The best compact home gym equipment that you should have in your home gym

Setting up a compact home gym can help you stay active without sacrificing too much space. Here’s a breakdown of the best options for small spaces, categorized by functionality and ease of use.

11/25/20242 min read

Strength Training Options

1. Adjustable Dumbbells

  • Why they're great: Replace multiple pairs of traditional dumbbells with a single compact set. Adjustable weights save space and money.

  • Top pick: Bowflex SelectTech 552. Offers a weight range of 2 to 24 kg with an easy adjustment mechanism.

  • Considerations: Requires a flat surface for use and storage.

2. Resistance Bands

  • Why they're great: Lightweight, portable, and versatile. Suitable for strength training and mobility exercises.

  • Top pick: Bodylastics Resistance Bands. Comes with varying resistance levels for beginner to advanced users.

  • Considerations: Bands can wear out over time; inspect regularly for safety.

3. Portable Home Gym Systems

  • Why they're great: Combine resistance bands, bars, and anchors for a total-body workout.

  • Top pick: Gorilla Bow. Provides up to 136 kg of resistance in a lightweight, portable package.

  • Considerations: Initial setup can be time-consuming.

Cardio Machines

4. Foldable Treadmills

  • Why they're great: Compact and easy to store when not in use.

  • Top pick: UREVO Foldable Treadmill. Slim design with speeds up to 12 km/h.

  • Considerations: Less robust than full-size treadmills; check weight capacity.

5. Mini Exercise Bikes

  • Why they're great: Small footprint and versatile usage under desks or while seated.

  • Top pick: DeskCycle 2. Perfect for multitasking during workouts.

  • Considerations: Limited to lower body workouts.

All-in-One Systems

6. Total Gym XLS

  • Why it's great: Allows over 80 exercises using a sliding bench and pulley system. Foldable for easy storage.

  • Dimensions: 213 cm x 96 cm x 206 cm when in use; folds down to save space.

  • Considerations: Pricey, but versatile for full-body workouts​

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7. Bowflex PR3000

  • Why it's great: Includes a cable pulley system and power rods for resistance. Compact enough for small spaces.

  • Dimensions: 193 cm x 147 cm x 208 cm.

  • Considerations: Not portable, but offers a robust set of strength-training exercises​

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Space-Saving Accessories

8. Suspension Trainers

  • Why they're great: Attach to a door, tree, or beam for a full-body workout. Extremely portable.

  • Top pick: TRX Go. Compact and effective for bodyweight training.

  • Considerations: Requires a sturdy anchor point.

9. Foldable Yoga Mats

  • Why they're great: Essential for bodyweight exercises, stretching, and core workouts.

  • Top pick: Manduka Pro Travel Mat. Durable and easy to store.

  • Considerations: Thinner mats offer less cushioning.

Factors to Consider

  1. Space: Measure your available workout area and storage space before buying.

  2. Goals: Choose equipment that aligns with your fitness goals (strength, cardio, flexibility).

  3. Budget: Balance cost with functionality. High-quality equipment often lasts longer​

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By investing in space-efficient home gym equipment, you can create a versatile workout area that suits your needs without cluttering your living space.