35 Best Home Gym Equipment Items to Build Your Gym, Tested By Us

ProsSimple click-lock handle provides fast weight changingMinimalist design allows for easy storageEasy to store in smaller spacesSMRTFT’s Nüobell is the perfect ultra-durable adjustable dumbbell for my home workouts. It can easily be five pounds, perfect for warm-up work, or 80 pounds, enough to challenge most people on fundamental leg moves, Eric Sung, C.S.C.S., a member of the Men's Health Strength in Diversity initiative and trainer at Performance Lab in New York City, told us.These adjustable dumbbells give you the convenience of 16 sets of dumbbells all in one compact footprint. They're easy to use and offer superior durability thanks to their machined steel weight plates. If you're starting a home gym from scratch or live in tight confines with little room to spare, consider these a must-have. Few items pack as much versatility and return on investment in such a small package.Read more: Best Adjustable DumbbellsProsHas a wide weight range (5 to 100 lbs)Trusted equipment makerDurableConsUnique design can feel odd to first time usersPowerBlock is practically synonymous with adjustable dumbbells—and for good reason. The Pro 100 model is compact, rugged, and replaces an entire weight rack. With a range from 5 to 100 pounds, it offers more versatility than almost any other dumbbell on the market.One of our testers, Maillard Howell, who tried PowerBlock’s Pro 50 model, said he liked how compact the dumbbells were and that the square shape lets you set them down without rolling away. Men’s Health Fitness Director Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., likes how easy they are to adjust. He’s also dropped these dumbbells from about four feet and reported zero breakage (though we wouldn’t suggest dropping them).There’s not much to nitpick with these dumbbells. That said, they can feel awkward and obtrusive during specific exercises. For example, because your hand and wrist are inside the bell, they can feel clunky during dumbbell curls. Samuel says the weight distribution differs between PowerBlocks and traditional dumbbells, and he sticks with the latter for most accessory movements (biceps curls, skull crushers, lateral raises, etc.).Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsPriced fairly for the qualityOffers decline, flat, and incline anglesWide pads offer more stabilityConsStill not a cheap bench2.1” pad gapWe dubbed this bench the “mid-range bench that delivers big value”. For around $350, we’re confident the AB-3000 is nicer than any bench you’ve used in a commercial gym and can serve most lifters for years. It offers flat, incline, and decline options, which most adjustable benches on the market don’t. You’ll never outlift the 1,000-pound weight capacity, and the redesigned 2.0 version features a longer back leg to eliminate side-to-side wobble.“Hands down, my favorite feature is the ladder-style adjustment system—you can drag the bench to any upright angle in seconds,” says NASM-certified personal trainer and product tester Andrew Gutman.There are a few trade-offs. The 2.1-inch pad gap, while common among adjustable benches, could bother some lifters if their hips land in the gap mid-set. The bench also can’t be stored upright, and at nearly five feet long, it claims a chunk of floor space. Lastly, while $350 is a fair price for this level of quality, it’s not exactly pocket change.Read More: Our Review of the Rep Fitness AB-3000ProsBuilt to commercial gym standardsFully customizable: height, depth, storage, and attachments10-year frame warrantyConsExpensiveTakes up significant spaceHammer Strength (by Life Fitness) outfits weight rooms for elite organizations—from the Tennessee Titans to Team USA Bobsled. And for good reason: When it comes to quality, dependability, and customization, Hammer Strength sets the gold standard. Even the Men’s Health weight room features Hammer Strength’s Elite iD Half Rack.The HD NX rack is highly customizable. You can choose between two heights (86" or 91"), two storage depths (15" or 21"), and either four or six uprights. It's essentially a commercial-grade system adapted for home use. That is if your “home gym” resembles a college weight room. Before buying, measure your space carefully and consider your long-term training plans. Even in its slimmest configuration, the HD NX commands serious square footage.But with that footprint comes unmatched functionality. You can outfit it with almost anything: multiple pull-up bar variations, band pegs, barbell storage, Nordic curl attachments, and more. The rack works with a wide range of accessories and is built to withstand hard workouts year after year.The HD NX is the best rack money can buy, but you’ll need a lot of it. It’s overkill for most lifters, but for those building the ultimate home gym with no budget restrictions, this is the crown jewel. It’s a lifetime investment you’ll never regret.