A gym in your own house, fully-equipped with the best workout equipment for home on the market, is surely every fitness-chasers dream. Whether you are embarking on a fitness journey, aiming to run a spring marathon personal best, or working towards a summer fitness goal, there is a piece of home equipment that can help you reach your goals.
Whether you prefer to exercise in the privacy of your own home, or just find it hard to get out due to caring or family reasons, having equipment at home can be a real bonus. Gyms might have great instructors or timetabled classes, but so too now do many of the top smart fitness machines. Whether you want one of the best treadmills, rowers or exercise bikes or use weights for resistance training, you can follow along with a class or training programme, either live or on demand.
Whether it's escaping the snow in winter or staying safe in the dark - or even saving money long term on expensive fitness class or gym memberships - a home gym can provide everything you need.
The Live Science team has spent countless hours testing the best workout equipment for home to find the very best. Here's our selection of products that we stand by, including options for all fitness abilities, budgets and space constraints.
The quick list
The best treadmill
We love this entry-level treadmill. It's lightweight and foldable, perfect for those with limited space or wanting to double up its use as an under desk treadmill. It comes with bluetooth connectivity and an LED touchscreen and is a great entry-level option for those starting their fitness journey or coming back to it.
The best rower
The Concept2 RowErg is an absolutely staple of gyms around the world, used from rowing clubs to the CrossFit Games. It's one of the most durable, well-designed machines you can get. It uses air resistance but offers a smooth rowing experience. There's no touchscreen or live workouts but the ErgApp can be connected via Bluetooth for workouts.
The best adjustable dumbbells
We love these adjustable dumbbells. Because they are digital, you can easily and quickly adjust the weight, allowing you to mix up your workout without breaking your flow. The ergonomic grip is comfortable, and you can also get a subscription to the app allowing you to access workouts, virtual rep counting and performance stats.
The best exercise bike
The Yosuda indoor bike offers a sturdy and comfortable workout. Even intense HIIT workouts feel stable on it's heavy steel frame and large base. We love the ergonomic padded seat and its compact design — this is a perfect option for those looking for a budget-friendly indoor bike.
The best yoga mat
The premium Lululemon Reversible yoga mat offers excellent grip and springy support. It's great for any type of yoga practice or any level of yoga practitioner. With two sides, you can use the bumpier one for the hotter, sweatier practices without losing grip while the natural rubber side offers a nice cushioning for more restorative practices.
The best resistance bands
We love the variety and ease of use of this pack of resistance bands. The bright colours help you grab the right one mid-workout. The tube resistance bands come with ankle straps and handles allowing versability during your workout. This is a great purchase for anyone looking to add a little resistance and stretch to their fitness regime.
Best workout equipment for home: best treadmill
Best workout equipment for home gyms in 2025: Fully tested by our expert reviewers
Why you can trust Live Science Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best ones for you. Find out more about how we test.
The best budget treadmill
✅ You want value for money: For a wallet-friendly price this treadmill does all the basics well
✅ You want a seamless experience: It comes with Bluetooth connectivity as well as an LED touchscreen
✅ You have limited space: It folds away, and it's nice and quiet too
❌ You are an experienced runner: The top speed is 12 km/h which may not be enough
❌ You want to simulate hills: This treadmill doesn't come with an incline/decline functino
❌ You do lots of miles: The belt is not the most plush or cushioned
🔎 Mobvoi Home Treadmill: With good basic functionality and both space-saving and quiet to run, the Mobvoi is an excellent treadmill for new or relatively low mileage runners, and at a great price. However, it may lack the top end speed and extra features that more experienced runners might be looking for.
The Mobvoi Home Treadmill is a great budget-friendly machine, lightweight, slimline and foldable. It is well constructed and simple design transitions easily from under-desk walking treadmill pad to 'proper' treadmill that you can run on.
It undeniably lacks the special extra features of more expensive machines, but you get what you pay for. And for the very reasonable price of the Mobvoi, that includes Bluetooth connectivity, basic metric tracking and an LED touchscreen with touch speed controls that are intuitive to use. We were also impressed by how quiet it is.
The max speed in walking mode is 4km/h and the top speed for running is 12 km/h. That's more than enough to work up a sweat for many, but more dedicated or experienced runners might need a higher speed capacity, and perhaps also be looking for a machine that can simulate hills with an include/ decline function. Our round-up of the best treadmills has many good options like this.
