When you set up a home gym, you may be tempted to fill it with every piece of equipment imaginable. Consider that while big gyms may have the space to house all of this equipment, your training studio might not. To help guide you to decide what equipment is right for you and your goals, we’ve compiled this list of the most important pieces of gym equipment. Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily need everything on this list. But if you invest in these items for your home gym, your fitness will get a serious boost. So let’s start;
Training Bench
If you’re looking to build your weight training gym, you’ll need a top-quality training bench. Most benches are adjustable so that you can use them in various ways. You’ll also appreciate the padded surface and ergonomic design, which gives you optimal comfort when lifting heavyweights.
Dumbbell Set
Gyms are an investment, so be prepared to drop some cash. But if you’ll use it (i.e., if you work out regularly and will make good use of the equipment), the payoff will be huge — both in terms of actual results and your own personal satisfaction. Start by prioritizing the oversized items: They’re expensive, but they’re also essential equipment that will get daily use. This is probably your most important gym equipment purchase. Get a set of dumbbells, ranging from very light to very heavy, depending on who uses them. Dumbbells come in various sizes, shapes, and materials these days, from plastic-coated to colorful to straight metal, so take your pick. Get a set with a rack to save space.
Barbell Set
Barbell exercises are very effective for building strength and gaining muscle mass. Most of your major muscle groups can be exercised with a barbell, either directly or indirectly (for instance, squats work the quadriceps and buttocks through the bar’s weight). A solid set of barbells is vital for your gym.
Decide between the Olympic bar (a 55-pound bar) or a fixed or adjustable dumbbell set with a smaller bar. Use it to squat, bench press, lunge, row, or deadlift and shrug for variety. This weight set is built to last with removable plates for easy cleaning.
Pull-Up Frame and Bar
A pull-up bar is a must-have for any gym, and this one is simple yet sturdy.
Stationary Bicycle
Stationary bikes are a staple of nearly every exercise room, offering a low-impact way to get your heart rate elevated, improve your mobility and reduce your stress.
