Written by Mia Barnes

Creating a home gym doesn’t have to empty your wallet. With a little creativity and some smart choices, you can set up a functional workout space without spending a fortune. Whether you’re into strength training or cardio, here’s how to make it work on a budget.

Prioritise the Essentials

You don’t need fancy machines to get a great workout in. Focus on versatile, affordable equipment like:

• Resistance bands for strength training and stretching.
• Dumbbells or adjustable weights
• A jump rope for affordable cardio
• A Pilates ball for stability, stretching and balance

Use What You Have

Before buying anything, check what’s already in your home. A sturdy chair or ottoman can double as a workout bench, and towels (or paper plates!) can replace sliders for core workouts. Even a backpack filled with books (or adding hand weights to your coat pocket) can act as a weighted vest.

Find Budget-Friendly Alternatives

A gym membership can be pricey; however, creating a home gym and investing in durable, quality equipment you only buy once is a great long-term alternative to keep exercising. It is even better when you don't have to spend time and money driving to get there!

If new equipment isn’t in the budget, look for second-hand options. Check Facebook
Marketplace, Ebay or charity shops. Many people sell barely used fitness equipment for a fraction of the price.

Focus on Bodyweight Exercises

You don’t even need equipment to build strength. Squats, lunges, push-ups, and planks are all effective and free. Bodyweight movements are a fantastic way to build muscle and improve balance. Combine them into circuits for a full-body workout.

Core sliders are a great way to add resistance and strength to bodyweight workouts on a budget without weights.

Get Creative With Cardio

Treadmills and stationary bikes can be pricey, but there are other options. If you can't get out for a run, try high knees, jumping jacks, HIIT (think Joe Wicks) or dance workouts on You Tube. Low-impact cardio like Pilates or Vinyasa yoga can help you deal with chronic conditions like diabetes or osteoporosis. Walking is a great, low impact cardio workout with so many health benefits, and it's free!

Make Use of Free Online Resources

Skip the expensive workout programmes. YouTube has thousands of free workout videos, from yoga to strength training. Fitness apps often have free versions with great workouts, too. We have downloadable workouts available in our Workout Centre to help you get started.

Create a Motivating Space

Your home gym doesn’t need to be fancy. Just clear a small area and keep it organised. A
corner of your living room, garage or even outdoor patio can work. Keeping your equipment in one place helps create a habit of working out regularly. A yoga mat
or foam tiles can make hard floors more comfortable. A mirror — even a small one — can help with form.

Make Your Own Equipment

If you’re handy, you can build some of your own workout equipment. A sandbag or plastic bottle filled with rice can replace traditional weights. A duffel bag stuffed with heavy objects makes a great DIY weight for deadlifts and squats. You can even fill an old basketball with sand to use as a homemade medicine ball. You can read about the benefits of adding light weights to your exercise regime here.

Upgrade Over Time

There’s no need to buy everything at once — start with the essentials and upgrade as your fitness goals evolve. Begin with resistance bands and bodyweight workouts, then add weights and other equipment when your budget allows. The key is to prioritise what you’ll use and invest in quality pieces instead of buying equipment that might collect dust.

Stay Consistent

A home gym is only effective if you use it, so find workouts you enjoy and set a schedule that works for you rather than makes fitness harder. Even short workouts done consistently will lead to progress. The beauty of a home gym is that you have full control over your space and routine. Find our latest blog post here on how to create a consistent routine as part of your daily life that you can stick to.

Make the Most of Your Home Gym

Creating a home gym on a budget is completely possible. Whether you’re shopping  second hand or using free workout resources, there are plenty of ways to stay fit without spending a fortune. The most important thing is to get started and stay committed to your fitness journey.

If you want to enhance your Pilates practice or add a fresh, effective twist to your fitness routine, incorporating Weighted Pilates balls is the way to go. These compact, versatile tools are perfect for increasing resistance, boosting core engagement, and promoting overall body strength and stability.

Whether you're a Pilates enthusiast or a beginner exploring fitness with weighted equipment, this routine offers a balanced blend of strength training, core activation, flexibility, and relaxation. Plus, it’s low-impact, making it accessible to all fitness levels and ages.

Why Use Weighted Pilates Balls?

Weighted Pilates balls are small but mighty. They add resistance to traditional Pilates exercises, enhancing their benefits by:

• Engaging deeper muscle fibres
• Improving balance and stability
• Supporting joint mobility
• Boosting calorie burn and metabolism

By integrating these weighted balls into your workout, you’ll notice significant improvements in muscle tone, core strength, and functional fitness, all while enjoying a safe, joint-friendly exercise. Plus they are gorgeous to hold and fit in the palm of your hand, making them easy, comfortable and enjoyable to use.