However, the Mobvoi is a great buy. It isn't the most plush when it comes to the cushioning of the belt, but it's definitely this is a great entry level treadmill for people new to running, or getting back to fitness, as well as those who just want to up their daily steps with more walking.
- Read our full Mobvoi Home Treadmill review
Best rowing machine
✅ You want value for money: It may not be cheap but it will last years
✅ You want the best in class: There's a reason it's used by everyone from Olympians to CrossFit athletes
✅ You want a smooth experience: It rows beautifully and gives you a lot of resistance to work with
❌ You want interactive features: There's no touchscreen or live classes to join
❌ You want the most high tech model: There are more advanced features on other models
🔎 Concept2 RowErg: The gold standard in rowing machines works just as well in your home as in the gym. It's super robust and can cope with hardcore workouts but also gives a brilliant experience for rowing beginners. It may not have the most high tech features, but its a superb machine that will compliment your fitness goals, whatever they may be.
Step into any gym or rowing club in the world, and you'll likely find a Concept2 RowErg. They are market leaders and industry standards for a reason. It's simply one of the best rowing machines on offer for all-round value.
This model can be found taking a beating in indoor rowing comps, as well as the CrossFit Games, and is used by everyone up to an including Olympians. World rankings are indeed often set on the Concept2.
So as you'd expect, this is a very sturdy and reliable machine that will last years. It uses air resistance, a flywheel, and a damper with 10 settings to adjust airflow. This does make it slightly noisier than a magnetic resistance rower, registered at about 70-100 dB. But that's certainly not enough to really trouble any neighbors.
The RowErg isn’t packed with extra features. Indeed it’s pretty basic in design and is missing the fancy touchscreen, interactive workouts, and live classes often found on more high-tech models entering the market. That said, the PM5 monitor still offers plenty of performance tracking and connects to apps via Bluetooth, with preset and programmable workouts and data syncing through the ErgData app.
You also get get a silky smooth rowing experience and lashings of challenging resistance to play with. It also boasts an ergonomic setup to suit all shapes and sizes, adjustable footrests, and two leg stand levels to adjust your height. If you’re short on space, the Concept2 is fitted with a convenient base and wheels and splits into two for convenient vertically stowing.
A rowing machine offers an all round fantastic and overall, the Concept2 is a clean-looking, durable, and well-designed rower that can capture all the important stuff without any faff or frills, and you can nab it for under $1,000.
- Read our full Concept2 Model D RowErg review
Best smart dumbbells
✅ You want a smart weights workout: This set puts the smart into dumbells
✅ You want the basics done properly: As well as their smart tech, this set is comfortable to use
✅ You want a value for money package: With this many options from one set, you'll struggle to get a better deal
❌ You prefer an old school approach: If smart tech doesn't interest you, stick to a basic set of weights
❌ You don't want paid extras: You'll also need to pay for the accompanying app
❌ You don't need stats: This set comes with virtual rep counting and on-demand workouts, and you might have your own already
🔎 JaxJox DumbbellConnect: One of the first digital dumbbell sets, the JaxJox comes with smart features and coaching options, including counting your reps for you and setting you progressive workouts. They also look great, and save space with their adjustability.
Putting the smart into dumbbells, the JaxJox DumbbellConnect Adjustable Dumbbells are one of the world’s first sets of digital dumbbells, allowing you to change the weight in seconds at the touch of a button. Not only that, but they look super sleek, with a lovely matte gray finish and green trim. This premium product is sold as a pair at $499/£499 and is a smart addition to the dumbbell world, sitting comfortably in the best adjustable dumbbells round up.
Dumbbells are a staple, and a really versatile bit of kit for your home gym. But you can end up spending a fortune and taking up a lot of space just to have the variety of different weights you might need. So the beauty of this set is that you get the full range in one, letting you quickly flip between your favourite exercises and adjust weight for them accordingly.
JaxJox are all about nailing the basics, and they certainly have done so here. The dumbbells not only look good, but are comfortable and secure to grip with their ergonomically grooved handles. Each dumbbell loads into a docking station with a small LED screen displaying the weight. You then adjust the load digitally from 8-50lbs per dumbbell using the plus and minus buttons.
