17 Best Home Gym Equipment Pieces in 2024

A home gym is a great concept – you can work out and achieve great results without even leaving your house. However, everything that you need to do before your home gym is set up and ready to go can be an absolute nightmare. You don’t want to fill your space with random fitness tools, but you also don’t want to spend several months desperately trying to find what would work for you. 

Well, you’re in luck, because this article has all the best home gym equipment in one place. We have everything, from the best jump rope and dumbbells to bigger equipment like the treadmill and the elliptical. Your gym needs to be filled with the right gear that fits your workout needs, potential space constraints, and of course, your budget, so stick around and see what the best at-home workout equipment is!

Our experienced team consisting of professional athletes with various backgrounds and fields of expertise has combined their vast knowledge base in order to bring you, the reader, a list of the best pieces of equipment/items that you can use in your home gym setup. Each of the categories has a dozen other contenders reviewed with hundreds of hours of testing.

We didn’t want to beat around the bush; instead, we provide you with the best of the best –  and explain why!

Let’s gym… home gym!

Top 17 Best Home Gym Equipment Pieces Reviewed

1. Rogue R-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack – Best Power Rack
2. Rep Fitness AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench – Best Adjustable Weight Bench
3. Rogue Echo Bar – Best Barbell
4. Rep Fitness Black Bumper Plates – Best Bumper Plates
5. Rogue Dumbbell Sets – Best Hex Dumbbell Set
6. Titan Fitness KG Cast Iron Kettlebells – Best Kettlebells
7. Rep Fitness Adjustable Dumbbells – Best Adjustable Dumbbells
8. Titan Fitness Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar – Best Pull-up Bar
9. Rogue SR-1 Bearing Speed Rope – Best Jump Rope
10. Pro-Form City L6 – Best Treadmill
11. Concept 2 RowErg Rower – Best Rowing Machine
12. Pro-Form Studio Bike Pro 22 – Best Exercise Bike
13. Nordictrack Commercial 9.9 – Best Elliptical Trainer
14.  5.11 Tactical TacTec Plate Carrier – Best Weighted Vest
15. Gymreapers Military Resistance Band Set – Best Resistance Bands
16. Rep Fitness Stone Sandbags – Best Sandbag
17. Rogue Warrior Combo – Full Home Gym Set

If you want to start your home gym the right way, then deal with the basics first. One of them, of course, is a power rack, and the best power rack for home that will allow you to save some space is the Rogue R-3W.

This rack’s unique hinge-and-pin system allows you to easily fold it inward or outward, which optimizes space while still being fully functional and just as robust as the standard Infinity Series racks. 

It’s made of heavy-duty 2×3’’ 11-gauge steel, has 90.375’’ uprights and Westside hole spacing, and is compatible with various Infinity Series accessories. It’s available in two different depth options: 20.5’’ or 40.5’’ depths. Additionally, it is equipped with essential accessories, like the J-cups, mounting brackets, detent pins, and a quick-attach pull-up bar, which gives you versatility for squats, pull-ups, and bench presses.

The 20.5’’ option will give a flush position against the wall (whether folded inward or outward), while the 40.5’’ depth unit will give you a lot of room for gymnastics movements (with a slight overlap when both sides are folded inward). Just make sure your wall can support this because it needs to be drilled into beams or concrete. Dry wall won’t be able to handle it.  

It’s exceptional although not the cheapest rack out there. But hey, Rogue is known for their quality, and that comes at a price.

This is Rep’s most affordable adjustable bench, but it still has 6 back pad adjustments and three seat angle positions. Although the positions are limited, this is a great bench that won’t leave you disappointed.

The AB-3100 has grooved rubber feet across all three contact points and a vertical tube for added reinforcement. It can take up to 700 lbs of weight and is constructed from 14- and 4-gauge steel. The bench’s pads have a textured, non-slip vinyl cover that’s easy to clean and offers good grip.

Its dimensions give more than enough space for various body types and workout styles. The back pad spans 34.75’’ in length and 11.75’’ inches in width, tapering to 9’’, while the seat pad is 13’’ in length and 10.5’’ inches in width, tapering to 8’’. The pads’ 1.75’’ gap between the back and seat allows freedom of movement without compromising support and with a footprint of 7.9 square feet, it’s space-efficient and ideal for compact gym setups. 

The bench is available in metallic black, red, blue, and matte black versions, so you can match it to your gym’s aesthetics. It’s a really good bench overall, but it does wobble slightly sometimes, which can be a bit unsettling.

