It seems like many people have similar goals about their bodies - lose weight, or tone up, but fewer and fewer people are opting to join gyms to try and reach their goals. Some people don't live close enough to a gym to make that option feasible and some people just simply can't afford the monthly dues. If you have a goal of getting in better shape, but for one reason or another can't or won't join a gym there are several viable options you can have at home to help you achieve all of your fitness goals.

Treadmills

There are few activities that burn calories as well as running, if you've got some extra weight that you want to lose or if you just want to get into the best cardio vascular condition that you possibly can - than running is an obvious choice to get you to your goal. Running (or walking for that matter) is an activity that almost anyone can do without a gym or fancy equipment. The problem with outdoor running is that weather conditions can ruin your workout.

A treadmill can be an inexpensive way to be able to do your running/walking workout without having to worry about the weather forecast. Rain or shine; wind or cold - it makes no difference, with a treadmill you'll be able to get a great workout without leaving your home.

Ellipticals

Elliptical machines offer a cardio workout that can rival that of a good run or walk. Elliptical machines can cost a bit more than a lower end treadmill but they do offer one unique advantage - next to no impact. If you've had a history of joint pain or problems that preclude you from high impact exercises like running than an elliptical machine may be just the thing you need to get a great cardio workout.

Exercise Bikes

Exercise bikes come in all shapes and sizes and are another great low-impact alternative to running for cardio workouts. Biking is an excellent activity to burn calories and build overall health, but it's wise to "try before you buy" if at all possible. All exercise bikes may not be comfortable to all people and the last thing you want when trying to get a good workout is to be stuck atop an uncomfortable apparatus. If the store has a display model, give it a quick spin and make sure that there are several adjustments to accommodate people of different heights and sizes.

Home Gyms

If part of your goal is to build a bit of muscle, then a home gym might be the right piece of equipment for you. There are literally dozens of different brands and models to choose from, each with different accessories and attachments to accommodate even the most complex workout routines in a limited amount of space. It's a good idea to read some customer reviews before buy to try and gauge the ease of use of each home gym. Some system come with resistance bands, weight stacks or resistance wheels - you want something that will be user friendly so completing your workout is a pleasure rather than a hassle.

Spinners

Spinners are like a newer, more advanced version of an exercise bike. Some models offer wide ranges of adjustable resistance and tons of extra added amenities that you wouldn't normally find on a run of the mill indoor cycle. are designed to give you the feel that you are actually out cycling and riders can get ride along DVD's that virtually put you in different locations and situations while working out. If you think that traditional indoor cycling is too boring to hold your attention, than a spinner might be a better choice.

Whatever your workout or fitness goal is, with the types and varieties of equipment available - you certainly don't need to spend the money or waste the time traveling to a gym - you can get an excellent and tremendously effective workout right in the comfort of your own home.