Unracking the dumbbells from the station also means there’s no need for stripping plates during supersets, and the compact functional shape makes them easy to maneuver. The flat edge means you can also use them easily for floor exercises like renegade rows or dumbbell burpees without worrying they will roll away.
The JaxJox set always come with connectivity to their own app (for $12.99/£12.99 with a free 30-day trial) which gives you full access to virtual rep counting, on-demand workouts, and real-time performance stats, which is definitely a plus for both tech and fitness lovers. Overall, considering how many options you get from this one set, we reckon you’ll struggle to find a better deal for home dumbbells.
- Read our full JaxJox DumbbellConnect Adjustable Dumbbells review
Best exercise bike
✅ You want a budget-friendly cardio machine: At under $300 this bike is great value
✅ You want a comfortable bike: It is sturdy, super-comfy and has a springy, padded seat
✅ You don't have a lot of space: It has a compact design
❌ You want high tech features: This is a basic, reliable machine with no frills
❌ You are very tall: Users over 6”0 should check it will work for them
❌ You want all the metrics: Cadence, which can be very useful, is missing
🔎 Yosuda Indoor stationary bike: For under $300 you get a really comfortable, adjustable machine that should work for everyone but the tallest of riders. There are no frills, but the robust, stable design offers great resistance options and will give you a great workout.
If you’re looking for a cardio fix from home without blowing the budget, the Yosuda Indoor Stationary Cycling Bike could be your new budget-friendly buddy. It certainly sits proudly in our top picks of the best exercise bikes to scoop up for under $300. You can also snap up some of the best shoes for Peloton if you're seeking spin shoes for your next class.
What the Yosuda lacks in tech it more than makes up for in reliability, as well as offering a sturdy, super-comfy design. The model comprises a heavy stable steel frame and 35lbs friction resistance flywheel that holds its own during rigorous self-led HIIT classes or uphill climbs. The wide base prevents any instability whilst pedaling, and the lightweight design allows quick and easy storage, too.
This exercise bike provides reassuring evidence that you don’t have to empty your bank account to find quality. The bike is compact – great news for space-savers – with adjustable toe cages, upright handlebars to help support your back, a resistance turn dial, and an ergonomically designed springy, padded seat – which is by far our biggest highlight and not an easy feat, even among the more top-end bikes.
Handle and seat adjustments are available, but how comfortable the seat height feels will depend on your inseam – 6”0 users should have just enough space. The LCD display tracks calories, distance, time, and speed, but (pretty crucially) you’re missing a key feature – cadence (pedal revolutions). This could be a deal-breaker for keener cyclists, although you can buy separate monitors for this online.
It’s over to you to find one of the best heart rate monitors or a killer workout to spice up your cycling experience, but if you’re hoping to save some cash and purchase a basic bike for basic cycling needs, this model is absolutely worth it.
- Read our full Yosuda Indoor Stationary Cycling Bike review
Best yoga mat
✅ You want comfort: The 5mm padding cushions your joints nicely
✅ You value good looks: It's one of the best looking yoga mats on the market
✅ You want top performance: The mat's top polyurethane layer offers perfect grip
❌ You want a budget option: There are a lot of cheaper options available
❌ You have a latex allergy: The base is made of rubber
❌ You want a super lightweight option: It's portable but not the lightest mat on the market
🔎 Lululemon Reversible 5mm Yoga Mat: With its gorgeous design and premium cushioning, this is a high end yoga mat that offers superior grip. However there are lighter weight and more affordable options for those looking for a bargain.
We can’t deny that it’s a premium mat with a hefty $88/£68 price tag, but this best-seller from Lululemon regularly finds it way to the top of the best yoga mats charts for a reason. It’s the perfect mat for everyone, from total beginners to experienced yogis. And boy, does it look good.
The Lululemon Reversible 5mm Yoga Mat comes in a variety of designs, from soft marbled effect to plain and simple. The 5mm of spongy padding is enough to cushion your headstands and crows – or maybe cushion your joints through hundreds of burpees and squat jumps. It really does do the job for every time of mat exercise.
It’s bumpy top layer is made from polyurethane, which is designed to absorb moisture so you always have the perfect grip. Meanwhile the softer natural rubber side is perfect for more restorative forms of yoga or stretching. Lululemon has also added an antimicrobial additive designed to prevent any build-up of nasty bacteria or smells. The initial smell of rubber when you first purchase and unroll this model will need a few days to fade away, but that is pretty standard with rubber mats.
