While it is absolutely possible to exercise without using any external tools, exercise equipment do enhance the workout experience especially when used to strengthen and develop specific body parts. The most commonly used exercise tools are balls, weights and resistance bands. Each have their own intended purpose.

Balls of different sizes are used in the various kinds of fitness regimens today. There are Pilates balls that are made to enhance a Pilates program, Swiss balls for core strength and balance training and medicine balls that are specifically designed to rehabilitate injured athletes and develop strength. Balls create a highly unstable workout surface, causing the core muscles to work together and making it more powerful in the process. By stabilizing the spine, exercise balls help treat chronic back pains and prevent them from coming back.

Weights, meanwhile, are used to exercise the different muscle groups in the body. There are free weights such as dumbbells and barbells and there are also weight machines that operate using a system of pulleys on a steel frame. Leg presses and Smith Machines are examples of the latter. A dumbbell is differentiated from a barbell in the size of its bars and the number of hands that are needed to lift it. A dumbbell is meant to be held on one hand since it is much lighter compared to a barbell that necessitates the using of two hands before it can be lifted. Weights are often used to add resistance to any cardiovascular workout. In strength training, this type of exercise equipment is also used to develop certain muscle groups separately.

Resistance bands are color-coded bands that offer a more portable alternative to free weights. They can be used to strengthen and develop various areas in the body, including the legs, arms, shoulder and back. Aside from its portability, many choose resistance bands because they are way cheaper compared to other strength training aids.

Owning your own set of fitness equipment is indispensable if you want to bring your weight training sessions at home. Having these weights in your home gym will ensure that you do not miss a day of workout when the weather does not permit a drive to the gym. However, before you start buying these exercise equipment, make sure that you will actually use it. Buy equipment that you have used before and actually enjoy using. This way, you won't let your hard-earned money gather dust in your garage.

Consider affordability and available space. Make sure that any fitness equipment you buy is actually within your means to pay. Nothing could ruin an exercise routine more than getting on a treadmill and calculating whether your food budget will last until the next paycheck because of the monthly payments on your high-tech workout machine. Look at your space. If you live in a cramped city apartment, then it would be best to just get your walking or running done outdoors than invest a hefty sum in a treadmill that won't fit in your living room.

Finally, opt for the tried and tested fitness equipment rather than investing your money in some newfangled invention that gives you the quick fix. Chances are, the latter won't give you the results they claim and you'll simply be wasting your money and your time.