The newly redesigned Echo bar has many of the same features as Rogue’s flagship Ohio bar.

Rogue sets high standards for their equipment, so you can always expect it to be top-notch, just like this bar is. The 28.5 mm bushing is precisely made and assembled at Rogue’s factory in Columbus.

Echo 2.0 is a blend of excellent quality and reasonable price, which is exactly what you want if you have an entire gym to furnish – you don’t want to spend too much on just one piece of equipment, but you still want whatever you’re buying to be good quality. 

The steel shaft has 190,000 PSI tensile strength, which may not be the highest there is on the market, but it’s more than enough to handle intense workouts without issues. You’ll be able to use it for a wide range of exercises, from powerlifting to Olympic lifts. 

The bright zinc finish pops out right away because, let’s face it, it looks stunning. But it has far more to offer than just looks; it protects the bar from corrosion and rust. It’s not 100% resistant to scratches and you’ll notice a scratch here and there, but it’s nothing too dramatic or noticeable. 

The snap ring sleeve construction gives a secure and stable fit for your weights and this, combined with the Echo branded end caps, shows how dedicated Rogue is to improving their products. The bar also has single IWF standard Olympic knurl marks that deliver the ideal amount of grip.

The sleeve rotation is smooth thanks to the bar’s bushing design and the spin is stable and consistent during lifts. 

Overall, it has everything you want and as far as barbells go, your basic home gym equipment can’t do any better than this!

The next logical step when it comes to essential home workout equipment is to get some bumper plates, and the best ones come from Rep Fitness. You can use these for all sorts of exercises, like cross-training, HIIT, and Olympic weightlifting. They’re insanely durable and can meet the demands of even the most intense training sessions.

Their best feature is certainly the robust construction. The steel inserts integrated with molded hooks within the plates make them more durable than standard bumpers, and you can be sure of their long-lasting performance. The 10 lbs plates are made with extra thickness (1’’) to enhance durability and reduce the likelihood of bending. Rep really wanted to make these as durable as possible, and it looks like they’ve succeeded. 

These have a low bounce, which is quite an advantage because it helps in maintaining control over the barbell upon impact or dropping. Not only is this feature going to make your workouts safer, but it also speaks volumes of the plates’ stability and reliability. 

They were factory-tested to withstand over 12,000 drops from a height of 8 feet and they’re compatible with standard 2’’ barbells. The 1% weight tolerance adds to their appeal and assures you even further of their accuracy and consistency. 

The only downside is their rubber scent, which is to be expected from bumper plates, but it’s still worth mentioning. In case you are sensitive to smells – these may not be for you. Nevertheless, all things considered, these are the best bumper plates you can buy.

Rogue’s dumbbells are top-notch, and buying them in sets is convenient and cost-effective. These sets come in 3 types, and there’s a set for everyone, whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced user.

Not that you would expect anything else from Rogue, but these dumbbells are exceptional. They have a standard hex shape and are made of steel. The handles are chrome-plated, while the heads are rubber-encased, which protects your floors and makes dumbbells not only durable but also not too noisy.

This is something that’s very important for home gyms because you don’t want to disturb your household members with your workouts and you certainly don’t want to damage your floor. 

The steel handles are ergonomic, although not as comfortable as you would expect from something that’s ergonomically designed. Nonetheless, they provide a secure grip and they’re slightly textured, so you don’t have to worry about them slipping even if you grab them with sweaty hands.

The proprietary head-to-handle construction ensures that the head is safely attached to the handle and there’s absolutely no fear of the head coming loose during your workout.

There are three sets available: 5-50 lbs, 55-100 lbs, and 105-125 lbs for those of you who want to push their limits. The dumbbells have dimensions based on weight, with length, width, and height adjusted to accommodate the different sizes.

The handle diameter is also tailored to the weight of the dumbbell: those up to 10 pounds have a 25 mm handle, and those of 12.5 pounds and heavier have a 35 mm handle. They’re high-quality, functional, and have a comprehensive weight range – there’s nothing more you could ask of your home gym essentials.

Titan’s kettlebells are very well-built and going to add variety to your fitness routine. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, you’ll be able to find a kettlebell to suit your needs because there are 10 different weight options, starting with 9 lbs and going all the way up to 70 lbs.

These kettlebells are made using a drop cast iron process and each of them has a solid, one-piece design that makes them strong and long-lasting. They’ll withstand even the most intense workouts without showing signs of wear. 

