The Best Home Gym Equipment to Help You Get Fit at Home

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You don’t need to join an expensive gym to keep your fitness resolutions in the New Year.

If you have a few square feet to play with, you don’t even need to leave your home.

Related: Try The Home Workout From Hell

Whether you’re working with an expansive basement or a converted closet, with the fitness equipment on this list you can get in great shape on your own turf.

WHETHER YOU'RE a weightlifter, CrossFit acolyte, cardio junkie, or yoga lover, a dependable home gym setup is a must. You might not have the square footage or budget to create a space that replicates your go-to health club or weight room space, but you can still achieve great workouts at home with the best home gym equipment.

Building your home fitness setup should prioritize space, functionality, and usability over trends. Choose gear that suits your needs and storage space. Whether it's a full-on garage gym or portable equipment, the best home gym equipment can help you make the most of your home workouts.

Read more: How Men's Health Thoroughly Tests and Reviews Fitness Products

From traditional heavy lifting (we love these barbell sets and weight benches) to HIIT workouts (this 15-minute interval workout is sure to make you sweat) to full-on indoor cardio rigs (here are our picks for the best indoor rowing machines, as well as the best ellipticals), we've tested and vetted something out there for every type of training imaginable. In fact, we've used hundreds of pieces of equipment throughout the years, from the most high-end, commercial-grade options all the way down to budget gear from Amazon. Our extensive testing process has involved a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors, including durability, performance, suitability for different fitness levels, and value, to ensure that we recommend only the best.

Here are 22 can't-miss items that we would include in our dream home gym, with picks that will work for just about every type of space and style of training. And for an even deeper dive, check out our 2023 Men's Health Home Gym Awards for more of the most highly-rated, editor-selected gear.

NÜOBELL 80lb Classic

SMRTFT’s Nüobell is the perfect ultra-durable adjustable dumbbell I need for home workouts. It can easily be five pounds, perfect for warmup work, or 80 pounds, enough to challenge me on heavy leg moves, Eric Sung, C.S.C.S., a member of the Men's Health Strength in Diversity initiative and trainer at Performance Lab in New York City, told us.

These adjustable dumbbells give you the convenience of 16 sets of dumbbells all in one compact footprint. They're easy to use and offer superior durability thanks to its machined steel weight plates. If you're starting a home gym from scratch or live tight confines with little room to spare, consider these a must have. Few items pack as much versatility and return on investment in such a small package.

Read more: Best Adjustable Dumbbells

AB-3100 Adjustable Weight Bench

This one’s sturdy, and it gets especially high marks for comfort. Laying back on it for incline presses or chest-supported rows it’s nearly couch-comfy while still offering the support I need to dominate both exercises with heavy load. Few weight benches combine sturdiness, comfort, and versatility like this one from REP Fitness, which offers six different incline angles and a three-post design, anchoring it to the floor no matter the exercise.

The Ab-3100's adjustment mechanism is smooth, transitioning from fully flat to a 90-degree incline with minimal effort. The 77-pound frame isn't light, but it's stable enough for exercises with a lot of weight transfer, like step-ups. The alloy-steel bench is rated to up to 700 pounds—more than enough for novice to intermediate lifters. It's a great accompaniment to any home gym, whether you have a power rack or a set of dumbbells.

Read more: Best Weight Benches

3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box

Plyo box workouts can be incredibly effective, but the boxes themselves can take up space. This one from Rep Fitness has 3 vinyl-covered plyo boxes (16 inches, 20 inches, 24 inches) that are soft but sturdy.

The vinyl covering is saves your shins if you accidentally catch your toe on a jump, and dampens the sound of impact, too. You shouldn’t use it on a smooth floor, though (think wood, tile, or smooth concrete), as it needs some grip to avoid slipping out from under you. (We've made that mistake before. Ouch.)

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THE BEAST Olympic Bar

This seven-foot Olympic barbell has been one of our favorite barbells for home use (and an Amazon's Choice best seller) for years. The 15" sleeves are designed with snap clips to accommodate any 2-inch Olympic plates. It's built of 110,000 PSI tensile strength cold rolled Japanese steel with a black oxide finish, so it's plenty durable. Durable enough, in fact, that it's rated to 1,000 pounds. While that won't quite accommodate powerlifters, it's more than enough for beginner to intermediate home lifters.

Most reviewers report that it feels great in the hands (even without the knurled grip), although some reviewers complain of more bending than expected when lifting 350 pounds or more. But, at roughly half the price of most premium alternatives, it's an incredible value, especially for any moderate weightlifters looking to upgrading their home gym without spending a small fortune.

