The Best Home Gym Equipment in 2024

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 of certified personal trainers, competitive weightlifters, and home gym equipment experts would design their dream home gym with everything from barbells and weight plates to the very floor we’d be standing on. We’ve had our hands and/or feet on every item we’re about to discuss, and for every category listed here we’ve tested dozens, if not hundreds, of different pieces of equipment so we could be confident in our top pick for each one.

While each category has its own unique rating system, we generally score various pieces of equipment on important factors like:

• Durability: How long does it last?
• Value: Do you get enough bang for your buck?
• Versatility: Can it be used for a variety of workouts?
• Customer service: Does it come from a reputable brand that cares about its customers?

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.  

The Best Home Gym Equipment 

• Best Squat Rack: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Power Rack
• Best Barbell: Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar 
• Best Weight Bench: REP Fitness FB-5000
• Best Weight Plates: Iron Bull Strength HD Plates
• Best Dumbbells: Major Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells
• Best Exercise Bike: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike
• Best Adjustable Dumbbells: Snode AD80
• Best Adjustable Kettlebell: Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell
• Best Kettlebells: Kettlebell Kings Kettlebells
• Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
• Best Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg
• Best Smart Home Gym: Beyond Power Voltra I
• Best Jump Rope: WOD Nation Double Under Speed Jump Rope
• Best Gymnastic Rings: Vulcan Elite Wood Gymnastic Rings
• Best Home Gym Flooring: IncStores 3/4″ Premium Extreme Rubber Mats
• Best Resistance Bands: Living.Fit Resistance Bands
• Best Elliptical: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i

Best Home Gym Equipment Video Review

Best Squat Rack: Titan Fitness T-3 Series Power Rack

Good for: Anyone wanting a durable power rack with great value

Best Squat Rack

Titan T-3 Series Power Rack

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• 2×3″ 11-gauge steel tubing
• Weight capacity of 1,000 lbs
• Westside spacing
• Bolt-together construction
• Includes J-hooks and weight holders

Pros & Cons

Pros

• More affordable than competitors
• Stable when bolted down
• Bolted panels easier to adjust on uneven surface
• V2 of the T-3 comes in a variety of colors
• V2 of the T-3 has laser-cut holes on the side and front of uprights
• Westside spacing
• Pin/pipe safeties
• 2×3" tubing allows for Titan and other competitors' attachments and add-ons

Cons

• Known for delays and mixing up orders
• Imported materials
• Not the best welds
• J-cups are average at best
• Bolted panels makes for a weaker joint
• Cheaper bolts used

Bottom Line

The Titan T-3 is a good, budget-friendly power rack. It's very similar to one of our favorite racks, the Rogue R-3, but at a much cheaper price thanks to it's imported nature. If you have the ability to bolt down your rack to a platform or concrete foundation and want a rack that won't break the bank, this is a good option.

We like the Titan T-3 Series Power Rack for its value, as you’ll be hard pressed to find another squat rack with this level of quality and construction at this price. With 11-gauge steel, the power rack has a weight capacity of 1,100 pounds.

Depending on the height or depth, the T-3 rack will cost between $465 and $689, making it one of the best value racks available. While the 2-inch-by-3-inch steel tubing is a less popular size for attachments (the standard is quickly becoming 3-inch-by-3-inch), there are plenty of attachments available through Titan Fitness, as well as other companies. Just remember that the imported steel makes this not a “true” 2-inch-by-3-inch rack, but just slightly smaller than that.

Titan recommends bolting down the power rack, and after GGR founder Coop Mitchell has tested it out, he recommends it as well. “You’ll get the most out of your rack that way,” he says, “and you’ll be able to do kipping pull-ups or toss your weights into the J-hooks without any worry.”

For the powerlifters out there, the rack has Westside spacing along the bench zone of 1 inch. However, the rack doesn’t have any numbering for holes—nothing painted or laser-cut in the uprights. So making sure your J-cups are even might be a hassle. Otherwise, this is a solid rack for a garage gym setup. For more information, check out our Titan T-3 Power Rack review.

Best Barbell: Rogue Fitness Ohio Bar

Good for: Anyone who needs a high-quality multipurpose barbell

Best Barbell

Rogue Ohio Bar

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• 190K PSI tensile strength
• Multipurpose bar with great versatility
• Lifetime warranty
• Bushing sleeves
• Snap ring design

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. 