35-40 Minute Weighted Pilates Ball Workout Routine

This Pilates workout is designed to maximise the benefits of incorporating weighted Pilates balls. Perform each exercise slowly and with control, focusing on form and breathwork.

Warm-Up (5 Minutes)

Prepping your body is essential for preventing injuries and improving performance. Start with these Standing Roll Downs to wake up your spine and core.

Standing Roll Downs with Weighted Ball

Stand tall with feet hip-width apart, holding the weighted ball in both hands.

Inhale as you reach the ball overhead, and exhale as you roll down, vertebra by vertebra, bringing the ball towards the floor.

Inhale at the bottom, and exhale as you roll back up, stacking your spine.

Repeat 6 times to increase mobility and warm up your body.

You could always do these seated as well.

Core Activation (8 Minutes)

Target and strengthen your core muscles with these focused moves.

Ball Roll-Ups

• Lie on your back, legs extended, holding the weighted ball above your head.
• Inhale as you curl up, bringing the ball forward.
• Exhale as you stretch toward your feet, keeping control.
• Reverse the motion slowly and repeat 8 times.

Oblique Twists with Ball

• Sit with knees bent, feet flat, holding the ball at chest level.
• Lean back slightly, twisting your torso to the right to tap the ball beside your hip.
• Return to the center and twist to the left.
• Perform 10 twists per side to strengthen obliques.

Strength and Stability (10 Minutes)

Build strength and balance with these powerful, controlled exercises.

Weighted Bridge

• Lie on your back with knees bent, feet flat, holding the balls on your hips.
• Inhale to press through your feet, lifting your hips into a bridge.
• Exhale to slowly lower back down.
• Perform 10-12 reps to target glutes and hamstrings.

Single-Leg Dead Bug with Ball

• Start on your back with arms holding the ball overhead and legs in a table top position.
• Lower your right leg and left arm simultaneously, keeping your core engaged.
• Return to start and switch sides.
• Perform 8-10 reps per side.

Upper Body Focus (8 Minutes)

Tone and strengthen your upper body with these exercises.

Ball Chest Press

• Lie on your back, knees bent, holding the ball at chest level.
• Inhale as you press the ball up.
• Exhale to slowly lower it back.

Perform 10-12 reps for stronger shoulders and chest.

Tricep Extension with Ball

• Sit or stand, holding the ball overhead.
• Inhale as you bend your elbows to lower the ball behind your head.
• Exhale to straighten arms.
• Perform 10-12 reps for sculpted triceps.

Lower Body Focus (8 Minutes)

Strengthen and tone your legs while improving stability.

Ball Squat Hold

• Stand with feet shoulder-width apart, holding the ball at chest height.
• Lower into a squat, keeping thighs parallel to the floor.
• Hold for 15-30 seconds, engaging your core, then rise back up.
• Repeat 3-5 times.

Lateral Lunge with Ball

• Hold the ball at chest level and step out into a side lunge.
• Lower the ball toward your knee and push off to return to standing.
• Perform 8-10 reps per side.

Cool Down (5 Minutes)

Relax and stretch to improve flexibility and aid recovery.

Seated Forward Fold with Ball

• Sit with your legs extended, holding the ball.
• Lengthen your spine on an inhale, and fold forward on an exhale, reaching the ball toward your feet.
• Hold for 20-30 seconds.

Seated Spine Twist with Ball

• Sit cross-legged or with legs extended, holding the ball at chest level.
• Twist your torso to the right, exhaling, and return to center on an inhale.
• Repeat 5-6 twists per side.

Key Benefits of This Workout

This workout is a game-changer for anyone looking to level up their fitness routine with minimal equipment. Here’s what you can expect:

Improved Muscle Tone and Strength – Sculpt your body with added resistance from the weighted balls.

Enhanced Core Stability – Build a stronger, more functional core.

Increased Balance and Coordination – Improve everyday movements and athletic performance.

Boosted Flexibility – Stretch dynamically for better joint mobility.

Higher Calorie Burn – Elevate your metabolism and manage weight.

Stress Relief – Embrace mindful movement to reduce tension and feel centred.

Looking for more?

For more Weighted Pilates Ball workouts, try this 10 minute upper body sculpt with Lauren Swadling of @barresculptpilates.

Why Save This Routine?

This Weighted Pilates Balls Workout Routine is not only effective but also enjoyable and easy to adapt to any fitness level. Please share it with friends and family to inspire them to prioritise fitness. By saving this guide, you'll always have a go-to workout for days when you want a full-body challenge with minimal equipment.

