21 Best Home Gym Equipment Items to Shop This Year, Tested By Us

These adjustable dumbbells give you the convenience of 5 - 80 pounds of weight per dumbbells all in one compact footprint. They're easy to use and offer superior durability thanks to its machined steel weight plates. If you're starting a home gym from scratch or live tight confines with little room to spare, consider these a must have. Few items pack as much versatility and return on investment in such a small package.

“SMRTFT’s Nüobell is the perfect ultra-durable adjustable dumbbell I need. It can easily be five pounds, perfect for warmup work, or 80 pounds, enough to challenge me on heavy leg moves.” — Eric Sung, C.S.C.S., a member of the Men's Health Strength in Diversity initiative and trainer at Performance Lab in New York City.

Read more: Best Adjustable Dumbbells

Plyo box workouts can be incredibly effective, but the boxes themselves can take up space. This one from Rep Fitness has 3 vinyl-covered plyo boxes (16 inches, 20 inches, 24 inches) that are soft but sturdy.

The vinyl covering is ideal to save your shins if you accidentally catch your toe on a jump. You shouldn’t use it on a smooth floor, though (think wood, tile, or smooth concrete), as it needs some grip to avoid slipping out from under you.

Read more: Best Workout Shirts

Few weight benches combine sturdiness, comfort, and versatility like this one from Rep Fitness, which offers six different incline angles and a three-post design, anchoring it to the floor no matter the exercise.

The Ab-3100's adjustable design features a smooth movement that goes from fully flat to a 90-degree incline. The fabric cushioning is plenty comfortable with minimal gap between the seat and back, and the beefy, 77-pound design is even stable enough for step-ups too.

"This one’s sturdy, and it gets especially high marks for comfort. Laying back on it for incline presses or chest-supported rows it’s nearly couch-comfy while still offering the support I need to dominate both exercises with heavy load," says Samuel.

Like many of Rep Fitness' products, this one features an ultra-durable construction. The alloy-steel is rated to up to 700 pounds—more than enough for novice to intermediate lifters. It's a great accompaniment to your at-home power rack.

What do buyers say? "This bench is a beast! Really solid and easy to adjust," said one Amazon reviewer.

Read more: Best Weight Benches

These tough, reliable closed-loop resistance bands are available in six different resistance levels and work well for a variety of exercises. Whether you’re using them to assist you in pull-ups or to warm up larger muscle groups, the 41" circumference allows for a lot of versatility compared to small closed-loop bands. We really like the lighter bands for mobility work, too.

They range from light to heavy resistance (2-200 lb.), and can be purchased alone or in sets of three different resistances. These come at a much lower price point compared to other commercial-grade, large circumference bands on the market. With any purchase of DRAPER'S STRENGTH Heavy Duty Resistance Stretch Loop Bands, you'll get a lifetime warranty and emailed exercise e-guide, too.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 5,800 Amazon reviews, 91% recommend the Heavy Duty Resistance Stretch Loop Bands with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Best Resistance Bands

The Concept2 RowErg is the standard by which all rowing machines are measured, a device that can redline your heart rate in minutes and is perfect for strengthening hips, glutes, back, and abs.

The RowErg with Standard Legs is the new name for Concept 2's Model D rower, and it's the first device that comes to mind when we think of training on a rower at home. Our editors have never tested a better rower than this one, point blank. In a nutshell, it offers many of the same features as the best rowing machines that cost twice as much.

"It's an industry standard used by CrossFit and in many high-profile competitions for a reason," according to Samuel. "It relies on a variable resistance flywheel that provides a constant challenge, making it great for high volume or experienced rowers."

It's extremely easy to assemble, too. In our experience (and many Amazon reviewers agree) setup takes around 20 minutes with minimal tools or hardware (just eight screws are required).

City dwellers and users tight on space will appreciate the clever design that allows this machine to separate into two pieces for easy storage. Built-in caster wheels make setting up and putting away a breeze. Plus, it's surprisingly affordable at $1,240 delivered.This is the definitive home rowing experience, and why it's our pick for the best value rowing machine of 2023.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 11,900 Amazon reviews, 98% recommend the RowErg Indoor Rowing Machine with at least a 4-star rating.

