No Peloton, No Problem: 7 Budget-Friendly Workout Tools You’ll Want To Use Everyday

You can't escape it. No matter which social media platform you spend most of your time, you've likely come across a Peloton conversation. Whether it's a recommendation for the latest and greatest Peloton ride or a proud member boasting about their latest PR, the Peloton discussion is virtually inescapable. In the wake of COVID-19, at-home workout options are on the rise. As a result, it seems as everyone decided to jump on the indoor exercise bike bandwagon. If you're still on the fence about making such a large investment – the Peloton bike costs just under $2,000 and a monthly membership fee – there are several budget-friendly and fun workout tools to try. Here are a few options with various price points for everyone from beginners to seasoned fitness enthusiasts.

Budget-Friendly Workout Tools for Daily Cardio

Jump Rope –  A standard jump rope is as about as budget-friendly workout tools go. If you're looking for a calorie-burning cardio workout, jumping rope is easy and effective. Options range from a standard wooden speed jump rope for under $10, to the mid-range and premium-style jump ropes like the Crossrope Get Strong weighted jump rope. With Crossrope you have access to a workout app with hundreds of options and an online community of dedicated jumpers to keep you motivated and inspired.

Cycling Bikes – If you're seeking a truly Peloton experience without the high price tag, an indoor cycling bike from Sunny Health may be an adequate substitute. You can use the bike along with the official Peloton app. The app provides access to the plethora of workouts and themed rides inundating your social media feed all day long. Add in a Garmin Cadence Sensor for monitoring your pedaling and you've got a Peloton experience at a fraction of the cost.

Increase Your Strength and Core with These Inexpensive Workout Tools

Resistance bands – For just under $50, the Black Mountain Ultimate Resistance Band Set comes with everything you need for a full-body workout. This set includes door anchors, handles, and ankle straps and allows the user to connect straps to create a variety of resistance levels. Resistance training helps improve muscle tone and definition. It is the perfect low impact workout for beginners. YouTube offers a wide selection of resistance band workout videos that are effective for all levels. This 30-minute full-body resistance band workout from the HASfit channel is a good start.

Kettlebell – The kettlebell has come a long way over the years. There are countless styles, weights, and varieties available. Kettlebells are the ideal workout for incorporating High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) into your workout regimen. Whether you opt for the soft sandbag style like these kettlebells from Bionic Body the lower profile, neoprene fabric kettlebells, or the standard cast-iron style, there are countless options for all abilities and preferences.

Core slider discs – Core sliders allow you to perform core exercises with ease on hard floors. Discs are yet another of the budget-friendly workout tools designed to make exercise fun. Using discs can help to increase your core strength, agility, and balance. Slide boards are also another option to consider a high intensity, low-impact workout. The Redefining Strength YouTube channel offers a variety of videos to get you started on your core strength goals.

Workouts You Can Do While Working or Watching TV

Squat machine – You may enjoy this squat machine if you know you really should work out but can't tear yourself away from your latest Netflix binge. The Sunny Health & Fitness Squat Assist Row-N-Ride Trainer comes with its own training video but once you've got it down, you can squat away while watching your favorite show. What's great about this piece of equipment is that it folds down and out of the way for easy storage. 

Under desk bike – Working from home has its benefits. Sitting in the same position hour after hour, however, can be uncomfortable and unhealthy. The Under Desk Bike is perfect for getting in some extra movement while you work. This affordable, portable mini bike can move from room-to-room allowing you to use it for work or when watching television. Another variation of the ‘under desk bike' is the seated elliptical; these tend to go for a higher price point. These are also available in a variety of styles depending on your needs and budget.

Regardless of which option you choose, any additional exercise and movement you incorporate into your day will have lasting health benefits. A Peloton bike or treadmill has its benefits and is a worthwhile investment for those committed to using it regularly. If you're simply seeking a fun way to move your body, or you wish to switch out your workout routine often, the best choice might be one of the more budget-friendly workout tools.