You want to be a fit person, right? That's why I'm sharing my own habits for keeping fit and staying healthy in the ongoing Habits of Fit People series.

Here's one that works for me: Keeping exercise equipment around the house. So why does something like this matter?

Just like you, I have those days. The days that are so busy and filled with to-do's that you blink and they're over. The days so hot and humid that you'd rather not leave the comforts of climate control for a walk, jog or even a bike ride outside. And the days that, for one reason or another, you just don't feel like going to the gym. Although we all need downtime occasionally, the stress, weather or monotony of the gym makes the couch look that much more comfy. These are the days that you need some type of fitness equipment at home—so "not wanting to leave the house" doesn't become an excuse to skip your workout altogether. On these days, you'll be glad to have some at-home exercise options, because it will help you stay on track with your fitness goals.

I don't have a REAL home gym—there's no special room dedicated to fitness in my modest home. But I do have an array of small, portable workout equipment stashed here and there that, in a pinch, becomes my makeshift home gym.

Since I teach classes five days a week at the gym where I also work out, I often associate the gym with work. There are many days that I don't want to spend any more time "at work" (even if I'm just exercising on my own), so I exercise in my own living room instead! The simple change in scenery and the creature comforts of home make it easier to stay on track. And because I have plenty of workout options I can do there, my desire to stay home doesn’t have to mean I miss a workout. Plus, working out at home is how I keep things fresh. Because gym workouts are staples for me—Spinning and Pilates classes are my faves, as are walking, biking and running outside—I add variety to my program by working out at home. That's where I experiment with new exercises, test new products, and follow workout DVDs (which I only do occasionally so that they never become boring or predictable).

You don't need a lot of stuff to work out at home—and you don't have to spend a lot of money, either. I don't have any big, expensive equipment, but I do have several small ticket items that really pack a punch: Resistance bands, dumbbells, a stability ball, my new kettlebell, my favorite fitness DVDs, and a jump rope offer endless workout options. Here are some more ideas for setting up a home gym, and here are 25 different ways you can work out at home for less than $25! Even if all you have is an inexpensive jump rope, that's something. Start with what you like and what you can afford and build from there!

Even if you belong to a gym or live for exercising in the great outdoors, a home gym (whatever shape it takes) can help you stay on track on "those days" that you can't leave the house (or would rather not). Now you can do biceps curls while you curl up on the couch and watch your favorite show—talk about making fitness a part of your everyday life!

What kinds of fitness equipment do you have at home? Do you think the option of working out at home helps you stay on track and make fitness a habit in your life?