Have you ever wondered what goes into building a home gym?

The answer is ambiguous of course, but if you were like I was a little less than a year ago.. I knew some of the key pieces of equipment I wanted to have initially, but had no idea how the space was going to look and what my initial budget would actually cover. If you're sitting there scratching your head on where to start, I'd love to show you what I did below if you want to pull any ideas or inspiration from my recent experience!

Why I Built a Small Home Gym

I have always wanted a home gym for as long as I can remember! There's just those days that you can't make it across town, you have a sick child or other reasons where it's just nice to jump into the garage and get some movement in. 

Now my dream gym is a full room with weightlifting and cardio equipment, motivational posters, big TV. My list could probably go on and on. However, that's not what I'm working with over here, so for now those dreams will live on Pinterest. 

Let me walk you through my small yet functional home gym, as it's complete (for now). 😉

Assessing The Space

I'm going to be honest, I have a three car garage. We do have space. The left side of our garage is a DeWalt factory. Lol. We have a tool bench, other tables, tools, etc. We also have custom cabinets. That literally takes up a full car area. The middle of the garage is open, right now for the kids to run their bikes around, and where their bikes and wagons live. We also have a two person stroller that also takes up a ton of space. We put them all in the middle, and the kids make a track around them. Custom cabinets line the back of the garage. That leaves us with the right side! We used to have a standup bike rack, which was space saving but wasn't getting a lot of use. We also have ladders and storage on the right side. In such a huge space, this seemed like the best place to add my home gym. We put the bikes in the shed and started measuring.

Like I said, my dream setup against this wall would look something like a Bay Club or Equinox Gym in a smaller version, but I knew I didn't have space for that. So, I had to figure out two things: How to use the least amount of space but still have a fully functional home gym and figure out what equipment to purchase initially.

How to use the least amount of space but still have a fully functional home gym

I initially was looking at something that mounted to the wall. This would allow it to be pushed against the wall at any given time and would allow for both cars to fit in the garage if need be. Makes sense, but it didn't really allow for any progression or growth. If my goal is to do a muscle up, I'm going to eventually hit the wall with my feet if it's that close. My tip for you when accessing your space: make sure to plan for future goals and usage so you don't outgrow your space. For us, it was purchasing something like the wall unit, but could be placed farther from the wall if need be (and ours already is). My husband just got his first muscle up last week, so already we purchased the right equipment for our lifestyle and fitness goals.

Once I chose the space saving half rack, it was time to check the rest of the space to see how it would all fit. We put two horse stall mats right in the center and measured where the half rack would sit, which ended up on the right side and mat. Since it's been less than a year since purchasing it all, that's where we're still at today.

What equipment to purchase initially

Now for the fun stuff! I had a few lists going at first. I started with everything I initially wanted (it's fun to dream, right?), and then reviewed the basic pieces I would need initially. For me, my initial list I ended up purchasing was this:

- Floor Mats

- Half Rack (Rogue Fitness) 

- Stainless Steel Bella Bar (Rogue Fitness) 

- Barbell Collars (Magnetic Clips) (Rogue Fitness) 

- Initial starting Bumper Plates (Rogue Fitness) 

- Plate Storage (Rogue Fitness)

- Bar Storage (Rogue Fitness)

- Dumbbells (Rogue Fitness) 

- Kettlebell (Rogue Fitness)

- Games Box (Rogue Fitness) 

- Wall Ball (Rogue Fitness)

- Gymnastic Rings (Rogue Fitness)

- Monster Bands (Rogue Fitness) 

- Hand Grips (Rogue Fitness) 

- Dream Item: Echo GHD (Rogue Fitness) (Update: It's one of my most favorite gym purchases!)