Embrace the transformative benefits of this workout today—your body and mind will thank you!

Written by Mia Barnes

You don’t need a strict workout routine to feel the mental benefits of movement. Even small amounts of physical activity can help clear your mind, boost your mood, and reduce stress. Whether it’s a short walk, a yoga session, a workout class, or stretching while watching TV, movement plays a big role in how you feel mentally.

At Amp Wellbeing, we believe that fitness and wellness should be accessible, enjoyable, and seamlessly integrated into daily life. Our mission is to inspire everyday movement, making it easy for you to prioritise your health—whenever and wherever it suits you. We understand that mental and physical wellbeing go hand in hand, which is why we design stylish, functional, and high-quality fitness equipment that fits effortlessly into your home and lifestyle.

Movement is more than just exercise—it’s a powerful tool for self-care, balance, and overall wellbeing. Whether you’re looking to relieve stress, build strength, or simply feel better, we’re here to support you with the right equipment and guidance to make movement a natural part of your day. Here’s how it can positively impact your mental health.

Reduces Stress

Boosts Your Mood

Exercise triggers endorphins, the chemicals in your brain that help relieve pain and improve your mood. This is why people often feel better after a workout, even when they weren’t in the mood to start. But you don’t have to push yourself through an intense gym session to reap the benefits. A bike ride, a casual swim or playing with your pet can all help boost your mood naturally. 

If you’re not into traditional exercise, try dancing, hiking or anything that gets you moving in a fun way. Even if you’re short on time, just a few minutes of gentle movement can help shift your mindset.

Clears the Mental Clutter

Some of the best thinking happens when you’re moving. Walking, running and other repetitive activities help your brain process thoughts and emotions more efficiently. That’s why taking a walk often helps when you feel stuck on a problem. 

If you’re overwhelmed, try moving without distractions — no phone or music — just let your thoughts settle as you go. If you do need a little guidance, listening to a wellness podcast while walking can boost your mental well-being and give you new ways to manage stress. 

Helps You Feel More Connected

Physical activity doesn’t have to be a solo endeavour. Moving with others can help you feel more connected, which is just as important for mental well-being as the movement itself. Whether it’s joining a sports team, taking a yoga class or just going for a walk with a friend, being active with others can combat loneliness and boost your motivation. 

Promotes Better Sleep

If you struggle to fall asleep or wake up feeling groggy, moving more during the day can help. Regular physical activity regulates your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall and stay asleep.

Remember, you don’t need a hectic or intense workout — just moving more throughout the day can make a difference. Even stretching or doing light yoga before bed can help your body wind down. We have some beginner guides and workouts to help you get started in our Workout Centre.

Increases Energy

It sounds backward, but when you’re tired, movement can actually help you feel more energized. Physical activity increases blood flow and oxygen levels, which fights off sluggishness. If you hit an afternoon slump, a quick walk or even standing up and stretching for a few minutes can wake you up more effectively than another cup of coffee. 

Small Moves, Big Impact

The benefits of movement add up over time. You don’t have to overhaul your routine — just find small ways to move throughout the day (you can read more about creating a consistent,  easy to follow fitness plan here). If you feel sluggish, stand up and stretch. If your mind is racing, take a short walk. Even if you’re not in the mood to exercise, doing something simple can help shift your energy. Movement isn’t about doing the most but about doing what you can.

Written by Mia Barnes

Many fitness enthusiasts understand that push and pull during rest days. It’s imperative to give your body the rest it needs during a recovery routine. However, there’s always a lingering fear that you’re letting your muscles relax too much.

Staying active will help your body return to its regularly scheduled programming, but only when done in moderation. It’s best to avoid pulling any muscles, which would delay returning to your usual routine.

These are where low-impact exercises come in. Utilising equipment such as massage balls and foam rollers, along with simple motions like stretching, can help you maximize your recovery period and get back on your feet. 

Massage Ball for Mobility

Some people experience myofascial pain, which occurs around the connective tissues of the body. It stems from various triggers, from general stiffness to incorrect form or excessive use. Massage balls can help your body heal by distributing a little pressure to affected areas.

There are multiple ball types and sizes available on the market. Softer massage balls can alleviate your movement restrictions and release triggers. If you want more intense pressure to target smaller muscle groups, smaller variations like peanut balls can work.

To begin using the massage ball, try to feel the pain points within your body. Position your chosen tool and apply as much pressure as you can handle. You can slowly roll the ball in circles to loosen up those internal knots. Feel free to repeat it throughout the day until necessary.

