25 Best Home Gym Equipment Items of 2022

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A quick look at the best home gym equipment 

The home gym landscape has changed drastically over the past few years. 

While a home gym was once considered a luxury, many people are now dedicating space to work out in their homes and garages. 

From simple weights and yoga mats to high end cardio machines, there are many ways to stay in shape without setting foot in a gym. 

To help you get started, we selected our favorite pieces of home gym equipment to fit a variety of fitness needs and budgets.

How to choose the best home gym equipment for you

While there’s wide variability in home gym equipment, here are a few key factors to consider as you’re shopping around: 

  • Purpose. Are you looking to build strength, or is cardio more important? You’ll want to prioritize items that meet your current fitness needs, especially if you don’t have the space or budget for multiple pieces of equipment. 
  • Price. Gym equipment items range in price from around $10 to several thousand dollars. While you shouldn’t sacrifice safety or quality, you can often save money by choosing products with fewer high tech features such as touch screens and Bluetooth capabilities. 
  • Warranties. Even high quality gym equipment can break, which is why it’s important to pay attention to the type of warranty the manufacturer or retailer provides. 
  • Customer reviews. Make sure to read several customer reviews, as they often provide honest feedback about the design, durability, and functionality of a product. 

How we chose the best home gym equipment

All the products on this list were selected using the following criteria: 

  • Versatility. To help save money and space, we looked for equipment that can be used for a variety of exercises. 
  • Materials. From kettlebells to cardio machines, we included products that are stable, reliable, and well made overall. 
  • Size. We looked for items that work for home gyms of all sizes. 
  • Customer reviews. All the products below have mostly positive customer reviews. 
  • Vetting. All the brands included have been vetted to ensure that they meet Healthline’s business standards.

Healthline’s picks of the best home gym equipment 

Best workout mat 

Premium Extra-Thick Yoga Mat

 

Mat
  • Price: $
  • Pros: textured surface prevents slipping, padding is comfortable for the joints
  • Cons: paint may come off or smudge, too thin for some 

A work out mat is a simple yet essential piece of exercise gear for everything from yoga and stretching to weightlifting and high intensity interval training. 

While there’s an abundance of options to choose from, the Gaiam Premium Extra-Thick Yoga Mat is one of the best because it’s affordable, available in a variety of colors and styles, and easy to clean.

It also features a textured nonslip surface to keep you safe and secure while you sweat. 

What’s more, the mat weighs just 3 pounds (1.4 kg) and is extra thick, with 6 mm of padding to keep you comfortable on almost any surface.

Best resistance bands

 

Resistance Bands

Bands
  • Price: $
  • Pros: affordable, versatile, compact
  • Cons: poor durability, may snap 

Ideal for those tight on space, resistance bands offer a compact and budget-friendly way to add intensity to your workout. 

When shopping for resistance bands, keep in mind that most are color-coded according to their tension level. Therefore, it’s best to buy a set for maximum versatility.

Many bands also include accessories, such as handles and door anchors, to improve your range of motion and allow for a greater number of exercises. 

These highly rated bands from Whatafit are a great option, as they range from 10–50 pounds (4.5–22.7 kg) of resistance when used individually and can be combined for up to 150 pounds (68 kg) of resistance to help grow and strengthen your muscles.

In addition to five resistance bands, the kit includes two handles, two ankle straps, a door anchor, and a travel bag to keep all your equipment in one place.

Adjustable Weight Bench

Bench
  • Price: $
  • Pros: foldable design, made of steel and vegan leather, sturdy, lightweight 
  • Cons: lightweight, so it might move around easily; lacks lumbar support; might be too short or narrow for some users

With more than 12,000 online reviews, more than half of which are 5 stars, the FLYBIRD Adjustable Weight Bench is a popular choice for any home gym. 

With six back and four seat positions, the bench is easily adjustable for a full-body workout. 

It’s also made from high quality steel and durable leather, so you don’t have to worry about it tearing or breaking anytime soon. Plus, the bench is foldable and weighs only 21.3 pounds, so it’s easy to move and store. 

