Best Workout Equipment For Home
If you're going to purchase fitness equipment for your home, make sure it has all the requisite elements for the exercises you'd like to do. For instance the power rack and bench press are crucial equipment that will help you build strength.
Those with limited space can consider a smart home gym such as Tonal or Tempo that offers a variety of workouts and a full body workout in a compact footprint.
1. Treadmill
You can keep your cardio fitness up by having a treadmill in your home if it's too cold, wet, or dark to run. Many treadmills have streaming studio classes that can inspire you to get on the treadmill even when you're not feeling well.
A premium treadmill like the Peloton Tread+ offers a sleek design and a stunning construction that makes it an absolute showpiece in any home gym. It features a large tilting screen that displays workout stats, and it broadcasts high-energy classes taught by an instructor online. However, its high cost and monthly subscription costs could be prohibitive for some users.
For a budget-friendly model that's still packed with smart features Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta recommends the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. The 14-inch HD touchscreen can be angled and repositioned to simulate a class environment. Google Maps technology allows you to run or walk anywhere on the planet (requires iFit membership). It also has handrails that have pulse sensors for monitoring heart rate, and quick speed buttons on the handrails to increase your speed.
2. Elliptical
The elliptical machine is ideal choice for those seeking an exercise that is low-impact and will work both your lower and upper bodies. These machines are perfect for a single cardio session as a warm-up or "a full-body workout prior strength training, which helps to avoid injury," says exercise physiologist and personal trainer Cara D'Orazio.
Choose a model that has a comfortable stride length, either moving or stationary handles, as well as large, textured pedals says GGR head of content Kate Meier. Look into an elliptical with a an integrated sound system that can play your music. If you intend to use your equipment in a public place like the living room, you may be interested in a device that is mobile so you can take it out when you are not using it.
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i is our top pick for best overall elliptical because of its advanced features, including the ability to connect to the iFIT platform of live and on-demand workouts. It's also small and has a hyper-quiet magnetic drive system that allows you to work out without disturbing your roommates or children.
3. Rower
Rowing is a great cardio workout for the whole body that builds strength and endurance, without putting excessive strain on your joints. It's also relatively low impact compared to other exercises that boost your heart rate, so it's an ideal option for those who aren't able to perform high-impact exercises or have pre-existing injuries.
They are common in gyms. They're also great home fitness equipment. They're smaller than treadmills and ellipticals, so they fit into smaller spaces and take up less floor space when they're not in use.
If you're looking for a more sophisticated rower, look for one that has touchscreen monitor. The Concept2 RowErg is a top-rated option that comes with classic workouts and a great warranty, but it lacks the features that make other innovative options stand out (like the tablet holder that is integrated or live streaming of classes). The NordicTrack RW900 rower is an excellent budget pick with a 22-inch monitor that plays iFit workouts, including training classes led by a trainer and live peer-to-peer races. Its quiet operation and the smooth magnetic resistance are excellent.
4. Dumbbells
If you have an established area for your workouts and you have a gym, then a set of dumbbells is an excellent addition to any home gym. It's important to select a set that matches your fitness goals, according to Zocchi. "A general rule of thumb is that you want to own a range of weights so that you can progress and reverse exercises as needed."
The best dumbbells are also simple to store. Kelli McGrane, Healthline's fitness and nutrition editor, recommends a set like the Amazon Basics Neoprene Weights that won't take much space in your storage area. They are also short enough to fit into most cubbies.
Hex-style dumbbells like those manufactured by Cap Barbell are also a great option for an at-home gym. They are designed to prevent rolling, which is beneficial when you need to move dumbbells between sets or avoid flying equipment after the set.
5. Kettlebells
Kettlebells can be utilized to burn calories in a variety of ways. In fact, studies show that a 20-minute kettlebell workout can burn as many calories as running a mile for six minutes. exercise bicycle is important to select an exercise that is safe for your body.
The best kettlebells will be made of high-quality materials so that they don't rattle during swings or snatches. The handle is large for an ergonomic grip. If you are looking to compete, choose competition kettlebells that are standard and color-coded to comply with specific competition rules.
If you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, you should invest in an entire kettlebell set. This way, you'll be able to easily progress to a challenging kettlebell exercise that's similar to a live class. You can carry your kettlebells wherever you go, even when you go on vacation!
6. Weight Plates
Weight plates might not be as stylish like a rower or smart home gym, but they can provide a full-body workout that's exactly as effective as other machines. You can do everything from back squats with barbells to dumbbell bench presses and clean and jerks and accessories like biceps curls and good mornings.
Look for bumper plates that resist the effects of abrasion, have a low bounce and fit snugly on an Olympic barbell for a comfortable lift. These ones from Iron Bull are a top choice, since they're made of virgin rubber that's durable and can withstand a lot of drops without cracking.
For an all-in-one home gym that lets you lift heavy, check out this squat rack as well as a functional trainer combination. It's completely assembled, comes with the pull-up bar as well as lever arms. It can also be upgraded with other accessories such as landmine attachments, a dip pad as well as an insulated row pad and band pegs. It also comes with a 210-pound weight stack and the compact footprint is suitable for the majority of workout space.
7. Ab Wheels
Ab rollers are easy inexpensive and efficient fitness equipment that can increase core strength. If you plan to use them at home or while on the road pick one that is user-friendly and sturdy. This model by Vinsguir features a thicker central wheel than others, and handles that are wide but plush enough to comfortably fit in your hands.
If you're looking for ways to improve your core workouts, consider using two wheels that work in tandem. They test your stability more than a single unit and work your obliques the transverse abs, as well as your lower back muscles. This model from Perfect Fitness, while more expensive than others it is built to last and has a carbon-steel spring that will stand the test of time. It also comes with a small foam pad which keeps your knees in a comfortable position. Its companion app that offers strength workouts as well as yoga flows and HIIT sessions as an added benefit.
8. Stability Ball
Utilizing an exercise ball during your workouts can help to energize the muscles of your core in ways you won't get from bench or barbells, Braun says. It is crucial to select the right size. A smaller size ball could make exercises harder, while a larger ball can be difficult to hold. Check out the chart of sizes to determine the ideal fit.
The best stability ball has a firm, supportive surface and a durable exterior. The material is anti-burst which means it is not prone to puncturing or deflating. Experts recommend choosing a texture that is grippy to minimize slippage, but not so sticky that it can attract hairs that are loose or lint.
A smart home gym allows you to access the latest fitness programs that isn't limited to the equipment you have. The most efficient options let you train on a treadmill rower, elliptical or a rower and then add dumbbells or kettlebells.
9. Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are a fantastic addition to any home gym they offer a flexible way to build strength without taking up space with huge sets of free weights. The best ones come in multiple colors to indicate the amount of tension that is available, and some feature a unique safety mechanism that prevents them from snapping when stretched to the max.
If you're on a tight budget look into Iron Bull Strength for a set of six tubes for under $30. The bands vary from light to x-heavy, so they'll suit most requirements. You can even put them in your bag for training on the go.
The best bands are constructed from high-quality materials, that can withstand repeated stretching without losing elasticity or snapping. They may have reinforced seams on the handles or anchor points, and will lose less elasticity over time compared to less expensive alternatives. However, most resistance bands require periodic retensioning to maintain their shape. They can emit a strong smell of latex which is not a good choice for those with allergies or sensitivities.