We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.
We’ll be honest: narrowing down our picks for the best home gym equipment was difficult. Not just because there are a lot of categories to cover, but what’s good for one person may not be good for another.
So with that in mind, let’s see how our team would design their dream home gym with everything from barbells and weight plates to the very floor we’d be standing on.
And if you get sticker shock at any time during this piece, just know we also have a comprehensive list of the best budget home gym equipment, too.
Hundreds of Home Gym Equipment Tested and Researched
The Best Home Gym Equipment
Video Review
Best Squat Rack: REP Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack
Good for: Trainees looking for a durable and customizable squat rack
Best Squat Rack
REP PR-4000 Power Rack
Product Highlights
- Heavy duty 11-gauge steel
- 3" x 3" uprights
- Rated for 1,000 lbs
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Affordable, high-quality rack
- Several color options available
- Laser-cut holes and logos
- Uprights are numbered every 5 holes
- Westside hole spacing
- Can be built out to include weight storage, pull-up bar, strap safeties, etc.
- 3x3-inch 11-gauge steel
Cons
- Accessories for the PR-4000 and PR-5000 racks aren’t as good as the competition
- Some of the welds and powder coating aren’t up to par
Bottom Line
The Rep Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack is honestly one of the best value power racks on the market. This rack has garnered excellent reviews from us and others and it's largely due to how great it's features are for the price point. This is still a pretty expensive rack for those on a tight budget and trying to build a home gym, but this is the type of rack you never have to upgrade. Is it better than the Rogue Monster Lite? No, but it is cheaper and very similar quality, although it is imported. We are big fans of the PR-4000 and recommend it.
We chose the REP Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack as the best squat rack for most home gym owners because it can be customized to every person’s needs and space. That’s right, you get to customize everything about this rack from the height of the uprights to the type of pull-up bar (you can even pick from eight different color options).
And once the REP Ares cable attachment system is available, you’ll be able to add a functional trainer, lat pulldown, and low-row machine to your rack, making it an even better value for your home gym.
But even without that, there are countless attachments available for the REP PR-4000 that you can either add when you first order it or sometime later on.
No matter how you design your rack, you’re getting uprights made with 3-inch-by-3-inch 11-gauge steel, 1-inch Westside hole spacing through the bench area, and ⅝-inch hole spacing throughout the rest of the rack.
It has a 1,000-pound weight capacity, which is more than enough for most people’s home gyms, though we should mention this rack does better when it’s bolted to the ground. That’s not the most convenient thing, but better safe than sorry.
One of our biggest issues with the REP PR-4000 is it’s only numbered on one side, which is a minor inconvenience in the grand scheme of things, but we would’ve liked to see it on both sides.
This is a great choice for those who want something that’s more durable and has more attachment possibilities than a budget squat rack, but still isn’t quite as expensive as higher-end options.
Find out everything you need to know about this rack in our REP Fitness PR-4000 Power Rack review.
| Price |
| Footprint |
| Material |
| Hole spacing |
| Weight capacity |
| Color options |
| Depends on specs |
| 80” or 93” H x 47” W x 23” 30” or 41” D |
| 3”x3” 11-gauge steel |
| 1-inch in bench zone, ⅝-inch pin hole spacing |
| 1,000 lbs |
| Metallic black, matte black, red, blue, green, orange, white, clear coat |
Best Barbell: Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar
Good for: Anyone who needs a high-quality multipurpose barbell
Best Barbell
Rogue Ohio Bar
Product Highlights
- 190K PSI tensile strength
- Multipurpose bar with great versatility
- Lifetime warranty
- Bushing sleeves
- Snap ring design
Made in USA
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made in the USA of US-Sourced Steel
- Somewhat passive knurling
- Grips with chalk
- Great for a variety of training styles
- Dual knurl marks
- 28.5-mm shaft
- Bronze bushings
- Lifetime warranty
- Coatings include stainless steel, Cerakote, black zinc, and more.
- 190K tensile strength
Cons
- Not outstanding for powerlifting or weightlifting in comparison to more specialized bars
- Expensive
- Diameter doesn't meet IWF standards
- No center knurl, which may matter to some
Bottom Line
The Rogue Ohio Bar is one of the most iconic barbells in the world. It's been used at the CrossFit Games by some of the fittest athletes in the world and is just as well suited in your garage gym. The Ohio Bar is priced well despite its features and being made in the USA. Although we prefer the Rogue 2.0 Bar for its price, we don't blame you if you decide to spring for the Ohio Bar, although we'd suggest getting the Stainless Steel or Cerakote version.
No matter how you train, the Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar is most likely the best barbell for you. It has a 190,000 PSI tensile strength (200,000 if you get the stainless steel finish), so you can put as much weight as you want on it and slam this barbell if you must (though we don’t recommend it!) without fear of it bending.
The bar also comes with dual knurl markings, a 28.5-millimeter shaft, and 16.4 inches of loadable sleeve length.
The price will depend on which finish you pick, but all of them are under $400 and come with rust and corrosion resistance.
Being a multipurpose bar, the Ohio Bar is great for most people but not-so-great for certain lifters. People who need a high-spin bar may not like that it uses bronze bushings, though those are more durable than needle bearings, and some powerlifters may be annoyed at the lack of center knurling.
Speaking of knurling, it goes all the way to the collar so people with longer arms can get maximum grip. The knurling itself is about medium, and even passive depending on the finish you get. If you’re going for a heavier lift, the bar takes chalk pretty well.
Although we’re confident the Rogue Ohio Bar will stay strong no matter what, it does come with a lifetime warranty, so you’re covered in case anything happens to it.