Read more: Best Indoor Rowing Machines

Stroops’ latest innovation rethinks the home dumbbell; grab two adjustable 45-pound Bellitron dumbbells and you can combine them to form a single 90-pound barbell, opening the door for greater exercise variety.

Even better, the Bellitrons multi-position grips allow you to easily do dumbbell swings and other explosive exercises, too. The brand calls them “the transformer of free weights.” When it comes to space-saving home gym equipment, it doesn't get much better. After working out with the Bellitron, it's clear we've never met a comparable product with more versatility.

These are constructed with a sturdy aluminum frame, so you can trust construction won’t degrade. Despite their heavy-duty durability, the frame is designed to be lightweight and easy to transport. They feature two handles on either bell that are designed to be comfortable and easy to grip. Each handle is also interchangeable, allowing users to switch between different types of handles depending on the exercise.

"I love doing light presses with the Bellitron, and the base makes it great for plank rows and gorilla rows, too," says Samuel.

Read more: Best Adjustable Dumbbells

The EXP line of treadmills are specifically designed for at-home use and are NordicTrack's most customizable and smartest machines yet. Key features include a heart rate monitor and AutoAdjust™ technology that automates speed and incline adjustments throughout your workout. The EXP 14i is driven by a powerful 3.5 continuous Hp motor with speeds up to 12 MPH as well as a wide decline/incline range from -3% to 12%. Aside from the commercial-grade motor and nearly bulletproof tread belt, this model has a 14-inch HD touchscreen display with live iFit classes to guide you through a run whenever you want.

Beyond its functional specs is its solid build and easy-to-use controls. While testing, we found that its base and belt (which isn't too narrow or wide) could hold steady when used by bigger guys (up to 300 pounds). The FlexSelect Cushioning absorbed some of the impact from strides (easier on the knees), and made for a quieter running experience compared to some other treads (your downstairs neighbors will thank you).

Plus, the touchscreen display is flanked by quick key buttons to adjust speed and incline to your likeness in one touch, instead of repeatedly pressing a button while trying to speed up or slow down.

What do buyers say? "A great treadmill for anyone. This treadmill is quite compact and easy to move around. The one thing I really liked was the shock-absorbing aspects, it really helps with my knees and ankles," said one Dick's Sporting Goods reviewer.

Read more: Best Folding Treadmills

These slides might be the most simple piece of equipment on this list, but they sure can rip your core into shape. Use them under your feet or hands on a smooth floor to challenge stability and light up your muscles.

Plus, they're generous in size, making them a great option for those with feet that typically slide off of traditional sliders.

What do buyers say? "I was really surprised at how large these are and how much good traction and cushioning they have so your sneakers dig right in. They no longer fly off my feet and I am totally psyched to do some of the exercises that are on the SKLZ video you can watch online. If you need larger sliders these are by far the very best ones to get and super cheap too," said one reviewer on Amazon.

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The hex dumbbell is now a staple of any modern home gym. Living Fit’s Hex Dumbbells feature the classic shape that’s more stable and won’t roll around on you mid-workout. The cast iron construction is extremely rigid and durable (though perhaps not as much as rubber dumbbells) and coated in rubber for extra protection. Moderate knurling on the handles also adds texture for improved grip and safer lifts.

These are a great option for home gym builders with a bit more floor space who want the benefit of traditional dumbbells and who might not need a complete adjustable set. They’re sold in pairs in increments between 15-100 pounds. Buy a variety of weights (light, medium, and heavy) to help complement your personal training regimen. Every sub-45-pound pair is priced at less than $100, making them surprisingly affordable.

If there’s a downside, it’s that cast iron dumbbells typically don’t last as long as their rubber counterparts. Although, in this case, the rubber coating is guaranteed to help protect the design for years to come. A complete set will also take up significantly more floor space than an adjustable one. But, if you’re just looking for just 2-3 pairs of classic hex weights, it’s hard to complain about these for the price. (Which is why we ranked these dumbbells among our picks for the best home gym equipment of 2023)

What do buyers say? “Great dumbbells for a great price! Fast shipping. Overall great purchase — would recommend!” said one Amazon reviewer.

Read more: Best Dumbbells

Now, you can get lower-body air compression technology for your calves, in a sleek package that can easily fit in any gym bag. And you can do it for all of $399. The Normatec Go is the accessible entry point into air compression therapy that you’ve been waiting for, a versatile, easy-to-use device that can go anywhere with you.