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsFolds to just 5" from the wall1,100-lb weight capacityIncludes J-hooks and pull-up barConsWall-mounted installation requiredMounting hardware not includedFoldable squat racks are a game-changer for home gyms, and Titan’s T-3 Series rack offers one of the best values. When not in use, it folds flat to just five inches off the wall. Unfolded, it gives you the option of 21” or 41” of depth, with a substantial 1,100-pound weight capacity, more than enough for even serious lifters. It also comes with J-hooks (essential for racking your barbell) and a pull-up bar for added versatility.This space-saver does come with trade-offs. Like most folding racks, it requires wall mounting, and the necessary hardware isn’t included. You’ll also want to make sure your wall can support both the 145-pound rack and the load you plan to lift. Even when mounted properly, a wall-mounted rack may feel less stable than a fully bolted-down or freestanding unit.That said, for under $400 shipped (and with a one-year warranty), the T-3 delivers beyond its price point. It’s a no-frills, budget-friendly rack that doesn’t skimp on strength or functionality, ideal for anyone building a legit home gym in limited space.ProsSolid steel constructionDurable black phosphate finish helps prevent corrosionSleeves offer a nice spinGreat priceConsBar bends more than expected under 350+ lbs.Not ideal for competitive liftersThis seven-foot Olympic barbell has been one of our favorite home barbells for years. The 15" sleeves are designed with snap clips to accommodate any 2-inch Olympic plates. It's built of 110,000 PSI tensile strength cold-rolled Japanese steel with a black oxide finish, so it's plenty durable. It's durable enough, in fact, to be rated to 1,000 pounds. That won't quite accommodate powerlifters, but it's more than enough for beginner to intermediate home lifters.Most reviewers say it feels great in the hands (even without the knurled grip), though some report more bending than expected when lifting 350 pounds or more. But at roughly half the price of most premium alternatives, it's an incredible value, especially for any moderate weightlifters looking to upgrade their home gym without spending a small fortune.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsShock-absorbing rubber providing minimal bounceStrong black lookTrusted equipment manufacturerConsPrice adds up quickly when buying multipleREP Fitness' rubber bumper plates strike a strong balance of affordability and durability. Built with stainless steel inserts for easy loading and a stylish black high-density rubber, these plates are designed to take a beating, whether you’re deadlifting in the garage or doing Olympic lifts on a platform.For those looking for a complete set, with color coding for different weights, REP Fitness also offers one with five different plates—10 lb (grey), 15 lb (black), 25 lb (green), 35 lb (yellow), and 45 lb (blue)—and for the cost of $775, you can get everything you need to get started. We recommend starting with four to six plates to get your home gym rolling, then adding more as needed.For lifters who want solid performance without premium pricing, these REP Fitness plates offer great value on the market.ProsSteel hub resists damage from dropsVirgin and recycled rubber constructionColor-coded by weightConsSold individually (not in pairs or sets)Price adds up quickly when buying multipleCAP Barbell's cast iron plates strike the right balance between affordability and durability. Built with a precision-machined 2-inch center hole for a secure fit on Olympic barbells. The plates feature a durable black baked enamel finish and are built to take a beating, whether you’re deadlifting in the garage or doing Olympic lifts on a platform.For those looking for a complete set, with color coding for different weights, Titan also offers four additional plates—10 lb (grey), 25 lb (green), 35 lb (yellow), and 45 lb (blue)—and for the cost of $518, you can get everything you need to get started. We recommend starting with four to six plates to get your home gym rolling, then adding more as needed.For lifters who want solid performance without premium pricing, these Titan Fitness plates offer great value on the market.