For a full look at this barbell, check out our Rogue Ohio Bar review.
| Price |
| Shaft diameter |
| Tensile strength |
| Rotation system |
| Knurling |
| Knurl markings |
| $305-$370 (varies by finish) |
| 28.5 mm |
| 190,000 PSI (200,000 for stainless steel) |
| Bronze bushings |
| Medium |
| Dual, no center knurling |
Best Weight Bench: REP FB-5000
Good for: Those looking for a cost-friendly weight bench with a superb build quality
Best Weight Bench
REP FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
Product Highlights
- Great price on a high-quality bench
- Compatible with REP Wide Pad or Thompson Fat Pad
- 3" x 3" 11-gauge steel provides solid construction
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Great price for a good value bench
- 3” x 3” 11-gauge steel
- Sturdy 3-post bench
- Nothing in the way of your feet when you bench
- Rated to 1,000 pounds
- Meets the IPF specs for length, height, and width
- Comes with a 4” thick pad on a plywood base with durable vinyl upholstery and the option to purchase an extra wide pad
- Comes with a handle and wheels
- Compatibility with 2 other bench pads including the extra wide and the Thompson Fat Pad
- Easily assembled in less than 20 minutes.
- Available in multiple colors and designs.
Cons
- Shipping not included in price
- Short manufacturer’s warranty
- Some assembly required
- 30-day return period and restocking fee applied to returns
Bottom Line
The Rep FB-5000 Flat Bench is the best value flat bench we've tested and reviewed. It offers an incredible combination of price and quality that many companies have overlooked for some time. With over 250 customer reviews, there is not 1 under 4 stars and most of those are for less than minor complaints. If you need a flat bench, this is the one we suggest. You could pay more, but it would still probably not be as good. Seriously.
In an ideal world, we’d have both a flat bench and an adjustable weight bench in our home gym but that’s not realistic for most people. You might think we’d recommend an adjustable bench as an essential since they’re more versatile, but in fact, we’re recommending that you invest in a good flat bench first.
Why? Because we believe a solid flat weight bench is, despite the lack of adjustments, one of the most versatile tools you can possibly have in a home gym–and there are fewer parts to potentially break or maintain than in an adjustable bench.
The REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Weight Bench is our recommendation to most home gym owners. This bench is solidly built, meets IPF competition standards, comes in five color options, features grippy vinyl, and is compatible with both a standard 12-inch bench pad and an extra-wide 14-inch bench pad for heftier lifters.
What really pushed this to the top of our best weight bench list is the fact that you get all that for under $250. The vinyl and powder coat may be of lower quality than more expensive benches, but in terms of functionality, we have virtually zero complaints about this bench.
Still curious? Our full REP Fitness FB-5000 Bench Review has the full breakdown of this bench.
| Price |
| Footprint |
| Pad Dimensions |
| Tolerance |
| Construction |
| Weight |
| Weight Capacity |
| $239 |
| 51.3” L x 20.3” W x 17” H |
| 50.5″ L x 21” W (or 14″ W) |
| 3% |
| 11-gauge steel |
| 62 lbs |
| 1,000 lbs |
Best Weight Plates: Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
Good for: Anyone who needs durable weight plates for all their lifting needs
Bump It
Rogue Echo Bumper Plates
Product Highlights
- Great value for the quality
- Black-and-white contrast for easy weight identification
- 88/100 durometer rating
- 3-year warranty
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Tremendous value
- Shore A Durometer rating of 88
- Weight tolerance of these bumpers is +/- 1%
- Great for general training and CrossFit
- White lettering offers great contrast
- Stainless steel insert rings
- 25-45 lb plate variants are warrantied for 3 years
Cons
- Wide plates
- Maximum you can fit on the bar is less than 500 lbs
- May smell bad out of the box
Bottom Line
The Rogue Echo Bumper Plates are a great value plate based upon our review. Although they're cheaper than Rogue's flagship HG 2.0 Plates, they have extremely similar specs and warranty at a much lower price. If you need bumper plates for your garage gym, these are a great option. If you need them for your commercial facility or CrossFit Affiliate, we'd suggest going with something like Hi-Temps.
There are many types of weight plates we could’ve picked from, but we went with the Rogue Echo Bumper Plates because they’re durable, budget-friendly compared to other options and have great weight accuracy.
These plates have a Shore Durometer rating of 88, which is a fancy way of saying these things are built tough. A Shore Durometer measures how hard certain materials are, and grades it from 0 to 100. In other words, these plates are about a B+, which is great for the price point they’re offered at.
The plates have a 450-millimeter overall diameter and a 50.6-millimeter collar opening, both of which meet the International Weightlifting Federation standards. And because every plate has a 1 percent weight tolerance (meaning each plate is within one percent of the listed weight), you can use it to prepare for weightlifting competitions.
These do have a pretty strong rubber smell, which dissipated over time for some reviewers but stayed for others. They’re also pretty wide, so you won’t be able to load many of them on a barbell. For lifters who need to stack more plates, we’d go with Rogue’s competition bumper plates, but those are much more expensive than the Echo bumper plates.
| Price |
| Weight tolerance |
| Overall diameter |
| Collar opening |
| Shore Durometer rating |
| $64 for 10 lb pair up to $190 for 45 lb pair |
| +/- 1% |
| 450 mm |
| 50.6 mm |
| 88 |
Best Dumbbells: REP Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Good for: Those looking for an easy-to-use and durable dumbbell set
Saved By the Dumbbell
REP Rubber Coated Hex Dumbbells
Product Highlights
- Made from premium low-odor rubber,
- Rubber coated hex dumbbell design is quiet and easy on your floors
- Chrome-plated handle is straight and fully knurled
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Built to last
- Sold in pairs, and many weight options available
- Hex design prevents weights from rolling around
- Fully knurled handle
Cons
- Have a strong rubber smell when first taken out of the box, but that should go away
- Straight handle isn’t for everyone
Bottom Line
The REP Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells feel like the free weights most people have used at one point in their life, making them great for beginners and those of advanced fitness levels
Dumbbells are one of the most widely used and versatile pieces of strength training equipment, which is why most home gym owners and fitness enthusiasts would put them near the top of their list of “must-haves.”