RELATED: What Is Barbell 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 but overall is good enough to earn a 4.5 out of 5. “If you rub your hand over the shaft you can hardly feel the knurl, then when you grip it tight, you can feel it stick in like you want it to,” Cooper Mitchell, GGR founder and knurling lover, says in our Rogue Ohio Bar review.

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.  

Best Weight Bench: REP Fitness 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

GGR Score: 4.7

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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.

RELATED: Best Nordic Bench

“Despite the thicker width, the padding itself is pretty firm—not the same level of firmness as you would get with Rogue, but again, given the price of this bench, I don’t think you’ll have any complaints about it,” says GGR founder and home gym equipment expert Cooper Mitchell in our REP Fitness FB-5000 Bench review.

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 and give it a 4.75 out of 5 for its incredible value. 

Best Weight Plates: Iron Bull HD Plates

Good for: Anyone who needs durable weight plates for all their lifting needs

Best Weight Plates

Iron Bull Strength HD Plates

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Available in pairs or sets
• Made with virgin rubber
• IWF-compliant
• Minimal bounce

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Steel inserts for increased durability
• Minimal bounce (though some people may want more bounce)
• Under $2 a pound
• Diameter is IWF-compliant

Cons

• Virgin rubber may smell for a few days
• No clear warranty information

Bottom Line

If you're looking for a cost-effective, competition-approved set of bumper plates then look no further than these.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective option for bumper plates that still has a sharp look and durable construction, we think the best weight plates for you are Iron Bull HD Plates. Sold as pairs or in varying weight sets, these weight plates are affordable, and have raised lettering to keep the all-black bumper plate looking sharp during your workout.

Although these bumper plates don’t have a Durometer rating—a measurement of how much they’ll bounce and their durability—they’re made with virgin rubber, which should ensure a low, dead bounce, as well as help minimize noise upon impact with your home gym floor. The low bounce will also protect your weights and flooring.

The steel inserts also glide easily on and off of your barbell, making changing your barbell load effortless in the middle of your workout. Just remember that Iron Bull allows for free US domestic shipping on orders over $150, so to get the most value, buy a couple pairs at once.

Best Dumbbells: Major Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells

Good for: Those looking for an easy-to-use and durable dumbbell set

Best Dumbbells

Major Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells

GGR Score: 4.3

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Product Highlights

• Hex rubber dumbbells
• Sold in sets or pairs
• Ergonomic handle
• Hex shape prevents rolling
• 1-year warranty
• 10-70 lb weight range

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Free shipping
• 35-day money back guarantee
• Rubber coating protects floors
• Sold in large sets or pairs

Cons

• Short warranty period
• Limited weight range (10-70 lbs)

Bottom Line

Major Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells offer a pretty traditional dumbbell with a rubber coating to project the weight and your floors. Two things that may not suit all lifters: an ergonomic handle design and a limited weight range from 10 to 70 pounds.

Dumbbells are such an important part of home gym spaces, as the level of versatility and usefulness is rivaled only by that of a barbell and weight plates. Dumbbells are indeed a must have for most people’s gym spaces, no matter your skill level.

Major Fitness Rubber Hex Dumbbells range from 10 to 70 pounds, and feature an ergonomic contoured handle, which can make gripping the dumbbell a bit more comfortable than a straight handle.

RELATED: What Size Dumbbells Should I Buy?

These hexagonal dumbbells are coated in rubber to protect the weights as well as your gym floor in the case of a weight drop. With a one-year warranty, these dumbbells should last for a while, too.

The knurling is just OK, according to GGR senior director of content Kate Meier, NASM-CPT, USAW-L1, CF-L1. “It doesn’t have knurling across the entire handle like other brands do,” she says, “but just across the center of the handle. I wouldn’t call this a dealbreaker, though,” she adds. If you like the traditional feel of hex dumbbells, these will provide that look and feel of an old school gym. 

Best Exercise Bike: NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike 

Good for: People who love high-quality home cardio workouts 

Best Exercise Bike

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

GGR Score: 4.5

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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.

“I’ve had times when I’ve forgotten I’m actually indoors on a stationary bike,” says Anthony O’Reilly, a certified personal trainer and GGR performance editor.

