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
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
Space: Measure your available workout area and storage space before buying.
Goals: Choose equipment that aligns with your fitness goals (strength, cardio, flexibility).
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.