To keep it short, I’m searching for a private space to work on music and art, and my parents’ garage is the only viable option, though it’s cluttered. After spending a few days moving heavy boxes, I realized I was performing basic weightlifting exercises like deadlifts, squats, presses, and cleans. Since I usually train with kettlebells and bodyweight exercises, I decided to experiment with techniques from powerlifting and strongman training. The result? I felt pleasantly sore in a good way.
This led me to consider using heavy cardboard boxes filled with unwanted magazines to enhance my training. I foresee some challenges, such as the cardboard being fragile and the contents shifting around. Adding handles might also compromise the boxes. Still, I think the idea has potential. It could be interesting to create “throwable boxes” for explosive movements, similar to medicine ball training.
Has anyone tried something like this? I’d love to hear about your experiences.
Then go ahead and try it. However, bodyweight exercises have significant limitations: very high reps lead to longer workouts, you can’t adjust resistance, and it’s hard to target all muscle groups, especially in the legs. While you can still get decent results, it might take three times as long compared to using bands for the same outcome.
Resistance bands exist because they offer several advantages over weights.
If you’re looking for inexpensive weights, consider cement or cinder blocks from Home Depot. For example:
16x8x12” blocks cost about $2 and weigh roughly 50 lbs.
16x8x8” blocks are $1.50 and weigh 40 lbs.
16x8x4” blocks are $1.50 and weigh 20 lbs.
These blocks have 2-3 large holes through them. You can buy a 5-ft piece of black pipe for $23 to use as a barbell, with blocks on each end. Adding end caps will keep the blocks from sliding off, and you can extend the pipe with additional connectors and pieces if needed.
I also cut a bath towel in half lengthwise, rolled it up, and wrapped tape around the ends and several spots along its length. I used these towel pieces as handles through the holes in the blocks for lifting. They function like short, thick ropes and are excellent for grip strength, similar to hammer curls.
Alternatively, you can lift the blocks by their edges. Additionally, paver stones are good for grip strength exercises since you’re gripping a solid block of concrete. They come in various sizes and are quite affordable.