Improving home fitness program

[etherealfocus]

Been working with a 30lb kettlebell on and off for years (along with lots of martial arts, running, swimming, climbing, other fun stuff) but I'm not using the kettlebell much anymore just because I'm bored of it. Decided it's time to throw a little cash at some new toys.

I'm 6'1, 180 lbs, in good shape already and aiming for 70/30 endurance/strength balance and special focus on fast twitch muscles for my martial arts work.

Also running Tough Mudder this fall and definitely need to push myself for that (hence the 70% endurance)... I've got a great mile time (5:50ish) but never been able to run more than three miles even slowly without being completely spent.

So, that said... question: what would be optimal new gear for under $50?

Current selection:
http://www.amazon.com/GoFit-GF-CUB-C.../dp/B0007W2FLI
http://www.amazon.com/Valeo-VA3631BK.../dp/B0007IS6ZG
http://www.amazon.com/Valeo-VA2413RE.../dp/B0007IS74G

 

[Koing]

Pull up bar.

You don't need to be able to run that long in one continuous stint for tough mudder. There are always queues for the obstacles so you will have to wait around when you get to them.

The kettlebell you should be using for swings, clean and push press type of exercises. This will greatly help your explosive speed if you do the exercises correctly.

Koing

 

[etherealfocus]

Yeah I know TM's not continuous or heavily time-focused or I wouldn't do it. I'm in good shape but I know my limits.

No love for the other gear? I'm a bit skeptical of the ab roller - seems like pull ups work the abs pretty well anyway if you crunch as part of the pull. Friends swear by it though.

Speed rope seems like a great idea though. Everyone endorses jump rope, and I have crummy knees so anything I can do to train for running without actually running is a win.

Anything else you'd recommend in their spots? I gave myself $50 for this and the bar is only $20. Might go a little over 50 for something good too... maybe some dumbbells?

 

[IHateMyJob2004]

I use an ab wheel. They are a nice alternative to situps. Truth is I do both situps and ab rolling because tehy do differnt muscles