The REP Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells feel like the free weights most people have used at one point in their life, making them great for beginners and those of advanced fitness levels, except these have a unique handle you won’t find on most other hex dumbbells: The handle is straight, not contoured, and features full knurling for maximum grip.
They’re also incredibly durable. Seriously, we’ve dropped these things many times and the rubber coating has kept them intact no matter what. The heads are also tightly welded to the handles, so they won’t come apart like cheaper dumbbells when dropped repeatedly.
The hex head design prevents them from rolling when placed on the floor, but it does mean if you drop them they can bounce in any direction.
In terms of pricing, these are pretty affordable with the heavier dumbbells coming in at around $2 per pound. Depending on where you live, you may get pinched on shipping costs, which can get pretty pricey depending on how many dumbbells you order.
But, as we like to say, home gym equipment is an investment and these dumbbells will show returns for many years to come.
Check out our best dumbbell roundup for even more options.
| Price |
| Weight range |
| Handle diameter |
| Handle length |
| Knurling |
| $30-$540 |
| 2.5 lbs to 125 lbs |
| 28mm diameter for 5 to 20 pounds, and 34mm diameter handle for 25+ pounds |
| Varies by weight |
| Full |
Best Adjustable Dumbbells: SMRTFT NUOBELL
Good for: People who either can’t or don’t want to store dozens of traditional dumbbells
Space Savers
NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells
Product Highlights
- All-in-one adjustable dumbbell
- Weight ranges from 5 to 80 lbs
- Easy to use
- Feels like a standard dumbbell
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Feels like a regular dumbbell in hand
- Easy quick-change adjustments
- Knurled handle
- Comes with a stand
Cons
- Can be tricky to get in the stand
- Unsure of structural integrity
- Pricey
Bottom Line
These are great for people who want an easily adjustable dumbbell pair that feels more like a traditional fixed dumbbell
For those who don’t have the space or budget for an entire dumbbell set, we recommend the SMRTFT NUOBELL adjustable dumbbells. Whichever model you choose (the 50-pound or 80-pound option), you can replace several pairs of dumbbells in the same amount of space as a large shoe box.
Adjustable dumbbells are typically less durable than traditional free weights, and that remains true with the NUOBELLs, so keep that in mind. However, they’re also quick and easy to change, and if you don’t drop them, you shouldn’t have any issues with durability.
Related: SMRTFIT NUOBELL adjustable dumbbell review.
What we really love about these adjustable dumbbells is their more natural shape. Unlike PowerBlock dumbbells, the NUOBELLs feel much more like a traditional dumbbell. You won’t notice a ton of difference when using these compared to the REP hex dumbbells recommended above.
They do make some noise when being used, but you probably won’t notice it if you’re training with headphones in.
You can go up to 80 pounds per hand, which for a majority of people is heavy enough.
To find heavier options, or see what else we recommend, check out our top picks for the best adjustable dumbbells.
| Material: | Plastic and metal |
| Total Weight: | 80 pounds |
| Brand: | SMRTFT |
| Warranty: | 2 years |
| Weight: | 5-80 pounds |
| Sold in: | Pairs |
Best Kettlebells: REP Fitness KG Kettlebells
Good for: Home gym owners who love kettlebell training and want the real thing
Best Kettlebell
REP Fitness KG Kettlebells
Product Highlights
- Range from 4 kg (9 lbs) to 48 kg (106 lbs)
- Have a great grip with or without chalk
- Reasonably priced
- Made of cast iron
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Good grip with or without chalk
- Gravity die casting
- Matte coating
Cons
- May be susceptible to rust
- No weights above 106 lbs
- Textured handle not for everyone
Bottom Line
REP Fitness kettlebells, in both the kilogram and pound versions, are an excellent choice for people who want a grippy, well-constructed kettlebell.
No matter which side of the dumbbell vs kettlebell debate you stand on, you have to admit the latter deserves a place in every gym. Not only can they be used to make strength and muscle gains, but they’re a great way to get a quick cardio workout.
The REP KG Kettlebells are our top pick simply because they’re more durable and corrosion-resistant than most kettlebells on the market. Although they are made with typical cast iron, they feature a durable powder coat to resist corrosion.
Plus, the outer coating will protect your weights from chipping and scratching and generally provide a stronger grip than those with an enamel finish. That’s especially important when you’re swinging a heavy weight in between your legs (search “kettlebell fails” on YouTube and you’ll know what we mean).
Related: We picked the best kettlebells for your home gym.
REP offers kettlebells ranging from just 1 kilogram up to 88 kilograms, all of which come with a flat base for easy storage. As is the case with most kettlebells, the handle diameter will increase the heavier the weights get.
Best Adjustable Kettlebells: REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells
Good for: Anyone who wants a great value adjustable kettlebell
Best Adjustable Kettlebell
REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells
Product Highlights
- Feels like a traditional kettlebell
- Incredibly durable, especially for an adjustable kettlebell
- Clearly marked weight increments
Made in USA
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Feels like a regular kettlebell
- Weights are quick and easy to change
- Weight adjusts to 24kg
- Rubber bottom helps protect flooring
- Offered in kilograms and pounds
Cons
- Plastic changing mechanism could break
Bottom Line
If you close your eyes (although we don’t advise it because kettlebells are heavy) when using the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebells, you will think that you are using a regular kettlebell.