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.

Sometimes exercise equipment can get too techy, but the S22i is able to receive a 5 out of 5 on tech capabilities while still delivering on the parts that matter most—good resistance and high-quality parts.

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.

Best Adjustable Dumbbells: Snode AD80

Good for: People who either can’t or don’t want to store dozens of traditional dumbbells

Space Savers

Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells

GGR Score: 4.2

Check Price 10% off with code BF2024, plus use code GGR for a free pair of gloves

Product Highlights

• Weight ranges from 10 to 80 lbs
• 10-lb weight increments
• 36mm handle diameter
• Cast iron dumbbell cradle
• Feels like a pro-style dumbbell

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Cast iron cradles
• Drop-proof design from up to 32”
• Solid cast iron dumbbell plates with dovetail design
• Flat dumbbell heads
• Knurled handle

Cons

• Expensive
• Longer dumbbell
• Only jumps in 10-lb increments

Bottom Line

The Snode AD80 Adjustable Dumbbells are a durable pair of adjustable dumbbells that cover a broad range of dumbbell weights. If only having 10-pound increments is alright with you, these are a solid choice of dumbbell, strong enough to withstand drops from up to 32 inches.

For a long time, we’ve told you never to drop adjustable dumbbells—even the best adjustable dumbbells—due to the fragile mechanics on the inside of the weights. But today, we can tell you…that you still shouldn’t drop your dumbbells. Treat your equipment with a bit of respect.

However, you can rest easy if you accidentally slip a Snode dumbbell out of your hand; the Snode AD80 adjustable dumbbells are warrantied for two years, and that includes drops from about waist height. Very few adjustable dumbbell warranties cover drops, so this is a game changer that makes it easy for us to recommend Snode’s adjustable dumbbells.

These dumbbells are made of a mostly metal construction, making them pretty durable dumbbells. The adjustment system is a dial on one side of the dumbbell handle that controls the adjustments on both sides of the dumbbell. It’s not as quick as the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, but it’s still pretty quick.

The biggest issue with these dumbbells is that they jump in 10-pound increments, starting at 10 pounds. This might be too heavy of a starting weight for those looking to rehab joints or muscle groups,and the 10-pound jumps might also be too big of jumps for beginning athletes. Still, if the weight increments aren’t intimidating, the Snode Adjustable Dumbbells are a great addition for your home gym. 

Best Adjustable Kettlebell: Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell

Good for: Anyone who wants a great adjustable kettlebell that goes fairly heavy

Best Adjustable Kettlebell

PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell

GGR Score: 4.2

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Product Highlights

• Feels like a fixed kettlebell
• Easy adjustment mechanism
• Weight goes up to 52.9 lbs
• Rubber bottom to protect flooring
• Comes in kilos or pounds

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Space-saving design
• Replaces 5 kettlebells
• The grip feels very nice to use
• Color coded weight labels

Cons

• The unusual shape doesn't exactly feel like a standard kettlebell
• It uses a pin mechanism, so if you lose the pin, you won't be able to use all of the weights

Bottom Line

The Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell features a cowbell-like, space-saving design that can replace 4 kettlebells. It doesn't feel quite like a traditional kettlebell due to it's shape, but it's sturdy and enjoyable to use.

We like the Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell for its ability to save you space. Shaped like a narrow cowbell, the kettlebell replaces four kettlebells in the space of about half of a kettlebell. The kettlebell is available in two weights that span either 18 to 35 pounds, or 35 to 62 pounds. If you bought both kettlebells together, you’d have eight kettlebells in the space of about one. That’s pretty compact for a kettlebell.

Our expert product tester also enjoyed the flat shape of the kettlebell. He says, “the flat shape of the kettlebell helps it be more comfortable on the arm or shoulder for cleans or presses.” Plus, you can change weights with a magnetic pin that is quick and easy to make adjustments.

But what makes this adjustable kettlebell stand out? Its durability, which our tester rated a 5 out of 5. The magnetic pin stays secure during entire workouts, and never once felt wobbly or like it would fall out. That with the kettlbell’s alloy steel construction make this a long-lasting piece of equipment for your gym.

Check out our Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell review for more information on this space-saving product.

