Essential Home Gym Equipment List: from Starter to Pro
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In recent years, and particularly since the pandemic when many of us starting working from home significantly more than in the 2010s (or even permanently!) staying active and fit at home has become a top priority for many of us. Establishing a home gym is a great choice, but the question of where to start, or how to expand, can feel like an opportunity to make an expensive error. We probably all know somebody who has a piece of home gym equipment which now acts as a glorified coat hanger. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, creating a versatile and effective space doesn’t have to break the bank. This guide will walk you through an essential home gym equipment list, catering to both beginners and those looking to elevate their workout routine.
The First Step: What Do You Enjoy?
The key to starting to create, or expand, your home gym, should start with asking yourself what you would actually like to use. To avoid making a financial mistake, choosing equipment which you can actually see yourself using is an absolute must. This doesn’t that you should totally avoid what is good for you! But some of what you want and some of what you know you need will be a good place to start. When it comes to succeeding in your home workouts, consistency will be key – you can, of course, outsource your motivation with an online personal trainer, but choosing equipment you enjoy using is still very important.
With that said, let’s look at some of the best options for you to choose from.
Home Gym Equipment List: The Definitive 6
1. Adjustable Dumbbells: The Fundamentals
No home gym is complete without dumbbells, and opting for adjustable sets is a game-changer. Having the ability to change the weights throughout your workouts ensures that you can keep working at the optimal intensity. For example, you will probably want a significantly different weight to bench press with, than you would to bicep curl with! Choosing fixed-weight dumbbells limits your ability to maximise each exercise. Adjustable dumbbells are also space-efficient and cost-effective, making them an essential addition for beginners and pros alike. If you have the space and budget, however, a full rack of fixed-weight dumbbells does look visually very appealing, even if they ultimately perform the same function.
2. Olympic Barbell and Bumper Plates: Heart of Strength Training
Why get a barbell and plates?
For a foundational strength training setup, an olympic barbell paired with bumper plates is indispensable. This dynamic duo accommodates a wide range of exercises, including arguably some of the most enjoyable and effective lifts around – deadlifts, squats, bench presses, cleans, and rows. The versatility of an olympic barbell provides a sturdy platform for strength development, while bumper plates allow for progressive resistance without compromising floor surfaces. This combination is suitable for both novices entering the strength training realm and also seasoned athletes looking to elevate their home gym experience. Don’t forget a pair of barbell collars like these to hold the plates steady!
Which weights to choose for which spaces
The weights of the bumper plates you choose will vary depending on your strength level, but a pair of 2.5kg, 5kg, 10kg and 15kg plates will allow you to lift between 20kg (the bar alone) and 85kg (all the plates on the bar), which is enough for the vast majority to get started with. Adding a pair of 20kg plates to your home gym equipment list brings your maximum total to 125kg. Because Olympic barbells vary from around 5ft-7ft in length, you should also check how much space you have to work with and order the correct size for your needs – consider that you may also be pairing this with a power rack; make sure that the bar fits!
3. Resistance Bands and Yoga Mats: Home Gym Equipment List Staples
We wrote more about resistance bands and yoga mats (as well as some other “lighter” pieces of equipment) here. Ideal for space-conscious setups, resistance bands deliver a full-body workout experience. They’re suitable for all fitness levels, offering adjustable resistance for strength training or rehabilitation. A yoga mat is a fundamental yet often overlooked addition to any home gym. Suitable for yoga sessions, stretching, or bodyweight exercises, a quality yoga mat is a must-have.
4. Compact Cardio Machine: Space-Saving Efficiency
For cardiovascular health, there are four main options for your home gym equipment list. Treadmills, Ellipticals (cross trainers), rowing machines, and exercise bikes. You should absolutely choose something that you enjoy first and foremost. From there, your choices will include folding varieties depending on your space requirements, and numerous budget options. Read reviews, and do some quick brand research. Ideal for both starters and pros, cardio machines allow you to work as hard as you want to/are able to, and provide a convenient option for effective indoor cardio workouts without compromising room aesthetics. If you’re unsure as to what option might be right for you, we’re always happy to help you to make the right decision if you’re unsure; contact us here.
5. Power Rack: Elevate Your Strength Training
For those progressing in their strength training journey, a power rack offers a secure environment for compound lifts. It is a more significant investment, yet its multi-use functionality definitely justifies the cost if it’s within your budget a space availability. Equipped with safety features (which can be vital when working out at home without a spotter) and sturdily built, it’s perfect for those looking to enhance their home gym for serious strength workouts. At the risk of stating the obvious, a power rack needs an olympic barbell and plates to be of any use to you!
6. Adjustable Bench: Home Gym Equipment List Versatility
An adjustable bench complements your home gym by facilitating incline, decline, and flat bench exercises. This versatile piece accommodates various training styles and expands your workout options without monopolizing space. You’ll also want some dumbbells or a barbell to go with your adjustable bench, and if you have a power rack, you can even move the bench into the rack to unlock even more exercise variety. We would highly recommend getting an adjustable bench over a fixed-flat bench; even though the slight financial saving with a flat bench might be tempting, in the long-run you will almost certainly want for the extra variety that an adjustable bench guarantees you.
Putting it Together: Crafting Your Personalised Space
Particularly in the realm of home gyms, it’s not about the quantity of equipment but the quality and versatility. This essential home gym equipment list, designed to be suitable for both beginners and pros, emphasizes multi-functional, space-conscious choices. Remember, because creating your perfect home gym is a gradual process, your fitness space should evolve with your own personal fitness journey. Invest wisely, prioritise quality, and tailor your setup to suit your unique fitness goals. Whether you’re starting small or expanding, this concise list ensures your home gym is efficient, effective, and right for your specific fitness level. Happy lifting!