One of the biggest disadvantages of adjustable kettlebells is they often don’t feel like the real thing, but that’s not the case with the REP Fitness Adjustable Kettlebell. Seriously, if you were to close your eyes and touch this thing you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference.
Because of that, it’s one of the most durable adjustable kettlebells, which are typically made of plastic or other materials that can easily crack. Several reviewers have said their REP adjustable kettlebells have taken a beating during their workouts, but still operate as well as the day they were taken out of the box.
We also like that it’s easy to change the weights (simply turn the dial to select how heavy you want it) and that every increment is clearly marked. The only adjustable kettlebell that’s easier to use is the Bowflex SelectTech 840, but that only goes up to 40 pounds in weight.
REP offers three options: eight to 16 kilograms (17.6 to 35.2 pounds), 16 to 24 kilograms (35.2 to 52.9 pounds), and 20 to 40 pounds. The 16 to 24 kilograms option is the most expensive, at just over $200, but we still think that’s a great value for a high-quality adjustable kettlebell.
Need more options? Check our best adjustable kettlebell roundup.
| Price |
| Weight ranges |
| Replaces |
| Adjustment system |
| Finish |
| $149.99-$209.99 |
| 8-16 kg, 16-24kg, 20-40 lbs |
| Five kettlebells |
| Dial |
| Black matte powder-coat |
Best Gymnastic Rings: Vulcan Elite Wood Gymnastic Rings
Good for: Those who want to switch up their training regimen
Put a Ring On It
Vulcan Elite Wood Gymnastics Rings
Product Highlights
- Wooden ring with great grip
- 15 feet of strap each ring
- Super wide straps for more comfort and durability
- 2" super wide heavy duty cam buckles
Pros & Cons
Pros
- 15 feet of strap length for maximum adjustability
- Rings take chalk really well
- Made with hard birch wood and not plywood like other gymnastic rings
Cons
- Pricey, at $59.99
- Not an intuitive piece of equipment
- Can’t be left outdoors
Bottom Line
The Vulcan Elite Wood Gymnastic Rings offer the best combination of functionality and value.
Even if you don’t do gymnastics, there are many reasons why you might want a pair of gymnastic rings in your home gym. They can be used for instability training, strengthening your joints, bodyweight workouts, and improving your flexibility. They also take up less room and are easier to install than a pull-up bar, and cost less money than a TRX suspension trainer.
The Vulcan Elite Wood Gymnastic Rings offer the best combination of functionality and value. Gymnasts agree that wood is the best choice for grip, and Vulcan uses hard birch wood for their rings (most budget rings will use plywood, which is not as durable). They’re also sanded down for maximum smoothness, and work well with or without chalk.
We will say, if you plan on using these outdoors, you should bring them into the house if there’s rain in the forecast. Water can easily deteriorate your wooden rings, so if you’re looking for a weather-proof set of rings, go with something made of nylon.
There are 15 feet of strap per ring, and each is clearly numbered for easy and accurate height adjustment.
| Price |
| Ring Diameter |
| Strap length |
| Strap width |
| Material |
| $49.99 |
| 1.25” |
| 15’ |
| 1.5” |
| Wood |
Best Exercise Bike: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
Good for: People who love high-quality home cardio workouts
Best Exercise Bike
NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
Product Highlights
- 24 digital resistance levels
- Incline and decline adjustments
- Fully rotating touchscreen
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Large 22" smart HD touchscreen
- Incline and decline ability
- Compatible with iFIT
- Adjustable seat
- Adjustable handles
- Dual-sided pedals
- Fan
- Comes with 2 3-lb dumbbells
- 24 digital resistance levels
Cons
- Expensive
- iFIT membership not necessary, but most beneficial
- Difficult to assemble
- Can’t be stored in the garage (brand states doing so will void the bike’s warranty)
- Hard to move and weighs more than 200 pounds
Bottom Line
This is the bike to get if you want an indoor cycling bike with interactive programming, incline and decline capabilities, and all the extras.
The NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike has just about everything you’d want in an exercise bike, from incline/decline training to 24 digital resistance levels that are sure to give you a heart-pounding cardio workout every time you get on it. If you’re looking for a bike that can truly replicate the feeling of road cycling, this is it.
If live cycling workouts are more your speed, the S22i can deliver that too with its 22-inch HD touchscreen (which also turns 360 degrees for off-bike workouts) and incredible sound system. You can access thousands of live and on-demand workout classes through the iFIT app, which you’ll need to access most of the bike’s features.
A bike with this many features, and built as well as it is comes with a steep price tag: $2,000, to be exact. Is it worth it? If you’re someone who wants the best indoor cycling experience on the market today, then yes. If you’re someone who’s looking for something a little more affordable, we recommend checking out our best budget exercise bike roundup.
A similar bike is the NordicTrack S15i Studio Bike, which is usually around $1,300 but as of this writing, NordicTrack is only selling it alongside a four-year iFIT membership, which bumps up the total price to just about the same as the S22i.
Price aside, our only other gripes with the S22i Studio Bike is that it’s difficult to assemble (grab a friend for this one), it weighs more than 200 pounds and is difficult to move, and you can’t put it in the garage (NordicTrack will void your warranty if you do).