It comes fully assembled and supports up to 600 pounds (272.7 kg) for a safe and stable workout experience.

Freestanding Punching Bag

Heavy Bag
  • Price: $$
  • Pros: absorbs shock, reduces noise, sturdy
  • Cons: difficult to fill, base may leak water 

If you enjoy boxing, kickboxing, or mixed martial arts, a freestanding heavy bag and some boxing gloves are a great investment. 

Standing 70 inches (177.8 cm) tall, this punching bag from FITVEN is flexible and durable. 

Plus, thanks to a series of springs, it’s designed to absorb shock and reduce noise better than its competitors. 

Another benefit is that it’s freestanding, so you don’t have to worry about anchoring it to your ceiling. 

While you can fill the base with water, the company recommends using sand for better stability.

High Density Equipment Mat

Equipment Mat
  • Price: $
  • Pros: textured nonslip surface, protects floor from sweat, may absorb noise and vibrations
  • Cons: rips, too thin for some, may stain floor 

Available in two sizes and a foldable option, the High Density Equipment Mat is made of a high density textured material that prevents slippage, adds stability to your exercise equipment, and protects your floor. 

The mat may also help reduce noise and vibrations. 

While the 3 x 6.5-foot (91.4 x 198-cm) mat is large enough for most cardio machines, the 2.5 x 5-foot (76.2 x 152.4-cm) size works well for smaller equipment or as a supportive surface for bodyweight cardio exercises. 

As a bonus, the mat is simple to clean and rolls up easily for storage.

Best home strength training equipment

TRX Home2 System

Try System
  • Price: $$
  • Pros: lightweight, adjustable, durable, portable 
  • Cons: expensive, requires strong anchor point 

Complete a full-body workout anywhere and anytime with this suspension training kit from TRX.

Featuring a series of straps and handles, suspension trainers allow you to perform a full-body resistance workout without weights. 

Instead, the trainer uses gravity and your body weight to provide resistance during exercises, including lunges, squats, pullups, pushups, and planks.

The suspension straps also increase the difficulty of workouts by adding an element of instability to bodyweight moves, which helps you use more of your core muscles. 

Plus, because it’s lightweight and adjustable, the system is ideal for small spaces and people of all sizes and fitness levels. 

While the company offers a more advanced kit, the Home2 system is a good option for beginners. It includes a TRX suspension training strap, suspension anchor, door anchor, mesh travel pouch, and 35-page workout guide.

Best non-adjustable dumbbells 

Non-Adjustable Dumbbells

Dumbbells
  • Price: $$
  • Pros: space-saving design, convenient storage tray, easy to switch weights
  • Cons: bulky, might be too light for some

No home gym is complete without dumbbells. 

Useful for a variety of exercises such as biceps curls, triceps kickbacks, weighted lunges, and Russian twists, dumbbells are a versatile piece of exercise equipment designed to strengthen and tone your body. 

However, buying a set of weights can get expensive and requires space for a dumbbell rack. Instead, we recommend the Hex Dumbbell Complete Package Set 2 Each Of 5-50 lbs With Rack

These dumbbells are both durable and effective. 

Best versatile dumbbells

CAP Barbell 52.5-Pound Adjustable Dumbbell

Adjustable
  • Price: $
  • Pros: available as a single or a set, easy-grip solid steel handles, compact design
  • Cons: size issues; complaints of missing hardware, handles, and weights

Available as a single weight or a set, the 52.5-pound (23.8-kg) CAP Barbell Adjustable Dumbbell includes a dumbbell handle, 12 weight plates, and 2 star-lock collars. 

The diamond-knurled handle is easy to grip, and the compact design is ideal for small spaces. 

Emily Jacques, a NASM-certified CycleBar and Rumble instructor for Xponential+, recommends these weights, explaining, “These cast-iron plates have solid steel handles and are most similar to the dumbbells you’re going to find in a gym. You can always buy more weights at a later date as you gain strength.”