And that’s our one drawback: this mat isn’t suited to anyone with a latex allergy due to the rubber base. It’s also not a super lightweight mat. You can certainly still carry it around if you have a carry case, but otherwise it’s the perfect mat to leave at home for all your workout needs. All you’ll need to do is focus on the benefits of yoga.
Learn how to clean a yoga mat to keep your mat in tip top condition.
- Read our full Lululemon Reversible 5mm Yoga Mat review
Best resistance bands
✅ You want good value: For $30/£23 this is a great wallet-friendly set of bands
✅ You want a broad range for your workouts: The loop bands range from light to XX heavy and the tube ones between 10-50lbs
✅ You don't have much space: Without investing in bulky gym equipment, you can get a great resistance-based workout
❌ You want premium design: A textured grip would make them more secure
❌ You want stability: The door anchor is a bit unstable
❌ You like a weights-based workout: Look instead to dumbbells or kettlebells
🔎 Whatafit resitance bands: At around $30/£23 this set is a true bargain, allowing you to get a good full body resistance-based workout that can ideally compliment your cardio activities. There is a nice range of types of band and strength of resistance in the set too.
Resistance bands are a great way to add extra, well, resistance to a workout. And the Whatafit Resistance Band range has nailed the brief, coming in top of our best resistance bands round up.
This comprehensive resistance band pack consists of five tube resistance bands, five loop bands, two ankle straps, two handles, a door anchor, an exercise manual, and a carry bag, which seems like an absolute steal at around $30/£23. The bands are color-coded so you know exactly what to look for during your workout.
It’s worth checking out our resistance band guide above for the difference between loop and tube resistance bands, but you’ve got plenty of resistance either way with this brand. The loop bands range from light to XX heavy and are perfect for glute-focused exercises, but the soft exterior can give them a tendency to roll up during lateral movement. These bands could have benefited from a textured design to up their grip factor, though at this price, it's a minor quibble.
Meanwhile the tube bands range between 10-50lbs and have ankle straps and handles so you can complete upper and lower body workouts separately. The clips are a little fiddly to use, and the door anchor (which you can also clip into, allowing you to perform exercises like rows and pulldowns) is a tad unstable. However the bands themselves are of great quality.
Both the tube and loop bands feel secure and offer a decent burn at the higher end of the resistance range, although we highly recommend double-banding if you need a bit more intensity (for instance, during a resistance band leg workout). All in all, you get far more variety from this set than most in its price range, and utilizing the full set can provide a decent full-body workout so you can maximize the benefits of resistance bands without heaving dumbbells or kettlebells around with you.
- Read our full Whatafit Resistance Bands Review
Best elliptical machine
✅ You want a great low impact workout: Elliptical machines are suitable for almost everyone
✅ You want compact but still top of the range: It is Wifi-enabled with a HD touchscreen and Bluetooth speakers
✅ You want workout suggestions: You get an initial free app membership with workouts, plus 20 resistance levels on the machine
❌ You want incline options: This machine doesn't have hill-simulating capabilities
❌ You are on a budget: It's a top model in the elliptical marketplace, with an accompanying price tag
❌ You don't want any ongoing fees: Though the app is initially free, there is a monthly ongoing subscription
🔎 Bowflex Max Trainer M9: If you are looking for a machine to give you a great range of workouts, then this well-made piece of equipment more than delivers. With top-of-the-range features like an HD smartscreen and integrated heart rate readings, it's not cheap but offers great value for high level performance.
Elliptical machines are a really good low-impact way to workout your cardiovascular system and add another element to your home workouts. And the Bowflex Max Trainer M9 is a compact machine that fit into your home and into your life, without having to remortgage your house.
The M9 is the most advanced model in the Bowflex elliptical range and is one of our top picks for the best elliptical machines on the market. While the machine has a pretty modest footprint compared to the commercial-grade elliptical machines you might see at the gym, you won’t sacrifice on quality. It is Wifi-enabled with a 10.1” HD touchscreen, a heart rate armband, an inbuilt tablet shelf, and Bluetooth speakers. There’s even a free initial JRNY app membership available so that you can accurately track metrics and immerse yourself in tons of workout programs from your living room or home gym – similar to the iFit app. You can even access Netflix, Disney+, and Prime from your touchscreen console.
