Best Workout Equipment For Home
If you're going to purchase fitness equipment for your home, be sure it's got all the necessary elements for the exercises you'd like to do. A power rack and bench press are essentials to build strength.
Those with limited space can look into a home gym such as Tonal or Tempo which offers a range of workouts and a full body workout within a small footprint.
1. Treadmill
You can keep your cardio fitness up by having a treadmill in your home when it's too cold, rainy or dark to exercise. Many treadmills provide streaming studio classes that can encourage you to get on the treadmill even if you're not feeling well.
A top treadmill like the Peloton Tread+ has a sleek and impressive design that makes it a must-have in any home gym. It has a large tilting screen for workout stats and high-energy streamed classes supervised by an online trainer. However, its price and monthly subscription fee could be prohibitive for some users.
The NordicTrack Commercial 1750 is a budget-friendly, yet smart option recommended by Forbes Vetted gear Editor Cam Vigliotta. Its 14-inch smart HD touchscreen can be tilted and pivot to simulate a real-life class environment, while it's integrated Google Maps workout technology lets you walk or run anywhere in the world (requires an iFit membership). It also includes pulse sensors on the handlerails for heart rate monitoring and quick speed buttons that can help you increase your pace.
2. Elliptical
If you're seeking a low-impact workout that strengthens your lower and upper body an elliptical is the ideal choice. They can be used as a standalone cardio session to warm up, or to "workout the entire body before strength training" says Cara D'Orazio, exercise physiologist and personal trainer.
Find a bike that offers a comfortable stride length, either moving or stationary handles, and large, textured pedals, says GGR head of content Kate Meier. Also, consider bikes exercise for sale that has a a built-in speaker system to play your music. If you plan to use your equipment in a public area like the living room, you may want to consider a machine that is portable so you can move it away when you are not using it.
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i, which is a great choice with its high-tech features and compatibility with iFIT's live and on-demand workouts, is our pick for the most efficient elliptical overall. It is also small, and has a quiet magnetic drive system. This allows you to exercise without disturbing your roommates or children.
3. Rower
Rowing is a full-body cardio exercise that helps build endurance and strength without placing too much strain on joints. It's also relatively low-impact compared to other workouts that increase your heart rate, which is why it's a great choice for people who can't perform intense exercise or who have injuries from previous exercise.
Rowers are commonly found in gyms. They're also great home fitness equipment. They're smaller than treadmills and ellipticals which means they can be tucked away in smaller spaces and require less floor space when they're not being used.
If you're looking for a smarter model, opt for one that has a touchscreen. The Concept2 RowErg is a top-rated option that comes with classic workouts as well as a solid warranty, but it's missing the features that make other intelligent options stand out (like the tablet holder that is integrated or live streaming of class). The NordicTrack RW900 rower is a great budget option that has an 22-inch display that shows iFit workouts, as well as trainer-led rowing classes and live races between peers. Its quiet operation and smooth magnetic resistance are top-quality.
4. Dumbbells
If you have a designated space for your workout then a set of dumbbells will be a great addition to any home gym. It's crucial to pick one that is compatible with your fitness goals, according to Zocchi. "As a general rule you should have a range of weight sizes to allow you to progress and slow down your workouts if necessary."
The best dumbbells can also be easily stored. For example the rubber or neoprene-coated dumbbells such as the Amazon Basics Neoprene weights won't take up much room in your storage area and are long enough to fit into the majority of cubbies, according to Healthline nutrition and fitness marketing editor Kelli McGrane.
Hex-style dumbbells similar to those made by Cap Barbell are a different option that work well in a home gym. Their blocked shape makes them less likely to roll on the floor, which can be beneficial when you have to move them between sets or avoid flying equipment post-set.
5. Kettlebells
Kettlebells can be utilized to burn calories in various ways. Studies have shown that a 20 minute kettlebell workout will produce the same amount of calories as a six minute mile. It's crucial to select an exercise that is safe for your body.
The best kettlebells are constructed with quality materials that don't rattle or tip over during swings and grabs. The handle is long for an easy grip. If you want to compete, select kettlebells that have standardized colors and markings that match competition regulations.
Whether you're a beginner or an advanced athlete, it's a good idea to purchase a complete kettlebell set. This way, you'll be able to easily progress to a high-level kettlebell exercise that's similar to a class in person. You can even take your kettlebells on vacation with you!
6. Weight Plates
Weight plates might not be as flashy as a rower or smart home gym, but they deliver a full-body workout that's equally effective as the majority of machines. You can do everything from barbell back squats to dumbbell bench press exercises and clean and jerks with them, plus accessories like Biceps curls and good mornings.
Choose bumper plates that are resistant to damage, are low in bounce, and are able to be slid onto an Olympic barbell to ensure a comfortable lift. These bumpers from Iron Bull are a top option, since they're constructed of rubber that's virgin, which is durable and withstands plenty of drops without cracking.
This functional trainer and squatrack combination is a great all-in one home gym. It lets you lift heavy. It comes fully assembled with a pull-up and lever arms and is able to be upgraded to include other accessories such as landmine attachments. It also comes with the 210-pound weight stack, and an incredibly compact footprint that will fit in the majority of workout spaces.
7. Ab Wheels
Ab rollers are simple inexpensive and efficient fitness equipment that will help increase core strength. Whether you need them for a workout at home or to take when traveling, make sure you choose one that's durable and easy to use. This one from Vinsguir has a central wheel that's thicker than others and handles that are soft but still narrow enough to fit your hands comfortably.
If you're looking to increase your core exercises, think about using a pair of wheels that work in tandem. They are more stable than a single unit and they will work your obliques and lower back muscles. This model from Perfect Fitness, while more expensive than other models it is built to last and features a carbon-steel spring that can last for a long time. It also comes with a small foam pad that ensures your knees are comfortable. The application that comes with it, which has strength workouts yoga flow, strength workouts and HIIT sessions is a bonus.
8. Stability Ball
Braun says that using an exercise ball will help you to work your core muscles in a way that a barbell or bench will not. It is important to choose the right size. A smaller ball can make exercises more difficult, whereas larger balls can be difficult to hold. Look up the chart of sizes to find the right fit.
The best stability balls have a firm smooth, supportive texture and a tough exterior. The material is anti-burst which means it is not prone to puncturing or deflating. Experts suggest looking for a texture that is sufficient grippy to prevent slippage but not so sticky that it binds loose hairs or attracts dust.
A smart home gym enables you to access an interactive fitness program that is not limited to the equipment you have. The most effective options let you train with a treadmill, elliptical, and rower and add dumbbells, resistance bands kettlebells, kettlebells, or an exercise trainer that is functional.
9. Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a great addition to any gym at home, providing a versatile way to build strength without taking up space with full sets of free weights. The best ones are available in various colors to indicate the range of tension, and some have an extra safety feature that prevents them from snapping if they are overstretched.
If you're on a budget take a look at Iron Bull Strength for six tubes for less than $30. They are available in a range of weights, from light to heavy. They'll fit most needs and you can easily pack them into your bag to train on the go.
The top bands are made from top-quality materials that can endure repeated stretching without losing their elasticity or snapping. They could also have handles or anchor points with reinforced seams and are less likely to lose elasticity over time than lesser options. However most resistance bands require periodic re-tensioning to keep their shape. They also emit a strong smell of latex, which isn't ideal for people with sensitivities or allergies.