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Equipping a home with an exercise area can increase its appeal to buyers. Despite the current economic slowdown, retail sales of home gym equipment continue to grow, topping $5 billion in 2007 and rising another 3 percent in 2008, according to the National Sporting Goods Association.

Designating a spare room as an exercise area doesn’t necessarily require the purchase of expensive equipment. There are simple, lower-cost alternatives to expensive exercise equipment. No remodeling is required, but the equipment will suggest the possibilities to potential buyers:

  • Yoga mat: A cushion for floor exercises and easily rolls up
  • Small free weights
  • Exercise ball
  • Jump rope
  • Mini-trampoline