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsHex dumbbell design doesn't rollFully knurled chrome handles for excellent gripTrusted equipment makerConsRequires a good amont of space for the rackExpensive upfrontAdjustable dumbbells save space, but nothing beats the feel of individual iron in your hands. Fixed dumbbells are sturdier, more durable, and have fully knurled chrome handles for a secure, grippy feel—especially when sweating through a tough set. They’re also better suited for circuit-style training, since you don’t need to adjust weights between exercises.REP Fitness’s Hex Dumbbell Set delivers commercial-gym quality for your home. You can choose from three weight ranges (5-50 lbs, 5-75 lbs, or 5-100 lbs) and pair them with a sleek rack in black, red, or blue. We especially love the chrome handles: They’re knurled end to end for a grippy, no-slip feel that feels premium.That said, a complete dumbbell set takes up space. Lots of space. The 100-pound set weighs more than 2,000 pounds and spans about six feet of horizontal real estate. It's also not cheap. But if you want the real gym experience at home, these dumbbells are built to outlast your training career.Read More: Best Dumbbells For Your HomeProsQuick and easy weight adjustmentCompact, space-saving designGreat for beginners and casual liftersConsMax weight (40 lbs) may be too light for big swings and deadliftsA plastic shell isn’t as durable as cast ironThis adjustable kettlebell from Titan Fitness is “best for beginners” because it nails the fundamentals: It’s reasonably priced (around $150), adjusts from 10 to 40 pounds in seconds, and takes up the same amount of space as a pair of shoes. The weight range covers most beginner-friendly kettlebell movements—from presses and rows to goblet squats, curls, and even cleans and snatches.If you’re a casual lifter looking to mix in the occasional kettlebell finisher, this one will serve you well. That said, more experienced users will quickly bump against the 40-pound ceiling, especially for swings and deadlifts. And while the plastic housing is sturdy, it doesn’t match the longevity or feel of solid cast iron.Still, for anyone just getting into kettlebell training, this is the best entry-level option on the market—and a smart way to add variety without cluttering your gym.Read More: The 6 Best Adjustable KettlebellsAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsExcellent grip with a durable powder coat finish18 weight options (9 to 106 lbs)Color-coded for easy identificationConsPricey per kettlebellSets can get expensive fastAustin-based Kettlebell Kings has become a small powerhouse in the world of home gym equipment—and these powder-coated models are no exception. Made from single-cast iron with a smooth-yet-grippy powder coat finish, these kettlebells are built to withstand endless swings, snatches, and cleans. The 18 available weight options (ranging from 9 to 106 pounds) make it easy to scale up over time, and the color-coded bands around the handles let you identify weights at a glance.That quality comes at a cost. Kettlebell Kings’ kettlebells sit at the higher end of the price range—expect to pay around $500 for a full set. But if you want top-tier, American-made bells that’ll last forever, start here. "Whether I’m repping through a set of swings or snatches, I know I can depend on the durable, powder-coated weights," says MH Senior Fitness Editor Brett Williams, NASM.Read More: The 8 Best KettlebellsProsAffordable and travel-friendlyWon’t beat up your joints or floorsMilitary-grade durabilityConsNot ideal for technical kettlebell trainingRequires separate sand fillMetal kettlebells are pricey. And they’re not exactly gentle on your wrists or floors. GoRuck’s Sand Kettlebell is a soft-sided alternative built for tough workouts and easy transport. Shaped like a traditional kettlebell, this canvas training tool can be filled with sand (not included), emptied when not in use, and folded up for on-the-go sessions.It’s rugged as hell. The double-seal filling system keeps sand from leaking mid-workout. The padded handles add comfort, and GoRuck uses double-pass stitching and a reinforced base to keep the bag from falling apart, even after years of swings, presses, throws, and drops.Just know this isn’t a direct substitute for a cast-iron bell. If you’re training for kettlebell sport or focusing on technique-heavy movements like snatches or Turkish get-ups, this won’t replicate the same feel. But for general strength and conditioning, it’s a versatile, joint-friendly, and durable option at a fraction of the price.Advertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsDurable inner wood coreTear and slip resistance vinyl coatingAvailable in 3 sizesConsTake up a lot of space (especially if you own more than one)Plyo box workouts are a great way to build explosive strength, but not at the expense of your shins. REP’s soft plyo boxes feature a wood core and a high-density foam exterior wrapped in grippy vinyl, offering a good balance of structure and comfort.They come in three heights—16, 20, and 24 inches—and arrive fully assembled. The