Jump-Start Your Fitness Routine at Home With One of These 10 Gym Systems

The pandemic and work-from-home movement, coupled with serious improvements in technology and fitness equipment, have made going to the gym outside of the home less and less of a necessity. Staying at home to sweat means you can control your environment, whether that's for Covid safety reasons or because you like to work out at 2 a.m.

If you’re looking to jump-start your fitness routine at home, you may want to consider not just getting a rowing machine or dumbbells, but a home gym system that facilitates varied movement, from lifting to stretching to doing pull-ups. These compact units are designed to give you an array of exercises in one station, with enough range to keep up with you as you get stronger and fitter over time.

We found the best home gym systems to save you time and money on the gym, with options that span sizes, price points, functionalities, and smart capabilities. Whether you're planning on converting your basement into a home gym or you're looking to squeeze an inspiring workout station in your tiny apartment, we've got you covered.

The Best Home Gym Systems

What to Consider

Home gym systems should be highly personal choices. They typically require a significant financial outlay, so make sure you choose one that ticks all of your boxes in terms of functions and device compatibility as much as budget and aesthetics.

Types of Home Gym Systems

There's a wide variety of home gym systems suitable for a variety of fitness goals and athletes. Some exercise machines prioritize cardio, endurance, and stretching (like a Pilates reformer), while others are made for building muscle through lifting weights (like a Bowflex). We recommend choosing a machine that meets the needs you struggle with the most. If you love biking outside, for instance, a stationary bike probably isn't the best investment for you. If you struggle to motivate to lift at the gym, a weight-focused machine is better suited.

Since most home gyms don't have enough space for multiple machines, look for a machine that can target several areas of the body. Gyms typically have single-use machines, but home gym systems can often be used to work on your legs, arms, and abs. We made sure to let you know which of our recommended machines are multipurpose and which are best for honing in on one area.

Size and Height

Some home gym machines are large, especially when it comes to height. If you're working with a smaller space, opt for kits that include balance boards, resistance bands, and dumbbell racks to save space. If you have a large room to dedicate to your new workout haven, you can probably invest in bigger machines like a power cage. Always measure before you buy, and make sure to leave room for your body when you're envisioning the machine in your space.

Smart Features

Most smart-enabled exercise machines are just that—enabled. But there are a few machines, like the Peloton, that really function best when you use the accompanying subscription and app. From tracking your heart rate to keeping tabs on all the workouts you've done, smart features can help you stay up to date on your progress and goals.

How We Selected

We surveyed the market, consulted expert technical reviews, and read through thousands of customer reviews to make sure we only recommend the best home gym systems. I personally tapped my many years of workout experience at my own home and public gyms to find all the exercise machines that'll inspire you to move each and every day.

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