I'm a fitness writer, and these are my 16 essential home workout solutions, including the cheap way I built muscle and the massage gun I use every day

It's the middle of February. It's cold and wet across most of the US, and I am feeling especially reticent to lace up my running shoes and head out into the great outdoors, or even to the gym. Last year, I was in the same position – it was cold and dark – but I didn't even have a gym membership, having moved house and being between gyms.

As someone who, like a golden retriever, needs a certain amount of exercise once a day, how did I cope? By equipping myself to better do workouts at home, of course, using sales events (like the current Presidents' Day sales) to do it for less.

• Browse the full Presidents' Day sale

First things first, the cheapest stuff is often all you need. I swear by simple fitness solutions and freely available workout plans online and through apps, and sometimes the classic, low-tech equipment is the best stuff for the job. The Elite Jumps 6mm jump rope is adjustable and lets you get your cardio in indoors (if you have space) or just outside your back door (if you don't). Even a few minutes will make you sweat for just $23. I used my set of long resistance bands religiously during the 10 months I spent without a membership, and the Tribe Lifting long resistance bands (set of 5) are even better quality than the cheap Fitbeast set I picked up, for the same price ($40). And of course, everyone needs a reliable, dad-style cast-iron spinlock dumbbell set.

If you're looking to get your steps in, a walkingpad or under-desk treadmill is ideal, such as the Mobvoi Home Treadmill SE, which is on our best under-desk treadmill list. Others are also included below.

Lastly, it's worth checking out more expensive fitness kits, such as the Peloton Cross-Training Bike and the Proform Carbon TI treadmill, if you're a serious cardio enthusiast looking to really invest in your running or cycling fitness. I've also thrown in a couple of massage guns – Best Buy is offering a terrific deal on the Therabody Theragun Prime, and I use my Bob & Brad Q2 Mini most days.

Best home workout kit – top 16 picks

More of today's best Presidents' Day sales

• Amazon: 45% off TVs, AirPods, air fryers & vacuums
• Apple: iPads, AirPods & MacBooks from $99
• Best Buy: $1,000 off TVs, laptops & headphones
• Dell: laptop deals from $249.99
• Home Depot: 40% off appliances, furniture, grills & tools
• Lenovo: 45% off laptops & tablets
• Lowe's: up to 40% off appliances, furniture & tools
• Samsung: up to $2,000 off appliances, TVs & phones
• Target: 40% off clothing, tech & furniture
• Walmart: furniture, cheap TVs & vacs from $69
• Wayfair: 54% off furniture, rugs & decor