Hands-On Testing by Trusted Experts
At Garage Gym Reviews, we put every piece of fitness equipment—and every supplement—through real-world testing. Our team of certified personal trainers, strength and conditioning coaches, elite athletes, and nutrition coaches has tested thousands of products and spent hours lifting barbells, running on treadmills, dipping into cold plunge tubs, and mixing protein powders to deliver in-depth reviews you can trust.
We also consult with registered dietitians, physical therapists, exercise physiologists, and other industry experts to ensure credibility and editorial integrity. Our goal is to provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information to help you feel more confident when building your home gym.
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Our Testing Processes and Methodologies
Every product we receive undergoes an extensive, multi-point testing process. Each one is rated on a scale of 1 to 5 in individual categories. Those scores are then averaged together into an overall score, which we use to determine whether or not to include it in our reviews.
How We Test Strength Equipment
When we test strength equipment, whether it’s a barbell, a set of adjustable dumbbells, or a functional trainer, we evaluate criteria such as construction, durability, versatility, and overall value. We put each product through multiple workouts and have individuals of varying fitness levels test it to ensure it’s suitable for a wide range of users.
How We Test Recovery Equipment
Our process for testing recovery products includes verifying temperature ranges and analyzing the assembly processes, construction quality, and how easy the product is to use. If it’s a sauna, we sit in it for 15 to 20 minutes to assess how well it holds its temperature. If it’s a cold plunge tub, we time how long it takes to fill the tub with water and check for flaws in the build quality that could cause leaks.
How We Test Cardio Equipment
The Garage Gym Reviews product testers will put each piece of cardio equipment through several hours of testing. We analyze criteria such as speed ranges, incline and decline settings, adjustment mechanisms, and built-in programming options. To ensure a cardio machine can cater to different audiences, we also rate factors such as step-up heights on treadmills and the amount of cushioning on the pedals of an elliptical.
How We Test Supplements
When testing pre-workout, protein powders, creatine, and other supplements, we consult with registered dietitians and other nutrition experts to evaluate their formulations and ingredient quality.
And, of course, we check for taste. We know not everyone will like the same flavors, but if a supplement truly tastes horrible to use, we factor that into our overall score.
Our Testing Methodologies:
How We Make Money
We have affiliate relationships with many brands and third-party sites—including Amazon—for most of the products featured on our pages and use referral links that direct you to those sites. These links don’t cost you anything, but let the retailer know you found them through our site. In return, we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through one of those links.
Occasionally, companies may provide us with products to test and review at no cost. However, we also buy products ourselves to test and review.
That said, our reviews remain completely independent. We never promise coverage or favorable feedback in exchange for free products or commission. Our goal is to give you honest, expert opinions you can trust.
Build a Better Home Gym With Our Expert Guides
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Our Top Brand Deals
As home workout enthusiasts ourselves, we know how expensive home gym equipment can be. We strive to provide recommendations for a wide range of budgets, and we’re also excited to bring you exclusive deals and the latest sales from some of the most trusted brands in the industry.
The Team That Tests It All
Expert Picks for Every Budget
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