Best kettlebells

Rogue Rubber Coated Kettlebells

  • Price: $–$$
  • Pros: durable, color-coded, rubber-coated cast iron
  • Cons: expensive shipping cost, not heavy enough for some 

Another essential piece of home gym equipment is a kettlebell. 

While kettlebells can be used for many of the same exercises as dumbbells, they also allow for more dynamic moves, including snatches, cleans, and kettlebell swings. 

These rubber-coated kettlebells from Rogue Fitness are among the best, as they’re made of single-piece cast-iron for ultimate durability. 

In addition to being well made, these kettlebells are easy to grip thanks to their textured handles. Plus, they’re color-coded to help you quickly identify your desired weight. 

The kettlebells are available in 5 weight increments: 26, 35, 44, 53, and 70 pounds (12, 16, 20, 24, and 32 kg).

Best adjustable kettlebell 

Stamina Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell

  • Price: $
  • Pros: easy weight adjustments, easy-grip cast iron handle, excellent customer service 
  • Cons: bulky, weights may clang or rattle, too bulky for some, not heavy enough for some

Taking the place of 6 weights, this 36-pound (16.3-kg) adjustable kettlebell features a patented pin adjustment system for quick, simple weight changes. 

The durable design has a cast-iron handle and five steel weight plates inside the shell. The kettlebell is sturdy enough to support pushups and takes up minimal space in your workout area. 

Jacques says, “In my opinion, the Stamina Adjustable Kettle Versa-Bell is the best kettlebell out there. The compact design features six weight options, which are very easy to adjust and change. A cast-iron handle is an important feature for me, as it’s comfortable and easy to grip. It comes with a base pad so you can prevent floor damage.”

Best barbell

Olympic Barbell

Benchpress Barbell
  • Price: $$
  • Pros: fantastic value, exclusive Rogue knurl pattern, lifetime warranty
  • Cons: rust issues, slippery for sweaty hands, coating may scratch or come off

Backed by a lifetime guarantee against bending, the Ohio Bar from Rogue Fitness is available in four finishes. 

The 44.1-pound (20-kg) steel bar is made in the United States, and it features high quality knurling and bronze brushings that work as bearing surfaces between the bar sleeve and shaft. 

The bar is strong enough to support heavy weight loads and offers great value for the cost. 

Customers rave about the exceptional quality.

Best weight plates

 

AMGYM LB Bumper Plates Olympic Weight Plates

Bumper Plates
  • Price: $–$$
  • Pros: durable design, thin plates, rubber coating to protect floors and reduce bounce 
  • Cons: paint wears off, might bend or scratch easily 

Bumper plates are a great addition to any home gym, as they help minimize noise, reduce bounce, and protect your floors during strength training moves like deadlifts.

To accompany the Ohio Bar above, we recommend the Echo Bumper Plates V2, which are also from Rogue Fitness. Offering excellent value, the plates feature a durable design that uses stainless steel inserts and high quality rubber. 

Customers particularly appreciate the thin width of the plates, which makes it easy to maximize weight loads. Several people also mention that the plates are easy to grip to move them on and off the bar. 

The Echo Bumper Plates V2 are available in pairs from 10–45 pounds (4.5–20.4 kg) or sets ranging from 160–260 pounds (72.5–118 kg) total.

Best all-in-one home gym

Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym

Bow Flex
  • Price: $$$
  • Pros: sturdy construction, easy assembly, no cable changes between sets 
  • Cons: expensive, not enough resistance for advanced weightlifters

One pricey but popular piece of home workout equipment is the Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym. 

Featuring a cable pulley system, padded seat, and leg press, it allows you to perform more than 50 exercises — such as shoulder presses, leg extensions, and biceps curls — with a single machine. 

It also accommodates users up to 300 pounds (136.4 kg) and is highly rated for being an overall solid, durable, and reliable piece of equipment. 

It’s worth noting that the machine offers up to 210 pounds (95.5 kg) of resistance, which is more than enough for beginner and intermediate lifters. The resistance can be upgraded to 310 pounds (140.6 kg).

