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Just about everyone loves the idea of walking out of your garage door or into your basement or even into a bedroom and having a place where you can hone your physical and mental abilities. Unfortunately, many people have the idea that a home gym or garage gym has to be expensive; we’re here to crush that notion.

You’d be amazed how little it may cost to create your own home gym by collecting some of the best home gym equipment. More than at any time in history, there are now more options, and even better than that, more options at even better price points.

We’ve been personally testing and reviewing home gym equipment since 2014, so we know first-hand that there are plenty of high-quality and affordable pieces of exercise equipment on the market. Our team of certified personal trainers and competitive weightlifters help me determine what’s the best-of-the-best by rating each item on these factors:

  • Value: Does the item provide a similar experience to more expensive options?
  • Durability: Budget-friendly equipment won’t last as long, but that doesn’t mean it should fall apart on you right away.
  • Versatility: We stretch your dollar even further by finding equipment that can be used for more than one exercise.

Without further ado, here is the best budget home gym equipment so you can start training at home on your time without breaking the bank.

Best Budget Home Gym Equipment

Best Budget Home Gym Equipment Video Review

Best Budget Weight Bench: Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable Utility Bench

Good for: Lifters seeking a rock-solid, highly adjustable bench that excels in both flat and incline positions without breaking the bank

Best Budget Weight Bench
Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable Utility Bench
Versatile angles
Compact design
Sturdy build
10-year frame warranty
Free shipping to lower 48 US states
11 incline positions
Durable build
Heavy-duty steel construction ensures long-lasting performance
Multiple Angles
Offers 11 adjustable positions from flat to 85° for varied workouts
Accessory Compatible
Compatible with various attachments for expanded exercise options
Compact Design
Space-saving footprint suitable for home gyms with limited space
Home Gym Users
Ideal for those seeking a versatile bench for diverse exercises
Space Savers
Suitable for users needing equipment that fits in tight spaces
Budget Buyers
Perfect for individuals looking for a quality bench without breaking the bank
Pros of the Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable Utility Bench
Wide range of adjustable positions
Sturdy and durable construction
Compact and space-saving design
Compatible with multiple attachments
Supports up to 1,000 lbs in flat position (600 lbs in incline)
Cons of the Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable Utility Bench
Seat may be narrow for larger users
Adjustments can be time-consuming
Limited padding may affect comfort
Not suitable for very heavy lifting
Footprint
44″ L x 18″ W x 21″ H (in flat position)
Adjustment Range
Adjusts from 0° to 85° in 11 positions
Weight Capacity
Supports up to 1,000 lbs in flat position
Warranty
10-year frame and structural components, 1-year normal wear

With 11 positions and a high weight capacity, the Ironmaster Super Bench Adjustable Utility Bench offers versatility and durability at an affordable price, making it a solid choice for home gym enthusiasts. However, its narrower seat and manual adjustments may not suit everyone.

Although a weight bench isn’t necessarily what we’d consider essential, for many, it will be a highly used piece of equipment. It’s obviously good for bench presses, but a good weight bench is a very affordable way to increase the use of most of your equipment. It may be used for box squats, rows, triceps exercises, step-ups, box jumps, Jefferson curls, and a variety of other exercises.

In addition to the training movements, when you’re not squatting inside the rack, you may frequently find yourself taking your rest sitting down (perhaps laying) on the bench in between sets. Or when you are squatting or deadlifting, you may find it as a useful safe area for your kids to be seated off the platform while you are in the middle of your set.

For most people, we suggest getting an adjustable bench simply because it gives you more bang for your buck. You can do incline presses, shoulder presses, and target muscles from different angles than you could on a flat bench.

Ironmaster is a trustworthy company that sells high-value equipment (value meaning best price to features/quality ratio). Having earned a spot on our best adjustable dumbbells list, Ironmaster leads the way for budget-friendly benches with the aptly named Super Bench Adjustable Utility Bench.

What makes this bench such a great bang-for-your-buck investment is the adjustability. In addition to four positions (flat, incline, decline, and upright), you get 11 lock-out angles ranging from 0 to 85 degrees. That allows you to perform a wide range of exercises and target different muscle groups at specific angles. Throw in the fact that the Super Bench is also compatible with a lengthy list of attachments, and this product earns an easy 5-out-of-5 versatility score.

Made with 11- and 12-gauge steel, this sturdy bench supports up to 1,000 pounds in a flat position. If you work at an incline, it’ll support up to 600. That helps the Super Bench earn a construction score of 4 out of 5, docking a point for using a combination of steel rather than 11-gauge throughout.

However, you shouldn’t be too concerned about durability. Ironmaster uses powder-coated frames with chrome parts to ensure your bench will last over time. Plus, the thick, commercial-grade pad is covered with a high-quality vinyl upholstery that gives you a comfortable grip. Our team tested the higher-end version of the Super Bench (check out our full Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2 review), with our founder, Coop Mitchell, noting that the padding wasn’t quite up to par with other companies. Overall, we’ll rate the durability a 3.5 out of 5.

As for the price? Expect to pay around $400 — a more than reasonable figure given the versatility and solid construction. We rate the value a 4 out of 5, especially when you factor in Ironmaster’s 10-year frame warranty.

Footprint44″ L x 18.75″ W x 20″ H
Construction11- and 12-gauge steel
Pad dimensions 44″ L x 10″ W x 3″ H commercial-grade pad
Weight capacity1,000 lbs (flat position), 600 lbs (incline or tilted)
Positions/AnglesFour positions (flat, incline, decline, upright)
11 angles (0, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, and 85 degrees)

Best Budget Weight Plates: REP Fitness Iron Weight Plates

Good for: Budget-conscious home gym owners who want durable, no-frills cast iron plates that offer excellent value and reliability

Best Budget Weight Plates
REP Iron Plates
Classic design
Durable finish
Affordable price
Free shipping
Klarna (interest-free payments)
1-year warranty
Machined Accuracy
Precision-machined for consistent weight and fit
Durable Finish
Sandblasted and machined surface resists corrosion
Grip Design
Symmetrical grip holes for easy handling
Versatile Use
Suitable for various strength training exercises
Budget Lifters
Ideal for those seeking quality plates at a lower cost
Strength Trainers
Suitable for users focusing on strength workouts
Pros of REP Fitness Iron Plates
Affordable pricing for quality plates
Durable and corrosion-resistant finish
Easy-to-handle grip design
Accurate weight calibration
Cons of REP Fitness Iron Plates
May have slight weight variances
Finish can wear over time
Not suitable for dropping
Limited aesthetic appeal
Weight Range
Available from 2.5 lbs to 45 lbs
Plate Diameter
Standard 17.7″ diameter for 45 lb plate
Material
Cast iron with machined finish
Hole Diameter
2″ center hole fits Olympic bars

REP Fitness Iron Plates offer a blend of affordability and durability, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious lifters. While they may show wear over time, their performance remains reliable.

