Having the proper RV workout equipment can make or break you when it comes to staying consistent with your travel workouts. After living and fitness coaching full-time on the road for several years we have come up with our list of essential RV fitness equipment to keep you on track with your fitness goals.
Exercising while RVing
As you get organized in your RV, you learn very quickly that weight and storage space are limited luxuries. How you prioritize your storage space depends on your personal goals, lifestyle, and the size rig you have. Our list of RV fitness equipment choices is tested and true. We have used and rotated many pieces of equipment over the years and have settled with this as our final list.
Our Essential RV Workout Equipment
Loop Style Resistance Bands
Loop style resistance bands are hands down our number top RV equipment choice and recommendation. To reiterate, we prefer the loop style, not the tube handle style! We have tried both versions and much prefer the loop style. We love that the loop style offers linear variable resistance. You can adjust the resistance/tension by simply shifting your grip or adjusting your stance. The loop bands can be used with or without anchors, which means, you can use these bands inside of your RV without any anchors.
Loop style resistance bands are incredibly light, compact, and portable. You can have a complete kit onboard that weighs just a few pounds and is small enough to throw in a small backpack. Take them inside, outside, or anywhere you go!
There are a couple of accessories that we recommend to go along with your loop bands. First, a good pair of gloves for a more comfortable grip. Having a better grip allows you to lift with more resistance, therefore providing a more effective workout. Second, having an outdoor anchor will allow you to perform anchored movements where you may not otherwise be able to. We love to wrap the anchor around our tires, picnic tables, fences, trees, or any other sturdy object that is fixed and won’t go anywhere when you pull on it.
Dumbbells
There are two kinds of dumbbells to consider for RV workouts, adjustable or fixed. Adjustable dumbbells offer a wide range of weight options while keeping a small footprint and small overall weight. You can adjust the amount of weight by turning a dial, moving a pin, or adjusting weight plates depending on what version you have. While you can get a great variety of weight selection in a small footprint, they can feel a bit bulky during use and can be expensive to purchase a quality set. There are economy versions out there to see if it’s a good fit for you.
Fixed dumbbells may provide a more comfortable feel and function during use compared to the adjustable variety. You will want to have a variety of weights on board to offer selections ranging from light, medium, to heavy. This in turn takes up much more space and weight if you go this route. They are also a hefty investment to purchase. However, if you are an intermediate to advanced weight lifter it may be worth the sacrifice in space.
Jumprope
A quality jump rope is a great way to torch calories and get your heart rate up. You can use them on the spot with a small footprint. If you have children, pets, or family that can’t be left home alone this is a great alternative to jogging.
Sneakers
It may seem simple, but don’t underestimate the power of a good pair of shoes. Walking is an easy way to get out there and get daily movement. Track your steps and have a daily goal!
Exercise Mats
We like to have a heavy-duty roll-up mat to keep clean for indoor stretching. We also like to have a portable, foldable, mat for outdoor workouts. You may want to have a towel on hand for additional padding as needed.
Foam Roller
Having a foam roller on hand will help tremendously to encourage you to stretch. Foam rolling is a great way to self-administer deep tissue massage. As RVers, we do a lot of driving and sitting and can stiffen up quickly.
The Nitty Gritty
Don’t forget about a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection. Have a good refillable water bottle to keep you hydrated. Keep a notebook handy to track your workout programs and track your progress. And finally, some headphones to keep your energy and focus up during your workout.
Find What RV Workout Equipment is Best for You
We hope these suggestions give you a good starting point to conquer fitness on the road. Travel workouts don’t need to be complicated. Keep it simple, stay focused, and stay consistent.
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