The handles are extra wide and give a secure grip, regardless of the weight. Both kilograms and pounds are embossed on each kettlebell, so you can just glance at it and check the weight.

 The coating is the only thing that may be a bit of an issue, because, although it looks nice and feels comfortable, powder coating is generally prone to chipping. Keep in mind, kettlebells go through a lot during workouts, so this is definitely a concern. Other than that, however, these are fantastic and are definitely one of the things needed for a home gym.

One thing that’s not so great about home gyms is that they’re usually strapped for space, and you’re left scratching your head at all the equipment you want to fit into it but have no idea how to go about it. Well, adjustable dumbbells are a good way to start – you get all the variety regular dumbbells provide and you get to save some space.

These come in two weight options: 20 lbs and 52.5 lbs. Each of them offers a weight range that allows for multiple weight options with a single dumbbell. They’re adaptable and can be used for a lot of different workout routines. You also have the option to add a 40 lbs additional weight upgrade. 

The handles are fully knurled and straight. The knurling makes the grip secure, and the solid cast iron plates make the dumbbells more durable. To be completely honest, they’re not as durable as fixed-weight dumbbells, but there’s no way around that. 

The spinlock star collars make adjusting the weight quick and secure, and the transitions between weight settings are seamless. These are a great choice for people who look for the versatility dumbbells provide but don’t want to have a bunch of them creating clutter.

Anything wall-mounted is going to be your best friend because it saves a ton of space, so a wall-mounted pull-up bar is something every home gym needs. This one is superb – durable, easy to install, and one of the home gym must-haves.

This pull-up bar is made of heavyweight 11-gauge steel and coated with black powder finish. It feels soft, much like professional gym equipment, and its design allows you to perform an array of exercises.

It has a weight capacity of 500 lbs and remains stable during workouts – no wobbling or moving whatsoever, and the dimensions offer a lot of flexibility when it comes to grip width. 

The design allows you to easily integrate accessories like ropes and resistance bands and expand your workout regimen. You can mount it either to the ceiling or to the wall, so it’s very flexible when it comes to space utilization. 

Its construction is impressive if you don’t count the weak bolt heads. They can be very annoying because they’re known to snap rather soon, so although the bar itself is heavy-duty, it might have issues staying mounted.

A jump rope may not be on everyone’s home gym equipment list, but it’s good to have because it’s a very accessible and effective tool that pretty much everyone can use. Rogue’s SR-1 is the best in its category, and if you’re looking for speed training equipment, you’ll really like this.

SR-1 has a 6’’ rotating handle that provides a secure grip and the high-precision cartridge ball bearing system makes the rotations seamless and allows you to effortlessly attain maximum revolutions.

The 120’’ cable is a perfect balance of speed and durability, although it would be great if Rogue included a carrying case for it because it loses its shape rather soon, and a case would protect it during transportation. 

The 6.75’’ handle length and tapered handle diameter ranges from 0.5’’ to 0.87’’ at the base, which may not seem like an important feature, but it’s little things like this that show whether a brand pays attention to details or they just want to manufacture as many products as possible in the shortest amount of time.

This is a great rope that, in all honesty, although could use some improvement, is still the best one you can find currently.

A treadmill is a great addition to any home gym, and Pro-Form’s L6 comes at a reasonable price and is packed with some great features.

This is one of those treadmills that are highly dependent on iFit, and although it comes with a free 30-day trial, you’ll need to pay for a subscription if you want to keep using it. The great thing about iFit is access to personal trainers who can personalize your workouts and guide you to get the best results. 

The 1.6 CHP motor is the powerhouse behind the City L6 – it operates smoothly and is super durable. It’s also pretty quiet, so your workouts shouldn’t disturb any household members, and the QuickSpeed button allows you to easily adjust the intensity level.

The 5’’ display is good quality, but it’s relatively small. It provides all essential information, but if you have any issues with your eyesight, you’ll find yourself squinting to read all of it. The belt’s dimensions are 47.42’’ in length and 17.72’’ inches in width, which gives plenty of room for comfortable strides.

The deck has ProShox cushioning that absorbs impact and shock and ultimately reduces strain on your joints. The City L6 is a great bang for your buck, and it’s one of the home gym basics.

A rower may not be one  of the home gym necessities everyone thinks of when building a home gym, but it provides very effective workouts and is a fantastic way to bring some variety into your garage gym equipment.

