You want to work out at home, and you have to space and the desire to do it. What do you need? Great question.

I always tell my clients that they should keep two things in mind when designing a workout room.

First, decide on a piece of cardio equipment, and make sure it’s safe and sturdy. Pick something you are going to enjoy using and, most importantly, is appropriate to your ability. Make sure you check with your doctor as to what type of cardio is best for you.

If you like walking outside and you have no joint issues, a treadmill will keep you walking all year round, no matter what the weather. If you have multiple joint issues or lower back issues, an elliptical or stationary bike maybe a better choice. If your knees are the main problem, then a recumbent bike (one with a chair-like seat) is your only option.

Indoor or stationary bikes are great and can give an amazing cardio workout, strengthening not only the heart but the legs, butt and the lower stomach. You have two choices in indoor bikes: an upright, which looks a lot like an outdoor bike, or a recumbent bike, which you sit back in. Both can give you the same workout, but if you have lower back issues, you may want a recumbent because of the back support.

A great option for a low-impact, high-intensity cardio workout is an elliptical trainer. They, too, come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. I strongly suggest that you try different kinds of cardio equipment and decide which one is best for you based on ability, use and size.

The second thing to remember is that weight training is very important, not only for fitness but for weight loss as well. This part is a lot easier: all you need are three- to five-pound weights and an exercise ball. I strongly suggest at any fitness level that you hire a personal trainer to teach you and guide you in how to get fit safely.

E-mail me with questions or ideas at [email protected].