Stretching for Flexibility

Stretching is a great way to refresh your body. It’s easy to do from the moment you wake up and throughout the day, and it offers several benefits, like stimulating your blood circulation and prompting oxygen flow. There are specific stretches to target certain parts of the body, but here are a few examples you can try out:

1. Side Stretch

●      Stand up straight

●      Raise an arm over your head

●      Lean to the opposite side while sliding your other hand down your leg

●      Hold for as many seconds as possible

●      Repeat for the other side

2. Windmilling

      ●      Stand up with your feet wide apart

●      Raise an arm over your head

●      Let your other hand touch your toes on the opposite side

●      Switch sides while staying bent

3. Child’s Pose

      ●      Get a mat and get into a kneeling position

●      Stretch out your arms forward and rest your hips on the feet

●      Slowly move your arms down to touch the ground

●      Bring your shoulders as low as possible and let your back lengthen

Foam Rolling for Muscle Relief

Foam rolling is also a staple for your workout recovery. It’s quite a simple procedure, as the foam roller works with your body rather than against it. The tool can also ease tension and alleviate pressure on the fascia. You could use it on almost any body part, but here are several suggestions on what muscle groups to work on.

1. Back

●      Lie down with the foam roller behind you

●      While bending your knees, lower your back onto the foam roller

●      Lift your glutes and roll back and forth from your upper to lower back

●      If comfortable, cross your arms above your head while rolling

2. Shoulders

●      Lie on your side and place the foam roller under your shoulder

●      Keep your arm straight as you roll your shoulder against the tool

●      Flip to the other side and work on your other shoulder

3. Hamstrings

●      Position the foam roller under your hamstring while sitting with straight legs

●      Cross one leg over the other

●      Roll the tool under one thigh, supporting yourself with your arms

●      Cross your legs the other way and work on the other side

Enhance Your Recovery Process

Muscle recovery is a key step in the workout process. It enables you to rest your body and helps you get right back into your exercise routine better than ever. Utilise the moves and products designed to assist you and create a more optimal resting period. 

Recharge Without Limits: A Wellness Journey for High Performers

Written by Step into Tranquillity

The Hidden Cost of Success

Success drives you—but at what cost? Studies reveal that 70% of high-performing individuals face burnout, caught in a cycle of long hours, relentless stress, and dwindling energy. You’ve mastered the art of pushing forward, but what if the secret to sustained peak performance isn’t more effort—it’s a strategic pause? Imagine resetting your mind, body, and spirit without leaving your desk, your home, or your life. No travel, no rigid schedules—just transformative wellness, tailored to you.

Welcome to the 5-Day Virtual Mini Retreat: 5 Days to Tranquillity and Wellness, an online experience hosted within our dynamic community. This isn’t a one-off event—it’s evergreen, meaning you can join whenever you’re ready. And another great part is that it’s FREE! Partnering with elite wellness innovators—AMP Wellbeing, Big Juice, MONK, and Gravity Cartel—and led by expert Julie Holmwood, this retreat delivers a flexible, science-backed reset for high achievers. Ready to recharge on your terms? Let’s dive in.

Why This Retreat Stands Out

High performers don’t settle—and neither should your wellness. Here’s what makes this virtual retreat your ultimate reset:

A Tribe of Like-Minded Achievers
Join a community of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and driven professionals who get your hustle. Connect, share, and grow together.

Exclusive Access to Julie Holmwood
Wellness expert Julie Holmwood guides you live, offering personalized strategies to thrive.

Direct Connection to Elite Partners
Interact with AMP Wellbeing, Big Juice, MONK, and Gravity Cartel through Q&As and workshops.

Ongoing Support
Stay plugged in with webinars, live Q&As, resources, and a supportive community—wellness that lasts.

Unmatched Flexibility
Start anytime, engage anywhere—wellness that fits your life.

Your 5-Day Journey

Each day brings a new theme, building a holistic reset:

Day 1: Mindful Beginnings - Guided Meditation

Focus: Inner calm and clarity.

What You’ll Do: Ground yourself with Julie’s guided meditation.

Bonus: PDF with mindfulness tips and gratitude journal template.

Partner: AMP Wellbeing adds a gentle movement flow.

Day 2: Nourishing Your Body - Plant-Based Nutrition Tips

Focus: Energy and healing through food.

What You’ll Do: Learn plant-based eating with practical tips.

Bonus: Recipes featuring Big Juice blends.

Partner: Big Juice demos a smoothie to fuel you.

Day 3: Energizing Breath and Cold - Breathwork & Cold Therapy

Focus: Vitality through breath and cold exposure.