Check out our full NordicTrack S22i review for more information.
| Price |
| Footprint |
| Weight |
| Weight capacity |
| Display |
| Subscription needed? |
| Connects to fitness trackers? |
| $1,999 |
| 61″ L x 58″ H x 22″ W |
| 205 lbs |
| 350 lbs |
| 22” touchscreen |
| Yes (iFIT) |
| Yes |
Best Vertical Climber: CLMBR
Good for: Anyone who wants a full-body workout machine
Best Vertical Climber
CLMBR
Product Highlights
- Immersive technology
- Full-body, low-impact workout
- Small footprint
- Bluetooth-enabled
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Immersive technology
- Low-impact
- Full-body workout
- Small footprint
- Quiet operation
- Ergonomic, adjustable dumbbells
- Bluetooth-enabled
- Caster transport wheels
Cons
- Expensive
- Membership required for access to classes
Bottom Line
The CLMBR is an interesting investment for someone looking for an efficient, functional and interactive workout experience that’s high-intensity in nature but low-impact on the joints. That said, its price tag may make you pause.
Vertical climbers aren’t the first piece of equipment many people think of when designing their home gym, but we can give you a few reasons why you should consider one, specifically the CLMBR. For one, it works just about every muscle group in your body while also providing a heart-pounding cardio workout.
It’s also low-impact and, height aside, quite compact compared to other cardio machines.
A big reason why we picked the CLMBR over other vertical climbers is that it comes with some of the most engaging interactive workouts we’ve seen. Caroline Lubinsky, a GGR product tester and fitness writer, actually compared it to Peloton classes (yup, they’re that good).
“If you’re tired of the same-ole-same-ole cardio equipment, I recommend checking out the CLMBR for a vertical climber that surpasses the rest,” Caroline says, which is quite the endorsement coming from a former NCAA Division I soccer player.
Unfortunately, there is a height limit on this ride as we found that people taller than 6 feet have difficulty climbing the CLMBR without feeling cramped. It also starts at $3,500, but if you have the budget for it, we think it’s well worth the asking price.
If you still want to look up more on this machine, take a look at our full CLMBR review.
Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Good for: Walkers and runners who want a treadmill with lots of high-tech features
Just Run With It
NordicTrack Commercial 1750
Product Highlights
- Spacious running deck
- Compatible with iFIT
- 14-inch touchscreen
- Incline and decline training
- Financing available
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compatible with iFIT
- 3.5 CHP motor
- Free trial of iFIT subscription with purchase
- Treadmill with incline and decline training
- Foldable to save space (EasyLift Assist)
- Run that feels similar to road running
- Financing options available through NordicTrack
- Generous speed range
- Wide running deck
- Cooling fan
Cons
- Big footprint
- Heavy and not the easiest to move
- Price is around $2,000
- Warranty is voided if the treadmill is used/stored in a garage
Bottom Line
If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750.
If you’re looking to add a workhorse of a treadmill to your home gym, we recommend the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. This large-and-n-charge cardio machine weighs a whopping 339 pounds, but it has durability and lots of extra features that make it worth the space.
Related: NordicTrack Commercial 1750 review.
We love that there are both incline and decline options on this machine, as this isn’t common on every treadmill on the market. Plus, you’ll be able to stride with ease on the expansive 22” W x 60” L deck, which is ideal for people of all heights.
If you’re into interactive programming, you’ll enjoy the included touchscreen, which connects to iFIT. With the purchase of this treadmill on NordicTrack, you’ll receive a free trial to check out iFIT to see if it is a good fit for you.
In terms of extras, the nearly $2,200 Commercial 1750 has it all–– think Bluetooth connectivity, cooling fans, a water bottle holder, and more.
On previous models, the NordicTrack Commercial 1750 has adjustable deck cushioning, which was a huge plus for those who wanted to simulate outdoor running conditions. However, they have taken this feature off of the 2023 model, much to our chagrin. It is also worth noting that you cannot store this treadmill in your garage, as the warranty will be voided.
If this treadmill doesn’t fit your needs, our best treadmills for a home gym list surely has something that will.
| Price |
| Footprint |
| Weight |
| Speed |
| Incline/decline |
| Motor |
| Weight capacity |
| $2,299 |
| 80” L x 38” W x 65” H |
| 340 lbs |
| 0-12 mph |
| -3% decline to 15% incline |
| 3.5 CHP DurX Commercial Plus Motor |
| 300 lbs |
Best Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg
Good for: Professional athletes and everyday trainees looking for a highly efficient workout machine
Row Merrily To Your Gains
Concept2 RowErg
Product Highlights
- Priced around $1,000
- Uses air resistance generated by the fanned flywheel
- Advanced PM5 Performance Monitor
- Low impact full-body workout fitness machine
- Lightweight and easily portable
- Can be broken down into two pieces for storage
- Can also be hung for storage
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Best-selling rowing machine in the world
- Easy assembly
- Accommodates users up to 6.6 feet tall and 500-pound weight
- Ergonomic seat and handlebar
- Seat is 14”
- 10-degree angle on handle for natural grip
- Air-resistance
- Adjustable airflow
- Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) monitor
- Nickel-plated steel chain
- Adjustable footrests
- Easy to store
- Limited 5-year warranty
Cons
- Priced around $1,000
- Few built-in workouts
Bottom Line
The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we've tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There's a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.
There is truly no better-value rowing machine than the Concept2 RowErg, formerly called the Concept2 Model D Rower. The RowErg consistently tops our various guides to the best cardio machines, and for good reason: For just about a grand (which is a lot, but hear me out), you get one beast of a rowing machine that should last you a literal lifetime, provided you perform the minimal maintenance needed a few times per year.
In addition to a solidly built aluminum frame and durable components, the RowErg also provides several built-in workouts and Bluetooth compatibility, so you can connect to third-party fitness apps. The small LCD screen isn’t anything to shout about, but it does track a handful of metrics—distance, stroke rate, calories, watts, time, 500-meter split—and it does so accurately, which is the most important thing.
For a machine that weighs less than 60 pounds, its 500-pound weight capacity is impressive. Also worth mentioning: The rower can store vertically or easily separate into two pieces to save space when not in use. Truly, our roster of product testers loves this rowing machine and it’s the first one we recommend for anyone who’s not on a strict budget.