I also knew I needed:

- Booty Bands

- Gym Chalk

- Squat Pad 

What's nice about all of these items, is that most of them are compact and can be moved around easily. Since they all fit in the space well and can be moved/put away, I don't feel like it's too crowded at all. Of course, I have the middle of the garage to work with if need be, but generally I can do burpees under the rack, and box jumps on the side. I actually feel like the space works out really well. It feels good to have a small space that's still completely functional for fitness.

Is a home gym ever really complete?

If you've ever made a home gym because you're "trying to save money", you'll know that this doesn't work out. Eventually, you have to just stop. There's always something else you "need" for your home gym. In the future I would LOVE a rower, assault bike, additional weight, timer, whiteboard, etc. Like I said, there's always something. However, I'm really enjoying having a space along with the functionality we still have in the garage. So for now, all the cardio will have to be taken outside on the pavement (although I'm currently eyeing this option that would turn my bike into a machine: Sportneer Bike Trainer Stand).

Hopefully this helps if you're looking to build a similar small gym in an area of your own home. I can say that it was totally worth it, and I love that it's open 24/7- no excuses. Feel free to reach out or comment if I can help with any questions! 

*This post contains affiliate links for your convenience. This means that I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase through a link. Read my full disclaimer here.

 Hi Friends and Family,

I wanted to pop in and post... because I JUST SAW THAT I'M ON RENAISSANCE PERIODIZATION'S RP STRENGTH'S MAIN INSTAGRAM PAGE! AHHH!! What a dream! 

Courtesy of Renaissance Periodization's RP Strength Instagram App

It takes hard work, dedication, support, strength, and perseverance to do a full out 85 day cut 100%, and I feel honored to be one of the people placed on their site to say.. 

I DID IT! 

Again, thank you all for supporting me throughout this journey. I can't wait for you to feel this good, and I'm ready to support you right back! 🙌

Ready for your turn? 

rp.app/code/JERICKA (or code JERICKA on RP's website) will save you money on your upcoming RP journey! 

I can't wait to see how much success you have too!

11:30 a.m. PST hits the clock, and I'm off my video conference and heading into the kitchen to make my pre WOD (or pre workout) shake and snack! Having a whey protein shake (versus a standard pre workout mix) and some sugary carbs used to be really foreign to me, but I've actually really grown to love the combo. If sugary carbs is new to you before a workout, enjoy! 

Lets dive into what I have before I workout, along with some other ideas I've seen in the gym below.

Here's What I Have Most Days for My Pre-Workout

Other Ideas to Have as Workout Carbs:

When Do I Consume My Pre-Workout Meal and Shake?

You'll notice that the time you're supposed to consume these two are right when you start your workout. For me, I usually eat/drink most of it in the car on the way to the gym. I have a 15 minute drive, and always start with the marshmallows first (you already knew that, didn't you)? Many days, I'll add some water in when I get to the gym so that I can have it on the way back. I also always add ice! 

What's your go-to pre workout carbs? Do you find that they help you with new personal records? Share with us all below! 

Good morning family and friends,

I just wanted to pop in really quick and share... that I'm featured this morning on Renaissance Periodization's RP Tranformations Instagram page!!! AHHH!!! 

I can't believe it! I've worked so incredibly hard to get to where I am right now, that I'm humbled to be on a page with so many others who share similar success. I'm seriously on cloud nine!

Here's the full post if you want to read it:

Ready for your turn? 

rp.app/code/JERICKA (or code JERICKA on RP's website) will save you money on your upcoming RP journey! 

I can't wait to see how much success you have too!

It's 2 p.m. I just successfully finished the first half of my work day. I worked just as hard in the gym at lunch, and finished my post WOD meal right when I got home (which was great, but doesn't leave me feeling full). I look at the clock, then back at my schedule to see when my next meal is.. and there's quite a few hours to go. Have you been here before too? There's so many days (okay, most days!), that I struggle a bit between 2-5 p.m. Maybe because the day feels like it takes a week to get to the end of my work day, maybe I slow down after lunch so I have more time to think about food, maybe I really am a little bit more hungry. Whatever the case, I know I need to mentally get myself to at least 4:30 p.m. (and 5 p.m. if I want a full pita pizza, which is motivating)!