Best Kettlebells: Kettlebell Kings Kettlebells

Good for: Home gym owners who love kettlebell training and want the real thing

Best Kettlebells

Kettlebell Kings Powder Coat Kettlebells

GGR Score: 4.33

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Product Highlights

• Weight accuracy is on point
• Very grippy handle (takes chalk well)
• Lifetime warranty
• Weight options available in kilos and pounds

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Great weight accuracy
• Works well with or without chalk
• Comes with a lifetime warranty
• 21 weight options written in kilos and pounds

Cons

• Price is on the higher end: $109 for 16kg, $145 for 25kg
• Thicker handle may be hard to grasp for smaller hands
• Some reviewers found the paint or coat chipping
• Programming available at extra cost

Bottom Line

A high-end kettlebell that has a grippy handle and a wide selection of weights.

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 cast iron kettlebells from Kettlebell Kings are our pick for the best kettlebells for their powder-coated protection, durable cast iron construction, as well as a broad range of weights, ideal for any experience of weightlifter. The Kettlebell Kings Kettlebells start at 4 kilograms and go up to 92 kilograms—that’s over 200 pounds. Regardless of your strength level, Kettlebell Kings has you covered.

Because the kettlebells aren’t competition style, the handle diameter will vary depending on the weight and size of the kettlebell. Because of this and the grippy powder coating, you’re sure to have a solid grip on the kettlebell during your swings.

Although this is a pricier cast iron kettlebell compared to other brands, the feel of these weights while in use might be enough to justify the few extra dollars.

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

GGR Score: 4.5

Check Price Save $200 for Black Friday

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-in-charge cardio machine weighs a whopping 339 pounds, but it has durability and lots of extra features that make it worth the space. 

“There isn’t any play at all on this machine, even when I took it to top speeds,” says certified personal trainer and competitive weightlifter Kate Meier, who scored the durability a 5 out of 5.

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-inch wide and 60-inch ling 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 in your garage, as the treadmill 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. 

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

GGR Score: 4.6

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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 us out), you get the best rowing machine that should last you a literal lifetime, provided you perform the minimal maintenance needed a few times per year. 

It can also be used by just about anyone. The footpads and stainless steel slider can be adjusted to fit people up to 6 feet, 9 inches tall and has a weight capacity of 500 pounds. Kate Meier, a certified personal trainer and GGR’s head of content, also notes the screen can be adjusted up and down and the handles are at a 10-degree angle for a more natural feeling.

RELATED: Best Rowing Apps

Overall the adjustability and ergonomics received a 4.5 out of 5, and it would’ve been a perfect 5 out of 5 if the seat was slightly more comfortable. “The seat is contoured, but it is hard plastic,” Kate says. “After spending an extended amount of time on it, you’ll be uncomfortable. There are seat pads you can purchase.”

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.

Best Smart Home Gym: Beyond Power Voltra I

Good for: Anyone looking for a compact cable machine with staggering resistance

Best Smart Home Gym

Beyond Power Voltra I

GGR Score: 4.17

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Product Highlights

• Portable cable trainer
• Up to 200 pounds of resistance
• Easy to attach and detach
• Data tracking

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Portable
• Up to 200 pounds of resistance
• Can be brought through airport security
• Real-time data tracking

Cons

• Expensive
• Only has a one-year warranty

Bottom Line

The Beyond Power Voltra I packs all the benefits of a cable machine into a portable design, though it comes with a high price tag.

When it comes to smart home gym equipment, few machines have immediately wowed GGR founder Coop Mitchell quite like the Beyond Power Voltra I. In a compact machine hardly over a foot long, this smart cable machine can provide a whopping 200 pounds of eccentric and concentric resistance. Even more impressive is that the eccentric and concentric resistance can be programmed individually.

Coop recommends this as the perfect addition for a gym setup that takes a “less is more” approach, with a few items to max out the versatility and efficiency of your gym. “I would have a squat rack, bar and weight plates, a bench, adjustable dumbbells, and the Voltra I in my dream setup,” Coop remarks.

You’ll have to have a bit of a setup already for the Voltra I, though. The Voltra attaches to a rack via a mounting device that’s bought separately (make sure to add it to your purchase). If you don’t have a rack or upright, you may want to wait to add this to your home gym setup.