What You’ll Do: Calm your system with breathwork; explore cold therapy.

Bonus: Guide to integrate these practices.

Partner: MONK guides a virtual cold plunge.

Day 4: Releasing Stress - Gentle Pilates & Yoga for Balance with Fiona

Focus: Letting go of tension.

What You’ll Do: Flow through a stress-relief yoga session.

Bonus: Printable yoga sequence.

Partner: AMP Wellbeing enhances your practice.

Day 5: Reflection and Renewal - Journaling and Future Steps

Focus: Purpose and lasting wellness.

What You’ll Do: Reflect and plan with guided journaling.

Bonus: Journaling prompts and wellness plan template.

Partner: Gravity Cartel shares tools to sustain momentum.

The Science of Your Transformation

Mindfulness: Cuts stress by 30% (Harvard studies).

Nutrition: Big Juice boosts brainpower with antioxidants.

Cold Therapy: MONK reduces inflammation and elevates mood.

Movement: AMP Wellbeing  lowers cortisol for resilience.

Written by Mia Barnes

Starting a fitness routine doesn’t have to mean overhauling your entire life. The key to true success is making small changes that fit your current schedule, not disrupt it. Here’s how to build a routine you’ll actually stick to.

Set Clear, Realistic Goals

What do you really want from your fitness routine? Maybe you want more energy to play with your kids, improve your mood, or complete that 5K. Whatever it is, write it down. Goals give you direction, keep your motivation up, and give you something to work toward.

Pick Activities You Actually Enjoy

As much as 60% of American adults don’t get enough movement in their daily lives. A big reason for that is exercise often feels like a chore. This is why it’s so important to find something you genuinely love and look forward to. You’re much more likely to stick to something if you actually enjoy doing it.

If the idea of going to the gym makes you groan, don’t force it. Go hiking or biking if you love being outdoors. Those who prefer low-impact workouts could try swimming or Pilates. The more fun it is to you, the less it’ll feel like an obligation.

Schedule It Like an Appointment

You wouldn’t cancel a doctor’s appointment or skip a work meeting, so don’t miss your workout time, either. Pick a time of day that works best for you — maybe that’s early mornings before the chaos starts or evenings after work as a way to unwind. Add it to your calendar, set a reminder, and treat it like an important meeting with yourself.

If mornings aren’t your thing, don’t force it. Find the time that works for your energy levels.

Start Small and Build Up

It’s easy to get overexcited and try to do too much too soon, but that’s a fast track to burnout. Start with something manageable, like 20 minutes a few times a week. Once you’ve built the habit, you can gradually increase the time or intensity.

Keep Your Gear Handy

Make things as easy for yourself as possible. Lay out your workout clothes the night before, or keep a gym bag in your car. If everything’s ready to go, you’re less likely to come up with excuses. The goal is to reduce any barriers that might stop you from getting started.

Don’t let social media convince you you need fancy equipment or luxury gym memberships. Bodyweight exercises are a perfect way to get started without breaking the bank.

Recruit a Workout Buddy

Finding someone to work out with is a fantastic way to stay accountable. Whether you join a fitness class, go for regular walks with a friend, or find a running group, turning workouts into a social activity can help combat loneliness while boosting motivation. Sharing goals and cheering each other on when the session gets tough can make all the difference. Plus, knowing someone is counting on you to show up is an excellent way to stay consistent.

Track Your Progress

Seeing how far you’ve come can be incredibly motivating. Use a fitness app, journal, progress photos, or even just mark days on a calendar. Keep track of what you did, how you felt, and any improvements you’ve noticed. It’s not just about numbers — celebrate non-scale victories like feeling more energetic or noticing your mood improve.

Here are some motivation boosters that may help:

●      Set mini goals, like completing three workouts a week.

●      Reward yourself for reaching milestones. You could treat yourself to a nice dinner or buy those leggings you’ve been eyeing.

●      Create a playlist of your favourite upbeat songs. Research has shown choosing your own workout playlist can boost your performance and enjoyment.

●      Change your routine when you feel bored. Try a new workout class or a different running route to spice things up.

Try to Be Flexible

Some days won’t go as planned, and that’s OK. Life gets busy, and missing a workout doesn't mean you’ve failed. The trick is to adjust without guilt.

If you can’t fit in a full workout, even five or 10 minutes of movement is better than nothing. Focus on consistency over perfection.

Bringing It All Together

You don’t need to flip your life upside down to build a solid fitness routine. Focusing on small, sustainable steps and giving yourself room to adjust is the best way to create a natural habit.

Get started today!