Setting the rower up is a piece of cake: it takes about 20 minutes and then it’s good to go. The instructions are very clear and make the process hassle-free. Its compact design and caster wheels allow you to easily break it down if you need to move it, so if your space is limited, this rower won’t cause you issues. 

The PM5 performance monitor is one of its best features. It shows all the data you may be interested in, like the distance, speed, pace, calories burned, etc. The display is backlit and very easy to read, and you can customize the monitor’s position to what feels comfortable for you. It also connects to wireless heart rate monitors and the ErgData app via Bluetooth.

As far as performance goes, it’s as smooth as possible. The flywheel operates quietly, and the adjustable spiral damper allows for personalized air resistance settings.

Durability is another great feature, and the aluminum I-beam monorail and stainless-steel track ensure a consistent and reliable rowing motion even during the most intense workouts. 

It’s priced fairly high for a rowing machine, but its quality is exceptional.

This is an all-in-one fitness machine that can cater to different fitness needs. Moreover, it comes with two dumbbells, so your workouts aren’t limited to just cycling.

The first thing you’ll notice is that wonderful big screen. At 22’’, you’ll be able to have a really immersive workout experience and get access to a library of trainer-led content through iFit. 

The bike has an upright frame that’s made of solid steel, which makes it durable, but also ensures it remains stable during workouts. It performs great, but one downside is definitely the noise the flywheel makes during use. It’s not the most silent machine, and if you don’t live by yourself, you’ll likely get on someone’s nerves if you use it early in the morning or late at night. 

It’s easy to move thanks to its front-mounted transport wheels, so it’s ideal for those who won’t have a designated space for the bike and will need to move it often. It’s also easy to store because it’s not too bulky; besides, its construction is resistant to corrosion, so you can store it in your garage.

This is a state-of-the-art elliptical that’s not crazy expensive, and you can even pay for it in installments.

It has a 7’’ screen, which is a little disappointing, but it’s interactive and its quality is nice. Since it supports iFit, it comes with diverse locations and beautiful landscapes, not to mention the workouts led by professional trainers. 

This elliptical has an AutoBreeze fan that will come in handy during intense workouts, and the oversized pedals are generously cushioned. There are 22 digital resistance levels and a power-adjustable incline that goes from 0% to 20%. 

The height is adaptable and goes from 17.5’’ to 18.7’’ to accommodate people of different stature and promote ergonomic workouts. It can support users up to 350 pounds and has a relatively compact footprint. It comes with a great warranty and is designed so it can be moved easily.

Overall, it is a very comfortable and high-quality machine that could use a bigger screen, but even with 7’’, it still gets the job done and you can see everything clearly.

The TacTec Plate Carrier from 5.11 Tactical is lightweight, durable, and comfortable. It can accommodate both medium and large ballistic plates without feeling bulky and its yoke shoulder pads minimize friction.

The vest is made of robust 500D nylon and has a water-resistant coating. It weighs only 2.5 pounds and it’s designed to hold the plates on the front and back, so you get a good range of motion. Its ergonomic construction allows you to perform any movements easily, without sacrificing comfort or mobility. It’s a bit of a pain to put on because it goes on like a shirt, but once you get it on, you can adjust it to fit you perfectly. 

It’s available in a variety of colors and this vest is endorsed as the official plate carrier provider for famous championships. It’s a great choice for anyone that wants a weighted vest that doesn’t feel bulky and remains comfortable during all kinds of workouts.

Gymreapers is represented by world record-holding powerlifters, IFBB Pro’s and world-class trainers, and this is not just good marketing – their products actually are good enough to be used by the best of the best.

The first thing you’ll notice when you get them is the smell. This is pretty common for latex and rubber equipment, so if you have experience with it, you’ll probably be expecting some type of odor, but keep in mind that this one is pretty strong. The good thing is that it airs out within a few uses. 

You can use them for all sorts of things, including pull ups, squats, bench presses, etc. These bands are made entirely of latex and are very lightweight but don’t feel flimsy or weak at all. They’re exceptionally durable and come in a pack of 5 bands, each with a different level of resistance. 

Their length is 41’’, so they won’t be too short for anything you decide to use them for, and they come with a practical carrying bag, which is a nice addition. When you roll them up, the bands come at only 10’’, so it’s easy to travel with them because they won’t take up a lot of space in your bag. 

If the initial smell doesn’t bother you too much, you’ll love them!