Once you have a barbell and a place to set that barbell, having weights that slide onto the barbell is the next piece of equipment you should be looking for. The best weight plates are likely going to be the most costly piece of equipment in your gym.

You can start out with a small amount of weight, but what typically becomes painfully obvious, and quickly, is that you need more weight. Thankfully, weight plates can be had for rather cheap per pound; just recognize that the price will add up over time, especially if you desire matching plates. The first place to look is the secondary market. Although not every market is this way, many will feature crazy good deals on Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.

Many of you are also likely debating if you should purchase iron plates or bumper plates. We’ve used a wide array of both, and here’s what we’ve found. Although bumper plates are better in a garage gym for most people due to their ability to be dropped without damaging the floor and their great resale value, they’re vastly more expensive than iron plates.

We suggest REP Fitness Iron Weight Plates for those on a budget purchase iron plates unless they plan to do a lot of Olympic Weightlifting or CrossFit. Even the power clean can be lowered from the front rack to prevent damage to the floor with enough practice (this was done for decades before bumper plates were invented. If you plan to do some of the classic lifts like the clean and jerk and snatch, then we suggest purchasing a few bumper plates, and then filling the rest of your weight plate needs with iron.

The reason we suggest the REP Fitness Iron Plates is pretty simple, they’re some of the best-priced iron plates with consistent and standard sizing on the internet. At $0.89/lb (as of this writing) the EP Iron Plates are dirt cheap in comparison to many of the other options from companies like York Barbell, Rogue Fitness, and Ivanko.

Although the Rep Iron Plates are cheap, they’re not too bad. Sure, they’re going to be less consistent and accurate than some of the more expensive plates you can purchase, they should meet most people’s needs. The 45-pound plates have the standard 17.7 inches outside diameter and Rep guarantees a 3% tolerance on all plates. This means that if the plate is outside of 3% of the stated weight, then they should, in theory, replace it.

“The overall design and function of the plates are great,” says GGR founder and home gym equipment expert Cooper Mitchell. “This also includes the powdercoat that is tough and hasn’t chipped yet despite quite a bit of mishandling.”

Coop rated the overall value of these plates a 4.75 out of 5 because of their durability and how good they performed when used for back squats, bench presses, and more.

The REP Iron Plates look like the standard barbell plates that have been around for years and are seen in just about every commercial gym in the country. Cast Iron is what most iron plates are made of, and these are no exception.

Each plate also includes a small lip that makes it easier to pick up and carry around, black paint on the entirety of the plate with silver-painted letters and numbers. If you’re wanting budget weight plates, then these are your best value.

Weight tolerance3%
Diameter 17.7″
Weight options5lbs – 45 lbs

Best Budget Kettlebells: Iron Bull Strength Powder-Coated Kettlebell

Good for: Fitness enthusiasts who want ergonomically designed kettlebells with a durable finish and excellent grip at a budget price

Best Budget Kettlebells
Iron Bull Kettlebell
Solid cast iron
Color-coded
Ultra-durable
Free shipping for U.S. domestic orders over $150
Klarna (interest-free payments)
Limited lifetime
Weight Range
4-40kg (9-88 lbs)
Handle Diameter
30-40mm, depending on the weight
Construction
Single piece of cast iron with powdercoat finish
Weight Markings
Kilograms and pounds
Pros of Iron Bull Kettlebells
Durable
Powder-coated
Color-coded for easy identification
30-day money back guarantee
Cons of Iron Bull Kettlebells
Handles may feel too thick for some
Only sold in singles
Handle Diameter
30-40mm, depending on the weight
Materials
Solid cast iron with powdercoat finish
Options
11 different sizes (4-40kg)

The Iron Bull Kettlebells are constructed with durable cast iron and finished with a powder coating for added durability and longevity. Available in weight options ranging from 4 to 88 pounds and color-coded for easy identification, these kettlebells are a solid choice for any home gym owner.

Kettlebells are versatile pieces of equipment that are great for both building power and muscular endurance. We’ve used quality kettlebells over the years for a variety of different movements; a few of our favorites are kettlebell swings, bottom-up presses (much harder than they look), farmers’ carries, and snatches. Although they’re great for these movements, they also work well for adding weight to bodyweight movements like dips and pull-ups.

We would definitely suggest purchasing dumbbells before kettlebells due to their versatility and the amount of usage they’ll see, you can get by with just a few kettlebell weights. The weight we’d suggest for most people is 53 pounds. If you’re not as strong or want to use kettlebells more for endurance, then you can go for a lighter weight.

There are various styles of kettlebells, but for most people, we’d suggest standard cast-iron kettlebells. Competition kettlebells are great for the clean and jerk and snatch, but are a bit more difficult to use for two-hand swings and they’re also more expensive.

RELATED: Best Kettlebells

The Iron Bull Strength Powder-Coated Kettlebells are some of the best-priced, pound-for-pound kettlebells available that come in a wide range of weight increments. The Iron Bull Kettlebells are available in weight increments from 4 kilogram/9 pounds to 32 kilograms/70 pounds and use color bands on the handles as well as the weight increments cast into the front of the kettlebells in both pounds and kettlebells.

The bells have bottoms that are machined so they’re flat and then they’re coated in a black powder coat for corrosion resistance and a better grip when chalk is used.

Although the cast iron kettlebells aren’t the absolute best that is available, if you’re on a budget, this is likely your best bet for a kettlebell that is made to last.

Weight options4kg/9lbs to 32kg/70lbs
FinishBlack powdercoat
Handle diameter 30mm-40mm (increases with weight)

Best Budget Sled: Rogue Cast Pack Sled

Good for: Athletes wanting a compact, affordable sled for sled drags or sled pulls

Best Budget Sled
GGR Score:
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4.4
Rogue Cast Pack Sled
Compact size
Multi-use design
Durable build
Free shipping over $5,000
Available in 20- or 30-lb options
Financing available with PayPal Credit
Weight Range
Functions as both sled and ruck weight
Compact Design
Small footprint suitable for limited spaces
Durable Construction
Made from ductile iron for longevity
Accessory Ready
Compatible with various straps and attachments
Space-Saving
Ideal for those with limited workout space
Outdoor Enthusiasts
Take your sled outside and enjoy a workout in the elements
Athletes
Great for working on conditioning for your sport or activity of choice
Pros of the Rogue Cast Pack Sled
Compact and portable design
Dual functionality as sled and ruck weight
Durable ductile iron construction
Compatible with various accessories
Cons of the Rogue Cast Pack Sled
Limited weight capacity
May require additional accessories
Not suitable for all terrains
Paint may chip over time
Weight
Available in 20 lb and 30 lb options
Footprint
12.5” x 9” x 1.5″ (11.5″ with post attached)
Materials
Constructed from ductile iron
Accessories
Comes with 16-foot pull strap and carabiner

Available in 20- or 30-pound versions, the Rogue Fitness Cast Pack Sled offers versatility and durability in a compact design, making it a valuable addition to any home gym. However, its limited weight capacity (200 lbs) may not suit advanced users. We recommend it for anyone who wants to level up their conditioning.

