We Found the Best At-Home Gym Equipment Pieces so You Can Build the Ultimate Workout Space

Nike’s Grind Dumbbell sets are ideal if you want an affordable way to test the waters of weight training. They’re user-friendly, look great in any space, and come in a variety of weight levels, from 2.5 to 50 pounds (lb) — even up to 75 lb on Nike’s site.

We love that they’re made with recycled rubber, a by-product of the Nike shoe manufacturing process. They also come in an easy-on-the-eyes speckle pattern that’s much more attractive than competitors’ products.

In my testing, I found that the dumbbells’ hexagonal shape kept them from rolling away when I set them down. The rounded edges also eliminate the possibility of painful contact during use. They also have great grips on the handles, so I never worry about them slipping. Plus, they look and feel durable. Just note that you’ll need to purchase multiple sets if you want to increase weight capacity.

We love the BowFlex adjustable dumbbells for their space-saving capabilities and versatility. They replace up to 15 individual sets of fixed weights and include a docking tray for storage. You can adjust weight levels in seconds with the turn of a dial, taking you from anywhere between 5 and 52.5 lb. So, while they are on the pricier end, you’re getting a complete set in one go.

“These dumbbells can be used by a wide range of fitness levels as they have a wide range of weights,” says editor Olivia Campbell. “It’s easy to adjust the mechanism to change how much weight is on the dumbbell, so it’s seamless to go from one user to another.”

Because the dumbbell’s length doesn’t change, no matter what weight you’re using, it can feel unwieldy during exercises like bicep curls. Our research also found that these can get slippery when your hands are wet from sweat, so you may want to apply chalk when using them.

For a starter kettlebell that won’t break the bank, we love Nike’s rubber-coated version. The coating helps protect your floor, while the powder-coated handle keeps it from slipping out of your hands. The large handle can accommodate a variety of hand sizes, too.

We love that it has the weight label on top so you can easily and quickly identify it. Plus, “the aesthetic of the product is neat,” says fellow fitness writer Brittany Scanniello. “I recommend this as a cool-looking kettlebell.” Of course, you’ll need to buy multiples if you want a variety of weight options to choose from.

BowFlex strikes again with this adjustable version that spans 8 to 40 lb and replaces six kettlebells, saving you space and hard-earned cash. Whether you’re doing presses, squats, or swings, these kettlebells replace the need for a full stack of gear. The adjustment dial makes it easy to switch weights in seconds.

“It’s great for ramping up your weight amount or for households where there are many members who are at different fitness levels, and you need to be able to quickly and easily adjust the weight amount,” Campbell says.

Keep in mind that if you’re used to lifting heavier loads, this set might not be for you. Additionally, some may find the handle thin, and it can become slippery when sweating, so use chalk with this product.

Just dipping your toes into the practice? The Your Reformer Prop Starter Kit includes all you need to get started: a ball, hand weights, and a ring to help you add resistance to Pilates moves easily with minimal investment.

“It is truly the essentials at a great price,” says writer Julia Childs Heyl. The tools in this kit force you to engage and stabilize your core, develop greater body awareness and balance, and engage your muscles with minimal joint stress. As a result, this kit is a great, safe option for at-home workouts.

But note that some competitors include more in their kits, such as grippy socks to keep you stable. Also, as you progress in your Pilates practice, you may find you want tools with more resistance. 

The BetterMe Pilates Essential Kit is worth the splurge if you want a compact kit including just about everything you need to set up your at-home Pilates practice. With a ring, resistance bands, loop bands, ball, and nonslip grip socks, you could be on your way to achieving the lean, long muscle tone this form of exercise is so well known for.

We love that it comes in pretty pastel colors like Raspberry Pink, Serenity Blue, and Chocolate Brown, giving you the mood boost you need to stay motivated. The kit is also compact and portable, perfect for keeping up with your practice while you travel.

Users regularly call the set durable and long-lasting. Just keep in mind that buying items individually could be potentially cheaper, and you’ll still need to buy a mat. But we think the ease and aesthetic value of buying a matching set is worthwhile.

If you’re not sure whether a walking pad is for you just yet, this budget-friendly option is a wise choice. For less than $200, you can get your steps in with a compact machine that offers shock protection for your joints, operates quietly (under 45 decibels), and features an LED screen to track calories burned, distance, speed, and workout duration.

At 4.5 inches high, 45 inches long, and 20 inches wide, it can easily slide under a couch or bed. We also like that you can operate it using a remote. That said, the device only reaches 3.8 miles per hour (mph), so it’s not meant for anything more than a brisk walk. But for the price, it’s a great buy.

The fixed incline ensures you don’t have to stop and fiddle with incline levels while using it, reducing the chances of injury. We love that the remote makes it simple to use, while the maximum 70 decibel noise level keeps it quiet, so you can take calls as you move.

