This is a list of some of my go-to recovery and mobility tools to keep at home. Most of these items have budget friendly options that can be found for under $10.
What you do in between workouts matters! Make sure you have everything you need to rest and recovery comfortably at home. In my bedroom, I have setup a corner dedicated to recovery and mobility.
Yoga Mat
Great for stability, stretching, mobility, and core exercises.
If you need something with more cushion, there are thicker mats available, or you can also consider getting an exercise mat. Keep in mind, exercise mats are thicker and have more squish to them so they are not the best for balance and stability movements.
Foam Roller
When your muscles are tight, self-myofascial release helps to reduce stiffness and improve mobility. There are a wide range of foam rollers available. Use your own bodyweight to apply slow, steady pressure to areas that feel tight or sore. It’s simple, effective, and one of the best ways to release tension between workouts. If you’re looking for something portable, my go-to is a massage roller ball that I keep in my gym bag.
Massage Gun
If you’re comfortable spending a little more money, having a massage gun is also a great option to reach more targeted areas with minimal effort. Important: If you have implanted hardware (like a metal plate or screws), don’t use a massage gun directly over that area.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are one of the easiest ways to build strength and improve mobility at home. They’re gentle on the joints, perfect for warm-ups, and great for activating muscles that don’t always fire well on their own. Bands are especially useful on rest days or lighter days when you want movement without heavy loading. I also like to keep a band, or two, in my gym bag.
Yoga Strap or Stretching Strap
Sometimes it’s nice to have a little assistance with stretching, especially if you’re dealing with tightness. Yoga and stretching straps help you get deeper into stretches without forcing it. They give you a little extra reach, which makes mobility work safer and more effective.
Optional, honorable mentions
These are just a few extra things that I like to have around when I need them.
- Heating pad
- Ice packs
- Biofreeze spray
- Nano CBD gel roll on for pain