“Out with big, bulky air-compression boots and in with these ultra-slim sleeves. They still stimulate the lower body blood flow I need, but they store more easily—and travel great, too.” —Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., MH Fitness Director.

Read more: Best Compression Boots

High-end home fitness equipment company Peloton launched the simply named Peloton Row in December of 2022. Men’s Health fitness writer and strength coach David Otey, C.S.C.S., took it for a spin (pun intended) and confirmed that it’s set to give even the best rowing machines a run for their money.

“Peloton’s take on the rower delivers the smooth rowing experience I want, while offering a massive library of workouts. The Peloton Row has helped make rowing exciting.” — David Otey, C.S.C.S., MH Advisor.

Both the seat and strap are extremely comfortable and easy to use. Otey describes the strap’s pull as “silky smooth” without the annoying catching found in lesser chain-linked rowers. The electrically controlled resistance also allows for whisper-quiet operation. But, “Peloton's best asset isn't its hardware; it's a great software company,” says Otey. Case in point: The built-in Form Assist function is a game-changer to help novice (and even experienced) users row with better form to maximize their workouts and eliminate unnecessary post-workout aches and pains.

It’s not perfect, however. Otey notes that its most obvious shortcoming is the lack of an adjustable manual mode. “This is a stark difference from many manual rowers, which shows Peloton is more confident in their programming and instructors than your ability to create your own workouts.”

It’s also reliant on power and a Wi-Fi connection. If either goes down, you’re out of luck. And, of course, there’s the sky-high price. At north of $3,000, it’s among the most expensive indoor rowing machines on the market.

Read more: Peloton Rower Review

This bands and bow set provides variable resistance for a twist on a surprising number of exercises, forcing your muscles to spend more time under tension—a central tenet of muscle building.

The unique bow design accommodates up to 300 pounds of resistance (just to start, you can get heavier models) that you can use to target just about every muscle group. The bow itself is made out of aircraft aluminum while the resistance bands are double-wall latex, resulting in a durable, lightweight, and portable build.

You can think of the Gorilla Bow as a hybrid tool that combines the benefits of resistance bands with a weightlifting bar, which allows for a lot more versatility than a resistance band alone. And yeah, they've got a price tag to show for it. Resistance is adjustable, with the bow supporting up to 4 bands at a time so you can customize your resistance to meet your needs. The set comes with one original 56" bow, four Gorilla Bands (10, 20, 30 and 50-lb.), a band wrap, and a 30-day all-access membership to Gorilla Bow's virtual training platform.

What do buyers say? Out of more than 1,700 Amazon reviews, 86% recommend the Original Gorilla Bow with at least a 4-star rating.

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Add up to ten pounds of resistance without the bulk and bounce that come with a typical weight vest. This luxe vest isn't cheap, but it's designed to be a comfortable, minimalist means to add some extra load to your training.

Unlike some other vests, which hold removable plates that make the weight concentrated to only one part of your torso, the Omorpho vest is designed for equal weight distribution. It fits tightly to your body while still letting you move, whether you’re running sprints or doing pushups and burpees.

Read more: Best Weighted Vests

This Lululemon mat has an innovative 3D-texture that sets it apart from other mats. It's also made of a sustainably sourced natural rubber material that offers plenty of grip. You don't have to be into a yin slow flow or a vinyasa expert to make a yoga mat useful at home, use this top-notch option for abs and basic stretching, too.

And if you are into yoga, you probably know by now, this mat is a cut above the rest. It's lightweight, sleek in aesthetic, and won't have you slipping and sliding throughout your practice.

What do buyers say? "It's a great mat, slipping is no longer an issue," said one reviewer on shop.lululemon.com.

Read more: Best Yoga Mats

In our experience using the REP Fitness PR-4000 Rack, it's a true all-in-one solution for anyone looking to elevate their home gym. With its sturdy construction and versatile design, this rack feels built to last, and accommodates a wide range of exercises even for heavy lifters. Whether you're into powerlifting, CrossFit, or just want to get in a solid workout at home, the PR-4000 is our favorite power rack for home gyms.

At the heart of the PR-4000 lies its solid steel frame, which feels stable and secure while pushing heavy weight. With a weight capacity of 1,000 pounds, this rack is capable of handling even the most intense sessions. We find the adjustable spotting arms, pull-up bar, and J-cups hold up to the rack's durability and add more versatility, allowing for a range of exercises from bench press to chin-ups.