Viewing aside, Bowflex also offers plenty of hard workout challenges. There are 20 resistance levels and integrated heart rate monitor hand grips and armbands which allow you to train using via heart rate zones. You don’t have incline options with this machine, and we were unable to confirm the stride length, but it’s still a stellar choice in the bestselling Bowflex series. We love the 4-grip handlebars that allow you to switch up your upper body positioning so you can target your muscles differently, too.
This machine is ideal for tighter living spaces, and although it isn’t cheap, it’s a top model within the elliptical range, giving models like the ProForm and NordicTrack a run for their money.
- Note: This elliptical machine is currently being tested and reviewed and this guide will be updated once the review is complete.
Best adjustable kettlebell
✅ Space is at a premium: With this set you get six different kettlebell weights in one neat package
✅ You want easy-to-use weights: The ergonomic handle makes swings, rows and squats feel secure
✅ You want workout inspiration: There are 24 exercise videos in the accompanying app
❌ You do a lot of single-sided exercises: The hard plastic design does make it quite tricky for this moves
❌ You need more than six weights: This model has 8,12, 20, 25, 35, and 40lbs options.
🔎 Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell: Multiple different kettlebells at different weights can really eat into the space you have available for your home workouts, so this space saving adjustable device is a great option. In fact it saves both space and money, and comes with suggested workouts too.
Want to save yourself some space and some money? Try the Bowflex SelectTech 840 Adjustable Kettlebell. Instead of buying six separate kettlebells, you'll get it all in one package for under $200. It's perfect for moving seamlessly and swiftly between kettlebell swings and cleans at different weights. This handy free weight easily lands itself in our best adjustable kettlebells round-up.
Multiple sets of dumbbells and kettlebells might well be the most space-consuming of home gym items, so adjustable versions are perfect for those looking for home weights set deals. Bowflex has filled a gap in their range with this model, which has six different weights in one convenient package. Those weights come in at 8,12, 20, 25, 35, and 40lbs.
To adjust the weight you just set the kettlebell down on the tray and turn the mechanical dial to move up or down within the weight range, which is formed from multiple plates stacked together inside the plastic exterior casing.
If you need inspiration about what workout to do with them, Bowflex has also thrown in 24 trainer-led exercise videos via the SelectTech app. The ergonomic handle is a nice touch, making swings, rows, and squats feel all the more accessible and secure.
The bulky hard plastic design does make this kettlebell quite tricky to use for single-sided or overhead movements, which isn’t ideal for anyone working on their snatch or clean and press technique, but this is less of an issue during two-handed exercises. And regardless of that drawback, for the price tag and versatility of this model, we reckon it’s a total steal. The SelectTech 840 is perfect for those looking to work on progressive overload without having to constantly reinvest in new weights as they get stronger, and is the perfect addition if you're pumped for a weights at home workout.
- Note: This adjustable kettlebell is currently being tested and reviewed and this guide will be updated once the review is complete.
Best weight bench
✅ You want quality at an affordable price: This bench offers gym-quality at a wallet-friendly price
✅ You want something built to last: It's made from commercial-grade steel with comfortable foam padding
✅ You want a stowaway design: It has transport wheels and can be stowed vertically
❌ You don't do bench-based exercises: There's little point to a bench if you aren't interested in bench pressing
❌ You only want a small piece of kit: It may be compact but it's still a bigger piece of equipment
❌ You focus on resistance-based work: This is kit designed for weights-based workouts
The Bowflex 5.1S Stowable Weight Bench is the perfect home gym accessory for free weight exercise or sliding beneath your weight rack to aid Bulgarian split squats and your bench press. The model is the latest top-of-the-line addition to the existing reputable Bowflex range and one of the best weight benches around – sweeping in at a very affordable price of under $300.
But don’t let the price fool you, this sleek-looking model is made for the gym environment. Consisting of a heavy-duty and commercial-grade steel design with high-density foam padding, the model is certainly built to last and can seat up to 600lbs of weight. The space-saving design comes complete with transport wheels and halves the footprint when stowed vertically, making it ideal for anyone needing a discreet bench to add to their existing setup.
