to start moving, and it’s free! But sometimes you want to switch up and try different workouts at home. I’ve compiled a list of fun ideas for at-home workouts and the equipment to go with them.
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Turn fitness into a game
It’s important to make working out feel like a game. It’s not always going to feel that way. But you can try to turn things into games, or little competitions with yourself, and even with friends and family. Having fun can make working out more enjoyable, and something you actually look forward to instead of dreading.
Jumping rope is a fun way to make your workout feel more like play time. Plus there are loads of benefits to skipping rope. It’s amazing how the simplest exercise equipment has evolved. Now there are cordless jump ropes with the counters to count the number of jumps, and even weights. It has a timer and can count up your calories burned. It also transforms into a corded jump rope! I really love workout equipment that is small, and compact. Bonus that it doesn’t take up a lot of space, and you can travel with it.
This next idea, looks a little hilarious and ridiculous. I mean it kind of is though and that’s the boxing reflex ball. It’s a soft ball on an elastic string that attaches to a headband. You punch the ball and try to keep it going. It’s really simple, and great for hand eye coordination, agility, and reflexes. It even connects to an app to count your punches, so you can compete with friends or just try to beat your own high score.
Check current price on Amazon – Under $130
The ultimate level up to making fitness a “game” is the music boxing machine! This is a wall-mounted target that syncs to your music via Bluetooth and lights up to tell you where to punch. It’s like Dance Dance Revolution but for your arms! I love this because it’s a massive stress-reliever, and you have a place to take out your stress. It has 9 different modes and speeds, so you can start slow and work your way up as you get faster.
Cardio for Small Spaces
When I’m considering buying new workout equipment, I think about how I can add it into my daily or weekly routine. I hate buying a bunch of equipment and then it ends up collecting dust. For most of us we’ve definitely all been guilty of before. I’ve selected a few smaller machines that can be used in small spaces. It helps a lot when they don’t take up that much space. If you don’t have any space or clearly cannot commit long term to using it, then you might want to skip these two recommendations.
If your main goal this year is to hit those daily step counts but you don’t have the space for a massive treadmill, a Mini Stepper is going to be your new best friend. I was surprised at how much of a workout this actually gives you! It’s small enough to tuck under a chair or in a closet, but it’s heavy-duty and even comes with resistance bands so you can tone your arms while you step. It’s perfect for those ‘no-excuse’ days when you just want to move while watching a show.
Check current price on Amazon – On sale $150
Now, if you want the ultimate ‘game-changer’ for 2026, we have to talk about getting a Walking Pad. You’ve probably seen these all over social media, and for good reason—over 20,000 people bought this specific one in the last month alone! It’s a slim, motor-powered treadmill that’s light enough to move around but quiet enough to use while you work. The best way to use this is to pair it with a Standing Table or desk. Being able to walk and work at the same time is the secret to hitting your 10,000 steps without even realizing you’re exercising. The walking pad is a bit more of an investment but it’s a total life-saver that goes on sale quite often so check back for sales.
Strength Training Made Simple
When I started my health and fitness journey, I had no idea what I would do at the gym, and I had a fear of being judged. I started by working out at home with body weights and moved up to lighter weights (2-5 lbs). I got so toned, and built muscle. Don’t believe the hype that you have to go to a physical gym in order to build muscle and strength train. Obviously, everyone has different goals, but if you’re a soft fitness girlie like me this is perfect. If you’re just starting out, I would recommend focusing your energy on body weights and increase from there. Most often I also recommend people to just use water bottles when starting out. You don’t want to try to do too much when you start, learn to progress and increase over time.
While cardio is great, I’m a huge advocate for adding a little resistance to your day by using resistance bands. It’s the secret to getting toned and feeling stronger without needing a rack of dumbbells. For beginners, get a basic set with 3 different levels of resistance. I prefer these types of resistance bands because they’re light, and to me are easier to grasp than the ones with handles. They’re so light you can literally keep them in your purse or travel bag, and they don’t take up a lot of space in your house. You can use them for everything from your glutes, arms and even stretches. Another option is the professional resistance bands that comes with 5 different levels of resistance.
If you’re a fan of walking (either outside or on that new walking pad!), you can double your results by adding Ankle Weights. I love that they are adjustable—you can add or remove the little weight sandbags to customize how heavy they are. I prefer these types of ankle weights because it can mold easier to your ankles. This is bringing the best of both worlds together with cardio and weights, and honestly its so simple and effective for every body. Aside from cardio, it’s helpful to use for any workout, you can use them for legs, and arms. One of my favorite moves is having one ankle weight on the opposite arm and leg for bird dogs. Having these simple weights can add so much to your routine, increase muscle, and tone up without needing to lift heavy.
If you’re a little more advanced, and have been working out for a minute. I only say that because it is a bit heavier, and you should work your way up from light weights to this. A weighted vest is the ultimate hands-free equipment that is low effort and can easily be added into your daily routine. It fits snugly against your body, and is adjustable. You can wear it while you do chores around the house or go for a stroll. I turns a normal daily activity into a workout. It’s such a simple way to build muscle and stamina without having to learn a complicated new exercise!
Bonus “Secret Weapon”: Vibration Plate
Check current price on Amazon — Under $100
If you really want to shake things up (literally!) this year, the Vibration Plate is the trend you don’t want to miss. I’ve seen these all over social media lately, and they are so much more than just a fad. It uses high-frequency vibrations to help with circulation and lymphatic drainage—which is a total lifesaver for reducing that post-holiday bloat.
I love that this specific model is compact enough to slide under your bed or sofa when you’re done, but it’s powerful enough to make a simple squat or plank feel twice as effective. It even comes with a remote so you can change the intensity without having to bend down. If you’re looking for a high-tech way to boost your recovery and toning at home without spending a fortune, this is the one to grab!
Wrapping It Up: Your Year, Your Pace
At the end of the day, the ‘best’ workout tool isn’t the most expensive one. It’s the one you actually look forward to using and will actually use. Whether you’re boxing to your favorite playlist, getting your steps in while answering emails, or just wearing ankle weights while you do the dishes, every movement counts.
Starting a new routine in 2026 doesn’t have to be about making massive, stressful changes. It’s about finding those small, fun ways to keep your body moving and your energy up. When your workout feels like a game, or something you can do while watching your favorite show, staying active becomes effortless. I hope this list helps you find a tool that makes you excited to stay active this New Year. Here’s to a happy, healthy, and active New Year!
