If you've had to cancel or put your gym membership on hold to cut costs, don't fret—you can still get a good workout at home. A home mini-gym can be an inexpensive way to exercise and keep up muscle strength.

Try dumbbells, resistance bands, a floor mat, and stability balls to keep your workout interesting while building strength, especially in your core (the muscles in your abdomen, back, hip, and pelvic areas).

Read more on how to create your own mini-gym, watch our video (right) on home gyms for less, and see our new Ratings on treadmills, ellipticals, and stationary bikes(subscribers only).