What's my secret trick that gets me through the second part of my day?

I find that drinking flavored water, and having the option to choose a flavor is actually pretty satisfying! If you follow me on social media, you'll see I try all the brands and all the flavors. I really don't stick with one, as it makes it more exciting. (Variety is the spice of life!)

What I Have Readily Available in My Fridge Today:

- Kirkland's Sparkling Water

- S. Pellegrino

- Bang Caffeine Free Apple Crisp

- Waterloo Sparkling Water

We switch these up often, but are some ideas if you're feeling the mid-day slump and want to try one! I've also seen people chew flavored sugar free gum, although I couldn't make that one stick.

Is there something that gets you through your day that I should try? Comment below!

*DISCLOSURE: I'm an ambassador of Pearce Pointers, which at no additional cost to you, allows me to earn commission when you purchase using my links. However, all information above is my own review of the program, a program in which I purchased on my own. Thank you in advance for your support of my blog. I know you're going to love her programs! 

There aren't too many programs I immediately jump on board to promote, but Kari Pearce's Power Abs programming checks all the boxes!

I had been back in the gym for a couple of years post baby, and I still wasn't performing some of the movements as best as I knew I could. And with CrossFit, you're training it all, so I wanted a program specifically geared to strengthen my core so all of my movements would improve. My motivation was to perform better in the gym, but my abs sure are prettier to look at now too. 😄

If you're not familiar with Kari, she's a six time CrossFit Games participant, and the first woman in the US to stand on the CrossFit Games podium in 2020 since 2014. She's badass, and has some of the most amazing abs to back up the incredible program she launched. And the original Power Abs programming has been so successful that she now has multiple programs and an eating plan available!

Whether you're considering doing it for esthetics or performance, she has the programs to get them in to tip top shape! However, I didn't realize all that I was getting by purchasing this program, and I want to make sure it's not a secret to you. Here's my top five reasons for doing a Kari Pearce Power Abs program:

1. You Pay Once for the Program, and it's Yours! 

So many digital programs today are subscription based, meaning you pay monthly to utilize them. Not this one, and that makes it extremely attractive. She has many different sales throughout the year, making it usually around $1/day for one month (and free the rest of the time you use it). Honestly, trying this program is a serious no brainer.

2. There's Two Videos per Workout- One to Review Movements, One for the Actual Workout!

I love that before you actually start the workout, she has a quick video tutorial of how to do each movement. Genius! Once the workout begins, you already know what to do and can complete it at the speed you desire. And if you do it multiple times, you don't have to watch the intro. She does a quick "what's in the workout" on the screen for a couple seconds before you begin. 

3. There's Multiple Levels

Each program is different, but at minimum there will be a level one and two (meaning you can bounce between the movements based on your initial abilities, or you can complete the whole program at level one, and continue doing level two, etc.). Programs such as Summer Power Abs have three levels (and I have yet to even come close to mastering level three.. or anywhere close).

4. There's Multiple Programs

Since becoming an ambassador, Kari has really rounded out her programming to make sure everyone has an ab program that meets the person where they're at. There's Power Abs for Moms, Power Abs, Summer Power Abs, Extreme Power Abs, etc. So on top of different levels included with each one, there's also multiple Power Abs programs available to try. I'd be lying if I said most stop at one. 

5. The Community you Receive is Hands Down the Best!

I save this one for last, because I truly didn't know how much this would impact my every day life. Our ab community is filled with people at every level, every walk of life, every country. We all come together to cheer people on, celebrate success, cheer for Kari at the CrossFit Games and learn tips on how we all accomplish our Power Abs, so others can learn and be inspired.

