What You Need To Get Started Training At Home
You’ve made it this far. You want to do more fitness and nutrition activities at home. But you may not be confident in what you need to get started. This post is for you.
We believe that training your body isn’t just about fitness—it’s about stewardship, preparing yourself to serve God and others by treating your body as a temple. When priests train, they aren’t just building strength, they are equipping themselves to better stand In Persona Christi (IPC). So, if you’re ready to start your fitness journey from home, here’s what you need to get going.
1. Start with Your Why
Before diving into the equipment and strategies, let’s begin with a fundamental question: Why are you training? Understanding your “why” shapes everything. For priests and anyone inspired by the priestly vocation, this “why” often goes beyond personal fitness goals. It’s about caring for the body that is given to us and maintaining the physical capacity to stand, serve, and lead. Whether it’s increasing endurance for long hours of ministry or simply being a stronger, healthier version of yourself, keep your “why” at the forefront. Training is more than reps and sets—it’s preparation for service.
2. Your Time Commitment
Let’s be honest—finding time to train can be one of the biggest challenges. But remember, you’re investing in your health and your future. How much are you willing to invest? Start by carving out 30-60 minutes a few times a week. Consistency beats intensity, so even short, manageable sessions will yield results over time.
Incorporating fitness into your routine will eventually become a natural part of your day. Whether you’re busy with ministry, family, or personal commitments, scheduling time for your health is a non-negotiable step toward being able to give more of yourself to others.
3. Space and Environment
Creating the right environment is crucial. Do you have a dedicated space for your training? It doesn’t need to be large, but it does need to be intentional. Set aside an area, even if it’s just a corner of your living room or garage, where you can train distraction-free. Your gym space should be inviting and organized, encouraging consistency. When training at home, it’s all about removing barriers and making the decision to work out as easy as possible.
4. Essential Equipment for Your Home Gym
Starting a home gym doesn’t have to break the bank. With a few key pieces of equipment, you can build a foundation that covers everything from strength to cardio. Here’s what we recommend:
Digital Scale
Nutrition is vital, and knowing exactly what you’re putting into your body is essential. A digital food scale helps track portion sizes and makes meal planning more intentional.
Select-a-Size Dumbbells
These adjustable dumbbells give you the flexibility to work out with varying weights without cluttering your space with multiple sets. They’re a one-stop solution for strength training.
Resistance Bands
A cost-effective way to build strength and flexibility. They are lightweight, easy to store, and versatile, making them perfect for both beginners and seasoned trainers.
Pull-up Bar
A pull-up bar is essential for upper-body strength, whether mounted to your doorway or wall. It takes minimal space but delivers maximum results.
Workout Bench
While it’s an investment, a solid bench opens up a range of exercises, from presses to rows, giving you versatility in your strength training.
- Heavy Duty Bench – this is the goat
Exercise Mat
Don’t overlook comfort—an exercise mat cushions your body during stretches, yoga, and core work.
These items offer a well-rounded workout experience, allowing you to train multiple muscle groups efficiently from home.
5. The Investment: How Much Is Your Health Worth?
Building a home gym requires some upfront investment, but remember, this is an investment in you. How much are you willing to invest in your health? Think about what it means for your energy levels, endurance, and longevity in service. Investing in your health now means fewer health issues later and the ability to be fully present in your mission.
Here’s a rough estimate of your home gym essentials:
- Digital Scale: $15-30
- Select-a-Size Dumbbells: $350-500 (depending on the model)
- Resistance Bands: $20-50
- Pull-up Bar: $30-60
- Workout Bench: $100-150
- Exercise Mat: $15-40
For under $1,000, you can build a fully functional gym at home. Consider the long-term benefits compared to a gym membership or the cost of future medical bills. This is your commitment to yourself, your vocation, and your ability to serve others.
Conclusion: Train with Purpose
At IPC Strength, we view training as a physical and spiritual endeavor. Your home gym is more than a collection of equipment—it’s a space where you can strengthen your body, your mind, and your spirit, allowing you to live out your calling with energy, endurance, and confidence. Start with your “why,” build your space with purpose, and invest in yourself.
Your journey starts now. How strong are you willing to become for the sake of your mission?