The best weight sleds are fantastic tools for both houses of fitness: the people who love cardio, and the people who love building strength. You get your heart rate up, work upper- and lower-body muscles, and make gains all with one piece of equipment. However, most sleds cost at least $300, with some costing upward of $700. The Rogue Cast Pack Sled comes in at just $125 for the 20-pound model or $145 for the 30-pound model.”

“This is a killer deal. The innovation with Rogue’s manufacturing power—you can’t beat that for the price,” says GGR founder and home gym expert Coop Mitchell.

What makes this impressive for the price is that it doubles as a weight plate for a rucksack. If you want to add ruck training to your routine, all you need is a rucksack. You can buy one on the Rogue website when you purchase the sled, but it will cost you an extra $180 (for the 20L ruck) or $190 (for the 25L ruck). Still, we rate the value a 5 out of 5, especially since Rogue products are known for their durability.

RELATED: Rucking Workouts for Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced Trainees

However, while the Cast Pack Sled’s ability to function as a sled or a ruck is unique, we only rate it a 4 out of 5 for versatility since you can’t do sled pushes with it. That said, we do like that you can load the sled with weight plates, ruck plates, or sandbags (with the optional pack sled buckle straps).

The footprint earns a 5 out of 5. Measuring just 12.5 inches long, 9 inches wide, and 2.15 inches high, the Cast Pack Sled will take up very little space in your garage or home gym. Plus, you can remove the weight post and slide the sled under a piece of furniture or a shelving unit in your gym space.

One more thing to note—we recommend ordering the Pack Sled Plastic Kit with your purchase. The kit includes two skis that attach to the bottom of the sled and help reduce friction between the sled and whatever surface you use it on.

GGR Managing Editor Amanda Dvorak has a different sled from Rogue—the Slice Sled—and finds that the skis help make the sled easier to maneuver. “I use my sled on the street outside my house, and the skis definitely help the sled move more smoothly,” she says. “I also think they help keep the noise level down. It’s much quieter than a lawn mower.”

Price$125 for the 20-lb sled; $145 for the 30-lb sled
Footprint12.5” L x 9” W x 2.15” H
Weight20 lbs or 30 lbs
Weight capacity200 lbs
Available attachmentsRucksack (available for an additional $180-$190); 3-pack buckle straps (available for an additional $21)
Plastic Sled SkisAvailable for an additional $21

Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbells

Good for: Home gym lifters who want heavy, quick-adjust dumbbells with a sturdy feel and minimal footprint for a fraction of premium prices

Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells
GGR Score:
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
3.63
Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell
Heavy capacity
Quick adjust
Compact storage
Adjustable in 5-pound increments
Free shipping with Amazon Prime
Available via Amazon Pay
Durable Materials
Made with alloy steel and reinforced plastics for long-term durability
Weight Range
Replaces 16 pairs of dumbbells from 5 to 80 lbs
Quick Adjust System
Fast weight change with secure lock design
Compact Footprint
Saves space with one unit replacing multiple sets
Budget Trainers
Great for users needing versatility on a budget
Progressive Lifters
Ideal for people progressing in strength over time
Home Gym Owners
Great for those who need a space-saving dumbbell solution
Pros of the Eisenlink 80lb Adjustable Dumbbells
Large weight range up to 80 lbs
Secure and fast adjustment mechanism
Compact and organized storage
Durable construction materials
Cons of the Eisenlink 80lb Adjustable Dumbbells
Bulky shape and long handle may feel awkward
Knurling isn't the best
Slight learning curve with adjustments
Not ideal for very fast-paced drops
Handle Diameter
1.37”
Weight Range
10-80 lbs, upgradable to 160 lbs
Weight Increments
5 lbs
Warranty
12-month warranty

The Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbells pack heavy-duty performance and adjustability into a compact form, ideal for budget-minded home gym users. Just know the bulkier profile and longer handle may take some getting used to. However, we love the wide range and ability to make leaps in 5-pound increments.

Adjustable dumbbells on a budget? It’s definitely an affordable option in today’s market. While adjustable dumbbells may not be a necessity for many garage gym owners, they are very useful tools in the right hands. Having a good set or pair of adjustable dumbbells will allow you to perform plenty of great exercises for both hypertrophy and accessory work.

For the garage gym owner, the thought process for purchasing the best dumbbells should include ideas about space and convenience. Most people would not have the room to house an entire set of dumbbells from 5 pounds all the way up to 100 pounds. And even if you did, finding great quality dumbbells at an affordable cost is rare indeed.

We hear frequently of people snagging nice adjustable dumbbells at a fraction of the ticket price, as well as purchasing whole dumbbells sets for around 50 cents per pound. Luckily for you, we have been able to review several great options and have found what we believe to be the best budget dumbbell options money can buy.

Coop replaces the silver end cap after adjusting an Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell.

Available in 50- or 80-pound versions, the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell is a cheaper yet still durable alternative to many higher-priced adjustable dumbbells. While other budget-friendly options typically don’t go as heavy, 80 pounds should suffice for the majority of home gym owners. And if you want to push yourself even more, you can upgrade these dumbbells to hold up to 160 pounds. That helps them earn a maximum weight score of 4 out of 5.

“I can’t think of another adjustable dumbbell that goes as heavy as these as cheap as they are,” says Coop Mitchell, our founder and resident gear guru.

Despite their budget-friendly price tag, don’t make the mistake of thinking the Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbells are cheaply made. Coop conducted repeated drop tests, even dropping them from shoulder height. Unlike some other dumbbells, these held up perfectly, earning a durability score of 4 out of 5.

Coop doing overhead presses on a bench with a pair of Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell.

