The best home workout equipment enables you to exercise to your heart’s content in the convenience of your own home. With a set of home workout equipment, you’ll be able to supplement the workout routine you’ve developed at your local gym or create a full-fledged at-home exercise regimen that’ll improve your fitness without you ever having to leave the house. Whether you’ve got the space for a complete home gym or require exercise equipment that can be stored in your closet, this article will help you find the perfect workout equipment for your home.
We reviewed dozens of home workout equipment sets and have identified the best available for your fitness needs. Considering factors such as exercise variety, equipment size, and build quality we’ve picked our top choices and broken down the rest to show you our favorite home workout equipment sets on the market today.
After extensively researching various home workout equipment sets we’ve chosen the Bowflex Blaze Xtreme Home Gym as our top pick. The overall product quality and suite of exercises available make this a solid choice for any home gym enthusiast looking for a setup that can provide a full-body workout.
In This Article
The 5 Top-Rated Home Workout Equipment Sets
| Editor's Picks | Brand | Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Best Home Workout Equipment Overall | Bowflex Blaze Xtreme Home Gym | 4.4 |
| Best Ergonomic Home Workout Equipment | Gold's Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System | 4.2 |
| Best Budget Home Workout Equipment | Weider Ultimate Body Works Exercise Bench | 4.6 |
| Best Compact Home Workout Equipment | BodyBoss 2.0 | 4.3 |
| Best Home Cardio Machine | Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike | 4.3 |
*Ratings are from Amazon at the time of publication and can change
Best Home Workout Equipment Overall: Bowflex Blaze Xtreme Home Gym
A robust home gym with a wealth of available exercises and a relatively small footprint, the Bowflex Blaze Xtreme Home Gym strikes a balance that we believe most people will find to be perfect for their at-home workouts.
Featuring the famous Bowflex Power Rods and cable pulley system, this home gym comes standard with 210 pounds of resistance which can be upgraded to either 310 pounds or 410 pounds when needed. Multiple pulleys and cable positions enable a vast array of defined exercises which are aided by the triple function handgrips and ankle cuffs. Every movement with the Bowflex Blaze is smooth, and each exercise is detailed within the included Bowflex workout regimens.
Other features include a sliding seat rail for rowing and leg presses, an angled lat bar for back and shoulder exercises, and a folding bench with wheels for easy storage. This piece of equipment is so well-rounded that we had no choice but to make it our top pick. The Bowflex Blaze Xtreme Home Gym ticks all the boxes on our list, making it our number one choice.
Bowflex Blaze Xtreme Home Gym Key Features:
- 210-pound resistance upgradable to 410 pounds
- Seven included workout regimens
- Folding bench with wheels
- Over 60 available exercises
Best Ergonomic Home Workout Equipment: Gold’s Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System
The streamlined Gold’s Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System retains the classic styling of traditional home gyms. The quality steel construction is fashioned into an ergonomic design that is at once both comfortable to use and capable of performing a long list of exercises.
This package comes with a combination chest and fly station, a four-roll leg developer, a high pulley for back exercises, and a low pulley for leg exercises. The supplied vinyl weight stack weighs 112 pounds which can be transformed into 280 pounds of resistance through the pulley system, creating more useable poundage than most people will ever need.
Durable vinyl is stitched over the foam cushion in the seat and backrest, resulting in comfortable seating that is easy to clean. Included is an exercise chart designed by a certified personal trainer that details how to properly go about each and every exercise you can do with this machine.
Gold’s Gym XRS 50 Home Gym System Key Features:
- High and low pulleys for varied exercises
- 280 pounds of resistance
- Combination chest and fly station
- Four-roll leg developer
Best Budget Home Workout Equipment: Weider Ultimate Body Works Exercise Bench
More than a simple workout bench, the Ultimate Body Works Exercise Bench uses bodyweight and resistance bands to provide a wealth of strength training exercises. You’ll be able to strengthen and tone your entire body with this device, and you won’t have the break the bank to do it.
Utilizing cables, pulleys, an adjustable incline, and a telescoping bench design, the Ultimate Body Works Exercise Bench is capable of using your own body weight as the catalyst to a host of intense exercises. Upon first glance, this bench may not seem capable of much, but with it, you’ll be able to perform seated chest presses, squats, lateral pulldowns, and so much more.
There are no bulky weights to deal with, and all of this comes in a package that folds flat to store away with ease. Four included power bands allow you to adjust weight resistance beyond your own body weight, and an instructional workout guide details the more than 50 exercises you can do with this exercise bench.