If you could benefit from a strengthened core, or maybe your goal next year is to have a six pack, you HAVE to check out her programs! I'm an avid CrossFitter, so I started with Summer Power Abs, and I feel like it meets me where I'm at. If you're active and just need to tone up your abs, I would start with her original program, Power Abs. It's five different workouts, and comes with a 30-day calendar on how to complete the program.

Imagine Having a Six Pack 30 Days from Today!

👇👇👇

- 10 MINUTES A DAY

- 30 DAYS

- 0 EQUIPMENT NEEDED

- CAN BE DONE ANYWHERE, ANYTIME

Current Power Abs and PHIIT Programs (added program discounts automatically included in the below links):

Intro to Power Abs

Power Abs (the Original) Program

Power Abs 2.0

Power Abs for Moms 

Summer Power Abs

Extreme Power Abs

Power Abs in the Kitchen

PowerAbs for Performance

Summer PowerArms

Power Handstands Course

Power Glutes

Power Legs 

Perfect Pull-Up

Partner Power Abs

Power Glutes Plus 

PowerStretching

PowerAbs with Patch 

PHIIT (Full body)

Low Impact PHIIT (Full body, no jumping)

Super PHIIT 

Feel free to comment or send me a message if you have any questions at all. I'd be happy to help! 

Hi friends! 👋

I can't believe I'm writing this, but I JUST successfully completed my first fat loss phase cut, 100% compliant! If you're keeping track, that's 85 days through Halloween, Thanksgiving and a majority of the Christmas season.

Now I've had a few fat loss cycles prior, all resulting in some type of event or outing where I just gave in. Or maybe I went in wanting to be compliant the majority of the time, but wanted a few meals per week to splurge. If you're like this too, I get it! It's hard to mentally prepare yourself 100% of the time for what you're eating. It's hard to bring a small dinner and protein bar to a surprise party, or your large kitchen scale on vacation. And yes, these are things I did to remain focused and on track. Nothing was getting in my way this time. But what I didn't know until I did it fully, is how much more food you get when you're compliant. I didn't want to cheat myself with one meal, because I already knew what that next week would look like if I did. Have you heard of going into the hole before? If not, let me just tell you that it's awful. Let me also tell you that I didn't experience it once throughout this cut.

A lot of people have congratulated me, and followed up with "how did you do it"? Because of this, I wanted to provide my top seven tips for a successful fat loss phase.

1. Mentally Prepare Yourself, and really know your WHY

I know this sounds so simple, but this is a challenge. Challenges are made to test you, your patience, your perseverance, whether or not you can finish. Although this one isn't geared around a quick endurance race- don't discount it being very similar. It's longer. There's more room for error. There's more room for people to question you, and steer you away from what you're doing. There's more temptation involved. There's more time to lose focus.

My personal why? I knew I'd feel better around my pre-baby weight, and I knew I'd perform better in the gym too (it's a lot easier to do a strict pull-up at 135 pounds vs 150). Successfully finishing a cut meant that I would be able to successfully eat things that I love again, but also maintain a new lower weight that would also get me closer to my lifestyle goals. Give a little to have a whole lot more.

2. Create Your Daily Skeleton

I can't stress this enough! Write out a full day of meals (for me four), and eat the same shit every single day. Get comfortable with it, enjoy it. I'm not saying eat chicken four times a day either.

My daily skeleton was very simple, and I suggest you do the same. I do egg whites, one egg and an English muffin in the morning. I do Greek yogurt with blueberries, granola and honey after WOD/lunch. I do chicken, cheese and bread for dinner. For my bedtime meal, I usually do a protein bar and either chicken or yogurt to meet my protein. (I post a lot of my meals on my Instagram if you want to take a look.)