With a max speed of 3 mph, you probably won’t increase your VO2 max much with this machine. The small size also means less room on the pad, so it may not be the best for taller users or those with long strides.

For less than $1,000, the WalkingPad Denise Austin 2.0 Foldable Treadmill is an impressive choice. While not technically a treadmill, it acts like one in many ways. It reaches up to 7.5 mph and has a large walking area that’s 17 inches wide and 47 inches long, making it comfortable and stable when hitting high speeds. You can use it for both walking and running.

We also love that it includes pop-up handlebars and has a stand to hold your tablet or phone. The LED display on the handlebars keeps you updated on your health stats. Finally, the machine folds down and has wheels to stow it away, so it’s perfect for smaller spaces.

Note that it lacks an incline option, and in our research, users found it semi-challenging to move around.

You’d be hard-pressed to find a better high-end option than the Echelon Stride-6 treadmill. Reaching high speeds of up to 12.5 mph, it has an impact-absorbing running belt, an ultra-quiet motor, 12 adjustable incline options, and Bluetooth syncing with the Echelon Fit app for health and performance tracking. For another $399 per year, you can also get gamified racing worlds, AI-powered insights, and other perks.

At 64 inches long and 32 inches wide, it won’t dominate your living space, while automatic folding and multidirectional wheels make it easy to move around. “It has a sleek design and fits in small spaces, making it great for a home gym,” says writer Grace Gallagher, who tested it out.

Just note that the treadmill doesn’t have downward incline options. The device also doesn’t have a screen for performance tracking.

Made from steel and capable of carrying up to 350 lb, the bike is solid, and it reaches only 20 decibels. Our research found that assembly is quick, too. It also offers 100 levels of resistance and features an adjustable seat and handlebars.

Finally, you can use it with an app that tracks performance stats and offers virtual races. Just note that the LCD screen is on the basic side, lacking metrics like heart rate monitoring.

If you’re ready to splurge on an exercise bike that feels just as solid as the ones at your favorite studio, the Sole SB1200 is a strong contender. Its 35-lb flywheel and magnetic resistance system create a smooth, steady, and quiet ride — perfect if you have roomies you don’t want to wake up with your early-morning workout.

The machine stands out for its versatility. You can stream Netflix or YouTube right on the console, or mirror your favorite cycling apps, like Peloton or Zwift, giving you the freedom to use whatever platform motivates you the most. The bike is backed by a lifetime warranty and is heavy-duty, with a 330-lb weight capacity.

It’s ergonomically designed with fully adjustable handlebars and seat, so you can dial in your exact fit. However, our research found the screen is smaller than competitors’ and the handlebars could use more padding.

If you’re new to rebounding, the BCAN 40" Foldable Mini Trampoline is a perfect entry-level trampoline. At under $200, it’s a modest investment, and the heavy-duty steel frame is sturdy enough to make you feel secure while you jump.

The adjustable foam handlebar offers the extra balance and support that beginners need and has four height settings (from about 2'6" up to 3'5"). We also love that it folds down easily to a quarter of its size. Note that the bounce can feel firm at first, so it may need a little breaking-in time.

Combine cardio, balance work, strength training, and core work with the versatile MXL Maximus Pro Folding Rebounder. More than just a trampoline, it has a balance bar to keep you steady and comes with resistance bands and sand weights for additional strength training and toning. These features allow you to perform bicep curls, chest presses, and shoulder raises while on an unstable surface, helping you develop your balance. You can use sand weights to add resistance while bouncing.

We love that your purchase gives you access to a library of online workouts that guide you through a variety of drills and exercises. We also love that it folds down, so you can safely tuck it away or potentially transport it.

However, our research found that learning to fold it up can be a challenge. It also weighs 22 lb, so it’s a bit heavy to carry around.

The Hovert 3D Vibration Plate features lateral, oscillating, and 3D vibration. It ups the ante with resistance and loop bands, so you can combine movement with vibration therapy for more benefits. We love the degree of precision you can gain with a full 99 speed levels. As a bonus, the machine is small and easy to transport.

“I cannot stress enough how amazing this piece of equipment is,” says writer Raki Swanson. “Everyone needs one of these in their life. They help with lymphatic drainage, they give you a workout … You can use them in such a variety of ways.” 

Just keep in mind that the device can get a little noisy. Also, this machine can produce high-intensity vibration, which may cause muscle fatigue as your body adjusts.

Working out can feel like a game with this fun and functional board that improves balance, boosts mobility, and develops core muscles. Use it as a stand-alone practice or to prep for your next snowboarding trip. The whole family can use it.

It takes up next to no space in your home office or gym. Plus, it’s high quality and built to last. “I like that it’s handcrafted with a lifetime warranty,” says writer Riley Blanton. “I think those aspects are awesome for a company to include, especially a small business.”