A fair warning: These cast iron dumbbells aren’t the quickest for making weight changes. Instead of a twist-lock mechanism that you’ll see on many competitors, you must unscrew the end cap to add or remove weight plates. And because the weight plates aren’t clearly labeled, it can be confusing to figure out exactly how much weight you have loaded.

“The adjustment system from heavy weight to light weight is going to be quicker on Ironmasters because once you take all this weight off you got to screw that thing all the way down,” Coop explains, rating the adjustment speed a 3 out of 5.

Another callout: Be aware that these dumbbells have a square head design. That’s great for ensuring they won’t roll around on your gym floor. But that’s not so great if you’re used to resting dumbbells on your thighs. That said, other companies like PowerBlock and Ironmaster also make square head dumbbells, so this isn’t exclusive to Eisenlink.

For more details on how these dumbbells look, feel, and perform, check out our complete Eisenlink Adjustable Dumbbell review.

Weight range10-80 lbs, upgradeable to 160 lbs
Change mechanismTwisting screw with slide-on removable plates
Weight Increments5 lbs
Dumbbell length6.9″
Handle Diameter1.37″

Best Budget Dumbbells: CAP Barbell Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells

Good for: Lifters looking for classic, durable hex dumbbells with no plastic or gimmicks at a very accessible price point

Best Budget Dumbbells
CAP Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells
Singles or pairs
Cast iron
Budget-friendly
30-day return policy
Free shipping for Prime members
Materials
Cast iron
Weight Range
3-120 lbs
Weight Increments
2, 3, or 5 lbs
Dumbbell Shape
Hex
Budget Shoppers
CAP Barbell prices their dumbbells low, meaning you’re getting tons of value from them
Convenience
You can find these dumbbells just about anywhere online, or even at local sports shops and stores.
Serious Lifters
With a max weight of 120 lbs, many lifters can be challenged by the weight range
Pros
Hex head prevents rolling
Medium knurling on entire handle
Very affordable
Weights can go heavy
Cons
Baked enamel coat chips easily
No protective rubber coating
On Amazon, only available up to 50 lbs
Handle Width
Varies by weight
Weight Range
3-120 lbs
Weight Increments
2, 3, or 5 lbs
Warranty
30 days

If you just need to move some weight and don’t want to pay much, these are a solid option.

What our tester says:

“The baked enamel finish looks nice when new, but don’t count on it lasting, especially if you leave these dumbbells out in the elements.”

If you’re on a quest for the best budget-friendly dumbbells, look no further than the CAP Barbell Solid Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells. While we wouldn’t typically recommend CAP over other brands (it tends to be associated with cheaper quality), you can’t beat the value you get in these cast iron dumbbells.

A popular product on Amazon, the price fluctuates depending on when and where you buy them, but for the most part, these come out to be less expensive than dumbbells from Rogue, REP Fitness, Titan Fitness, and other big-name brands. For example, you can get a pair of CAP 25-pounders for about $74 on Amazon. Meanwhile, REP Fitness charges almost double the price ($130) for a pair of 25-pound hex dumbbells.

To no surprise, the CAP Cast Iron Hex Dumbbells earned a perfect value rating of 5 out of 5, especially since you can get free shipping if you’re an Amazon Prime member.

From a design standpoint, these share many similar features to higher-end dumbbells, including a fully knurled handle and a hexagonal head to prevent the dumbbells from rolling around in between sets. (This also makes them easier to store.)

Fair warning: If you expose these dumbbells to outdoor elements, including the often humid environment of a garage gym, expect the coating to crack and chip, leaving the iron core exposed. Unfortunately, these dumbbells aren’t going to last as long as other models we’ve tested, leading to a disappointing durability score of 2.5 out of 5.

You can get these CAP dumbbells in weight options from one pound all the way up to 120 pounds. They’re available in increments of 2 to 3 pounds up to the 15-pound dumbbell, at which point they come in 5-pound increments. However, they only come in pairs up to 25 pounds. If you want to go heavier, you’ll have to buy them as a single dumbbell. As a result, CAP earned an optionality rating of 3 out of 5.

While these are decent dumbbells all around (especially if you’re trying to keep costs down), remember that you can’t drop them since they don’t have a protective rubber coating. If you want them to last as long as possible, be mindful of where you store them so rain, humidity, or other conditions don’t cause CAP casualties.

Weight range5-120 lbs
Sold asSingles or pairs
ShapeHexagonal
Weight typeFixed
Handle materialCast iron
Handle dimensions5.08″ length with varying diameters based on weight
Head materialCast iron
StorageNot included
Warranty30-day manufacturer warranty

Best Budget Pull-Up Bar: Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull-Up Bar

Good for: People who want a stable, wall-mounted pull-up bar with multiple grip options that can handle serious bodyweight training

Best Budget Pull-Up Bar
Titan Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar
Wall mount
Heavy-duty
Multiple grips
Mounts at 16″, 32″, or 52″ widths
1-year limited warranty
Free for orders $199+
Heavy-Duty Steel
Built with heavy-duty steel to handle serious bodyweight workouts
Adjustable Width
Designed to fit a variety of stud spacings
Multiple Grips
Wide, standard, and narrow hand placements
Wall Mounted
Stable and space-saving installation
Budget Buyers
Excellent value for a fixed pull-up station
Bodyweight Training
Perfect for pull-up, chin-up, and core work
Pros of the Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull-Up Bar
Affordable and well-constructed
Sturdy design holds heavy weight
Multiple grip options
Adjustable mounting widths
Cons of the Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull-Up Bar
Requires drilling into wall
No included mounting hardware
Can’t be moved once installed
Limited to upper-body exercises
Weight Capacity
500 lbs
Bar Length
53.5″
Grip Options
Wide, standard, neutral
Bar Diameter
32mm

Boasting an impressive 500-pound weight capacity, the Titan Wall-Mounted Pull-Up Bar offers unbeatable strength and value for a fixed pull-up solution. Just be sure you’re ready to install it securely yourself.

A pull-up bar can be one of the most useful pieces of upper-body equipment you purchase. There are many people who like having a mounted pull-up bar separate from their rack, as they can also use it as an area to attach resistance bands from, use for accessory work, or even superset pull-ups at the wall with squats in the rack. If you follow CrossFit-type programming, this is especially helpful.

When it comes to choosing the best pull-up bar, you first need to think of where you would want to mount it and at what height. Most versions you can find are wall-mounted, but there are also ceiling-mounted versions as well. It is also important to think about all of the activities you may do on the bar besides pull-ups. If you think you’ll attach gymnastic rings to it so that you can do exercises like inverted rows, you’ll need to make sure you have the space for it.

titan wall mount pull up bar side view

Also, you don’t necessarily have to mount a pull-up bar to the wall, you could also get a doorway pull-up bar to put inside your house and many often double as push-up stands. For these reasons, we’ve included a few different options depending on your price point and potential use.