These sandbags are a versatile, space-efficient, and durable accessory that can help you break through plateaus and make your workouts more challenging and interesting.

You have three options to choose from: 50 lbs, 100 lbs, or 150 lbs. They’re made of a heavy-duty fabric and have triple-reinforced seams, which makes them resilient and suitable for just about any exercise, like strongman-style stone carries, cleans, presses, squats, etc.

The industrial-grade hook-and-loop closure and ultra-durable zipper prevent any spilling, so you don’t need to worry about any mess that these can make. The filler opening has reinforced tabs so you can easily access the filler bag, but you also know that its contents will stay in place. 

When empty, these sandbags can be stored just about anywhere. They are highly functional, reliable, and will allow you to explore various training modalities without compromising durability or safety.

This meticulously designed all-inclusive set can transform any space into a dynamic professional home gym. It’s curated by Rogue’s experienced team and has all the equipment needed for home gym.

This set comes with a diverse array of contents. The Concept 2 RowerG Rower with PM5 monitor is definitely one of its highlights due to its top-notch features and flywheel design. It offers control over each pull’s feel via an easy spiral damper. The package also contains the 320 lbs Rogue HG 2.0 Bumper Set that consists of varied weight plates.

The Rogue Ohio bar is the epitome of precision and has a 190,000 PSI steel construction and dual knurl marks. It offers an array of finish options, and the five Rogue kettlebells (ranging from 35 lbs to 70 lbs) are a perfect addition to your strength training routine. 

You also get a pair of Rogue’s rubber hex dumbbells with rubber-encased heads and chrome-plated steel handles with knurled grips, as well as the Rogue OSO Collars, wood rings, formed parallettes, and a medicine ball.

The downside? Only the vague instructions. You’ll need to put a bit of work into setting everything up; nonetheless, this package is comprehensive, effective, and has equipment of exceptional quality.

Essential Sports Equipment You Should Add to Your Home Gym

If you’re building a home gym from scratch, you’re likely to get overwhelmed by all the available equipment and might be worried about fitting all of it in your space. However, you don’t need to have every single piece of equipment a commercial gym has – you need only the essential home gym equipment to start with, and then you can keep upgrading your gym over time. 

As far as garage gym essentials go, you need weights, such as dumbbells or kettlebells. Dumbbells are very versatile, and kettlebells focus on dynamic work, power-building exercise, stability and even conditioning. 

It’s also a good idea to get some resistance bands because they’re easily portable, adjustable, and allow you to target specific muscle groups. You can even combine a kettlebell with a band to get something special. You should also think about getting either a mat or gym flooring for floor-based exercises because good-quality flooring will prevent slipping and protect your floors from the equipment you use. 

As far as other necessities go, a rack with a barbell is a must because it’s a fundamental component of strength training. If you want to add a machine or two, consider a rowing machine or an exercise bike.

Best Home Gym Equipment for Different Types of Training

What your must-have home gym equipment consists of depends on what workouts you intend on doing and what your fitness priorities are. There are a few basic pieces of fitness equipment every comprehensive gym has, but if your priority is, for example, building muscle, don’t clutter your space with cardio machines. Keep cardio equipment at a minimum and focus on more necessary things. 

Let’s go through everything you need for a home gym. 

1. For Weightlifting Workout

• Power Rack

You may have heard it called a squat rack or a power cage, but a power rack is the cornerstone of any home exercise equipment that’s focused on weightlifting.

It provides a secure and adjustable frame for exercises like squats, bench presses, overhead presses, and pull-ups. It has safety pins or bars and makes heavy lifts safer, which allows you to push your limits without needing a spotter.

Our expert Oleksiy Torokhtiy noted:

“Include a band or chain resistance to your exercises when using a power rack. This can improve your strength training by progressively increasing the resistance as you lift. This is particularly effective for squats and bench presses, where the resistance becomes greater as you move through the range of motion where you’re strongest.“

• Weight Bench

You need a sturdy weight bench to offer support for bench presses, incline presses, seated shoulder presses, and other exercises that need a stable platform. Look for an adjustable bench that has various incline angles to add diversity to your workouts.

• Barbell

This is one of those pieces of equipment that’s non-negotiable: you absolutely cannot do without a quality barbell. It’s the primary tool for exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, rows, and overhead presses. Before investing in a barbell, check its tensile strength, knurling, and overall durability. 

