Gear Fear Factor

That weird-looking piece of workout equipment isn’t as intimidating as it appears. In fact, you may actually find you enjoy using it. I dare you to try these non-traditional gadgets that I’ve grown to love.

Bosu Ball

Looking at the Bosu, you might wonder what happened to the other half! They did that on purpose to help build your core strength and balance. Stand on the squishy, round half to do squats and lunges. Flip the ball over, round half down, and stabilize on the platform side, as you do a plank or push-ups.

Newbie tip: Hang on to a chair or wall to keep you steady as you learn to use the Bosu. This way, you can practice safely and build your confidence and stabilizing muscles.

Kettlebells

From far away, they look like vintage clutch bags. And they are vintage. Kettlebells go back hundreds of years in Russian history. You’ve probably seen people swinging these things over their heads, frightened that they’d knock themselves unconscious. Using kettlebells will help build total-body strength, endurance, and flexibility. Bonus: They’re small enough to stuff in a corner.

Newbie tip: Start with simple moves and very light weight. The colorful Marcy 30-lb Kettle Weight Kit set comes with 5, 10, and 15 pounds.

Weider Weight System Pro 8900

You might think: What are all these handles for? Why’s that bar hanging over my head? Fear not! The Weider Weight System Pro 8900 comes with an easy-to-follow exercise chart designed by a certified personal trainer. The perfect machine for doing resistance workouts at home, this all in one piece provides 6 stations and 350lbs of resistance.

Newbie tip: Follow the exercise chart to the letter, and start with light weights to perfect your form.

Inversion Table

Medieval torture device? Not quite. The inversion table is a floating platform that helps relieve tension on your spine. First, get used to the fact that you’re suspended on a table in air. Start at a very minimal tilt for a few minutes. Slowly, increase your time and tilt. In time, you can really get fancy and do sit-ups and upside down squats.

Newbie: Your body—and mind—will need to adjust to this gear, so go super-slow. Never invert too deeply for too long.