However, more advanced weightlifters will want to consider the Bowflex Xtreme 2 SE Home Gym, which can be upgraded to provide 410 pounds (186 kg) of resistance.

Best power rack 

PRx Performance Profile Squat Rack with Kipping Bar

Power Rack
  • Price: $$$
  • Pros: foldable design, requires minimal space 
  • Cons: unsuitable for low ceilings

If you like to lift heavy, you’ll want to consider this power rack from PRx Performance. 

Unlike many other options on the market, the rack gets bolted to your wall and folds up when not in use, so it’s ideal if you’re tight on space. 

In addition to a squat rack, this piece of equipment includes the choice of a traditional, kipping, or multigrip pullup bar. 

It has a weight capacity of up to 1,000 pounds (453.5 kg) and comes with two heavy-duty J-cups for protecting your barbell. 

Just keep in mind that you’ll need to buy the barbell and weight plates separately 

Best workout mirror

 

Tempo Studio

Workout Mirror
  • Price: $$$$
  • Pros: form feedback, in-depth performance tracking, large touch-screen display
  • Cons: expensive, requires monthly subscription, needs more modification options

The Tempo Studio is a high quality workout mirrorequipped with Bluetooth-enabled speakers, a 42-inch (107-cm) touch screen, and sensors that track your movements, offer weight-load guidance, and provide form feedback. 

Healthline editor Mellanie Perez highly recommends the Studio, as she finds the personalized live form feedback feature to be an invaluable addition to her strength training regimen. She also finds the live and on-demand classes effective and motivating. 

The mirror is available in three packages that include accessories such as dumbbells, a barbell, and a workout bench.

Just keep in mind that you’ll need to subscribe to the Tempo app, which costs $39 per month and includes unlimited profiles and access to live and on-demand classes

Best rowing machine 

Hydrow Rower

Rower
  • Price: $$$$
  • Pros: excellent quality, large touch-screen display, Live Outdoor Reality workouts
  • Cons: pricey, requires monthly subscription, possible delivery issues 

Rowing machines offer a low impact way to get your heart pumping while toning your whole body. 

Sturdily built using an aluminum and steel frame, the Hydrow Rower provides a fluid, quiet ride that simulates outdoor rowing. It also includes an adjustable footbed, a 22-inch (56-cm) rotating touch screen, and 2 speakers.

What’s more, unlike those of many other smart rowers, all of Hydrow’s rowing classes are filmed on the water and led by rowing experts. 

The $38 monthly subscription fee allows you to create multiple profiles and access thousands of engaging on-demand workouts. The platform also offers two live classes per day and connects you to a leaderboard in case you’re feeling competitive. 

Healthline Fitness senior editor Saralyn Ward is a fan of the Hydrow, saying that the machine got her into indoor rowing.

Best home exercise bike

Indoor Cycling Exercise Bike with Silent Belt Drive

Indoor bike
  • Price: $$$
  • Pros: dual-sided pedals, heart rate monitor, silent ride 
  • Cons: short labor warranty, crank axle clicks, complaints of pedals installed backward

If you enjoy indoor cycling classes, you just might love the Schwinn IC4 indoor cycling bike. 

While it doesn’t have an integrated tablet, the bike is equipped with a device holder and offers Bluetooth capabilities, allowing you to stream hundreds of workouts from popular apps such as Peloton, Apple Fitness+, and Zwift. 

The bike also offers 100 levels of magnetic resistance and an LCD console for monitoring performance metrics, including your time, distance, and calories burned. 

Plus, its dual-sided pedals allow you to use either SPD clips or your regular athletic shoes. 

Finally, at less than $1,000, it’s a more affordable option than many other home exercise bikeson the market.