The 5.1S is built for versatility too, with a wide supportive padded seat and six adjustment settings including -20° decline, flat, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° perfect for incline presses and flyes, as well as seat height adjustments which can be selected using the quick and easy selection knob. The bench is fitted with leg braces to secure your legs during exercises like sit-ups, as well as a ‘click, lift, and go’ button system to tuck the bench neatly away when you’re not using it.
If you’re limited on space and don’t want to pay premium prices, but are not ready to compromise on the quality of your home exercise equipment, this is the weight bench for you.
- Note: This weight bench is currently being tested and reviewed and this guide will be updated once the review is complete.
Best ab roller
✅ You want to work on core strength: This resistance-based device will build that strength
✅ You want versatility: The wide tread allows you to steer left or right for oblique-targeting work
✅ You want comfort: Unlike some basic ab rollers you get stability, support, and even knee pads
❌ You are happy with a basic roller: There are certainly cheaper basic models available
❌ You are very tall: Taller users should note that the design does limit the range of movement available
❌ You want multi-purpose equipment: This roller is designed solely for ab work
🔎 Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro: If building up core strength is your key, but you've been put off by using basic uncomfortable rollers before, this is the piece of kit for you. It's unique design allows you to progress your core strength and target different core muscles as well.
The Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro is another premium product, with an accompanying premium price tag of $39.99/£49.87. That's double, perhaps even treble the cost of some ab rollers. But this is a super high-quality product, and we think it's one of the best ab rollers on the market. So is it worth your cash? In short, yes.
It's one of the most versatile ab rollers we’ve come across, and if you're wondering how to get a stronger core, this is your solution. Unlike simple plastic wheel ab rollers, this model has a carbon steel spring inside the roller to add resistance as you roll out, and provide assistance as you steer back in. It’s designed to increase muscle activation in two ways.
The wide tread also allows you to steer left or right for targeted oblique work, and the angled performance grips increase support and activation in your arm and core muscles.
Many ab rollers are fairly basic and feature a wobbly thin tread wheel with uncomfortable handles that can feel unstable and unwieldy. But the ultra-wide tread on this roller gives you maximum support and steadily rolls out without feeling as though you’re about to pop your shoulders or veer off uncontrollably. You even get knee pads included if you need them.
The chunky aesthetic lends itself to stability which is certainly beneficial for anyone new to ab rollouts, as it helps to build technique and basic functional core strength. The addition of lateral movement offers great progression for anyone well-versed in the world of rollouts and looking for versatility and challenge.
Taller users should know that the spring design does limit the range of movement available, but we still rate this as a smooth, solid, and durable bit of home workout kit for your consideration to build a solid core foundation.
Best workout equipment for home: Comparison
Product | Tyoe | Rating | ✅ Pros | ❌ Cons | Ongoing cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Mobvoi home treadmill | Treadmill | ★★★★
| Foldable, well designed, affordable | No incline, low max speed | None |
Concept2 RowErg | Rowing machine | ★★★★½
| Industry standard, robust and reliable | No in-built apps or live workouts | None (free metrics tracking app) |
JaxJox Dumbbell Connect | Smart weights set | ★★★★½ | Smart connectivity, great design | Need to be charged, dock screen not clear | Accompanying app $12.99/£12.99 |
Yosuda Indoor Stationary Bike | Exercise bike | ★★★★ | Comfortable, smooth ride | Basic metric tracking | None |
Lululemon Reversible 5mm | Yoga matt | ★★★★½ | Robust, grippy, supportive | Rubber base, expensive | None |
Whatafit resistance set | Resistance bands | ★★★½ | Great variety, affordable | Latex, smaller bands fragile | None |
Bowflex Max Trainer M9 | Elliptical machine | ★★★★ | Compact, great features | Needs wifi, expensive | Intitial app free trial, then $11.99/mo, $99/yr |
Bowflex SelectTech 840 | Adjustable kettlebell | ★★★★ | Space saving, good range | Can feel bulky, max weight limited | Free optional SelectTech app |
Bowflex 5.1S Stowable | Weight Bench | ★★★★ | Premium gym-worthy build | Gap between seat and rest | None |
Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro | Ab roller | ★★★★ | Supportive, progressive | May be limited for taller users | None |
How we test the best workout equipment for home at Live Science
To compile this list, we asked fitness professionals about their favorite types of workout equipment, to suss out what machines are really worth the hype.