When it comes to a home-gym set up, the PR-4000 is a step above other full-sized power racks thanks to its compact design. The PR-4000 is built with space-saving in mind, so you don't have to sacrifice your entire room for your workout space. It's ideal for those who have limited space or want to make the most of their small home gym, but also just as sturdy as many larger frame-models.

What do buyers say? "REPs delivery was incredibly quick; Id had the rack scheduled for delivery from the freight carrier within 5 days. Not bad. They were also prompt about answering any questions and transparent the whole way through. All in all, excellent company to order from," said one reviewer on the brand's site.

Read more: Best Power Racks

"The PRx Performance PRO is one of the most unique folding racks on the market, folding upwards (instead of inwards or outwards)," says Samuel. Which makes it much easier to set up for workouts.

The rack features sturdy steel construction and can support up to 600 pounds, and up to 1,000 pounds with the purchase of a reinforcement kit for an additional $50 (which we highly recommend). It also includes a pull-up bar and J-cups for holding barbells.

According to Samuel, "there's a sturdiness to this rack that feels extra-safe during bench presses and squats."

Read more: Best Folding Squat Racks

“TRX’s Tactical Gym makes basic bodyweight moves like pushups and mountain climbers that much more challenging because of instability. It’s changed my workouts and helped me add serious core strength.” — Ben Court, MH Executive Editor

What do buyers say? "I have it set up at home for normal workouts but because of the ease of transport I can take it to work and get a quick workout at the office. I really like the fact that you can adjust the intensity of your workout just by the placement of your feet. With my bad knees squats were nearly impossible but with TRX I can do them again," said one reviewer on the brand's website.

Read more: Best Weightlifting and Strength Training Shoes

Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM, first demoed this package, which includes a stand-up heavy bag, floor mat, wraps, gloves, and trackers, back in 2021. According to him, the heavy bag is hands down the best freestanding punching bag he's used.

"FightCamp continues to hold up as the best free-standing punching bag I've ever used, almost three years after my first punch," he explains.

"I keep it in my yard under a tarp, and it's just as effective as if it were in my living room. I don't always use the app to take classes, but any time I need to let off steam, I know it's there for me to kick."

The bag ring it sits on (a small circular mat with plastic rails connected by heavy-duty velcro) helps to ensure that it doesn't slide all over the place once the strikes begin to fly, a common issue with other bags.

The brains of the platform are actually in the smallest piece of gear included in the set, according to him. Users slot the tiny tracking devices into the provided hand wraps worn under the gloves, and the gadgets log every punch you throw during a workout via the connected app. (You can spring for a set that adds extra wraps and a pair of gloves, or this option that includes only wraps, trackers, and membership to the platform.)

Read more: Best Punching Bags

There is a reason that heavy-duty rubber flooring is used in most commercial and next-level home gyms. The material is strong, sturdy, and resilient, making it ideal for any type of exercise or equipment. This ⅜-inch version is plenty thick for most home gyms, but other thicknesses are available if you want to dial in your preferred level of flooring. Either way, it’s designed to go right over your carpet, hardwoods, or most other surfaces, with each piece interlocking like a jigsaw puzzle. That means, unlike traditional flooring, “installation” is quick and painless (unlike trying to pull up your pant legs on leg day).

We especially like that the jigsaw-style installation means you can make this work in an odd-shaped room, and it’s also simple to move or remove entirely if you need to. In addition to solid black, this model is also available in a handful of other colors, so you can dress up your home gym space beyond the sterile, industrial “boxing gym” look. These are a little heavier and pricier than most, but for a commercial-grade product in your home, they’re hard to beat.

What do buyers say? “Very high quality—commercial grade. Definitely the best that money can buy,” said one Amazon reviewer.

Read more: Best Home Gym Floor Mats

Get your superhero on while forging muscle with this kettlebell.

The solid, no-frills bells from Kettlebell Kings are a top choice for Williams. "Whether I’m repping through a set of swings or snatches, I know I can depend on the durable, powder-coated weights.”

What do buyers say? "Love the quality and feel. Customer service is still top notch. Never regret buying [from] Kettlebell Kings," said one reviewer on kettlebellkings.com.

Read more: Best Kettlebells