Staying fit doesn't have to require a lot of space or expensive equipment. A good pair of shoes is really the only must-have. But a few basic additions can help make workouts more fun, comfortable or challenging.

Consider these at-home fitness items, recommended by Mayo Clinic experts:

Fitness tracker

Activity tracking devices like a watch or a phone app can show you how much daily exercise you get, how intense that exercise is, and how consistently you're working out. This information can help you get the right amount of exercise.

Look for a tracker that counts the number of steps you take and monitors your heart rate. It should have a digital display that you find easy to read and navigate.

Exercise mat

A mat provides cushion for floor exercises like situps and stretches. It also offers extra grip for full-body workouts like yoga or Pilates.

Look for a mat you find comfortable, with a nonslip texture, and that rolls up easily.

Fitness ball

Sometimes called a stability ball or yoga ball, fitness balls look like large beach balls. Balls can be used for abdominal and back exercises. They can also be used to work on flexibility and balance.

Look for a ball with a surface you find comfortable. Fitness balls can be round, or semi-circular with one flat, stable side. Because they can deflate over time, make sure the fitness ball comes with a pump.

Resistance bands

These stretchy devices look like giant rubber bands. They offer weight-like resistance when you pull on them. You can use the bands to build strength in your arms and other muscles. They can also help with balance, flexibility and grip strength.

Look for a set of bands with varying levels of tension. That way you can adjust your workout.

Dumbbells

You can use dumbbells to strengthen muscles in your upper body and legs. They can also help build back and stomach muscles and might even boost bone health.

Look for dumbbells that fit comfortably in your hand. Most are a single weight, but adjustable-weight dumbbells can add variety and space savings. Consider keeping your dumbbells on an elevated storage rack so you don't have to stoop to pick them up.

Jump rope

A jump rope can help get your heart pumping at a fraction of the cost and space of a treadmill or exercise bike. Jumping rope strengthens the heart and improves bone health, balance and hand-eye coordination.

Look for a jump rope that's bright and easy to see, with sturdy handles. Make sure you have enough space to swing the rope. If you don't have a jump rope, you can still build fitness by going through the motions without using an actual jump rope.

People with balance or heart issues should talk to a doctor before using a jump rope.

This information is adapted from a Mayo Clinic Health Letter article. For more Mayo Clinic Health Letter content, visit the Mayo Clinic Press website.