Read our full Concept2 RowErg review.
| Price |
| Weight |
| Footprint |
| Resistance type |
| Weight capacity |
| Monitor |
| Programming |
| About $1,000 |
| 57 lbs (68 lbs with tall legs) |
| 96” L x 24” W x 14” H (20” H with tall legs) |
| Air flywheel |
| 500 lbs |
| LCD display |
| 5 built-in workout options |
Best Elliptical: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i
Good for: Anyone who wants a low-impact cardio machine with interactive programming
Best Elliptical
NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical
Product Highlights
- Elliptical machine with incline and decline settings
- 14” touchscreen display
- iFIT interactive programming
- Adjustable stride length
- Built-in fan and speakers
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Automatic trainer control with iFIT
- 30-day iFIT trial included
- Large, cushioned pedals
- Bluetooth speakers
- Quiet drive system
Cons
- Expensive price tag
- iFIT trial requires your credit card
- iFIT requires monthly membership fees
Bottom Line
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical offers both incline and decline training, an adjustable stride length, and a 14-inch touchscreen display for iFIT interactive programming. You’ll enjoy the AirGlide if you want to break a sweat with expert instruction and motivation from iFIT trainers and coaches.
For those who wants a solid, tech-enabled elliptical, the NordicTrack AirGlide 14i fits the bill. This high-tech machine has a 14-inch interactive touchscreen, which can be used for iFIT programming. You’ll even get a free 30-day iFIT trial with the purchase of this machine to try it out.
But trust us, the iFIT programming is where the AirGlide comes to life. You’ll have access to thousands of on-demand workouts (both on and off the elliptical) led by world-class trainers. Plus, the AirGlide 14i offers an automatic trainer control feature that automatically adjusts the resistance level, incline, and decline settings of the elliptical as you follow along with trainer-led classes.
This automatic trainer control also works when using the Google Maps feature, where you can drop a pin nearly anywhere in the world for virtual scenic workouts. Based on the terrain of the location the automatic trainer control will kick in to mimic the environment.
Additionally, you can purchase NordicTrack’s “SmartBeat” heart rate monitor if you’re interested in target heart rate training. The wireless heart rate monitor connects to the AirGlide 14i and automatically adjusts your speed, incline, and decline settings to maintain your optimal heart-rate zone.
You can check out our NordicTrack AirGlide14i review for our full thoughts on this machine.
The 14i features a 32-pound flywheel, which makes this machine run both smoothly and quietly. We’re also big fans of the 22 levels of resistance that can be adjusted on the 14i.
You’ll even have a handful of extra features like a built-in workout fan, oversized cushion pedals, dual handlebar options, digitally amplified speakers, and Bluetooth audio connectivity options.
Also, a word of caution for those who are not great at assembling things––this isn’t an easy build. If you plan to undertake it without professional assistance, we recommend grabbing a friend or family member to help.
Find out what machines NordicTrack competed against in our best ellipticals roundup.
| Price |
| Footprint |
| Weight |
| Weight capacity |
| Stride |
| Incline/decline |
| Resistance |
| $1,799 |
| 67″ L x 25″ W x 71″ H |
| 244 lbs in-box weight |
| 300 lbs |
| 17.8″-18.5″ auto-adjustable stride |
| -5% decline to 15% incline |
| 22 digital resistance levels |
Best Jump Rope: WOD Nation Double Under Speed Jump Rope
Good for: Those who want a budget-friendly and durable speed rope
Jump Around!
WOD Nation Double Under Speed Jump Rope
Product Highlights
- Very affordable and comes with extra cable
- Has a great spin for speed jumping
- Adjustable with wire cutters
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely lightweight
- Very affordable
- Comes with an extra cable
- Adjustable
- Comes with a carrying case
- Spins fast
Cons
- Plastic handles could break if stepped on
- Need a wirecutter to adjust
Bottom Line
This is one of the best value speed ropes on the market. It moves well, lasts a long time, and you get an extra cable with your purchase.
Value-driven folks will be pleased to learn that the WOD Nation Double Under Speed Rope is not only one of the best jump ropes out there, but it’s also one of the least expensive speed ropes out there. Whether you’re looking to become a double-under wonder and dominate your local CrossFit leaderboard or simply jump rope to get your heart rate pumping, the WOD Nation jump rope is a good choice.
For less than $20, you get two (yes, two!) PVC-coated, 2.5-millimeter-thick steel cables and a little carrying case to cart it all around. The cable features swivel ball bearings for smooth, 360-degree rotation. One of our product testers and GGR Head of Content, Kate Meier, has had a WOD Nation Double Under Speed Rope for years and has put it through the wringer during CrossFit workouts and conditioning sessions. It’s survived all of her double-under tantrums thus far.
Our one gripe with this rope? It must be cut to size, and you’ll need wire cutters for that—kitchen shears and craft scissors won’t get the job done. Once you cut the 120-inch cable to size, you’ll enjoy years of use out of this simple and inexpensive jump rope.
| Rope Length |
| Rope Width |
| Cable Style |
| Rotation System |
| Grip Material |
| 120” |
| 2.5 mm |
| Coated steel cable |
| Bearings |
| Plastic |
Best Home Gym Flooring: IncStores 3/4″ Premium Extreme Rubber Mats
Good for: Just about any home gym owner looking to protect their flooring
You’ll Be Floored
Rubber Flooring Inc 3/4" Premium Extreme Rubber Mats
Product Highlights
- Vulcanized rubber construction
- 4' x 6' footprint
- 3/4" thick
- Available in 3 color options
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Made of vulcanized rubber
- 3/4" thickness
- A few color options
- Smooth, nonskid surface
- Cut cleanly
- Shock-absorbing
- Sound-dampening
Cons
- Pricier than horse stall mats
Bottom Line
IncStores Rubber Flooring Inc 3/4" Premium Extreme Mats are a durable and cost-effective flooring solution for your home gym.