Weider Ultimate Body Works Key Features:
- Telescoping, space-saving design
- Adjustable incline
- Durable resistance bands enable your bodyweight + 50 pounds of resistance
Best Compact Home Workout Equipment: BodyBoss 2.0
You can work out just about anywhere at any time with the BodyBoss 2.0. This is the world’s first fully portable home gym. It packs as small as a suitcase which is ideal for people with small living spaces and frequent travelers who want access to a full-body workout wherever they go.
There are over 300 exercises that can be performed with the BodyBoss 2.0. The astounding amount of versatility is thanks to the combination of multiple resistance bands, wrist and ankle straps, and collapsible workout bar that together can simulate nearly any exercise that can be accomplished in a traditional gym. Using your feet or a door as an anchor for the Fold Up Platform, you can be ready to workout within seconds.
Each resistance band changes the amount of simulated weight for your exercises, allowing you to customize your workout as necessary. The bands can be shortened or lengthened to accommodate different body types as well as different exercises, and additional straps can be added at any time to increase your workout intensity up to 500 pounds of total resistance.
BodyBoss 2.0 Key Features:
- Up to 500 pounds of resistance
- Packs away as small as a suitcase
- Over 300 exercises available
Best Cardio Home Workout Machine: Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike
There are plenty of high-tech, overengineered exercise bikes on the market today, but the Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike does the basics well without any of the fluff and has proven itself to be a high-quality bike that’s also a great value.
When looking at home gym equipment to purchase, you have to consider what you want in your home. While ultra elaborate machines with all the bells and whistles may be what you’d expect to find at your neighborhood gym, you more than likely only want, or need, something simple for your home. The Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike will save you dollars and precious floor space compared to other premium exercise bikes, and it’ll make you sweat as well as them too.
A tension knob enables you to manually dial up and down the pedaling intensity as you desire, and an informative LCD screen will keep you up to date on metrics such as your speed, distance, and calories burned. The ergonomic design and cushioned seat will keep you comfortable for a long ride so that you can keep those legs churning for many miles. This bike is sturdy and kept in place by counterbalanced pedals and solid 14-gauge steel tubing.
Marcy Recumbent Exercise Bike Key Features:
- Vinyl-covered padded seat with high-density foam
- Eight levels of magnetic resistance
- Multifunctional LCD screen
Who Should Buy Home Workout Equipment
Anyone looking to boost their activity levels and get into shape in the comfort of their own home should consider purchasing home workout equipment. Motivation to exercise can plummet when a person has to go outside into foul weather or commute through traffic to their gym. You can negate those deterrents with an easily accessible home gym.
The less resistance between you and your workout the better. When life gets in the way it can be all too easy to put off the gym for another day. Having workout equipment at home eliminates much of the resistance between you and your workout routine.
Some people will find that they benefit greatly from a complete home gym, while others may only need a modest setup that they can use in between their larger workouts. Whatever your needs, there’s a type of home workout equipment for you.
Important Features to Consider
There are a few important considerations to think through before purchasing workout equipment.
- Be wary of space. We all would love to have a complete home gym with all of the machines and weights of a typical brick-and-mortar gym, but most of us don’t have that kind of space. If you have a spare room, a basement, or a garage you may be able to build the home gym of your dreams, and if that’s the case then go for it. Apartment dwellers will want to look at the more compact workout equipment options on our list.
- Cardio or strength training. Your workout goals should be considered when purchasing workout equipment. If you’re looking to build muscle and strength, a home gym with weights and resistance training will be required, whereas if you’re looking to work up a sweat and burn calories a cardio machine will better fit your needs.
- Assess your exisiting workout set. Many home gyms come with their own weights or resistance cables, but not all. Some require you to add your own plates to the frame. Do you already own standard or Olympic plate weights? Do you already have a workout bench? You can save money by not purchasing the pieces you already own. Check what elements come with each set to make sure you’re not doubling up on workout equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do I need to work out at home?
There are many ways to set yourself up for a successful workout at home. The simplest all-in-one solution is to acquire a complete home gym like our Top Pick or those listed below. These are the most complete ways to get a full-body workout at home.
Depending upon your workout goals, you may not need a complete gym. Those of us with limited space will want a more compact workout station that can still give a great workout, while those interested in cardiovascular health will want a cardio machine like a stationary bike or elliptical.
What is the most effective exercise equipment?
The most effective exercise equipment is whatever you are inclined to consistently use. All exercise equipment has its pros and cons, but they all are worthless if you never use them. Figure out the type of exercise you want to do, and pick out the equipment you most want to use. That’ll be your ticket to success. You can always upgrade your equipment and add more pieces to it as you go.