soft covering helps muffle noise and reduces injury risk if you miss a rep. And while they’re relatively lightweight, each box can handle up to 400 pounds, making them suitable for bigger athletes or weighted jump work.One thing to note: These boxes aren’t ideal on slick surfaces like tile, polished wood, or smooth concrete. They need some grip to stay put during explosive movements (we’ve made this mistake before). Also, the narrow footprint may feel less stable during lateral movements or box step-overs.Still, for most home gym users, the REP Plyo Boxes offer a safer, quieter, and more versatile upgrade over the typical wooden box.Read More: The 7 Best Plyo Boxes According to Certified TrainersProsCompact and folds for vertical storageQuiet magnetic resistanceImmersive, cinematic workoutsConsMonthly subscription unlocks full app offeringsThe Hydrow Wave earned a spot on our 2025 Men's Health Home Gym Awards. It pairs a sleek, compact design with surprisingly tranquil, waterway-inspired workouts. Unlike traditional rowers that use noisy air resistance (looking at you, Concept2), the Hydrow Wave uses magnetic resistance for a whisper-quiet ride that won’t disturb the rest of the house.Yes, it’s pricey. And yes, you’ll need a monthly subscription. But Hydrow’s instructor-led, on-the-water sessions are so vivid and immersive that even longer workouts fly by. Samuel said it feels like you’re actually on the water, and his workouts rarely felt boring on this rower. When your workout is over, just fold it up and store it vertically to save space.Our only gripe? You can’t skip the scenic classes and program your own intervals. Still, for most users, the guided experience is the main appeal. And when you’re done, the Wave folds upright for easy storage.Read More: The 7 Best Rowing MachinesAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsIndustry standard for competitive rowingDurable, smooth, and easy to maintainSplits into two pieces for easy storageConsLoud compared to magnetic resistance rowersThe Concept2 RowErg is the standard by which all rowing machines are measured, a device that can redline your heart rate in minutes and is perfect for strengthening hips, glutes, back, and core.The RowErg with Standard Legs is the new name for Concept2's RowErg rower, and it's the first device that comes to mind when we think of training on a rower at home. Our editors have never been on a better rower than this one, point blank. In a nutshell, it offers many of the same features as the best rowing machines that cost twice as much."It's an industry standard used by CrossFit and in many high-profile competitions for a reason," Samuel says. "It relies on a variable resistance flywheel that provides a constant challenge, making it great for high volume or experienced rowers."It's also extremely easy to assemble (you can see a video of us assembling it here). In our experience (and many Amazon reviewers agree), setup takes around 20 minutes with minimal tools or hardware (just eight screws are required). City dwellers and space-conscious users will appreciate the clever design that lets this machine separate into two pieces for easy storage. Built-in caster wheels make setup and put-away a breeze. Plus, it's surprisingly affordable. This is the definitive home rowing experience.ProsJust $6Smooth rotation with ball bearingsComfortable, lightweight handlesConsLength can feel awkward out of the boxYou can spend $25, $70, even $150 on a jump rope. But you don’t have to. After testing dozens, Men’s Health editors agree: The $6 BOOMIBOO Skipping Rope offers the best bang for your buck. It’s lightweight, durable, and surprisingly smooth thanks to ball-bearing rotation in the handles.I’ve used this rope regularly for over a year, and it’s held up better than expected. The bearings spin clean, and the foam handles are easy on the hands. My only issue with it is that the length feels a bit off out of the package. You can adjust it (it comes at 9 feet), but I never bothered. I just widened my arms, and it still did the job.Unless you’re chasing double-unders or elite-level speed, this rope is more than enough—and the price is tough to beat.Read More: Best Jumping Ropes, Tested By UsAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsSoft, sweat-resistant silicone-wrapped handlesCut-to-fit lengthAvailable in several colorsWell pricedConsNot ideal for multiple users of varying height in the same household This adjustable weighted jump rope is made of thick silicone that is soft, sweat-resistant, and comfortable for long workouts. Our testing confirms this jump rope is built to last. Out of the box, it's nearly 10 feet long, but is designed to be cut to achieve the perfect fit based on user height. This is ideal for a single user, but