The IncStores 3/4″ Premium Extreme Rubber Mats are super-similar to our prior top pick for the best home gym flooring, which was horse stall mats, with the added benefit of being much more durable and easier to clean than our other pick.
These 4-foot-by-6-foot rubber mats are super similar to stall mats, but they feature a smoother, easier-to-clean surface, and you can rest assured each one is actually cut to an exact 4-foot-by-6-foot rectangle.
These mats are .75 inches thick and weigh about 100 pounds per piece. So they’re bulky and may require more than one person to install, but they’ll absorb sound with ease and protect your foundation. If needed, they’re also pretty easy to cut to size.
Each four-foot-by-six-foot piece costs just over $70. Obviously, the total price is going to depend on the size of your home gym, but that’s a good price compared to other high-performance home gym flooring.
Because they’re rubber, there’s going to be a strong smell at first, but that should dissipate with time.
We have even more picks on our best home gym flooring roundup.
| Price |
| Size |
| Material |
| Weight |
| About $75 per piece |
| 4’ x 6’ per piece |
| 100% vulcanized rubber |
| About 100 lbs per piece |
Best Resistance Bands: Rogue Monster Bands
Good for: Anyone looking to perfect pull-ups, or who likes to train with resistance bands
Tune Up the Band
Rogue Monster Bands
Product Highlights
- High-quality natural latex rubber
- Versatile use for any workout
- Color coded resistance/tension
- Compact and easily stored or transported
- Available in a wide range of tensions
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High-quality natural latex rubber
- Band tension from 15-200 lbs
- Bands can be used alone or with a barbell
- Less prone to splitting and breaking than cheaper latex
Cons
- Pricey due to natural latex rubber
- Not meant for anyone allergic to latex
Bottom Line
The Rogue Monster Bands are, by and large, the best value resistance bands on the market. They use high quality natural latex, offer a variety of resistance levels, and have free shipping when you buy three at a time. If you're using these as stand-alone or with a barbell, these are what we suggest, although we do recommend checking pricing on EliteFTS before a purchase as they sometimes have sales that win out on price.
The Rogue Monster Bands are both heavy-duty and versatile, which makes them excellent additions to a home gym. They can be purchased individually for as little as $18, or bought in a set of three for $75 to $80. The Monster Bands are made with latex rubber and come in a variety of resistance options.
I particularly like the heavier ones for pull-up assistance and in tandem with barbell work. The lighter options can be used for rehab, upper body work, and general mobility training.
There isn’t a lot I don’t like about these bands, but the price may be a deterrent for some. However, they are some of the most durable bands I’ve used and I feel confident they will last for years to come.
We will say, the Rogue Monster Bands come out of the package smelling very rubbery, so if you are extra sensitive to strong smells, you may not appreciate this unwelcome addition. Plus, they also are a bit powdery, but this goes away with time.
Our best resistance bands piece has even more choices for you to choose from.
| Price |
| Resistance |
| Length |
| Material |
| $18-$80 |
| 15-200 lbs |
| 41” |
| Natural latex rubber |
Best Workout Mirror: Tonal
Good for: Anyone looking for an all-in-one workout machine
See Yourself Get Stronger
Tonal Smart Home Gym
Product Highlights
- AI gets to know you and makes weight adjustments for you
- Up to 200 pounds in digital resistance
- All-in-one gym that takes up minimal space
- Access to on-demand and live classes
- 30-day trial period
Pros & Cons
Pros
- AI gets to know you and makes weight adjustments for you
- Lift up to 200 pounds in digital resistance (much different from free weights)
- All-in-one gym that takes up minimal space
- AI assesses your form and gives real-time cuing
- Access to on-demand and live classes
- 30-day trial period
Cons
- High initial price tag
- Accessories cost extra and are pretty crucial to your workouts
- 12-month initial subscription required (and an additional cost)
- 200 pounds in resistance might not be enough for heavy lifters
Bottom Line
A complete smart home gym that offers versatility in a compact piece of equipment, but at a high price.
Tonal appears in our guides to the best workout mirrors and best smart home gym equipment because it’s a thoughtfully designed, multifunctional, durable product. Although it’s not technically a workout mirror (the screen isn’t reflective), it does provide form and technique feedback during workouts in many ways.
In addition to the AI form feedback, Tonal offers a ton of other cool tech features. For instance, there’s an eccentric mode, during which Tonal automatically makes the lowering phase of your lift more challenging.
The AI also automatically generates progressive overload and recommends weight changes based on your effort and form. Some might scoff at the 100 pounds of digital resistance, but give it a try and you’ll see it’s an effective way to build muscle.
As for workouts, Tonal’s library of on-demand classes and live instructor-led workouts is impressive and ever-growing—better yet, the filtering options are robust, so you can find exactly what type of workout you want within minutes (or seconds).
Finally, Tonal boasts an exceptional build quality and is installed by professionals. The downsides include the price—it’s definitely not a budget-friendly option, and it requires accessories and a subscription on top of the purchase price—and you’ll need to hire professionals if you want to uninstall and move it somewhere.
We break down who this machine is perfect for in our Tonal smart home gym review.
| Price |
| Footprint |
| Resistance |
| Space needed |
| Power |
| Installation |
| $3,995 (not including monthly subscription or required professional installation) |
| 21.50″ W x 50.9″ H x 5.25” D |
| 100 lbs per arm |
| 7’x7’ space with 7’ 10” ceilings |
| Requires three-prong outlet within 6 feet |
| Professional only, requires 16” to 24” studs |
How We Chose the Best Home Gym Equipment
As we said at the beginning, the best home gym equipment will differ from person to person. The home gym of a CrossFit trainee is going to look different than someone who’s into bodybuilding.