What machine gives the best cardio workout?
The most effective full-body cardio workout machines are the elliptical and the rowing machine. These two machines work your arms, legs, back, and core during your entire workout. Exercise bikes and stair steppers are also excellent cardio machines.
Is a home gym better than a gym?
A home gym is better than a gym if it is more convenient to you. There is no travel time to consider, and you won’t have to worry about waiting in line for a popular machine. Your home gym can be your sanctuary, your personal space, and you can fill it with the exact tools you need to improve your game.
A full gym is better in that it often has a much larger variety of machines and other exercise equipment. The more tools at your disposal, the more you can customize and refine your workout routine. Some people also enjoy public gyms for the camaraderie and atmosphere provided by the other gym-goers. The commitment of a monthly payment plan may also serve as a good workout motivator.
Each has its benefits. Many people choose to maintain their gym membership while building a small at-home gym, opting to undergo longer workouts at the public gym while utilizing their home gym for quick workout sessions.
Other Home Workout Equipment Sets We Reviewed
We looked at 20 other home workout equipment sets. Even though they didn’t make our five best workout equipment list, they’re the best of the rest and each is still a great option for your home exercise needs. The information you’ll need to compare each one is included with the listing.
Home Gyms
Body-Solid Selectorized Home Gym
This complete home gym features a chest press station, a leg curl station, and three separate pulleys that can be utilized for a full-body workout. The Body-Solid Selectorized Home Gym has a small footprint that takes up less floor space and height than many other home gym systems.
Key Features:
- 160-pound weight stack
- Heavy-duty 12-gauge steel construction
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $1,095.00
The big brother to the Selectorized Home Gym, this Body-Solid StrenghtTech packs in more weight and adds a separate Pec-Fly station for those who exercise hard. A virtually unlimited amount of different exercises can be completed with this robust home gym.
Key Features:
- 210-pound iron weight stack
- Separate Pec-Fly station
- Lifetime warranty
Cost: $1,395.00
A well-rounded option with plenty of capability, the Bodycraft Galena Pro offers a variety of workout options including leg extensions, lat pulls, chest press, and a Dual-Function Pec-Deck that can be used for traditional flys and dumbbell-style flys.
Key Features:
- 150-pound weight stack
- Dual-function Pec-Deck
- Adjustable footplate and additional accessories available
Cost: $1,899.00
A modern machine for the modern home, the Bowflex Xtreme HVT is a high-tech all-in-one workout station with strength training and cardio capabilities. You can manually adjust resistance for your own training, or use the integrated programming and available app to let Bowflex build your routine for you.
Key Features:
- Syncs with HVT App and workout videos
- Includes three pre-programmed workouts and a manual mode
- Strength and cardio in one machine
Cost: $799.00
Perfect for someone who has or is looking to acquire their own set of weights, the Marcy Home Gym Cage System provides a roomy workout station that is both strong and balanced. A high pulley, low pulley, and lat bar provide ample exercise opportunities, and this set includes storage for dumbbells and kettlebells.
Key Features:
- 410-pound maximum weight storage
- Open cage design
- 2-year limited warranty
Cost: $324.99
The Marcy Pro Full Cage is a complete cage system that’ll set you up perfectly for squats, bench presses, pulls ups, and so much more. The bar catch ensures safety when lifting, and the cable system is as smooth as they come.
Key Features:
- 600-pound maximum weight storage
- Included bench
- 2-year limited warranty
Cost: $699.99
XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine
If it weren’t for the price, the XMark Functional Trainer Cable Machine would be our overall Top Pick. This is the cream of the crop as far as home gyms are concerned. It is beautiful, versatile, adjustable, and is ready to fill a corner in your dream home gym. Not everyone needs this much weight and capability, but those who want the best need look no further.
Key Features:
- Dual 200-pound weight stacks with 1500-pound capacity
- 19 pulley settings
- 1:1 pulley weight ratio
Cost: $2,485.00
Home Cardio Machines
The ANCHEER Elliptical Machine is a balanced, lightweight cardio station with an interactive LCD screen that displays and records your workout data. Its sturdy frame is surprisingly portable, and the V-belt drive is smooth and quiet.
Key Features:
- Eight levels of magnetic resistance
- LCD digital monitor
- Heart rate sensor
Cost: $259.99
BulbHead Slim Cycle 2-in-1 Stationary Bike
A low impact full-body cardio machine, the BulbHead Slim Cycle 2-in-1 Stationary Bike is at once a cycle bike and an upper-body trainer with arm resistance bands. The entire contraption folds flat for easy storage.