• Bumper Plates

These are specifically designed weight plates made of dense rubber and they make your workouts quieter and safer, especially during heavy lifts. They’re essential for Olympic weightlifting exercises like snatches and clean and jerks. Not only do they protect your floors, but they also allow you to drop the barbell without causing damage, so they’re ideal for home gyms. 

2. For Bodyweight Workout

• Pull-Up Bar

It offers diverse upper body exercises, like pull-ups, chin-ups, hanging leg raises, and more. It’s a fundamental piece for bodyweight workouts and it gives you an opportunity to engage multiple muscle groups. It mostly targets your back, arms, and core. You can choose a wall-mounted, doorway-mounted, or a freestanding pull-up bar based on the space you have available. 

• Jump Rope

It can’t get any simpler than a jump rope! It’s a super effective conditioning tool and it’s ideal for improving your cardiovascular fitness, coordination, and agility.

The workouts you can do with it are comprehensive and incorporate both upper and lower body movements. It burns calories, improves motor skills, balance, and endurance, and can potentially stimulate bone density. 

Our expert Ihor Shymechko noted:

“Enhance your jump rope workouts by incorporating HIIT. For example, you could do 30 seconds of fast-paced jumping followed by 30 seconds of slower jumping or rest. This method increases cardiovascular fitness and calorie burn.“

3. For Cardio Training

• Treadmill

A treadmill is a staple, especially when it comes to home workouts because it offers the convenience of walking or running indoors. It allows you to control the speed, incline, and simulate outdoor running conditions. Modern treadmills often have pre-programmed workouts, heart rate monitoring, and cushioned running surfaces to reduce the impact on joints. 

• Exercise Stationary Bike

A stationary bike will give you a low-impact workout and it’s ideal if you want a conditioning or/and lower body workout that doesn’t put too much stress on your joints. These bikes come in different types, so you can choose one based on your comfort and workout preference. 

• Elliptical

Ellipticals offer a low-impact, full-body workout that combines both upper and lower body movements. They simulate activities like walking, running, and stair climbing, all the while minimizing the impact on your joints. A lot of them have adjustable resistance, incline settings, and pre-programmed workouts. 

• Rowing Machine

These are super effective, although not nearly as popular as treadmills or ellipticals . A rowing machine will give you a full-body workout that works various muscle groups, including legs, core, back, and arms. When you do it correctly, rowing engages more than 80% of your body! They’re a low-impact cardio option that promotes endurance and can be extremely helpful as a recovery tool. 

4. For Fitness

• Dumbbells / Kettlebells

Both are very versatile and offer a wide range of exercises for building muscle, toning, and improving endurance and overall athleticism. They come in various weights (some are even adjustable) and they allow you to progress gradually, as your fitness level improves. Dumbbells allow you also to focus on isolated movements and can be just as effective as bulky machines are, while kettlebells allow you to add explosive movements and are made to work for a vast number of exercises. 

• Weighted Vest

A weighted vest is an excellent addition to bodyweight exercises or cardio workouts because it adds resistance to walking, running, or bodyweight workouts. It helps you build strength and endurance while providing a versatile way to make your training more challenging. 

• Medicine Ball

A medicine ball comes in various weights and sizes, and it allows you to do throws, squats, twists, and core workouts. It improves coordination, balance, and overall strength. 

• Mat

If you want maximum comfort and safety during your workouts, then you need an exercise mat. It’s a very important part of yoga, stretching, bodyweight exercises, and core workouts. A mat provides cushioning for your joints and support for various movements. 

• Gym Flooring

High-quality gym flooring will provide stability and shock absorption and protect both your equipment and the floor. It’s great for home setups because it creates a dedicated space for workouts.

