I find adjustable steppers surprisingly versatile. Before, I would only use them for some cardio exercises or step-ups. Now, I use them to help almost all of my beginners learn fundamental exercises: pushups, squats, deadlifts, etc. By adjusting the height of the stepper, I set the difficulty of the exercise. For example, most people can't do a proper pushup, even from their knees. In this case, I have them get in the knee-pushup position, but place just enough stepper blocks under their hands until they can do the movement with good form. Over time, I reduce the height to make the movement more challenging until they're on the floor. With enough time, almost all of my clients get to a point where they're doing 10+ pushups on the floor and on their feet. I teach the same clients how to squat, deadlift, etc. using a similar method. I'll set up the stepper to be as high (or low) as the client can handle, then gradually change that height over time to add challenge.
Parallettes—basic parallel bars typically forged from metal or PVC—have revolutionized my clients' functional bodyweight workouts. The bars facilitate a broad range of exercises, truly putting stability, strength, and mobility to the test. They've been invaluable in leading clients from simple pushups to advanced feats like L-sits and planche progressions. One particular client, plagued by wrist discomfort during ground exercises, stumbled upon relief via parallettes. Using them helped her preserve a neutral wrist position while still amplifying her upper physique's power. Parallettes have proven their worth in core training as well. I used them for pike rolls and hanging leg raises, which bolstered my trainees' core tenacity and body command. Who said these bars were only good for upper body routines? I've put them to work in lower body exercises too; elevated split squats and Bulgarian split squats added an extra equilibrium challenge, effectively gearing up my trainees for real-life movement scenarios. My recommendation is to steer clear of gym machines and instead opt for calisthenics equipment, such as parallettes, which help us achieve a more functional physique
Co-Founder, Former Personal Trainer & Bodybuilder at Ready4 Health
Answered 2 years ago
A surprisingly versatile piece of equipment is the kettlebell. I've used it in various ways to target different muscle groups and improve overall fitness. For instance, kettlebell swings are excellent for building explosive power and conditioning. They can also be used for dynamic exercises like Turkish get-ups and goblet squats, which enhance both strength and mobility. By incorporating kettlebells into routines, I can create varied, and effective workouts that keep clients engaged and challenged.