CAP Barbell Olympic 2" Rubber Bumper Plate

CAP's rubber bumper plates have a steel inner hub that was designed to withstand drops without damage. They're also made of virgin and recycled rubber.

They come in a variety of weights that are also color-coded: 10 pounds (green), 25 pounds (yellow), 35 pounds (blue) and 45 pounds (red), ranging from $40-54 per plate. Keep in mind, these plates are sold as singles, so building a full set isn't cheap. Start small with four to six plates to get your home weight rack up and running and expand from there as needed.

5-50 Lb. Dumbbell Sets with Rack

Adjustable dumbbells are great, but the hex dumbbell is a staple of any modern home gym. Living Fit’s Hex Dumbbells have the classic shape that’s more stable and won’t roll around on you mid-workout. The cast iron construction feels extremely rigid and durable (though perhaps not as much as rubber dumbbells) and is coated in rubber for extra protection. Moderate knurling on the handles also adds texture, which allows for a better grip.

This rack is expensive and takes up a ton of space, but if you want the ultimate home gym experience, this is option is a step above a set of adjustable dumbbells. You can always add a second rack for sets above 50 lbs. later down the road if you need it, too.

If there’s a downside, it’s that cast iron dumbbells typically don’t last as long as their rubber counterparts. Although, in this case, the rubber coating is guaranteed to help protect these for years to come. A complete set will take up significantly more floor space than getting a few hex dumbbell sets a la carte, but we find it well worth the price for the possibilities it opens up (if you have the floorspace to spare). But, if you’re just looking for just 2-3 pairs of classic hex weights, Living.Fit has some of our favorites, too.

Read more: Best Dumbbells

Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

The Concept2 RowErg is the standard by which all rowing machines are measured, a device that can redline your heart rate in minutes and is perfect for strengthening hips, glutes, back, and abs.

The RowErg with Standard Legs is the new name for Concept 2's Model D rower, and it's the first device that comes to mind when we think of training on a rower at home. Our editors have never tested a better rower than this one, point blank. In a nutshell, it offers many of the same features as the best rowing machines that cost twice as much.

"It's an industry standard used by CrossFit and in many high-profile competitions for a reason," according to Samuel. "It relies on a variable resistance flywheel that provides a constant challenge, making it great for high volume or experienced rowers."

It's extremely easy to assemble, too. In our experience (and many Amazon reviewers agree) setup takes around 20 minutes with minimal tools or hardware (just eight screws are required).

City dwellers and users tight on space will appreciate the clever design that allows this machine to separate into two pieces for easy storage. Built-in caster wheels make setting up and putting away a breeze. Plus, it's surprisingly affordable at $1,240 delivered.This is the definitive home rowing experience, and why it's our pick for the best value rowing machine of 2024.

Read more: Best Indoor Rowing Machines

Bike+

When you're looking for an exercise bike that's as high-tech as it gets, the Peloton Bike+ is our go-to choice. The 24-inch HD touchscreen display is crisp and easy to use, and its library of best-in-class instructor-led studio-style classes is a true game-changer for home workouts. MH Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, has been using this bike several times per month for more than four years now, and has never run out of fresh classes to try.

For nearly $2500, it's a bummer that users need to shell out an additional $44/month for access to the platform, but we found it well worth the cost if you take advantage of the off-bike classes, too. From 5-minute core sessions to hybrid strength and cycling classes—it can be used for a much more comprehensive exercise program than cycling alone—just as long as users have extra floor space in front of or next to the bike to move around.

Slidez

These slides might be the most simple piece of equipment on this list, but they sure can rip your core into shape. Use them under your feet or hands on a smooth floor to challenge stability and light up your muscles.

Our favorite simple way to use these is to pop them underneath the feet to amp up classic mountain climbers. Keeping the feet in contact with the sliders the whole time, try 3-4 rounds of sprinting through 30 seconds to a minute of continuous mountain climbers, then resting for 15-30 seconds. They're generous in size, making them a great option for those who are new to sliders in general.

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Rogue Monster Bands

These tough, reliable closed-loop resistance bands are available in six different resistance levels and work well for a variety of exercises. Whether using them to assist for pull-ups or to warm up, the eight choices of resistance and size allow for a lot of versatility. We really like the lighter bands for mobility work, too.

They range from light to heavy resistance (9-225 lb.), and can be purchased individually or in package sets. These come at a higher price point compared to other resistance bands out there, but the durability is unmatched.