3. Venture One Meal on the Weekend at a Time

If you're looking at me like I'm crazy for saying you should eat the same thing every day, I get it. I ventured plenty, trust me- but not in the beginning. Not before I started seeing progress, not before I felt comfortable with what a typical meal looked like each time and day. Right now, I have an idea of what I need for all four meals. If I swap the gym at noon for later in the day, I know the routine and macros so well that I don't even need to update my schedule anymore. You'll get there, but not the first week. Allow yourself to be a beginner, to really see how much protein you need, make grocery shopping easy and slowly replace things here and there when need be.

4. Have Your Fat Loss Trick Food and Drinks!

You will have cravings. I repeat, you are human and will want other food throughout an 85 day period. This is completely normal. I'm a corporate professional, and the second half of my day (the slower portion of my day), I am always hungry. I refer to it more to when you're bored on the couch and think you need chips or crackers. That's where I pull in my tricks and get myself to the next meal. (I share a lot of these on Instagram if you want to take a look.)

5. Weigh Yourself Wednesday and Fridays

Ah, another super important one! I used to weigh myself every day, and every day that dang scale would move. I'd enter it in, and my graph would be all over the place. Sound familiar? What if you followed the process and use a couple weigh ins just to make sure your macros are on track?

This may be one of the better decisions I've made, as I no longer focus on the scale, but how I'm feeling, looking and really trusting the process. I know we're talking all fat loss cut success right now, but in maintenance I actually scale it down to one day a week! 

6. Accountability

Another one of my favorites, which is why it's on the list! If people know what you're doing, you're more likely to do it. Right? I didn't have a big cheerleader when I first started my program, or the second... or third. I didn't have anyone really rooting me on, doing the same things or even accepting really what I was doing. "Why can't you just have one hamburger and fries, it's not going to hurt you?" would be a normal response I would get in the beginning. Have you heard something similar?

I decided to create a group of similar interests for myself, and put my story and progress on the line. Did I know all of these people? Some of them, most of them not. However, their daily goals were similar to mine, so I created an environment that was positive for me. They would also work out, they would too eat healthy.. and when I posted a Friday check-in, they were celebrating WITH me, encouraging me and were genuinely excited for me to finish on top. It motivated me, made me want to try harder and provided the community I was looking for. If you don't have this and are looking for it, message me so I can help!

7. You Need a Plan, Period (and a Backup)

I'm a natural planner, so this one was easy for me. I also realize this may not come second nature for some. I put together a plan. In my planner, I wrote out days 1-85. I saw that my fat loss phase went over Halloween, a surprise birthday party, Thanksgiving and our only vacation of the year. Going back to the first item on the list, I mentally prepared myself for the long haul, the dates that would be different and honed in on what I needed to do. There was plenty of days where I could have easily been knocked off course. I planned eggs for our vacation breakfast, and our outdoor stove didn't cooperate (my only fast food the entire 85 days, and the first time I used the restaurant options to figure out what I could eat). I ate half of a sausage breakfast burrito from McDonald's, rushed to the store and finished the rest of my protein macros with yogurt. But I stayed on plan. My scale died on me (like completely), and I had to use my purse backup. It completely saved me for a day, and I recommend having one on hand! My program had a big update in the middle of my cut, and as a creature of habit, it threw me off a bit. Like I said, plenty of opportunities for me to throw in the towel and do something different. I stayed 100% on course, and I owe a lot to having a plan and backup.

The hard part for me is now done! Do I have a bit more fat loss to go? Maybe 5-10 more pounds, but I definitely won't need a full 85 day phase to get there. It's all small changes and mini cuts from here on out, and I couldn't be more excited. Here's where I landed:

September 21st starting weight: 154.7 pounds

December 15th ending weight: 133.2 pounds

Hopefully this post is encouraging and really helps you to see that it IS possible to successfully complete a fat loss phase. Let me know which tips above you love in the comments below!

Ready for your turn? 

Click here to read why I love the RP Diet App!

Click here to read my Five Favorite Items for Fat Loss

To start your own journey, download the app here.

GAINING WEIGHT THROUGH PREGNANCY

MY YEAR OF TRANSFORMATION