As a certified personal trainer, I have spent a lot of time in various big box gyms, studio gyms, apartment gyms and living rooms, programming for each clients needs / accessible space. Over time, I have built a bag (it literally travels everywhere with me) of equipment I have on hand at all times. This will vary for each trainer as their style and programming evolves but when you’re just starting out, these items are crucial …and require little investment!
workout equipment under $30
If you are truly a new trainer, I know you’re down for keeping the spending in check while growing your business…(Amazon and) I got you!
mini bands
Mini bands are an essential part of programming new clients. They are versatile, low impact & can be used in the gym or in a client’s home. I have tried cheap bands from target and invested in “nicer” fabric bands online, but neither were ideal for the variety of clients I work with.
Pro’s of Target Resistance Bands:
Price point is great.
Can easily find a Target & grab them on the way to a session.
Typically comes with a variety of resistance.
Con’s of Target Resistance Bands:
Price reflects the longevity of bands (especially for us trainers who use them more than once a day).
The resistance is usually pretty light overall, so many clients will progress out of them quickly.
Thin fabric causes them to roll up into floss on clients.
Pro’s of Fabric Bands:
They’re durable.
Decently heavy resistance for clients who have progressed past lighter bands
Don’t roll up when clients are using them.
Con’s of Fabric Bands:
They tend to stretch out over time.
More expensive and not ideal for new clients.
Not as versatile (in my opinion) for a variety of clients.
The bands I have found to last the longest, work for a variety of clients, not roll up & be cost effective are (of course) from amazon. Overall I do like the Perform Better brand, if you’re looking to add other products as well! I personally order the green 10 Pack, but find the blue bands are comparable in resistance.
Trainer Hack: Order the Perform Better 10 Pack for $26 and give one to each new client. They will appreciate the gift and will have no reason not to crush their workouts outside of your sessions.
Resistance bands
Resistance bands aka “Assisted Pull up Bands” when searching online. These are a great alternative if you or your client do not have access to a cable machine or dumbbells. I will also use a resistance band to aid in balance exercises.
The bands I use are from Serious Steel and have had the same set for the last year+, with little to no wear still. There are a variety of sizes / resistance, but the red & purple bands tend to get the most use.
These are also the bands I suggest to clients who prefer to do their additional workouts on their own, at home!
sliders / gliders
Sliders / Gliders are another great piece of equipment to keep in your bag. They are versatile, but I tend to mainly use them for core exercises. Depending on the space you have access to, the type of slider / glider you purchase will make a difference. I have 2 types (as seen below); the purple “Gliding” slider, is left at our studio and the black “Iron Core Fitness” slider travels with me.
Pro’s of Gliding Slider:
Durable / long lasting.
Slides well on hard surfaces.
Lightweight.
They do not get scratched when a rock or other particle slides underneath.
Con’s of Glidings Slider:
Does not slide as well on carpet or other soft surfaces.
Occasionally needs the bottom to be wiped off, for optimal sliding.
Pro’s of Iron Core Fitness Slider:
Durable / long lasting.
Reversible; works on hard & soft surfaces.
Size is more ideal for travel.
The plastic is flat (no airspace between the fabric & plastic), so it’s less likely to crack compared to other brands.
Can be bought in bulk (another great idea for client gifts).
Con’s of Iron Core Fitness Slider:
Doesn’t slide *as* well as the gliding slider, on hard surfaces because of the logo.
Plastic likely to scratch after a few uses.
ENERGY BOOST // celsius
So now we’re set with basic equipment, but on those long days, sometimes we need a little extra boost of energy. I personally keep a case of Celsius stocked at all times, for those 5:00am to 7:00pm days.
Orange is my all time favorite, but I also really enjoy Fuji Apple Pear and Watermelon.
Aside from the above products, I have invested in higher ticket pieces of equipment over time, but when first starting out keep it simple! Over time you will recognize what fits your clientele & programming the best.
Disclaimer: I do work with Amazon as an affiliate, however everything mentioned above, I personally use and love. If you’re looking for additional suggestions or have any specific questions, comment below!