CATEGORY	EQUIPMENT	DESCRIPTION
Weightlifting Workout	Power Rack	A secure frame for squats, bench presses, overhead presses and pull-ups. Features safety pins or bars for safer heavy lifts without a spotter.
Weightlifting Workout	Weight Bench	A sturdy bench for support in bench presses, incline presses, seated shoulder presses, etc., with various incline angles.
Weightlifting Workout	Barbell	Essential for squats, deadlifts, bench presses, rows, and overhead presses. Check for tensile strength, knurling, and durability before buying.
Weightlifting Workout	Bumper Plates	Dense rubber weight plates for quieter, safer workouts. Ideal for Olympic weightlifting.
Bodyweight Workout	Pull-Up Bar	Allows diverse upper body exercises targeting back, arms, and core. Can be wall-mounted, doorway-mounted, or freestanding.
Bodyweight Workout	Jump Rope	Simple but effective for cardiovascular fitness, coordination, agility, and full-body workouts. Improves motor skills, balance, endurance, and bone density.
Cardio	Treadmill	Walking and running indoors with control over speed and incline. Modern versions often feature pre-programmed workouts and heart rate monitoring.
Cardio	Exercise Stationary Bike	Low-impact lower body and conditioning workout. Suitable for different comfort and workout preferences.
Cardio	Elliptical	Full-body, low-impact workout machine that simulates walking, running, and stair climbing. Adjustable resistance and incline settings.
Cardio	Rowing Machine	Full-body workout that engages various muscle groups and promotes endurance, recovery and in some cases even strength.
Fitness	Dumbbells/Kettlebells	Versatile for building muscle, toning, improving endurance, balance and stability.
Fitness	Weighted Vest	Adds resistance to bodyweight exercises or cardio, enhances strength and endurance.
Fitness	Medicine Ball	For exercises like throws, squats, twists, and core workouts. Improves coordination, balance, and strength.
Fitness	Mat	Essential for yoga, stretching, bodyweight exercises, and core workouts. Provides cu

4 Benefits of Having Essential Sports Equipment at Your Home Gym

Think about the yearly cost of a gym membership and you’ll easily guess what’s one of the best advantages of having a home gym. But the benefits go beyond just saving money: you can choose the equipment you want to use, work out whenever you want, and don’t need to think about the sweaty people that just used the equipment before you but forgot to wipe it down and clean it. 

✅ Saving Money

Probably the first thing everyone thinks of – saving a ton of money on gym membership. It will reduce your monthly expenses, and over time, the investment you made upfront for your home gym will be more cost-effective than having to keep paying class fees and memberships. 

✅ Ability to Customize for Your Needs

A home gym allows you to select the equipment you want to use and that aligns with your fitness goals. This means that you get a space that’s completely tailored to your needs, and you can fully enjoy your workouts. 

✅ Accessibility (Convenience in Use at Any Time)

If you have a home gym, you don’t need to worry about working hours or commuting and don’t need to wait in line if the equipment you want to use is currently occupied. Basically, you can work out at any time for as long as you want without leaving your house. That’s about as ideal as it can get. 

✅ Investing in Your Well-being / Wellness

Regular exercise is important for both your physical and mental health, so investing in a home gym means you’re investing in your overall well-being. Besides, having a space dedicated to workouts encourages you to exercise and promotes a healthier lifestyle, reduces stress, and improves your mood.

How to Choose Equipment for Your Home Gym? 6 Tips

It can be a lot, but choosing your equipment really comes down to a few key factors. You need to make sure any equipment you choose aligns with your fitness goals, available space, and of course, your budget. Of course, you can’t forget to pay attention to the quality of the items to make sure it will last you a long time and function properly. 

1. Find Out Personal Fitness Levels and Goals

Be honest with yourself about your fitness level and don’t overestimate your abilities. You also need to decide on what your goals are – weight loss, muscle building, cardiovascular health, or improving your fitness overall. This is what’s going to help you determine the type of equipment you need. 

2. Assess Available Space

Don’t buy a bunch of bulky machines if all you have available is one tiny room that can barely fit a treadmill and a power rack. Measure the area you’re going to dedicate to your home gym and then take it into consideration when choosing your equipment. Your home gym shouldn’t be cluttered, and you should be able to move around it freely and without it constraining your movements during workouts. 

3. Analyze Users’ Reviews

Analyzing reviews is always a good idea, because who can tell you about how something performs better than the people who used it? Reviews are going to help you make an informed decision and prevent you from getting influenced by ads and random influencers who got the equipment for free. 

4. Estimate Equipment’s Versatility

For home gym equipment, it’s all about versatility and getting the most bang for your buck. Look for multi-functional gear, like adjustable dumbbells or resistance bands that offer diverse exercise options within a limited space.

Our expert Ihor Shymechko explains:

“Apart from being versatile, your equipment should also be adaptable. As your fitness journey evolves, so will your strength, endurance, and skill, so you should choose the equipment that can grow with you. For instance, choosing a weight bench with multiple angle adjustments or a cable machine with a wide range of attachments allows for a diverse range of exercises.“

5. Define Your Budget

Establish a budget range based on your financial capabilities and the equipment’s long-term value. Remember that you don’t need to get everything at once and you should make essential equipment a priority. Also, keep in mind that some brands offer financing through Affirm, Klarna, or Afterpay, so you can make your payments in installments. 

