Home Gym Equipment

If you have made the decision to dedicate space in your home for a Home Gym, I would recommend you start by asking yourself a few questions:

1) What is my goal?

2) What is my training experience?

3) How much space am I willing to dedicate to the gym?

4) What is my budget to get started?

So far, we have covered bodyweight exercises and aerobic training. The first step in adding equipment is incorporating resistance bands. If you are a seasoned gym-goer, you are likely accustomed to a wide variety of commercial equipment and amenities. Unless you have ample space and a significant budget, it will be nearly impossible to replicate that experience at home.

You can still achieve a high level of fitness with minimal equipment. Below is a comprehensive list of home gym equipment, arranged from the most versatile, cost-effective, and space-saving options to more specialized, larger, and more expensive items.

The Jungle Gym XT from LifeLine Fitness Equipment is a versatile and robust suspension training system designed for comprehensive bodyweight workouts. It features adjustable straps, durable handles, and foot cradles, allowing for a wide range of exercises that target various muscle groups from different positions. The dual anchor points enable users to mount the equipment in diverse spaces, such as door frames or pull-up bars. Additionally, the Jungle Gym XT is portable and can be easily set up indoors or outdoors, making it an ideal tool for strength training.

Door Frame pull up bar is a compact and convenient piece of fitness equipment designed for home workouts. It easily attaches to most standard door frames without the need for permanent mounting or hardware, using leverage and friction for a secure fit. Typically made from durable steel, the bar can support a significant amount of weight and offers various grip positions—such as wide, narrow, and neutral. A door frame pull-up bar is a versatile tool for building upper body and can make a great anchor point for Rubber bands and the Jungle Gym XT.

A Power Tower Adjustable Height Pull Up & Dip Station is the next progression for a home gym. This standalone piece of equipment will require a dedicated area in your home. It allows you to perform pull-up variations, dips, push-ups with increased range of motion, leg tucks, and utilize band attachments. However, be cautious about attaching the Jungle Gym XT to it, as it may shift during use.

Adjustable Dumbbell Weight Set offers significant benefits for exercises, particularly in terms of coordination and exercise variety. Dumbbells move independently and require each arm to stabilize the weight, which can promote balanced muscle development and enhance coordination.  Additionally, dumbbells provide a vast range of exercise possibilities. The versatility  of dumbbells allows for a comprehensive workout making them an essential tool for diverse and effective training routines. 

From my experience, depending on your fitness level and any injuries, increasing dumbbell weight by 5 pounds may be too much. If you have the space and resources, consider investing in a dumbbell set that increases in 2.5-pound increments.

Adjustable Weight Training Bench is the next piece of equipment to add to your home gym. A good adjustable bench will allow for a wide variety of strength training exercises. The bench should feature an adjustable backrest that can be set to flat, incline, or decline positions. 

The next step is a bigger commitment in space and money and that would be the addition of barbells, plates, a half rack or a  power rack. 

A Power Rack, also known as a squat rack or power cage, is a versatile piece of exercise equipment designed for strength training and weightlifting. Constructed with a sturdy steel frame, it features two to four vertical posts connected by horizontal bars, creating a secure and stable structure. They can be freestanding or wall mounted. The power rack includes adjustable safety bars and J-hooks that allow users to perform a variety of barbell exercises, such as squats, bench presses, deadlifts, and overhead presses, with added safety and support. Many power racks also come with additional attachments like pull-up bars, dip stations, pulley attachments and weight storage pegs.

Medicine Balls/ Slam Balls come in various types, each designed for specific training purposes: Dynamax, slam balls, and rubber medicine balls, each described below.

Dynamax Medicine Balls: These are soft, oversized balls typically made from durable vinyl and filled with a mixture of materials that allow them to maintain their shape. They are designed for high-intensity training, including throws, catches, and partner exercises. Their cushioned exterior makes them ideal for safely absorbing impact during exercises like wall balls or rotational throws.

Slam Balls: These are rugged, dense balls designed to withstand high-impact activities like slamming onto the ground. Made from thick, rubberized material and filled with sand or gel, slam balls do not bounce and are perfect for explosive exercises aimed at developing power and strength. Their non-bouncing nature ensures that the force of the slam is absorbed, protecting the floor and the ball itself.

Rubber Medicine Balls: These versatile balls are usually made from solid rubber, providing a durable and resilient surface. They come in various weights and sizes and are suitable for a wide range of exercises, from traditional medicine ball workouts to core training and plyometrics. Unlike slam balls, some rubber medicine balls can bounce, making them useful for rebounding exercises and dynamic movements.

Stability (Swiss) Ball: This is a versatile piece of fitness equipment made from durable, burst-resistant rubber. Typically ranging in diameter from 55 to 75 centimeters, the Swiss ball can support various body weights and sizes. Common uses include core workouts, stretching, balance training, and rehabilitation exercises. The Swiss ball can also be used as a support tool for exercises such as push-ups, sit-ups, and back extensions, making it an essential addition to any home gym.

Smart gym - TONAL: This is a rather expensive option but it is also very popular. ​​Tonal is an innovative, wall-mounted home gym system that utilizes digital weight and electromagnetic resistance to provide a comprehensive strength training experience. It features a sleek touchscreen interface and adjustable arms that allow users to perform a wide variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups. Tonal offers personalized workout programs and real-time feedback, using advanced technology to track progress and adapt resistance based on the user's performance. Additionally, Tonal requires a monthly subscription that provides access to a wide range of guided workouts, interactive coaching, and ongoing software updates. This all-in-one fitness solution combines strength training with interactive coaching, making it an efficient and effective tool for achieving fitness goals from the comfort of home.

Creating the Environment

Good flooring, Lighting and ventilation will make your space more comfortable and more likely to be used constantly. Time x consistency = RESULTS!

A few additional thoughts would be flooring, lighting and ventilation. 

Flooring: I would recommend a good rubber flooring with interlocking sides. I used American Floor Mats Fit-Lock 3/8 Inch Heavy Duty Rubber Flooring - Interlocking Rubber Tiles (24" x 24" Tile). They have served my home gym well. I do not recommend “horse stable mats,” as they can smell and they move apart, becoming a nuisance.

Lighting: A well lit home gym garage contributes to a safer, more enjoyable, and productive workout experience.

Fans: Here in AZ, having good ventilation is huge for being consistent during our hot summers. I have 2 Big ASS Fans and they WORK!!!! Do not cheap out on ventilation!