Our top pick is the Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull-Up Bar. It is the classic design that can be found in many elementary schools across the country. The Titan Pull-Up is designed to be mounted into wood studs or can be fixed into a concrete wall. The depth of the bar from the wall is 32 inches, more than enough to give you room to hang and work from.

The weight capacity is listed at 500 pounds, and even with kipping style pull-ups, this should be secure enough for most people. However, it may not be far enough from the wall for you to do all your kipping movements, depending on how tall you are. The entire structure is matte black powder-coated, which provides a decent grip that shouldn’t be a problem even with sweaty palms. The bar can be adjusted to 16 inches, 32 inches, or 52 inches apart, which is set just right for the standard 16-inch wood studs found in most homes.

Overall, the Titan Wall Mounted Pull-Up Bar is our classic value pick. For the price of under $100 with free shipping, you’re getting a very basic pull-up bar that gets the job done and functions quite well.

Dimensions53.5″ L x 31″ H x 2″ W
FinishPowdercoat black
Diameter32mm
Construction11-gauge steel

Best Budget Cardio Equipment: WOD Nation Double Under Speed Rope

Good for: CrossFitters or general athletes who need a fast, tangle-free jump rope for effective cardio and agility workouts

Best Budget Cardio Equipment
GGR Score:
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4.31
WOD Nation Double Under Speed Jump Rope
Speed rope
Durable
Affordable
Interchangeable cables
No warranty
Type of rope
Speed rope
Material
Alloy steel with ABS handle
Rope length
10 ft rope length that can be adjusted with a cable cutter
Affordable
Costing less than $20, this is a very affordable rope that’s built to last
Durable
We used this durable rope for years before needing to replace the cable
Lightweight
This rope is very light and easy to transport
Pros
Extremely lightweight
Comes with an extra cable
Adjustable
Cons
Plastic handles could break if stepped on
Need a wirecutter to adjust
Price
$16
Portability
Carrying case included
Handle type
6.75″ tapered nylon handles

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.

What our tester says:

“I love this rope. It’s light and moves fast. Even after testing and using probably more than a dozen speed ropes, this is still my absolute favorite.”

When it comes to cardio equipment on a budget, you’d be hard-pressed to beat the jump rope. The benefits of jumping rope include building aerobic capacity, improving bone density, and boosting your mood—and you can do it on the cheap.

What’s more, jump ropes are lightweight and portable. You can’t pack a treadmill in your car to take with you on vacation, but a jump rope fits easily into a carry-on bag or your trunk. Also, you can use a jump rope just about anywhere, as long as you don’t mind pavement potentially damaging the casing, or the sound of the whipping rope on your kitchen floor.

woman jumping rope in nike free metcon

The WOD Nation Double Under Speed Rope is a longtime favorite on our team for both its price and performance. It’s priced at under $20 on Amazon and even comes with an extra cable in case yours shreds. One of our product testers, certified personal trainer and GGR Head of Content Kate Meier, has had her WOD Nation rope for nearly five years and replaced the cable after three years. As an avid CrossFitter, she logged plenty of jumps before the rope needed replacing.

“This is still my absolute favorite jump rope even after testing dozens of other options,” Kate says. She loved how light and smooth the rope felt during training and rated the workout experience a perfect 5 out of 5.

RELATED: The Best Jump Ropes

On top of price, the WOD Nation rope also stands out for the variety of colors it comes in as well as its adjustability. The cable itself is long enough for just about any user. Once you size it correctly, you will need wire cutters to cut the cable to match your height.

As long as you use this rope on smooth surfaces, you’ll get a lot of life out of it. Kate noticed that her rope’s casing suffered damage when she jumped on asphalt, but that’s to be expected. You can read more in our WOD Nation Double Under Speed Rope review.

Length10″ L that’s cut to length
Cable Covered steel
HandlesPlastic
Rotation systemBearings

Best Budget Air Bike: Schwinn AD6 Airdyne Air Bike

Good for: Individuals wanting a fan bike without breaking the bank

Best Budget Air Bike
Schwinn AD6 Airdyne Air Bike
Full-body cardio
Fan resistance
Easy display
10-year frame
Financing available through Klarna
Free sitewide
Fan Resistance
Air-powered resistance scales with your effort
Weight Capacity
300 lbs
LCD Console
Tracks RPM, calories, time, distance, and more
Sturdy Frame
Stable and built to handle intense workouts
Home Cardio Users
Compact design for those who want to work on their cardio at home
HIIT Athletes
Great for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts
Cross-Trainers
Useful for total-body endurance work
Pros of the Schwinn AD6 Airdyne Air Bike
Scalable air resistance
Tracks a wide range of metrics
Upper-body involvement
Durable and stable design
Cons of the Schwinn AD6 Airdyne Air Bike
No Bluetooth connectivity
No preset programs
Display is basic and unlit
Fan can be loud
Footprint
49.7″ L x 25.7″ W x 50.9″ H
Console Display
RPM, time, distance, calories
Max User Weight
300 lbs
Drive System
Single-stage belt drive

The Schwinn Airdyne AD6 is a rock-solid cardio tool that’s perfect for home use — just don’t expect high-tech features at this budget-friendly price. The screen is just OK, there’s no Bluetooth connectivity, and there are no preset programs. So, understand that the affordable cost comes with some tradeoffs.

A budget exercise bike is a fantastic addition to home gyms because, compared to ellipticals and treadmills, bikes take up far less room and still pack a powerful cardio punch. We like fan bikes for two reasons: We are gluttons for punishment, and they are ideal for both high-intensity workouts and easier recovery days.

The Schwinn AD6 is an excellent choice for those on a budget looking for an air bike. IT’s priced under $800, making it one of the more affordable but still high-quality air bikes on the market.

We haven’t tested this exact model, but we have used other exercise bikes from Schwinn, like the AD7 (another fan bike in the brand’s lineup) and the IC4 (an upright bike). In our experience, their bikes are durable, easy to assemble, and offer a superb riding experience.

For footprint and portability, we rate the AD6 a 4.5 out of 5. It’s relatively compact, measuring 49.7 inches long, 25.7 inches wide, and 50.9 inches high. There is no handle on the back, but there are transport wheels on the front. You can lift the bike by the rear stabilizer bar to wheel it around. It weighs 115 pounds, which most fit, able-bodied individuals should be able to maneuver.

