Are you thinking about quitting the gym and switching to workouts at home? Curious about the essential gym equipment you’ll need? Let’s break it down for you.
If you’re already into fitness, you might want to consider getting a power rack or cage, especially if you’re on a budget. If you have more to spend, a multi-station setup could be ideal. A rack is generally sufficient for most people because it allows you to perform all the basic exercises when paired with a bench. Before you set up your home gym, checking out the best home gym equipment can be really helpful.
For those of you who are just starting, there are some basics you’ll need before investing in bigger pieces of equipment. Dumbbells and barbells are a must-have because they can be used in various positions—sitting, standing, or otherwise—without requiring much else.
A barbell is the most crucial piece of equipment for your home gym. It’s incredibly versatile and essential for a wide range of exercises. Right after barbells, dumbbells are also very important. They’re affordable, versatile, functional, and durable. While I initially started with dumbbells, I find barbells slightly more practical for heavy lifting.
Fixed dumbbells can make it challenging to increase weight gradually, which is essential for progress. In this case, adjustable dumbbells are a good alternative. Honestly, you could set up a decent home gym with just barbells or dumbbells.
If you have a little more budget to spare, adding a bench to your home gym can provide more exercise options and stability. In my early days, I used an inflatable ball, which was risky. A bench is a safer and more flexible investment if you’re ready to lift heavier weights.
With a cheap power cage, as long as you have weights and bars, you can cover the basic exercises. However, always be cautious and avoid lifting heavy weights alone. Safety should always come first.
The main benefit of having a home gym is the freedom it offers. You can work out without the distractions of a commercial gym—no people, no noise. It’s just you and the equipment. You can exercise whenever you want, wear whatever you like, and play your music without any judgment.
The only downside to a home gym is the lack of a spotter for those last few reps. So, always train smart and ensure you’re doing exercises safely. If you can’t perform a move safely, don’t do it.
Go ahead and start building the home gym you’ve always wanted.