If you’re looking to save money and have the convenience of working out at home, building a home gym is a great option. You don’t need a large space or expensive equipment to get in a good workout. By combining bodyweight exercises with a few key pieces of equipment, you can achieve your fitness goals right at home.
Entry Level Budget
For the cost of just one month’s gym membership, you can start building your home gym.
Swiss Ball
Why: This versatile piece of equipment can help you build total body strength, especially in your core. You can also use it as a substitute for a weight bench when paired with adjustable dumbbells.
Pull-Up Bar
Why: Turn any doorway into a muscle-building station for your back, biceps, and abs. You can increase the resistance by holding a medicine ball or dumbbell between your legs.
Resistance Band Kit
Why: These bands provide flexible resistance and can be used on their own or combined with the Swiss Ball for muscle building and fat burning exercises. Increase the resistance by doubling up the bands.
Ab Roller Wheel
Why: This tool is great for isolating your core muscles. By moving it to the left or right, you can target your obliques. Use it on soft surfaces like grass or carpet for added resistance as you get stronger.
Intermediate Level Budget
For the cost of two to three months’ gym membership, you can upgrade your home gym.
Light Medicine Ball
Why: Combine this with the Swiss Ball to intensify ab workouts or use it for sports conditioning and plyometric exercises. Consider getting a heavier ball for more challenging sets.
Power Block Adjustable Dumbbell Set
Why: These dumbbells allow you to work each limb individually and are essential for a variety of fat-burning and muscle-building exercises. Add more weight by purchasing additional plates as you get stronger.
Home Suspension Trainer
Why: This portable training system is similar to Olympic rings and allows you to continue training even when you’re on vacation. To increase resistance, invest in a weighted vest.
Advanced Level Budget
For the cost of 1-2 years’ worth of gym membership, you can create an advanced home gym.
Adjustable Cable Machine
Why: The cable crossovers on this machine keep your muscles under tension throughout exercises and can be adjusted to your preference. Consider buying a rack with an adjustable pulley system and bench press for more versatility.
Power Rack
Why: A power rack eliminates the need for a spotter and allows for safe exercises like squats, bench presses, military presses, and deadlifts. Look for a rack with Olympic weight plate holders for added convenience.
Weight Set
Why: Both barbells and dumbbells can be used on a weight bench, giving you a wide range of exercises to choose from. Increase weight by purchasing new plates for either the barbell or dumbbells.
Adjustable Weight Bench
Why: This versatile bench allows you to target every muscle in your body. It also provides additional exercise options like step-ups for your legs. Pair it with a barbell rack for exercises like bench presses.