Key Features:
- Eight levels of magnetic resistance
- 2-in-1 upright cycle bike
- Folds flat
Cost: $199.88
Equipped with non-slip foot grips and handles, the ncient Elliptical Machine ensures that you’ll feel at one with the machine. An LCD digital monitor displays your workout statistics and the onboard digital scan mode tracks your workout progress to adjust or repeat certain functions as needed.
Key Features:
- Eight levels of magnetic resistance
- Magneton car tension system
- Digital monitor with stat tracker
Cost: $339.99
SereneLife Smart Digital Treadmill
The SereneLife Smart Digital Treadmill features Bluetooth connectivity, a safety tether key, and compatibility with the FitShow sports app for enhanced statistical data and interactive running programs. The treadmill folds flat for storage and has a soft drop hydraulic system for smooth unfolding.
Key Features:
- Links to FitShow sports app
- Selectable preset training modes
- Adjustable speed up to six mph
Cost: $239.99
A top-tier cardio machine, the Sole Fitness Elliptical is more than an elliptical, it is an experience. The high-quality construction and smooth operation are met with a large, programmable LCD screen, an integrated fan, and an onboard sound system. This machine has it all.
Key Features:
- 22-inch maximum stride length
- Included sound system and fan
- 7.5-inch backlit LCD display
Cost: $1,399.99
Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Rowing Machine
Rowing machines bring the cardio experience to the entire body in one fluid motion. This magnetic rowing machine features non-slip foot pedals, a well-cushioned seat, and operates smoothly.
Key Features:
- Eight levels of magnetic resistance
- Adjustable rail length for people of any size
- Digital display
Cost: $199.00
Compact Home Workout Equipment
IDEER LIFE Home Gym Workout Fitness Platform
Keep your workout space to a minimum with the IDEER LIFE Home Gym Workout Fitness Platform. This kit comes with everything you need for a high-intensity, full-body workout anytime and anywhere. The platform stores easily and is small enough for travel.
Key Features:
- 64 exercise modes
- YouTube exercise guides
- Quick-release resistance bands in three levels
Cost: $169.98
Trusted by NASA to keep astronauts fit in space, the OYO Personal Gym is as compact as a complete gym can get. There is a wealth of resources to guide you through this device’s gamut of exercises, and it comes with a coaching app and membership to the Oyo Fitness Club.
Key Features:
- Used by NASA astronauts on the International Space Station
- Paired with over 60 workout programs and 197 videos
- Free OYO coaching app with purchase
Cost: $139.95
Similar in form and function to our Budget Pick, the Total Gym Optima uses body weight and leverage for a full-body workout. Workout enthusiasts of all levels can find worth in this device as the angle adjustment creates a wide-range of resistance for a spectrum of challenges.
Key Features:
- Over 60 different exercises available
- Folds for easy storage
- Adjustable height and bodyweight resistance
Cost: $249.99
Valor Fitness Wall Mount Cable Station
When floor space is an issue but height is not, the Valor Fitness Wall Mount Cable System is an excellent home gym option. This cable station must be mounted to the wall for stability. The cables can hold a maximum of 250 pounds. Cable and pulley adjustments allow for a variety of workouts and resistance settings.
Key Features:
- 16 pulley adjustments
- Wall-mounted
- Holds standard or Olympic plates
Cost: $268.98
Budget Home Workout Equipment
Futureup Bodyweight Fitness Resistance Trainer Kit
The Futureup Bodyweight Fitness Resistance Trainer Kit is ideal for those who want a full-body workout without the need for bulky weights or machines. Using your own body weight, this strap system allows you to perform a number of efficient exercises and develop your own unique routine.
Key Features:
- Supports 400 pounds of body weight and over 1000 pounds of resistance
- Included wall mount bracket ceiling anchor
- Included exercise book
Cost: $99.99
Keep your workout classic with the KiNKKANG Power Tower. The push-up handles, a dip station, dumbbell rack, pull up bar, and VKR station allow you to perform a wealth of traditional exercises using this sturdy frame.
Key Features:
- Height adjustable
- Back cushion and elbow pads
- Two barbell stands
Cost: $158.00
Versatile and compact, the TENSION TONER is an excellent workout device that can be used anywhere at any time. Using your feet or a door as the anchor, this workout bar can be used in a number of ways which are outlined in the included exercise clips and workout programs.
Key Features:
- Over 70 possible exercises
- Included door anchor
- Three levels of resistance
Cost: $109.99