Like most fan bikes, the AD6 isn’t technologically advanced. Its LCD screen shows time, speed, distance, watts, calories burned, and heart rate. However, it doesn’t connect with any cycling apps. The bike earns a 2 out of 5 for tech capabilities.

We do appreciate Schwinn’s lengthy warranty period, though. The bike comes with a 10-year frame warranty, a 2-year parts warranty, a 1-year electronics warranty, and a 6-month labor warranty. That said, if you have to return your bike, you’ll have to pay for the return shipping costs and may be subject to a handling fee of up to 20% of the bike’s cost. For these reasons, we rate the customer service a 4 out of 5.

Weight115 lbs
Footprint49.7″ L x 25.7″ W x 50.9″ H
ResistanceAit
User Weight Capacity300 lbs
Screen/ConsoleLCD
Warranty10-year frame; 2-year parts; 1-year electronics; 6-month labor

Best Budget Barbell: Synergee Regional Barbell

Good for: New or intermediate lifters wanting a quality barbell for powerlifting or Olympic lifting without investing in high-end gear

Best Budget Barbell
Synergee Regional Barbell
Olympic standard
Budget-friendly
Good whip
Lifetime against bending
Free U.S. shipping
Pay in 4 with Shop Pay
Olympic Sleeves
Compatible with standard weight plates and collars
Bearings & Bushings
Smooth spin for Olympic lifts or powerlifting
Durable Steel
Tensile strength rated at 190,000 PSI
Knurling
Medium knurl with dual markings (no center knurl)
Multi-use trainers
Works for Olympic, CrossFit, or power moves
Beginners
Excellent first barbell for new home gym owners
Budget lifters
Priced competitively for all-around use
Pros of the Synergee Regional Barbell
High tensile strength
Good spin and whip
Lifetime warranty
Dual knurl markings
Cons of the Synergee Regional Barbell
No center knurling, which may be important for some
Not IPF or IWF certified
May need re-oiling over time
Finish may show wear
Tensile strength
190K PSI
Weight Capacity
1,500 lbs
Bar Weight
15 kg or 20 kg options
Shaft diameter
28mm

The Synergee Regional Barbell delivers performance and durability on a budget, making it a go-to for lifters who want versatility without overspending. This well-built barbell boasts an impressive tensile strength of 190,000 PSI, a 1,500-pound weight capacity, and comes in 15kg or 20kg versions.

There are few things we look for in a the best Olympic barbell, such as overall construction, the tensile strength of the bar, the knurling, spin, finish, price, and warranty.

The almighty barbell is perhaps the most important piece of equipment in any home gym. No matter your goal, you should have a barbell in your hands at least some of the time. The biggest reason for this is its effectiveness; the second reason is its versatility. No piece of equipment can be used for as many different purposes as the barbell, and the best part? It produces results.

We’ve used all of the barbells we recommend and during testing, we performed all of the major barbell exercises including squats, deadlift, bench, overhead press, clean and jerk, and snatch. We also took measures to get the opinion of others and interviewed industry representatives to determine why they feel their bars are superior to the competition.

Woman overhead squatting Synergee Regional Bar

The best budget barbell is the Synergee Regional Barbell. For us, it’s one of the very few bars priced around $200 that we would ever recommend. Generally, super cheap barbells are susceptible to corrosion, they don’t spin well, or they come in odd lengths and shaft diameters. Not the case with this barbell.

The Regional bar comes in 15- and 20-kg options, each available in either a hard chrome or black phosphate finish. It has a 190,000 pounds-per-square inch tensile strength, meaning the bar can withstand very heavy weights. In fact, the Regional bar is rated to withstand up to 1,500 pounds, helping it earn a perfect tensile strength score of 5 out of 5.

While there’s nothing wrong with specialty bars, this one caters to a much broader audience. A true multi-purpose bar capable of being used for everything from general strength training to Olympic lifting, it has needle bearings that provide a great spin. Overall, we rate the versatility a 4.5 out of 5, as users of all experience levels and body types should enjoy training with this bar.

The knurling on this is solid, but not the best we’ve felt. As one of our product testers put it, “It’s not a cheese-grater knurl like you’ll see on powerlifting barbells.”

Still, Synergee deserves a tip of the cap for designing a solid budget-friendly barbell that costs between $189.95-$219.95, depending on which finish you select. We feel that’s excellent value, rating it a 4 out of 5 in this category.

Is it the most durable? No. Does it have the best knurling? No again. However, if you’re just starting your home gym, this is a great option that will get the job done until you’re ready to upgrade.

Overall length 86.36″
Diameter28mm
Tensile Strength 190,000 PSI
Weight Capacity1,500 lbs
Use Multipurpose, Olympic Lifting, Powerlifting, Weightlifting
Coating Options Black Phosphate or Hard Chrome

Best Budget Home Gym Flooring: Tractor Supply 3/4″ Rubber Stall Mats

Good for: Home gym builders who need heavy-duty, affordable floor protection that can handle dropped weights and high-impact workouts

Best Budget Home Gym Flooring
GGR Score:
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4.3
Tractor Supply 3/4″ Rubber Stall Mats
Heavy stall mats
0.75″
Extremely durable
5-year limited warranty
30-day return policy
Financing available
Buy 25, get 5% off each See Details
Material
100% recycled vulcanized rubber
Adjustability
Can be cut, but they’re thick and heavy
Flooring Type
Horse stall mats
Durable Materials
Horse stall mats are nearly indestructible, and should last for years in your home gym
Indoor/Outdoor Use
These mats are durable enough to be used anywhere
Pros
Great durability for any exercise
Anti-skid surface
Good noise reduction for dropped barbells
Less than $60/piece (less than $2.50/square foot)
Cons
Heavy, weighing around 100 pounds for each piece
Some people don’t like the rubber smell
Surface is not smooth; these have raised bumps
May be harder to clean than smooth surfaces
Material
Rubber
Thickness
0.75″
Color Options
Black

These horse stall mats from Tractor Supply use recycled rubber, are 3/4″ thick, 4 ‘x 6’ in size, and weigh upwards of 100 pounds. You can find horse stall mats at other farm supply stores, and they will be similar in dimensions. The thickness makes this flooring sound-absorbent.

You’re likely going to need some sort of home gym flooring. If you lift weights, then you’re definitely going to want something to protect your foundation and lower the noise when weights are dropped. There are a lot of intriguing options, but we’ve found that most foam, puzzle-piece type flooring ends up tearing up, getting nasty, and simply not enjoyable to use pretty quickly.

For this reason, we suggest staying away from the cheapy (although it’s often more expensive than our recommendations) foam tiles and go with rubber matting.