Best smart bike 

YESOUL S3 Indoor Exercise Bike

Exercise Bike
  • Price: $$$
  • Pros: dual-sided pedals, large touch-screen display, -10% decline to 20% incline
  • Cons: bike wobbles, monthly subscription cost, iFit crashes often

The NordicTrack New S22i Studio Cycle offers 24 resistance levels and is equipped with a 22-inch (56-cm) rotating touch screen that connects you to live and on-demand classes.

The bike comes with built-in speakers, a set of 3-pound (1.4-kg) dumbbells, and front-mounted transport wheels. 

To ensure proper form, the ergonomic padded saddle and multigrip handlebars can be adjusted vertically and horizontally. 

The bike comes with hybrid SPD and toe-clip pedals. 

Purchase of the New S22i Studio Cycle includes a 30-day iFit family membership for 5 users. After the trial period, the subscription costs $39 per month.

Best recumbent bike 

Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike

Recumbent Bike
  • Price: $$
  • Pros: sturdy construction, smooth pedaling, 25 resistance levels 
  • Cons: dim display, inaccurate heart rate monitor

Recline in comfort on the Schwinn 270 Recumbent Bike, which has a ventilated, padded seat with a supportive backrest.

In addition to 25 levels of resistance and 29 programmed workouts, the sturdy bike has a weighted flywheel that offers an ultra-smooth, quiet ride. 

The Schwinn 270 comes with built-in speakers and has Bluetooth capabilities in case you prefer to tune in to a podcast or playlist.

Best high end treadmill

 

NordicTrack New Commercial 2450 Treadmill

Treadmill
  • Price: $$$$
  • Pros: large touch-screen display, automatic trainer control, -3% decline to 15% incline
  • Cons: monthly subscription cost, heavy to move 

If you’re looking for a sturdy and reliable treadmill that can accommodate casual and competitive runners alike, look no further than the NordicTrack 2450. 

With a 15% incline, a -3% decline, and speeds up to 12 miles (19.3 km) per hour, the treadmill provides plenty of training options to keep you challenged.

It also features NordicTrack’s Runners Flex cushioning, which is designed to reduce the impact on your joints. 

Plus, the Commercial 2450 is equipped with an oversized 22-inch (56-cm) touch screen for streaming live and on-demand workouts from around the globe using the iFit app. 

With virtual runs through scenic landscapes, including locations in England, Ireland, and Iceland, your indoor run won’t feel so constraining. 

The treadmill includes a free 30-day family iFit membership, which can be renewed for $39 per month.

Best basic treadmill

 

Sole F80 Treadmill

Treadmill
  • Price: $$$$
  • Pros: foldable design, durable, sturdy 
  • Cons: no touch screen, no on-demand classes

If you’re looking for a no-frills, basic treadmill that’s sturdy enough to withstand running speeds, the Sole F80 is a great option. 

This durable model runs smoothly, and its cushioned belts may help reduce the impact on your knees. Also, if you’re short on space, you’ll appreciate the foldable design for easy storage.

The F80 treadmill offers 15 incline levels, and you can easily adjust the speed using the handgrips or sidebar controls. It has a maximum speed of 12 miles (19.3 km) per hour and supports weights up to 375 pounds (171 kg).

The treadmill comes with 10 programmed workouts and connects to the Sole Fitness mobile app. It’s also equipped with Bluetooth speakers, a USB port, and a device holder, allowing you to stream fitness classes or play music on your smartphone or tablet.

Best elliptical machine 

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9

Tredmill
  • Price: $$$
  • Pros: large touch-screen display, 26 resistance levels, Automatic Trainer Control 
  • Cons: monthly subscription cost for iFit, large size 

The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 elliptical is one of the best options on the market, offering up to 20% incline and 26 levels of resistance. 

Plus, the auto-adjustment feature changes your incline and resistance levels during live classes so you can focus on your workout. 

The machine is equipped with a 14-inch (35.6-cm) HD touch screen and has oversized cushioned pedals, a fan, and comfortable handgrips. 

The Commercial 14.9 comes with a free 30-day iFit family membership, which you can renew for $39 per month.

