Get Your Body Ready for Spring

1. Inspect your weights. Examine your dumbbells, barbells and any accessories for rust, holes (if you use plastic or vinyl dumbbells) or dirt and give them a good wipe down with a cleaning cloth or a damp towel. Now is also a good time to see if you're ready for more weights.
2. Check your bands. If you use resistance bands, inspect each one for any tears or other boo-boos that may cause problems. If you find any, throw the offending band away and get a new one.
3. Examine your exercise ball. Don't forget to check your exercise ball for holes or tears which could make the ball pop on you (if it's not an anti-burst ball). Also check the inflation levels, which may need to be maintained throughout the year as the air inside contracts or expands. If you find anything suspicious, get rid of it and get a new one.
4. Get large equipment serviced. If you have a gym machine, treadmill, or other machine, check the service schedule and have a technician come out if needed. At the very least, give your machine a thorough cleaning to get rid of dust, sweat and grime.
5. Clean your exercise space. If your workout room is in the basement, the area may need a good, thorough cleaning. Use this time to dust, clean out cobwebs and even paint the walls, hang pictures or do anything else that will make your space more inviting.
6. Toss useless gear. This is also a good time to toss or give away the equipment you've never used. If it's in good condition, check with local secondhand fitness stores to see if they can use it or sell it in a garage sale. Save your space for items you actually use.

Index: Get Your Body Ready for Spring

1. Introduction
2. Get Your Mind Ready
3. Get the Gear You Need
4. Do Some Spring Cleaning
5. Set Up Your Strength Workouts
6. Set Up Your Cardio Workouts
7. Increase Flexibility and Core Strength
8. More Resources