Best Home Gym Equipment
A home gym eliminates commute time, monthly fees, and waiting for equipment, and even a modest setup pays for itself within months compared to a gym membership. The key is selecting versatile equipment that covers multiple muscle groups and exercise types rather than single-purpose machines. We focused on gear that delivers the best training variety per dollar and square foot. Adjustable dumbbells are the cornerstone of any home gym. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 replaces 15 pairs of dumbbells in one compact set, adjusting from 5 to 52.5 pounds with a turn of the dial. Pair them with a set of resistance bands (which add variable resistance impossible to replicate with free weights) and a TRX suspension trainer for a complete strength training setup that fits in a closet. For cardio, the Hydrow Wave rowing machine provides a full-body low-impact workout that burns more calories per hour than a stationary bike. If space is limited, a jump rope and resistance band circuit provides intense cardio in minimal space. Start with foundational equipment and add pieces as your training evolves rather than buying everything at once.
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best For | Key Pros | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair) | Dumbbells | Replaces 15 sets of dumbbells | Amazon |
| TRX ALL-IN-ONE Suspension Training System | Suspension-Trainer | Hundreds of exercises possible | Amazon |
| TRX GO Suspension Trainer System | Suspension-Trainer | Hundreds of exercises from a single anchor point | Amazon |
| TRX PRO4 Suspension Training System | Suspension-Training | Anchors anywhere for a full-body workout with no gym required | Amazon |
| Theragun Relief Percussive Therapy Device | Massage | Very quiet operation | Amazon |
| Peloton Guide Connected Strength Training Camera | Fitness | AI body tracking counts reps | Amazon |
Detailed Look at Each Product
Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells (Pair)
Adjustable dumbbells replace 15 sets of weights with a quick dial system. Each dumbbell adjusts from 5 to 52.5 pounds in 2.5-pound increments. Compact design saves space compared to a full dumbbell rack.
- Replaces 15 sets of dumbbells
- Quick dial adjustment
- Wide 5-52.5 lb range
- Space-saving design
- Bulky at heavier weights
- Delicate dial mechanism
TRX ALL-IN-ONE Suspension Training System
Full-body suspension trainer that uses your bodyweight for hundreds of exercises. Includes door anchor, suspension anchor, and workout guide. Used by military, professional athletes, and home gym enthusiasts.
- Hundreds of exercises possible
- Extremely portable
- Professional quality construction
- Great for all fitness levels
- Requires sturdy anchor point
- Learning curve for proper form
TRX GO Suspension Trainer System
The TRX GO suspension trainer anchors to any door, beam, or tree to enable hundreds of bodyweight exercises using your own weight as resistance. Its lightweight design packs into a small bag for travel or outdoor workouts. Suitable for beginners and advanced athletes by simply adjusting your body angle.
- Hundreds of exercises from a single anchor point
- Lightweight and packable for travel workouts
- Scales from beginner to advanced by adjusting body angle
- Door anchor can stress door frames over time
- Learning proper form requires video guidance initially
TRX PRO4 Suspension Training System
The TRX PRO4 Suspension Trainer anchors to any door, pull-up bar, or beam and enables hundreds of bodyweight exercises targeting every muscle group using adjustable strap length and body angle to modify resistance. The military-grade nylon construction handles up to 1,400 pounds and the compact system packs into an included carry bag for travel. Access to the TRX Training Club app provides guided workouts for all fitness levels.
- Anchors anywhere for a full-body workout with no gym required
- Military-grade nylon handles up to 1,400 pounds safely
- Single anchor point replaces an entire cable machine station
- Learning proper form for many exercises requires initial instruction
- Door anchor setup creates wear on door frames over extended use
Theragun Relief Percussive Therapy Device
Handheld percussion massager with 3 speeds. QuietForce Technology for near-silent operation. Ergonomic triangle grip design. 120-minute battery life. Bluetooth app connectivity.
- Very quiet operation
- Long battery life
- Ergonomic grip
- App-guided routines
- Only 3 speed settings
- Single attachment included
Peloton Guide Connected Strength Training Camera
AI-powered camera that connects to your TV and tracks your body movement during strength workouts, counting reps and providing form guidance. Access to Peloton's extensive library of guided strength classes. No bike or tread required.
- AI body tracking counts reps
- Form feedback in real time
- Peloton class library access
- Affordable entry to Peloton
- Requires Peloton membership
- Camera tracking not always precise
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum equipment needed for a home gym?
A pair of adjustable dumbbells and a set of resistance bands provide enough variety for a complete full-body workout program. Add a pull-up bar (door-mounted, under $30) and you can train every muscle group effectively. Total cost: under $400 for equipment that replaces a full gym for most people.
Are adjustable dumbbells worth the price over fixed dumbbells?
Absolutely. The Bowflex SelectTech 552 costs around $350 and replaces 15 pairs of fixed dumbbells that would cost over $1,000 and require a full dumbbell rack. The space savings alone justify the price for home gym users. The adjustment mechanism is quick and reliable.
What is the best home cardio equipment for small spaces?
A rowing machine folds upright for storage and provides the most complete full-body cardio workout. Jump ropes take zero storage space and provide intense HIIT cardio. The Sunny Health mini exercise bike fits under a desk. Avoid treadmills if space is limited, as even folding models take up significant floor space.
Can I build muscle effectively with just resistance bands?
Yes, research shows resistance bands can produce similar strength gains to free weights for most exercises. Bands provide linear variable resistance that increases through the range of motion, which some studies suggest is actually superior for muscle activation. A quality 5-band set costs under $15 and provides resistance from 5 to 150 pounds.