RELATED: The Best Horse Stall Mats for Home Gyms

In most instances, we’d suggest going to your local Tractor Supply or similar farm store and picking up some 4’x6’ ¾” rubber horse stall mats. Yes, they’re initially made for horses, but practically every gym in the world uses these exact mats or something similar. They weigh about 100LB a piece and can take whatever abuse you can throw at them.

We’ve used horse stall mats in our garage gym for close to a decade and they still look practically new.

Dimensions4′ x 6′ x 3/4″ (per unit)
Weight94 lbs (per unit)
Tensile strength321 pounds-per-square-inch (PSI)

Best Budget Squat Rack: Fitness Reality 810XLT Squat Rack

Good for: Budget-minded lifters wanting a sturdy, versatile rack with pull-up capabilities that won’t wobble or fail under moderate-heavy loads

Best Budget Squat Rack
GGR Score:
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4.2
Fitness Reality 810XLT Squat Rack
Affordable
Combo rack
Easy assembly
1-year warranty
30-day trial
Financing available
Type
Combo rack
Gauge of steel
14-gauge
Pull Up Bar?
Yes, straight bar
Weight Capacity
800 lbs.
Novice Lifters
A 800-pound weight capacity isn’t the strongest, but it should hold up for most home gym trainees.
Those on a Budget
At under $600, this is one of the most affordable squat racks.
Space Savers
This 2-in-1 rack helps save on the amount of floor space used in your home gym.
Pros of the Fitness Reality 810XLT Squat Rack
Affordable
Compact
Extra long spotter arms
Fairly sturdy
Cons of the Fitness Reality 810XLT Squat Rack
1-year warranty
Only rated for 800 lbs.
Product Dimensions
50.4” L, 50” W, 81.3” H
Hole Size
1″
Materials
14-gauge tubular steel
Finish
Powder coat

The Fitness Reality 810XLT Power Rack is a good option for those looking for an affordable, durable squat stand with lots of extra attachments included.

What our tester says:

“I love the versatility of this piece of equipment. You can slide an adjustable weight bench in between the uprights to perform exercises such as the bench press or seated barbell press. It will also support Olympic bars and some specialty bars.”

The squat rack is the centerpiece of nearly every home gym, and for good reason. No matter what your goals are, squat racks will likely play a big part in helping you achieve them. The only piece of equipment more versatile than the squat rack is a barbell, and if you follow our recommendations, then you’ll already have one.

A squat rack can be used for obvious exercises like squatting and benching, but they’re also great for pull-ups, rackable deadlifts, and overhead press. You can add in some attachments for a bit more and suddenly your rack can do everything from landmine movements to lat pulldowns.

We’ve noticed that many people starting home gyms will purchase squat stands and then upgrade later to a power rack due to their versatility. It also needs to be mentioned that most squat stands, when safety bars are added, aren’t much cheaper than their power rack equivalents. With the price of power racks today, we suggest skipping the squat stand option and going for a power rack. You won’t spend much more (in some cases you’ll spend less) and you’ll be much safer and satisfied in the long run.

Fitness Reality 810XLT

You’ll be hard pressed to find a power rack that provides more bang for your buck than the Fitness Reality 810XLT. For around $300, you get a sturdy place to squat, bench, overhead press, and perform pull-ups on the pull-up bar cross-section. 

While the price tag may lead to doubts about quality quality, powerlifter and experienced product tester Roger Lockridge says the 2-inch-by-2-inch 14-gauge steel uprights offer a durable foundation for walking squats back into the rack. He rates the construction at 4.5 out of 5. It’s also worth noting the holes are 1 inch in diameter with 1-inch spacing, which will allow you to explore some universal power rack attachments.

GGR Senior Staff Writer Stephen Sheehan, CPT, CNC, owned the 810XLT for two years and was highly impressed with the overall quality and versatility of this rack.

“For about the same price as a pair of adjustable dumbbells, I think this is a fantastic value for home gym owners of all levels,” he explains, rating the value a 4.25 out of 5. “It just gets the job done.”

Squatting in Reebok Nano Gym Shoes

The Fitness Reality 810XLT offers an 800-pound weight capacity and comes with a landmine attachment, spotter arms, and weight storage. You can buy a lat pulldown attachment for this rack through Fitness Reality or Amazon. You’ll also find multiple spots with band pegs for accommodating resistance.

“I got this second-hand and luckily the previous owner purchased the lat pulldown attachment,” Stephen explains. “I really enjoyed being able to work on rows, triceps pushdowns, and other upper-body exercises all in one spot.”

The Fitness Reality 810XLT’s footprint is ideal for space-conscious home gym owners, as it only takes up about 4 square feet of space. However, it’s over 6 feet tall, so it may not fit in some basements or garage gyms with low ceilings. We rated it a 4 out of 5 in this category.

“It’s still a reliable rack that could serve a lot of home gym owners well,” Roger adds.

To read more about our hands-on experience, check out our Fitness Reality 810XLT review.

Footprint71” or 83” H x 30″ D x 46″ W
Frame material14-gauge steel
Weight capacity800 lbs
Weight61 kg
Hole spacing1″
Warranty1-year limited

Why You Should Build a Home Gym

best budget home gym equipment

We first want to make something clear, you don’t need a home gym. In fact, you don’t need a gym membership or gym equipment, or workout clothing. However, you also don’t need to save time, lose weight, put on muscle, or do anything else to meet your physical and mental goals.

You want to meet your goals, and the best thing we’ve found to help meet the physical goals we’ve set for ourselves as well as increasing discipline, mental fortitude, perseverance and a multitude of other mental goals is by having a gym at home. This is why we believe just about everyone should have some sort of home gym setup.

Building a home gym is simply too easy, cheap, and accessible for people to ignore anymore. Even if you keep your gym membership (we suspect that after a month of continued home gym use, you’ll wonder why you kept it so long) having a home gym is great for sneaking in extra workouts, working on mobility and recovery, or simply getting a quick workout in when you’re low on time and/or motivation to go to the gym.

cheap gym equipment

Here are just a few of the benefits we’ve found personally from building a home gym:

  • More opportunities to be near our families.
  • Improved the way we looked, felt, and thought about ourselves.
  • Increased our discipline in just about every area of our lives.
  • Saved us money.
  • Saved us time.
  • Saved us from getting angry at people at the local globo-gym.
  • Increased enjoyment of exercising/moving/training.

We could write a book on why we think just about everyone should have a home gym and that still wouldn’t do it justice. Here’s something that should be considered beyond the benefits we’ve listed, having a home gym not only improves your life but can improve the lives of those around you.