No matter how you train, here are some general guidelines you should follow when trying to pick workout equipment that works for you.
RELATED: Best Home Gyms
Purpose
Does the equipment do what it’s intended to do, and does it do it well?
Price
Obviously, you’re going to want to make sure you can afford the equipment you need for your home gym. Many equipment manufacturers and third-party websites, like Amazon, will offer financing options if you need to split your payment into monthly installments.
You can also see if there’s a coupon code or discount for your favorite manufacturer by searching our coupons page. We’ve also secured deals with many companies for exclusive discounts, so be sure to see if we have one for the item you have your eye on.
Warranty
We’re sure you’ll take good care of the equipment in your home gym, but sometimes equipment is defective or breaks on you just a few weeks after you get it. Research the warranty for every piece of equipment you’re looking to buy, and factor that into the final cost considerations. It may be worth it to pay an extra $100 for an item if it comes with a 10-year warranty just to give you that peace of mind.
Also, look at what the warranty covers. Items like weight benches have different warranties for the steel frame than they do for the upholstery.
Versatility
Food Network host Alton Brown often said the only uni-tasker you should have in your kitchen is a fire extinguisher, and the same rule applies to home gyms. A piece of equipment that can perform multiple functions, or be used in more than one training scenario, is vastly superior to one that can only be used for one thing.
Materials
You’ll want to look at how durable the materials being used in your home gym equipment are, and some people may want to make sure their equipment doesn’t have anything they’re allergic or sensitive to.
Size
Size matters when it comes to home gym equipment. People with longer strides will want to make sure a treadmill has enough running space for them, and people with smaller hands may want to look for a dumbbell or barbell that they can comfortably wrap their hands around.
Space
This is pretty self-explanatory, but you’ll want to make sure all your gym equipment can fit in your workout space. If you’re not blessed with a massive garage gym, you can check out our picks for the best compact exercise equipment.
Max weight capacity
Whether it’s a barbell or an exercise bike, you’ll want to make sure your equipment can handle whatever you throw at it. Manufacturers are usually good at listing the max weight capacity of their products.
Style
This is secondary to the functionality of your equipment, but it helps to have good-looking home gym equipment. Many manufacturers are now allowing you to customize the color of certain products, which can help your home gym to look as snazzy as possible.
Safety
This can mean a few things, depending on the product you’re talking about, but overall you want to make sure the equipment is free of anything that may cause any harm to you.
For a squat rack, this means having spotter arms and for barbells, it means having a tensile strength that won’t snap under the weight you’re putting on it.
Benefits of Home Gym Equipment
We may be biased, but we think home gyms offer quite a few advantages over commercial gyms. Here are just some of the reasons why we recommend everyone, from apartment dwellers to homeowners, should stock up on home gym equipment.
Saves Money
Yes, buying home gym equipment can get pricey real quick (especially if you’re buying everything at once), but when you add up the cost of monthly gym memberships throughout your lifetime, creating your personal setup saves you money in the long run.
Plus, you’ll save money on things like gas and snacks you may purchase at the gym, and you’ll get more time back in your day to spend with your family and friends.
Convenience
Imagine this: It’s the middle of the night, or maybe early in the morning and you can’t rest. You want to work out to let off some steam, but the gym isn’t open.
If you have a home gym, though, the hours are 24/7. You can also play music as loud as you want (as long as you’re respectful of neighbors and roommates), and use things like chalk, which many commercial gyms prohibit
Customizable
Unless you belong to a specialty gym, which typically has higher membership fees, commercial gyms may not have the equipment you need for your training goals. If you create your own home gym, you can customize it however you want.
It’s an Investment
We mean this not only because you’re investing in your overall health, but gym equipment can also be resold. You may not make 100 percent of what you originally paid for it, but something’s better than nothing. And certain pieces of equipment may increase in value, depending on supply and demand.
Best Home Gym Equipment FAQs
What is the best gym machine to have at home?
This is one of those cases where the answer is, “It depends.” You’ll want to consider your training routine and goals, budget, and how much workout space you have. Some good recommendations for most home gym owners include the Tonal (great for apartments), a rowing machine, and a functional trainer.
What is the most effective piece of home gym equipment?
Our answer would have to be a rowing machine, as it works both upper- and lower-body muscles while giving you an incredible cardio workout.
What basic gym equipment do I need at home?
Most home gym owners should, at the bare minimum, have a barbell, squat rack, weight plates, and a weight bench. With those four pieces of equipment, you can do dozens of exercises that target multiple muscle groups. If you’re looking to add cardio equipment to your home gym setup, we’d recommend a rower, but an exercise bike or treadmill are good choices as well.
But again, this answer might change depending on your budget, training goals, and overall space constraints. What works for one person might not work for another.
Is buying home gym equipment worth it?
Absolutely! Home gym equipment helps save you money in the long run, allows you to work out whenever you have free time, and can be customized to your needs and fitness goals.
Are home gyms effective for building muscle?
Absolutely! Home gyms allow people to train at any time they want, and there’s no waiting for an empty bench during “rush hour.”
Further reading
Looking for a heart-pumping, sweat-inducing battle rope workout? We’ve got you covered. Read more
Looking for the best treadmill running shoes? We tested more than a dozen pairs to find them. Read more
The Turkish get-up is a must-have in your full-body routine. Follow our step-by-step guide to learn how to execute this incredible exercise. Read more
We put together one of the best dumbbell triceps workouts ever, so you can build bigger, strong arms with minimal equipment! Check it out! Read more