doesn't lend itself well to multiple users within the same household unless they're the same height.Together, the rope and handles weigh 1 pound, so this kit is enough to challenge you during a good cardio sesh. At around $20, this is another great budget-friendly option for anyone looking to get in some cardio at home without a huge piece of equipment.ProsPremium, industry leading online classesBluetooth compatibleScreen rotates 360 degrees to allow user to use it for strength workouts off bikeFree delivery and setupConsCan be expensive with subscriptionWhen you're looking for an exercise bike that's as high-tech as it gets, the Peloton Bike is still our go-to choice. The 22-inch HD touchscreen display is crisp and easy to use, and its library of best-in-class instructor-led studio-style classes is a true game-changer for home workouts. Our editors have used this bike for more than four years now, and have never run out of fresh classes to try.For nearly $1500, it's a bummer that users need to shell out an additional $24/month for full access to the platform. But for the many Peloton users who have found community in their classes and on the leaderboard, the cost is more than worth it.Read More: The Best Exercise Bikes, Tested by UsAdvertisement - Continue Reading BelowProsNo motor means more speed controlCan also be used as a sled push400-pound user capacity and 5-year frame warrantyManual treadmills may look intimidating, but they have surged in popularity for good reason: They make you work harder, respond instantly to your pace, and run quieter than motorized options. The REP Fitness Strive Treadmill is a standout in the category; it’s a durable curved treadmill that honors its promise as a manuel treadmill and adds a sled push to the equation.At over 418 pounds, we suggest building this treadmill where you want it and avoid moving it up and down stairs. Still, built-in front wheels let you reposition it if needed. The 400-pound weight capacity makes it a solid pick for larger users, and REP Fitness backs its promise with a 5-year frame warranty—essentially guaranteeing long-term durability.Yes, it’s big. Yes, it costs almost $4,000. But for runners or serious home gym owners looking for a low-maintenance, high-performance machine, the Strive Treadmill is a wise investment.Read More: Best Curved TreadmillsPros60-inch belt provides ample space for many runnersFolds up for compact storageSmartAdjust and ActivePulse auto-tune your workoutConsiFit membership required for full functionalityNordicTrack is a giant in the treadmill game, and the T10 hits the sweet spot for home gym owners. It’s more compact than the brand’s Commercial 1750, yet still boasts a full-size 60-inch running belt—long enough for sprinting and tall runners alike. Plus, it folds up for easier storage between workouts.Despite its smaller footprint, the T10 packs in features. You can run up to 12 mph (a 5:00-mile pace) and incline up to 12%. The 10-inch touchscreen pairs with iFit for trainer-led classes, and the Follow Trainer mode automatically adjusts your incline and speed in real time to match the instructor’s terrain.SmartAdjust learns your fitness level and tailors your workouts based on how you train, while ActivePulse adjusts intensity based on your heart rate (if paired with a compatible monitor). It’s a smart, sturdy, and space-conscious treadmill that’s ideal for intermediate to advanced runners who want a guided experience at home.Read More: The Best TreadmillsCharles Thorp is the Fitness and Reviews Editor at Men’s Health, where he shares the best product recommendations in gym equipment, recovery tools, supplements, and more. Following an early life in athletics, Charles became a NASM-certified trainer and began writing programs alongside the most respected coaches in the world. Since entering the world of fitness content, Charles has had the opportunity to learn from and train alongside high performance individuals from the NFL, UFC, NBA, Formula 1, CrossFit, US Olympics, and Navy SEALs. When he’s not writing about training programs or gear, he can be seen at the gym or in the wild, putting them to the test.Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., is the fitness director of Men's Health and a certified trainer with more than 10 years of training experience. He's logged training time with NFL athletes and track athletes and his current training regimen includes weight training, HIIT conditioning, and yoga. Before joining Men's Health, he served as a sports columnist and tech columnist for the New York Daily News. Brett Williams, NASM-CPT, PES, a senior editor at Men's Health, is a certified trainer and former pro football player and tech reporter. You can find his work elsewhere at Mashable, Thrillist, and other outlets.