For instance, how many times have you wanted to take a friend to the gym to workout but were either out of guest passes or had to pay extra for them to go? With a gym in your home or garage you can invite as many of your friends as you’d like, train however you’d like, play any music you’d like at any decibel you’d like and do it anytime you’d like. We’ve had midnight training sessions, 4 AM training sessions, and had over 15 people working out at one time.

cheap workout equipment

In addition to your friends receiving benefits, your home gym will benefit your family. Nearly every person who’s interested in fitness wants their family to experience the joys that come with exercise, and rather than hearing about your participating in hard workouts, they can see them and join in. If you want your family to follow in your footsteps, in any area of life, show them, don’t just tell them. Being able to have our kids join in the workout along with our spouses is not only very satisfying but also extremely fun.

Lastly, having a home can actually save you money, and much quicker than you’d expect. We like to think of a home gym vs gym membership as being similar to leasing a car. In a traditional lease, you get to use the car by making monthly payments.

These payments don’t allow you to keep the car at the end of the lease and are adjusted to a higher rate due to the wear and tear you’re putting on the car as well as the little money you’re putting upfront. Although you can use the car, you only use it while you make your payments and have nothing to show for it at the end.

home gym vs commercial gym

A gym membership works the same way. You make monthly payments to use the gym equipment (most of it old, worn down, cheap, and broken) and having nothing to show for it at the end. Even worse, you’re not just making payments on something only you use, you’re making payments on equipment that is shared among 1,000’s people.

A comparative study1 compared the cost-effectiveness of gym-based rehab programs and home-based rehab programs for cardiac rehabilitation patients, and found that home-based programs were much cheaper for patients. A more recent trial in 20182 did the same for people with chronic health conditions, and the same trend was found

Here’s the worst part of all, you likely already have the space for a home gym, and with just a couple years (or in many cases, a few months) worths of saving the amount you spend on a commercial gym, you could have a fully decked-out home gym that would be the envy of your entire neighborhood.

Trust us, building a home gym will not only increase your enjoyment and help you achieve your goals, but it will also improve your life and you’ll have something to show for all the money you spent if you decide to upgrade or sell it in the future.

Why a Home Gym Doesn’t Have to Be Expensive

budget home gym equipment

We want to break a commonly held notion: “Build a home gym is too expensive!”The truth of the matter is that a home gym can cost just about as much as you want to spend. We’ve seen home gyms ranging anywhere from less than $100 all the way up to 6-figure, multi-room set-ups.

However, just about every home gym starts the same way, with a few basic pieces of equipment that you can get on sale over Labor Day, Black Friday, and other holidays. Don’t make the mistake of thinking that you have to buy everything all at once. Sure, buying many items at once can help save on shipping, but if it prevents you from ever starting a home gym then it’s a poor decision.

There are two main reasons you don’t have to spend a ton of money on building a home gym. One, you don’t have to have all of the machines and contraptions that are found at your local YMCA. In fact, you can get away with just a few main pieces of equipment and as you have money, you can increase your equipment selection, and thus the variety of exercises you can perform.

Two, more people are buying gym equipment than ever before. This allows companies to create a wider variety of equipment and offer them at lower prices. It’s truly the best time in history to start a home gym (especially considering you can buy everything online and have it delivered to your door within just a couple of days…poor delivery guy.)

The Equipment We Recommend Starting With

best budget home gym equipment

As previously stated, you don’t need a lot of equipment to get started. We’ve had some of our best workouts and seen some of our best progress, whether trying to lose weight, gain muscle or simply get in better condition using only a few tools.

Sure, you may need to get creative, but the amount of workouts that can be done with a barbell and plates is astounding (not to mention the progress. Coop, the founder of Garage Gym Reviews, increased the weight he could lift on nearly every lift using only a barbell, squat rack, and pull up bar for 90 days.)

The first pieces of equipment we recommend starting with are:

  • A barbell
  • A squat rack with a pull-up bar attached
  • Bumper plates
  • A bench press

With these four items, you can accomplish nearly any goal you’d like.

budget home gym equipment

If you want to lose weight, do high reps at a high intensity with a low amount of rest time. Mix in some sprints, long-distance running, biking (if you have one), and throw in a $10 jump rope for some extra variety and you’ll be on your way to losing weight. Don’t forget the most important part though, sticking to your diet.

Thankfully, since you’re working out at home, you won’t be tempted by the neon fast-food restaurant signs on your way home and you’ll be near your fridge so you can get the nutrients you need immediately following your workout.

If you want to put on muscle and increase strength, focus on low to mid rep ranges with increasing weights each workout and make sure to increase your caloric intake. Following a program like Starting Strength or even signing up for Starting Strength Online Coaching can be extremely beneficial and can be followed with only the above-recommended equipment. The fitness industry benefits from complications, don’t fall into their trap. Training doesn’t need to be nearly as complicated as they’d have you believe.

RELATED: Best Online Workout Programs

Best Budget Home Gym FAQs

What’s the best home exercise equipment for any budget?

Looking for cheap workout equipment you can use at home? Investing in quality barbell, squat rack, bumper plates, and a weight bench is the way to go. With these few budget exercise equipment, you can reach your goal and build the best home exercise equipment from there.

What is the best budget power rack for a home gym?

The Titan X-3 Flat Foot Power Rack is our new top selection for the best budget squat rack in 2023, however, if you’re trying to spend as little as possible while still getting a solid rack, we recommend the Rep Fitness PR-1100 Home Gym Power Rack.

Is a home gym a good investment?

When looking at building a budget home gym, you should look at it as a long-term investment. You may pay a little extra when you are just starting, but you will save a significant amount of money in the long run.

How to set up a home gym on a budget?

As previously mentioned we recommend starting off with a power rack and then looking into purchasing some of the best dumbbells, kettlebells, cardio equipment, like treadmills, rowing machines, and investing in some of the best budget home gym flooring. Choosing what equipment to buy and where to put it might be challenging when creating a budget home gym. So, to offer you some ideas, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best budget home gym setups.

References

  1. Collins, L., Scuffham, P., & Gargett, S. (2001). Cost-analysis of gym-based versus home-based cardiac rehabilitation programsAustralian health review : a publication of the Australian Hospital Association24(1), 51–61. https://doi.org/10.1071/ah010051
  2. Jansons, P., Robins, L., O’Brien, L., & Haines, T. (2018). Gym-based exercise was more costly compared with home-based exercise with telephone support when used as maintenance programs for adults with chronic health conditions: cost-effectiveness analysis of a randomised trialJournal of physiotherapy64(1), 48–54. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jphys.2017.11.010

Further reading

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