Home Gym Essentials
Home gyms can be expensive (understatement). They don't have to be. Plan your purchases carefully and you can have a fully functioning home gym in no time.
We've grouped equipment into four sections, what do you think? Let us know in the comments about your home gym purchases and plans.
- The bare minimum
- As soon as you can
- Nice to have
- Accessories
Each item we mention has cheap and expensive options. Some items are worth paying more for, particularly if you're serious about lifting heavy, and if you want it to last. Weight plates will last forever, if you can, get the ones you want now. But do you really need a top of the range leg press from day 1?
The Bare Minimum
- Barbell - prices range from £100 to £1000+, make sure the one you choose is rated above your current PR
- Weight Plates - make sure you have enough to cover where you want to be in 6 months to a year
- Rack - squat rack, folding rack, half rack, or power rack
As Soon As You Can
- Adjustable bench - use with your barbell and rack to hit all major muscle groups (it could be included in The Bare Minimum)
- Dumbbells - allows for isolation exercises and working each side independently
- Kettlebells - these can be expensive, choose wisely and don't think you need every size available, start with one or two
- Rower or bike - cheaper than a treadmill for the same quality, great for cardio at any level
- EZ curl bar - don't forget to get the right sleeve size for your weight plates, probably 2 inches (50.6mm / olympic)
Nice to Have
- Suspension trainer
- Sturdy flat bench
- Treadmill
- Stepper
- Plate loaded, cable, & selectorized machines
- Gym flooring or mats (horse stall mats are a great option)
- Speciality barbells - safety squat, hex/trap bar etc.
- Drum floor fan for those hot summer days
Accessories
- Resistance bands
- Foam roller or balls
- Massage gun
- Jump rope
- Grip trainers
- Speakers
- Chalk
- Whiteboard or chalkboard
And don't forget your workout journal, have a look at ours on our Products page.