The main drawback is that the Beyond Power Voltra I is pricey, starting at nearly $2,100, with the additional purchase of a rack mount. Also, although the Voltra can be bought in pairs, Coop felt the separate movement of the two machines made movements clunky, so it’s not worth the extra money for two units. You can learn more in our Beyond Power Voltra review.

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

GGR Score: 4.2

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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. 

RELATED: The Best Jump Rope Exercises

“It’s light and smooth every time,” she says, rating the workout experience a 5 out of 5. “Even after testing and using probably more than a dozen speed ropes, this is still my absolute favorite.”

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. 

Read more in our WOD Nation Double Under Speed Rope review.

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

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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. 

RELATED: Dips Vs Pull-Ups

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. 

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

Flooring Inc 3/4″ Premium Extreme Rubber Mats

GGR Score: 4.2

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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 horse stall mats for home gyms, 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. 

Best Resistance Bands: Living.Fit Resistance Bands

Good for: Anyone looking to perfect pull-ups, or who likes to train with resistance bands

Best Resistance Bands

Living.Fit Resistance Bands

GGR Score: 4.5

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Product Highlights

• Natural latex material
• Available in sets of 4 or 6 bands
• 6 different resistance levels from 10 lbs to 200 lbs
• Includes door anchor
• 41” length

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Bands for versatile uses
• Wide range of resistance levels
• Can save by purchasing a set
• Comes with door anchor

Cons

• Not a lot of reviews yet
• Bands can’t be bought in pairs
• No handles

Bottom Line

Living.Fit Resistance Bands offer a great range of resistance levels, from 10 pounds with the thin red band, all the way up to 200 pounds with the thickest bands. Bought in sets of four or six bands, these bands are versatile and can be used for a variety of strength training and resistance training exercises.

Not only are the Living.Fit Resistance Bands durable and versatile, but they have killer value, often coming in at lower prices than the competition.

Originally sold in sets of four or six bands, there are plenty of options to choose from; you can double up your set, or buy bands individually for as little as $15. We like the thicker bands for pull-up assistance or for barbell work, while the thinner resistance bands are great for rehab and mobility training.

If you’re not a fan of the latex, Living.Fit also has a camo latex-free option, although the bands provide slightly different resistances. GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele gives the construction of the bands a 5 out of 5, saying, “I feel safe using these resistance bands; I never feel like they could snap.”

Thanks to their versatility, high-quality construction, and great value, Living.Fit are our pick for the resistance bands to best satisfy your home gym needs. However, our best resistance bands piece has more choices to choose from, if you’re still debating on which set is right for you.

Best Elliptical: NordicTrack AirGlide 14i 

Good for: Anyone who wants a low-impact cardio machine with interactive programming

Best Elliptical

NordicTrack AirGlide 14i Elliptical

GGR Score: 4.38

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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. Our testers gave their workout experience a 5 out of 5 after a week of using the AirGlide.

“Such a solid machine, there was no shaking to it and felt super smooth throughout the workout,” says Lindsay Scheele, home gym equipment expert and host of the Garage Gym Reviews Everything YouTube channel. “I will say that it felt like a higher resistant to start off than other ellipticals I’ve tried in the past, but there is no way to really test that because it says it is set to 0.”

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.

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. 

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. 

Picking the machines and free weights you want also makes you more likely to use it. A study from the American Journal of Health Promotion¹ took a look at the relationship between owning home gym equipment and physical activity levels. The biggest correlation found was that users who sepcifically bought their own equipment and found the exercises enjoyable were most active in using the home gym. So get the things you enjoy to make it worth your money.

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

References

1. Jakicic, J. M., Wing, R. R., Butler, B. A., & Jeffery, R. W. (1997). The relationship between presence of exercise equipment in the home and physical activity level. American journal of health promotion : AJHP, 11(5), 363–365. https://doi.org/10.4278/0890-1171-11.5.363

Anthony O'Reilly, CPT, CNC

Anthony O'Reilly is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and personal trainer whose work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness and BarBend, and previously was an award-winning reporter and photographer for newspapers on Long Island and Queens, NY. After spending most of his life overweight, he dropped 80 pounds and took control of his health and fitness. Outside of work, he still enjoys Little Debbie cakes but offsets them with rigorous hikes and workouts. He's an avid Manchester United supporter, through thick and thin.

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