Strength & Fitness · My Favorite Finds

5 Strength Training Essentials That Helped Me Get Stronger in Midlife

You don’t need a gym membership, a room full of equipment, or hundreds of dollars to get started. I started with two 10-pound dumbbells. As I got stronger, my equipment grew with me. These are the five things I’d recommend for building a simple home setup—at your own pace and within your budget.

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Dumbbells: Start Small, Get Stronger

When I started strength training, I used a pair of 10-pound dumbbells. That’s it! There’s no magic starting weight: some movements need lighter weights, and others may call for heavier ones. Choose weights you can control, and work up from there.

As I got stronger, I wanted more options. That’s why I invested in adjustable dumbbells. I love my Core Fitness set, but you absolutely do not need to start there.

Easy on the budget

Amazon Basics Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Two 10-pound dumbbells were my starting point. The pair was about $28 when I checked; prices and available weights vary. You can buy heavier sizes later if you need them.

Shop Rubber Hex Dumbbells ↗

Amazon Basics Adjustable Dumbbells · 5–25 lb

A flexible middle option. Check the listing carefully: you may be choosing a single dumbbell or a pair.

Shop Budget Adjustable Option ↗

What I use

Core Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells · 5–50 lb

These are the ones I own and love. They’re a bigger upfront investment, but adding heavier individual dumbbells gets expensive—and takes up space.

Shop Core Fitness Dumbbells ↗

Resistance Bands

This set includes five levels, from X-light to X-heavy, so you can start with a gentler resistance and progress when you’re ready. They’re also available in different color assortments, if that’s your thing!

At under $7 when I found them, they’re one of the most approachable additions to a home workout. I use more challenging fabric bands now, but those can be tough for beginners. This is the kind of set I’d recommend starting with.

Shop 5-Level Resistance Bands ↗

Thick Resistance Loops + Door Anchor

These longer, thicker loops are so versatile for upper- and lower-body work. The set offers resistance options listed from 8 to 85 pounds and includes a door anchor for even more exercise possibilities.

I especially like using long loops for my inner thighs! If you use the door anchor, follow the product’s setup directions and make sure it’s securely installed before pulling against it.

Shop Long Resistance Loops ↗

A Thick Exercise Mat

I don’t think you need to overthink your exercise mat. You want something comfortable for floor work that helps cushion your knees and keeps your workout space from getting scuffed up.

I chose this option based on its strong volume of customer reviews—not because I think a particular mat brand is essential. Pick one that works for your space and budget.

Shop Thick Exercise Mat ↗

A Workout Notebook

My favorite notebooks EVER are the Mead Fat Lil Notebooks. Yes, that’s really what they’re called. 😂 I love small things, so the compact size is perfect for me—even if it won’t be everyone’s preference.

I use a notebook to track exercises, weights, and reps. When a workout feels hard, it’s pretty satisfying to flip back and see how far you’ve come. Getting stronger is easier to appreciate when you can actually see your progress.

Shop Mead Fat Lil Notebook ↗