Best jump rope

XYLsports Jump Rope

Jump Rope
  • Price: $
  • Pros: inexpensive, adjustable, sturdy 
  • Cons: tangles, too light for some 

The XYLsports Jump Rope features easy-to-grip foam padded handles and an adjustable extra-long length suitable for most people, including children. 

The lightweight PVC rope spins well and is sturdy enough to withstand heavy use, though some users report that it’s too light. 

XYLsports backs this jump rope with a lifetime warranty and a money-back guarantee.

Best medicine ball

Champion Sports Medicine Ball

Medicine Balls

  • Price: $
  • Pros: durable, versatile, well-made 
  • Cons: slippery, weight may not be evenly distributed throughout the ball 

Made of synthetic leather, the Champion Sports medicine ball is available in a variety of weights, ranging from 4–22 pounds (1.8–10 kg). The sturdy ball is well stitched and designed to withstand the force of dynamic exercises. 

Some reviewers mention that the ball is too slippery to grip, so you may need to wear gloves. A few people also complain that the ball is not balanced and loses its shape.

Best core sliders

Synergee Core Sliders

Sliders
  • Price: $
  • Pros: portable, double-sided, range of uses 
  • Cons: too small for some, may not work on all surfaces 

Synergee Core Sliders are useful for countless core, balance, and stability movements. You can use them to modify your existing workout routine for a fresh take on your favorite exercises.

The lightweight, compact sliders are easy to store or toss in your suitcase or gym bag. 

The sliders are double-sided, and you can use them on several surfaces. The foam side works on hard, smooth floors, and the plastic side works on soft surfaces such as carpet and turf.

However, some customers report that the sliders do not work well on rugs, gym flooring, or workout mats.

How does a home gym compare to a gym membership?

A home gym offers convenience since you may be more likely to do a quick workout when you’re short on time. However, your setup may be limited and you may have more distractions. 

Gym memberships give you access to all types of equipment and various group classes. Plus, you may have the option of working with a personal trainer. 

Some people enjoy the feeling of connection that a gym membership provides and may feel less motivated to exercise on their own. According to a 2020 study, feeling connected to others is linked to persistence, self-esteem, and physical and psychological health (1Trusted Source).

Frequently asked questions

Which gym equipment is best for home?

The best home gym equipment will depend on your individual needs and factors such as space, budget, and fitness goals.

The following home gym equipment items may be worthwhile to own:

  • free weights
  • weight bench 
  • treadmill 
  • exercise bike 
  • rowing machine 
  • elliptical trainer 
  • workout mirror 

What basic gym equipment do I need at home?

Even with minimal equipment, you’ll be able to do a range of workouts. 

The best basic home gym equipment includes:

  • adjustable dumbbell set
  • resistance bands
  • jump rope
  • exercise mat
  • core sliders 
  • medicine ball 

What is the most effective piece of home gym equipment?

The most effective piece of home gym equipment for your home will depend on your goals, the space you have available, and the type of exercise you like.

For example, a cardio machine like a treadmill or exercise bike can allow you to do high intensity workouts and target several muscle groups without taking up much space.

Another option is an all-in-one home gym such as the Bowflex PR 3000, which will allow you to perform a wide variety of exercises that work your whole body. These machines help save space but tend to be more expensive. 

Is buying home gym equipment worth it?

Gym equipment may be a worthy investment if you plan to train consistently and your workouts are equipment-based. You may get more value if several people plan to use your home gym setup.

What’s more, without the need to commute to the gym or pay for a membership, you’ll save time and money. 

Can you build muscle using a home gym?

Yes, you can do a variety of home gym workouts to gain muscle and build strength. 

The bottom line

Whether you’re looking for weights or a cardio machine, thousands of products are available to turn your home gym dreams into a reality. 

When deciding what to buy, be sure to consider your budget, space, and fitness needs. You’ll also want to factor in the quality and versatility of the products. 

We’re confident that by using the list above as a starting point, you’ll find the home gym equipment that’s right for your space.

Thankyou for taking the time to read and credit goes to Emily Cronkletion, thank you.

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