We personally tested each machine we deemed worthy of this list, ranking it for design, performance, usability, features and value for money. After spending about a day on each bit of equipment, we then gave each product a score out of five, depending on how well it had performed across each of these categories.
FAQs
What is the best equipment for home workouts?
The intial outlay to puchase gym equipment for your home — particularly when it comes to robust, bulky cardio machines — can be costly. However in the long run, it may prove to save you money, particularly if it means you are no longer paying expensive gym membership fees (particularly ones you aren't using much!).
While a garage full of cardio equpment might be the dream, most people probably only have space for — and need — one main piece of cardio equipment. The most important thing is to get the right one for your own goal. For example, if you enjoy running to lose weight, there's little point investing in the best exercise bikes.
When it comes to weights, our advice understanding how to build your own home weights gym can help anyone (on any budget) get started, Most importantly, it’s crucial to invest in equipment that suits your space and workout style needs. A great piece of kit is only useful if you can actually use it regularly and practical space issues don't restrict you.
While fancy equipment can be eye-catching, some of the simplest pieces of equipment can be the most effective. For example the excellent Perfect Fitness Ab Carver Pro — and a set of resistance bands — like our tried-and-tested Whatafit resistance bands — can compliement each other briliantly and create a killer workout without sapping space from your surroundings.
When it comes to an all-round cardio winner, we loved the Yosuda Indoor Stationary Cycling Bike during testing. It has a small footprint, a super comfortable padded seat, and a very affordable price tag, which makes it perfect for smaller city apartments. It also racks up brilliant reviews for quality, so it’s unlikely you’ll be replacing it for years to come.
However, we do recommend reading the reviews before you buy any equipment because expensive doesn’t necessarily mean great quality, and if you’re not a tech-savvy person, you could end up wasting money on specs you don’t need.
If top-of-the-range tech is your ‘thing’ then we highly recommend the NordicTrack X22i treadmill. It goes all out for user experience and offers a vast range of speeds, incline and decline settings, and Live and on-demand classes. You will need space to house it though.
We also rate the versatile JaxJox DumbbellConnect Adjustable Dumbbells. They provide weight ranges of 8-50lbs, are easy to stow, and more than capable of delivering a sweaty HIIT workout or slower tempo full-body resistance session.
If you’re unsure how you prefer to train, our home workout ideas could give you some inspiration before you shop.
What is the best workout equipment for small spaces?
As mentioned, we love the Yosuda exercise bike because of its small footprint and super comfortable seat. If you just need to scratch a cardio itch rather than heavily invest, you can’t go wrong with this model and it’ll save you some money compared with pricey ellipticals and treadmills.
The best adjustable dumbbells are also a solid investment because they’re easy to store and highly versatile, offering up handy weight ranges that can diversify your workout in seconds. Coupling these with bodyweight exercises, a weights bench, or yoga mat (like our top picks above) can help you hammer out cardio or resistance training in any setting, without the need for bulky equipment or machines.
For very small spaces, try to think smart rather than big.
What gym equipment is best for belly fat?
First and foremost, you can’t spot reduce belly fat. Instead, a first point of call is coupling an increase in daily activity with a slight cut to your calorie intake to create a negative energy balance — known as a calorie deficit. However, other factors like stress levels, genetics, and metabolism are all at play, too.
Learning which exercise burns belly fat can help you set expectations during your weight loss journey, but there is no one-size-fits-all approach to weight loss or exercise.
Cardio is traditionally thought to ramp up calorie burn more than resistance training, yet both can contribute to weight loss when combined with a healthy and varied diet, and resistance training is helpful for building muscle mass and strengthening your bones. Both play a role, but exercise alone is unlikely to shred body fat, so keeping versatile with how you move and eat can contribute to creating healthier and sustainable habits.
What workout equipment is most effective?
It depends on how you like to train and what your goals are, but we’ve also compiled a guide on the best exercise machine to lose weight, detailing the highs and lows of each machine and what they’re best suited to.
If your goal is to increase your cardio, exercise machines like rowers, walking treadmills, or exercise bikes will be most effective for your needs. However, if you plan to build muscle or improve your strength, then investing more heavily in weights and resistance bands will help you achieve your goals.
Regardless of your workout preferences, maintaining a healthy diet is key for weight management.
