Shape-Up Rhodes: Dorm Room Fitness Equipment Essentials

If you are uncomfortable lifting weights and doing crunches while the football team is working out, have no fear.  These three pieces of equipment are both affordable and available for purchase at your nearest Target.  You can achieve the same fitness results as you would in the gym in the comfort of your dorm room.
 
Physio/Stability Ball
 
Physio Balls can be used to tighten not only your abs, but also your legs and arms. Doing basic crunches on a physio ball rather than on a yoga mat is a holistic abdominal workout.  You can additionally use both a physio ball and hand weights to strengthen your arms rather than standing while lifting. 

 
Check out this article in STACK Magazine for Physio Ball workout Ideas.
 
Target- Reebok Stability Ball Kit- Blue (75 cm)
$17.00

Purchase one here!
 
 
Kettlebell

The Kettlebell originates from Russia and is designed to help you work muscles that are difficult to reach with ordinary dumbbells.  If you don’t have time to get to the gym and want to do some cardio, a Kettlebell can be used to pump up your heart rate and help you break a sweat. 
 
Check out this instructional video by Fitness/Diet Expert Sarah Dussault.
 
Check out this article by Women’s Health Magazine with great kettlebell moves to tone your entire body.
 
Target- Bob Harper Contoured Kettlebell with Training DVD- Pink (7 lbs)
$29.99

Purchase one here!
 
 
 
 
3-5 lb set of Dumbbells
 
Dumbbells can be used to intensify your basic workout moves such as squats, lunges, and crunches.  A set of lightweight dumbbells will help you achieve overall toning and will come in handy if you decide to follow a workout video or routine. 
 
Check out this article by the Women’s Heart Foundation with information about strength training and step-by-step instruction for basic free weight exercises.
 
Target- Embark Handweight- Blue (5 lbs)
$6.99 single weight

Purchase one here.