A home gym can pay for itself within 1-2 years compared to gym memberships, and you'll never wait for equipment again. This guide covers the best equipment for every budget and fitness goal.
Home Gym Budget Breakdowns
- Starter ($200-500): Resistance bands, dumbbells, mat
- Intermediate ($500-2,000): Add bench, barbell, rack
- Advanced ($2,000-5,000): Cardio machine, full rack, cable system
- Premium ($5,000+): Peloton, smart mirrors, specialty equipment
Essential Home Gym Equipment
Must-Have Basics
- Adjustable dumbbells: $150-600 (replace 15+ pairs)
- Exercise mat: $20-100
- Resistance bands: $20-50
- Pull-up bar: $25-50 (doorway) or $100-300 (wall-mount)
- Adjustable bench: $100-400
Best Cardio Equipment
| Equipment | Price Range | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peloton Bike | $1,445 | Cycling, classes | |
| NordicTrack Treadmill | $1,000-3,000 | Running, walking | |
| Concept2 Rower | $990 | Full-body cardio | |
| Bowflex Max Trainer | $1,300-2,500 | HIIT, low impact | |
| Sunny Health Bike | $300-600 | Budget cycling | |
| Walking Pad | $200-500 | Small spaces, under-desk |
Best Strength Equipment
BEST DUMBBELLS
Adjustable Dumbbells
- Bowflex SelectTech 552: $429 (5-52.5 lbs per hand)
- PowerBlock Elite: $340 (5-50 lbs per hand)
- NUOBELL: $595 (5-80 lbs, smooth adjustment)
- Budget pick: Yes4All adjustable ($150-200)
BEST RACK
Power Racks & Squat Stands
- REP Fitness PR-1100: $349 (budget full rack)
- Rogue SML-2: $495 (quality squat stand)
- Titan T-3: $399 (full rack, great value)
- Rogue RML-390F: $895 (premium)
Smart Fitness Equipment
| Product | Price | Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peloton Bike+ | $2,495 | $44/mo | Cycling enthusiasts |
| Mirror/Lululemon | $995 | $39/mo | Variety, small space |
| Tonal | $3,995 | $49/mo | Strength training |
| Tempo Move | $395 | $39/mo | Budget smart gym |
| NordicTrack iFit | $1,000+ | $39/mo | Cardio variety |
Home Gym Setup by Goal
Weight Loss Focus
- Treadmill or exercise bike ($300-1,500)
- Jump rope ($10-30)
- Resistance bands ($25-50)
- Light dumbbells ($50-100)
- Total: $400-1,700
Muscle Building Focus
- Power rack or squat stand ($300-600)
- Olympic barbell + weights ($300-800)
- Adjustable dumbbells ($300-500)
- Adjustable bench ($100-300)
- Total: $1,000-2,200
General Fitness
- Adjustable dumbbells ($300-500)
- Resistance bands ($25-50)
- Pull-up bar ($30-100)
- Exercise mat ($30-100)
- Cardio (bike or rower) ($300-1,000)
- Total: $700-1,750
Space Considerations
Minimum Space Requirements
- Treadmill: 6' x 3' (plus room to fall safely)
- Power rack: 5' x 5' minimum (8' x 8' recommended)
- Exercise bike: 4' x 2'
- Rowing machine: 9' x 4' (when in use)
- Ceiling height: 8'+ for standing exercises
Where to Buy (Best Deals)
- Amazon: Convenience, reviews, Prime shipping
- Facebook Marketplace: Used equipment 40-60% off
- REP Fitness: Quality budget-friendly racks/bars
- Rogue Fitness: Premium quality, US-made
- Titan Fitness: Rogue quality at lower prices
- Dick's/Academy: Local pickup, holiday sales
Gym vs. Home Gym Cost Comparison
5-Year Cost Analysis
- Gym membership: $50/mo × 60 months = $3,000
- Home gym (mid-range): $2,000 one-time
- Savings after 5 years: $1,000+
- Bonus: Keep equipment, no commute, 24/7 access