6. Test the Chosen Equipment at the Gym Before Purchase

You wouldn’t buy a car before taking it for a test drive, right? It’s the same with gym equipment – don’t invest in anything you haven’t personally tested. This will allow you to experience firsthand how it functions and if it would be something that would suit you.

If you don’t know where to start and your main goal is health and longevity – Pick one equipment from each category. For example Barbell with plates for strength, Rower for conditioning and aerobic capacity, plus some Kettlebells for overall fitness and balance – this is a great start and you can always add more things there.

FAQ

What Are 5 Must-Haves for a Great Home Gym?

It really depends on your preferences and fitness goals, but generally, you’ll need a sturdy power rack, an adjustable bench, a high-quality barbell suitable for multiple lifts, bumper plates for strength training and safety, and a set of adjustable dumbbells or kettlebells. These key pieces offer a good foundation for strength training, functional workouts, and muscle development. 

Why Should I Buy My Own Gym Equipment?

Think about waiting to use that machine that’s been occupied for the past hour or paying a gym membership fee every month. Gyms can get crowded, and memberships are pricey, so doesn’t a home gym sound like a better option? You can work out any time you want, without caring about the gym’s working hours, you don’t need to pay for membership, and you don’t have to use the same equipment hundreds of people have used (and sweated on) before you. 

Is It Cheaper to Go to a Gym or Make a Home Gym?

The initial cost is higher for a home gym, but long-term, a commercial gym membership is the more expensive option. With a home gym, you make a one-time investment and if your equipment is good quality, you won’t have the need to replace it for years and years, whereas a gym membership is a monthly expense, especially if there are more people in your household that are working out 😉

Is Home Workout as Effective as a Gym?

As always, it depends. On your goals, budget and space. For most people – yes, a home workout can be just as effective as the one you would do at the gym. The difference between them is that a home workout is more flexible, convenient, and private. It also allows you to schedule your training sessions according to your schedule, and not the gym’s working hours. 

Conclusion

The choice between a home gym and a commercial gym comes down to your preferences, but if we’re being completely honest, a home gym can be a far more practical option. If you’re looking to build your very own gym, you now have a whole list of the best home workout equipment that will make your workouts just as effective as the one you would do in a commercial gym. 

What are your thoughts on this? Do you have a home gym? If you do, what made you choose it over a commercial gym? If you don’t have a home gym, what’s the reason you prefer a commercial gym over the home option? What’s your dream home gym equipped with? 

Leave your thoughts and tips in the comment section!

Happy home gymming!

Also read:

• Best Smelling Salts
• Best Grip Strengthener
• Best Free Standing Pull up Bar
• Gym Membership vs Home Gym
• Best Home Weight Lifting Equipment
• Best Compact Home Gym

References:

1. Athos Trecroci, Luca Cavaggioni, Riccardo Caccia, Giampietro Alberti, “Jump Rope Training: Balance and Motor Coordination in Preadolescent Soccer Players,” Journal of Sports Science & Medicine 14, no. 4 (2015): 792-798.
2. Dirk Aerenhouts and Eva D’Hondt, “Using Machines or Free Weights for Resistance Training in Novice Males? A Randomized Parallel Trial,” International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 17, no. 21 (2020): 7848.
3. Jodi Helmer, “Kettlebells,” WebMD https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/a-z/kettlebell-workout (accessed December 11th, 2023)
4. Michael L. Puthoff, Benjamin J. Darter, David H. Nielsen, John H. Yack, “The Effect of Weighted Vest Walking on Metabolic Responses and Ground Reaction Forces,” Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise 38, no. 4 (2006): 746-752.
5. Stefanos Volianitis, Chie C. Yoshiga, Niels H. Secher, “The Physiology of Rowing with Perspective on Training and Health,” European Journal of Applied Physiology 120, no. 9 (2020): 1943-1963.
6. Stephen A. Ingham, Helen Carter, Gregory P. Whyte, Jonathan H. Doust, “Physiological and Performance Effects of Low- versus Mixed-Intensity Rowing Training,” Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise 40, no. 3 (2008): 579-584.
7. Takeru Kato, Toru Terashima, Takenori Yamashita, Yasuhiko Hatanaka, Akiko Honda, Yoshihisa Umemura, “Effect of Low-Repetition Jump Training on Bone Mineral Density in Young Women,” Journal of Applied Physiology 100, no. 3 (2006): 839-843.