We all know that in order to lose weight we should follow a healthy diet and exercise on a regular basis. But what kind of exercises should we be doing? You can join a local gym and have a personal trainer bark orders at you. If you are more the do it yourself type, you will probably want to invest in a home gym so you can sweat it out in the comfort of your own home. Having your own personal home exercise equipment has several benefits, including:

1. You don't have to wait in line to use popular exercise equipment. With your own private home exercise machines, there's no strategizing about how to get the good treadmill. No waiting around, or worrying about whether your favorite equipment will be in use. Another plus: no-wipe down necessary! The only sweat you'll come into contact with will be your own.

2. You can exercise any time you want. Many people who start going to a gym gradually begin to slack off because they find it difficult to get to the gym. With your own home exercise equipment, this is no longer an issue. You can exercise whenever you can fit some time in. You can even exercise at two o'clock in the morning, although this is not recommended.

3. No excuses! With your own home exercise equipment, there are no longer any good excuses for not exercising. You don't have to pay dues, and you don't have to make an extra trip just to work out.

4. You can set up your home gym so that it meets your own specific needs. Are you more interested in cardiovascular aerobic workouts, or do you want to put a greater emphasis on strength training? By creating your own home gym, you can hand pick the equipment you want.

If you decided that a home gym is right up your alley, how can you go about finding the right home exercise equipment? If your goal is weight loss, you will want to invest in equipment that allows you to try a number of different workouts. Try to find home exercise machines that are versatile, especially if you have not been active for a long time. This allows you try different types of workouts and routines, and avoids that boredom that comes when you use the same equipment for an extended period of time.

Here are the top five home exercise machines that are versatile enough for boredom-free weight loss.

1. Treadmill. The treadmill is the ever-popular home exercise machine that allows you to walk or run at different speeds. A treadmill is a good choice because it can be adapted for all fitness levels. Depending on the size and model, you can walk or run. Most models allow for adjustable incline, which allow you simulate different degrees of incline.

2. Free Weights. Also known as barbells or dumbbells, weights are an easy way to integrate strength training into any work out. Choose a variety of different weights and sizes.

3. Multi-station machines. Multi-station machines (sometimes referred to as 'home gyms') are a great choice if you want to experiment with different types of workouts. They come in any number of manifestations, and can range widely in price. Make sure the multi-station machine you choose is right for your fitness level and interest, and which you can grow into. Don't choose a machine that you can't imagine using on a regular basis.

4. Exercise ball. Exercise balls, sometimes called medicine balls, are a great addition to any home gym. Exercise balls can be adapted for any number of workouts, including yoga, Pilates, and strength training. Exercise balls are great for increasing flexibility, posture, and overall toning.

5. Elliptical trainers. Elliptical trainers can make an excellent addition to almost any home gym because they provide a great all-body workout. Elliptical trainers are kind of like a combination of a stair stepper and rowing machine. They work out your entire body, while toning your arms, abs, and legs.

All of this home exercise equipment can help you lose weight. The key is to stay focused, motivated, and to have fun! Incorporate music into your workout, and establish a regular exercise schedule, and start shedding those pounds.