Read more: Best Resistance Bands

NordicTrack EXP 14i

The EXP line of treadmills are specifically designed for at-home use and are NordicTrack's most customizable and smartest machines yet. Key features include a heart rate monitor and AutoAdjust™ technology that automates speed and incline adjustments throughout your workout. The EXP 14i is driven by a powerful 3.5 continuous Hp motor with speeds up to 12 MPH as well as a wide decline/incline range from -3% to 12%. Aside from the commercial-grade motor and nearly bulletproof tread belt, this model has a 14-inch HD touchscreen display with live iFit classes to guide you through a run whenever you want.

Beyond its functional specs is its solid build and easy-to-use controls. While testing, we found that its base and belt (which isn't too narrow or wide) could hold steady when used by bigger guys (up to 300 pounds). The FlexSelect Cushioning absorbed some of the impact from strides (easier on the knees), and made for a quieter running experience compared to some other treads (your downstairs neighbors will thank you).

Plus, the touchscreen display is flanked by quick key buttons to adjust speed and incline to your likeness in one touch, instead of repeatedly pressing a button while trying to speed up or slow down.

Read more: Best Folding Treadmills

Weighted Jump Rope

This adjustable weighted jump rope is made of thick silicone that is soft, sweat-resistant and comfortable to use even during long workouts. We can confirm through our own testing that this jump rope is built to last. Out of the box, it's nearly 10 feet long, but is designed to be cut to find the perfect fit based on user height. This is ideal for a single user, but doesn't lend itself well to multiple users within the same household unless they're the same height.

Together, the rope and handles weigh 1 pound, so this kit is enough to challenge you during a good cardio sesh. At around $20, this is another great budget-friendly option for anyone looking to get in some cardio at home without a huge piece of equipment.

Bow

This bands and bow set provides variable resistance for a twist on a surprising number of exercises, forcing your muscles to spend more time under tension—a central tenet of muscle building.

The unique bow design accommodates up to 300 pounds of resistance (just to start, you can get heavier models) that you can use to target just about every muscle group. The bow itself is made out of aircraft aluminum while the resistance bands are double-wall latex, resulting in a durable, lightweight, and portable build.

You can think of the Gorilla Bow as a hybrid tool that combines the benefits of resistance bands with a weightlifting bar, which allows for a lot more versatility than a resistance band alone. And yeah, they've got a price tag to show for it. Resistance is adjustable, with the bow supporting up to 4 bands at a time so you can customize your resistance to meet your needs. The set comes with one original 56" bow, four Gorilla Bands (10, 20, 30 and 50-lb.), a band wrap, and a 30-day all-access membership to Gorilla Bow's virtual training platform.

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G-VEST+

Add up to ten pounds of resistance without the bulk and bounce that come with a typical weight vest. This luxe vest isn't cheap, but it's designed to be a comfortable, minimalist means to add some extra load to your training.

Unlike some other vests, which hold removable plates that make the weight concentrated to only one part of your torso, the Omorpho vest is designed for equal weight distribution. It fits tightly to your body while still letting you move, whether you’re running sprints or doing pushups and burpees.

Read more: Best Weighted Vests

Double Roller

Pricier than your basic foam roller, this Lululemon choice radiates durability and versatile functionality. We also think the modern design looks great, and is perfect for urban dwellers or anyone who wants their roller to blend into their decor seamlessly when it's not being used.

The inner roller is solid as a rock with ridges that get deep in the muscles to deliver a deep massage. The inner roller is my go-to for taming the back and thighs. The outer roller is a gentler and slightly softer, making it a good choice to reach for when your muscles are a tad more sensitive. It does cost a pretty penny, but these added features and the sleek aesthetic make it worth the full price. The outer roller must be used with the inner roller still nestled inside (meaning you can't use them separately at the same time). But we've never found that to be an issue when using it.

Take Form Yoga Mat

This Lululemon mat has an innovative 3D-texture that sets it apart from other mats. It's also made of a sustainably sourced natural rubber material that offers plenty of grip. You don't have to be into a yin slow flow or a vinyasa expert to make a yoga mat useful at home, use this top-notch option for abs and basic stretching, too.

And if you are into yoga, you probably know by now, this mat is a cut above the rest. It's lightweight, sleek in aesthetic, and won't have you slipping and sliding throughout your practice.

Read more: Best Yoga Mats

Tactical Gym

I've set these up at home for my regular workouts, but their portability allows me to take them to the office for a quick workout, requiring no additional equipment. What I particularly appreciate is the ability to adjust the workout's intensity simply by positioning my feet, which is why I've been using this for so many years as my strength has ebbed and flowed.

"TRX's Tactical Gym elevates basic bodyweight exercises like pushups and mountain climbers by introducing instability. It has transformed my workouts and significantly improved my core strength," remarks Ben Court, MH Executive Editor.

