Best Workout Equipment For Home
If you're going to invest in workout equipment for your home, be sure it's got all the necessary elements for the exercises you want to perform. For example a bench press and power rack are essentials that will help you build strength.
Those with limited space can consider a smart home gym like Tonal or Tempo that provides a variety of exercises and a full body workout in a small footprint.
1. Treadmill
You can keep your cardio fitness up by having a treadmill at your home if it's too cold, rainy or dark to exercise. Many treadmills have streaming studio classes that can motivate you to get on the treadmill even if you're not feeling well.
A premium treadmill such as the Peloton Tread+ offers a sleek design and impressive construction that makes it a showstopper in any home gym. It has a large tilting screen for fitness statistics and high-energy streaming classes guided by a virtual trainer. However, its price and monthly subscription cost may be too much for some users.
For a budget-friendly option that's nevertheless packed with features Forbes Vetted gear editor Cam Vigliotta recommends the NordicTrack Commercial 1750. The 14-inch HD touchscreen can be adjusted and angled to create a class-like environment. Google Maps technology allows users to run or walk wherever you are on the planet (requires iFit membership). It also has pulse sensors on the handles for heart rate monitoring and quick speed buttons to boost your speed.
2. Elliptical
If you're seeking a low-impact workout that strengthens your lower and upper body an elliptical is the way to go. These machines can be used for an exercise that is not a separate one to warm up, or to "workout the entire body before exercise" Cara D'Orazio, exercise physiologist and personal trainer.
Kate Meier, GGR's head for content, suggests you look for a treadmill with a stride that is comfortable with large, textured feet pedals and handles that move or sit stationary. Also consider an elliptical with an integrated speaker system that can play your music. If you're using the equipment in the living room or any other public spaces, think about an exercise machine with a portable design that lets you take it away when you're not working out.
The NordicTrack AirGlide 14i, with its advanced features and integration with iFIT's live and on-demand workouts, is our choice for the best overall elliptical. It is also small and has a quiet magnetic drive system. This allows you to exercise without disturbing your roommates or children.
3. Rower
Rowing is an excellent cardio workout for the whole body that builds endurance and strength without putting undue strain on your joints. It's also relatively low impact compared to other exercises that boost your heart rate, and so it's a great choice for those who cannot perform intense exercise or have injuries that are already present.
You'll see rowers in a lot of gyms however they're also a fantastic piece of fitness equipment for your home. They are smaller than treadmills or ellipticals which means they can be incorporated into smaller spaces.
If you're looking to get a more advanced model, opt for one that has a touchscreen. The Concept2 RowErg is a top-rated option that provides classic workouts as well as a solid warranty, but it's missing the features that make other innovative options stand out (like an integrated tablet holder or live class streaming). The NordicTrack RW900 rower is a good budget option that has a 22-inch screen that streams iFit workouts, including instructor-led rowing classes as well as live races between peers. Its smooth magnetic resistance and quiet operation are also great.
4. Dumbbells
If you have a dedicated space to exercise and you have a gym, then a set of dumbbells will be an excellent addition to any home gym. Zocchi says it's important to choose dumbbells that match your fitness goals. "A general rule of the thumb is to own a range of weight sizes to allow you to progress and regress as you need to."
The best dumbbells are easy to store. Kelli McGrane, Healthline's fitness and nutrition editor, recommends an option similar to the Amazon Basics Neoprene Weights that won't take up much space in your storage space. They're also small enough to fit in the majority of cubbies.
Hex-style dumbbells like those produced by Cap Barbell are also a good option for home gym s. Their rounded shape helps them resist rolling on the floor, which is helpful when you need to move them between sets or avoid flying equipment after a set.
5. Kettlebells
Kettlebells can be used to burn calories in many ways. In fact, studies show that a 20-minute kettlebell exercise can produce as much calories as a 6-minute mile. It is important to select an exercise that is safe for your body.
The best kettlebells are built using high-quality materials that don't rattle or tip over during swings and take snatches. They also feature a large handle window to allow for a comfortable grip. If you are looking to compete in competition, you should choose kettlebells for competition that are standardized and color-coded to match particular competition regulations.
Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned athlete, it's a good idea to purchase the complete kettlebell set. You can progress to a more intense kettlebell workout that is like a class in person. You can take your kettlebells with you everywhere, even when you're when you go on vacation!
6. Weight Plates
Weight plates may not be as stylish as rowers or smart home gyms, but they deliver full body exercise that is as effective as a lot of machines. Weight plates are a great option for everything from dumbbell backsquats with barbells, bench press and clean and jerks, as well as accessories such as biceps curls and good mornings.
Look for bumper plates that are resistant to the effects of abrasion, have a low bounce and can be easily fitted onto an Olympic barbell to ensure a comfortable lift. These bumpers from Iron Bull are a top pick, as 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 allows you to lift heavy, check out this squat rack as well as a functional trainer combo. It is fully assembled, with lever arms and a pull-up and is able to be upgraded to include additional accessories such as landmine attachments. It has a 210-pound pile of weights, and a compact footprint that will fit into the majority of workout areas.
7. Ab Wheels
Ab rollers are a simple, affordable and effective fitness equipment that can boost core strength. If you intend to use them at home or while on the road make sure you choose one that's easy to use and robust. This model by Vinsguir comes with a larger central wheel than others models, and handles that are large but soft enough to comfortably fit in your hands.
If you're looking for ways to improve your core fitness, consider using a pair of wheels that work together. They challenge your stability more than a single one and will work your obliques the transverse abs, as well as your lower back muscles. This model from Perfect Fitness, while more expensive than other models, is constructed to last and comes with a carbon-steel spring that can stand the test of time. It also has a small foam pad which keeps your knees in a comfortable position. The app that comes with it that offers strength workouts, yoga flows, and HIIT sessions as an added benefit.
8. Stability Ball
Braun says that using an exercise ball can assist you in strengthening your core muscles in a manner that a bench or barbell can't. It is important to choose the right size. A smaller ball could make exercises more difficult, while larger balls are difficult to hold. Consult a sizing chart to determine the ideal size.
The best stability balls have a firm, supportive texture and an extremely durable exterior. The material is anti-burst, which means it is not prone to puncturing or deflating. Experts recommend choosing the texture that is grippy to reduce slippage, but not too sticky as to attract hairs or loose lint.
A smart home gym allows users to access an interactive fitness program that isn't limited to your equipment. The most effective options let you train using a treadmill, elliptical as well as a rower. You can also add dumbbells, resistance bands kettlebells, kettlebells, or a functional trainer.
9. Resistance Bands
The resistance bands are an excellent addition to any home gym. They provide a versatile and space-saving method to build strength, without having to use complete sets of weights. The best ones are available in a variety of colors to show the range of tension and some even have an safety mechanism that stops them from snapping when overstretched.
If you're on a budget, consider Iron Bull Strength for a set of six tubes for under $30. These bands are available in a range of weights, ranging from light to heavy. They'll satisfy most needs and you can easily carry them in your bag for on-the-go training.
The best bands are made from top-quality materials that can endure repeated stretching without losing their elasticity or snapping. They could also have handles or anchor points with reinforced seams, and are less likely to lose their elasticity over time than lesser alternatives. However most resistance bands require regular re-tensioning to maintain their shape. They also tend to be a bit sour which isn't a good thing for those with sensitivities or allergies.