The timing for creating your ultimate home gym has never been better. With the global pandemic and so many restrictions, things are just not looking good for us in the future.
However, this doesn’t mean you have to give up your health and fitness goals. With the proper equipment, you’ll be able to make just as much progress as before, if not more. I’m talking about rowing machines, resistance bands, weight benches, and more. Also, given the cost of most gym memberships you will likely save money in the long run, no matter how much gear you purchase.
So if you’re ready to create the best home gym for maximum gains, then just continue reading and find out how!
Setting Up Your Home Gym
1. Figure out your training goals
Unless you know what your goals are, it is impossible to choose the right equipment. Therefore, think clearly about the training you want to do, and think long-term. Do you want to bulk, get lean, train for strength or just improve cardiovascular health?
2. Calculate your strength and figure out how much weight you’ll need
You need to consider the amount of weight you’ll need in order to have effective and progressive resistance. There is no point in purchasing a 100 lbs. barbell set for squats, if you can already perform 225 lbs. comfortably. Likewise, there is little use in ordering loads of weights if you don’t already have a good strength and endurance foundation.
3. Choose the exercises you want to perform
While you can do bodyweight exercises anywhere, they aren’t enough, nor will they train every muscle in your body. So decide on the muscle groups and exercises you are going to be focusing on. This will help you make the right decision when choosing machines and individual pieces of equipment.
4. Look at the possible uses for each piece of equipment
This may sound obvious, however it is often overlooked. Most equipment is very versatile and can perform multiple functions. You may be surprised at how much you can do with just one barbell.
Check each piece of equipment, can it be used for multiple exercises? For example, if you were thinking of buying TRX straps, you can see that they can be used for training multiple muscle groups.
5. Measure the space you have
Most of us have limited space when it comes to home gym equipment. So it would be useful to measure out floor space, and maybe create a basic floor-plan. Then check the measurements of the equipment you are planning to buy, and see if everything fits. Also, take into account the space you’ll need to move around and actually perform exercises comfortably.
6. Don’t forget about accessories
Depending on what weight equipment you choose, it would be great to have some additional accessories. For instance, collars are essential for barbells and dumbbells. Mats or floor guards will prevent any possible damage. You also need a place to store some smaller equipment, so consider some storage options as well.
7. Check your budget
Lastly, have your budget always in mind. We all want the best equipment, however the cost is something we definitely dislike. Truth be told, home gyms can get pricey.
So depending on your plans, try to choose the really essential equipment, and if there is some money left over add accessories and less important equipment.
Best Home Gym Equipment
Essential Equipment
Whether you’re a beginner or someone who has experience, if you’re looking to see some noticeable changes you’ll need this staple equipment.
1. Dumbbells
This doesn’t come as a surprise, dumbbells are probably the first thing you should get when building a home gym.
Not only can you work out your upper and lower body, but you can also use them for core exercises.
There are various options available, here are some good ones:
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2. Barbells
Similar to dumbbells, barbells should be a staple in any home gym. Bench, deadlifts, squats, curls, rows, there is so much you can do with them.
Depending on the type, barbells can be fixed or with individual weight plates.
Taking in account your goals and needs, choose one of the following:
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3. Bench
If you really want to make a functional home gym, you’ll need an adjustable bench to go with your barbells and dumbbells.
There truly is a myriad of options, however these are probably the best ones:
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4. Pull-Up Bar
The good old pull-up bar, so simple but yet so effective. With this piece of inexpensive equipment you’ll be able to perform some of the best back workouts.
If you have a bigger budget, it’s best to get a multi-functional power tower that combines a pull-up bar, dip station, and a back rest. Everything you need for to hit all major muscle groups.
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5. Resistance Bands
Easily the cheapest piece of equipment on this list. They are primarily recommended to beginners, however even intermediate and advanced lifters can use them for many exercises and stretches.
Resistance bands are best paired with a door anchor attachment, this way you’ll have more versatility.
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6. Exercise and floor mats
If you’re not a serious lifter, and only use lighter weights, then you’ll definitely benefit from using an exercise mat. It will provide enough protection to your house flooring, so you won’t worry about any damage.
However, if you’re lifting heavier weights, floor mats are essential. They provide thicker and better protection, with an affordable price tag.
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Advanced equipment
Maybe you have a bigger budget, or you’re just an advanced lifter, nonetheless the following equipment will bring more advantages and versatility for building muscle, strength, and endurance.
1. Multi-gym
Represents a sturdy all-in-one machine that allows you to work out almost any part of the body. A multi-gym simply puts a host of essentials in one place.
They are often backed up by a lifetime warranty, so it is definitely a worthwhile investment.
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2. Rowing machine
A high-quality rowing machine is great for full-body workouts. Back, arms, legs, cardio, this machine combines everything. Most of them come with a reliable data monitor that provides useful info, including your heart rate, calories burned, workout duration, etc.
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3. Treadmill
There are plenty of great cardio exercises that call for no specific equipment. However, if running is something you just can’t live without, then a treadmill is the way to go.
There is no doubt about, it is an amazing machine with strong construction, exceptional features, perfect for any form of running or walking.
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4. Squat rack
If you’re serious about squatting, and you really want to push yourself, then you have to get a squat rack. This will provide the needed edge over other leg exercises, and you’ll also do military and other shoulder and chest presses as well.
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5. TRX kettlebell
Regular kettlebells are good, however an even better option are TRX kettlebells.
This kettlebell alternative underwent a special gravity molding process which allows it to achieve and ultra-durability and perfect shape. It’s simply a premium kettlebell, ideal for all sorts of training.
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