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3/8 Inch Thick Warrior Heavy Duty Rubber Flooring

There is a reason that heavy-duty rubber flooring is used in most commercial and next-level home gyms. The material is strong, sturdy, and resilient, making it ideal for any type of exercise or equipment. This ⅜-inch version is plenty thick for most home gyms, but other thicknesses are available if you want to dial in your preferred level of flooring. Either way, it’s designed to go right over your carpet, hardwoods, or most other surfaces, with each piece interlocking like a jigsaw puzzle. That means, unlike traditional flooring, “installation” is quick and painless (unlike trying to pull up your pant legs on leg day).

We especially like that the jigsaw-style installation means you can make this work in an odd-shaped room, and it’s also simple to move or remove entirely if you need to. In addition to solid black, this model is also available in a handful of other colors, so you can dress up your home gym space beyond the sterile, industrial “boxing gym” look. These are a little heavier and pricier than most, but for a commercial-grade product in your home, they’re hard to beat.

Read more: Best Home Gym Floor Mats

Trackers + Bag

Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM, first demoed this package, which includes a stand-up heavy bag, floor mat, wraps, gloves, and trackers, back in 2021. According to him, the heavy bag is hands down the best freestanding punching bag he's used.

"FightCamp continues to hold up as the best free-standing punching bag I've ever used, almost three years after my first punch," he explains.

"I keep it in my yard under a tarp, and it's just as effective as if it were in my living room. I don't always use the app to take classes, but any time I need to let off steam, I know it's there for me to kick."

The bag ring it sits on (a small circular mat with plastic rails connected by heavy-duty velcro) helps to ensure that it doesn't slide all over the place once the strikes begin to fly, a common issue with other bags.

The brains of the platform are actually in the smallest piece of gear included in the set, according to him. Users slot the tiny tracking devices into the provided hand wraps worn under the gloves, and the gadgets log every punch you throw during a workout via the connected app. (You can spring for a set that adds extra wraps and a pair of gloves, or this option that includes only wraps, trackers, and membership to the platform.)

Read more: Best Punching Bags

Powder Coat Kettlebell

Get your superhero on while forging muscle with this kettlebell. We love the quality and feel of these kettlebells, and the customer service of Kettlebell Kings is top-notch. We've purchased dozens of kettlebells from the brand throughout the years and have never regretted a single one.

Solid, no-frills bells are a go-to choice for our home workouts. "Whether I’m repping through a set of swings or snatches, I know I can depend on the durable, powder-coated weights," says MH Senior Fitness Editor, Brett Williams, NASM.

Read more: Best Kettlebells

Profile® PRO Folding Squat Rack

"The PRx Performance PRO is one of the most unique folding racks on the market, folding upwards (instead of inwards or outwards)," says Samuel. Which makes it much easier to set up for workouts. Using this rack ourselves, we can confirm: there's a sturdiness to this rack that feels extra-safe during bench presses and squats that is unmatched by other foldable models at a similar price.

The rack features sturdy steel construction and can support up to 600 pounds, and up to 1,000 pounds with the purchase of a reinforcement kit for an additional $50 (which we highly recommend). It also includes a pull-up bar and J-cups for holding barbells.

Read more: Best Folding Squat Racks

AirBike Classic

The Assault AirBike Classic is the undisputed heavyweight champion of high-intensity exercise bikes, and for under $800. This rugged machine has won hearts across our team of editors and experts, thanks to its rock-solid design and ability to deliver a tough workout. Simplicity is its strength; it doesn't boast unnecessary frills or bells and whistles, just an effective, muscle-pumping cardio workout. It doesn't even require plugging in to a power source.

It doesn't have the conveniences like water bottle holders, media holders, or touchscreen displays, but it isn't aiming to compete with tech-infused spin bikes after all. We most frequently opt for manual mode when using this bike, although a few programmed workouts are accessible through the LCD screen.

Read more: Air Bike vs. Spin Bike

How to Choose the Best Home Gym Equipment (for You)

Choosing the right home gym equipment is crucial for creating a kickass setup. Here are some tips to help you make the best choices and get the most bang for your buck.

Consider your fitness goals: Are you aiming to build muscle like a Greek god or shed those pesky love handles? Different goals call for different equipment. If you're into strength training, focus on getting some quality adjustable dumbbells or a full rack set up.

For cardio enthusiasts, a treadmill, stationary bike, or rowing machine will get your heart pumping and your sweat dripping.

Space: Unless you're living in a mansion, chances are your home gym won't be as spacious as a commercial one. So, make sure to choose equipment that fits your available space. If you're tight on room, consider going for compact options like resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells. They're small but mighty, perfect for those who need to optimize their space.

And quality matters, man! Don't skimp on the good stuff. You want equipment that can handle your beastly workouts without falling apart like a house of cards. Look for trusted brands that have a reputation for durability and longevity. Read reviews, ask around, and do your homework. You don't want to end up with wobbly machines or weights that crack under pressure. Go for sturdy materials and solid construction. You'll be glad in the long run.

Variety: It may be the spice of life, but counter to what the market may tell you, the basics let you perform the largest variety of movements. Pass on over-specialized tools that let you do a few unique exercises and nothing more.

Dumbbells and kettlebells will let you perform a mix of explosive moves and controlled isolation moves and can help you build strength, power, and mobility. Opt for those over stability balls and suspension trainers, which require fancier setups (especially if you're building a living room facility).

Budget: Set a budget and stick to it. Home gym equipment comes in a wide range of price points, and it's easy to get carried away. Determine how much you're willing to spend and prioritize your purchases accordingly. Remember, it's better to invest in a few quality pieces than to clutter your space with cheap, flimsy gear that won't stand the test of time.

With these tips in your arsenal, you'll be well on your way to creating a killer home gym setup that will have you never missing a gym day again. Now go out there and build that fitness sanctuary you've always dreamed of.

What Are the Benefits of Home Gym Equipment?

So, you're thinking about setting up your very own home gym. Well, buckle up because it's going to be a game-changer.

Convenience is the name of the game. No more wasting precious time commuting to the gym or waiting for your turn on the bench. With a home gym, you're the boss of your own fitness kingdom. You can squeeze in a workout whenever it suits you, whether it's before the crack of dawn or after a long day at work, or in bite-sized bits between meetings. Plus, no more crowds or sweaty gym rats hogging the equipment. It's just you, your favorite tunes, and some iron to conquer.

Is Building a Gym with Home Gym Equipment Worth It?

Sure, creating a lasting home gym demands an initial investment, but it's a wise long-term saving strategy.

Think about getting adjustable dumbbells (priced between $400 and $800), a yoga mat (typically ranging from $20 to $140), and a cardio machine like a rower or bike (average cost around $2000). While that initial investment may seem steep, keep in mind that the average gym membership in the U.S. is about $55/month, sometimes with additional initiation and cancellation fees. You'll recoup your investment in less than 5 years.

What is the Best Home Gym Equipment to Buy?

There's nothing worse than investing in a new piece of equipment for your home gym, just to find out it's a one trick pony that you're already bored with after a week. What you want for an at-home set up that will really keep you excited about using it is gear that's versatile enough to be used in different ways. That way, you can keep your space uncluttered and your budget on-point.

When it comes to the best bang-for-your buck, value-packed equipment, our answer might annoy you. But all you really need? A pair of reliable adjustable dumbbells, a training program, and a weight bench.

Start out strong with a pair of adjustable dumbbells like the ones from NÜOBELL or PowerBlock. Yes, they're pricey, but they pack a ton of versatility in a minimal footprint. Pair it with a weight bench like the space-saving Reebok Adjustable Weight Bench that can conveniently fit under your bed, a mid-range option like the one from REP Fitness, or a luxe option like this one from Prime Fitness.

To make the most of your equipment, consider a training app like our very own All/Out Studio, which is packed with thousands of programs and guided workouts to keep you engaged and challenged with whatever gear you're working with.

Top it off with a non-slip yoga mat like Lululemon's The Reversible (Un) Mat for a sweat-proof surface for floor exercises, you've got a recipe for success.

How We Selected the Best Home Gym Equipment

For the past year, we consulted with Men's Health's in-house certified trainers and fitness editors to identify the best home gym equipment worthy of a recommendation. We spent months of hands-on time vetting products from top fitness brands, spanning cardio machines, weights, connected fitness gear, and more.

In fact, we've tested hundreds of pieces of equipment throughout the years, from the most high-end, commercial-grade versions all the way down to budget gear from Amazon. Our extensive testing process involved a comprehensive evaluation of multiple factors, including durability, performance, suitability for different fitness levels, and value, to ensure that we recommend only the best. To gather diverse perspectives, we consulted with our MH Advisory Board and Strength in Diversity trainers, who provided valuable feedback on the top home gym equipment based on their expertise and experiences.

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing in our in-house Fitness Lab before making any recommendations.

Our fitness writers and editors are experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality. Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage, which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

Shop More of Our Favorite Home Gym Equipment

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