The Best Home Gym Equipment for Your Fitness Routine

You can always get in the shape that you desire. Here’s a list of the best home gym equipment for 2023, most smart or connected to the internet.

Are you trying to change some bad habits in 2023? You can start changing your life at any time. Once you have a goal, you only need the equipment to achieve it. A home gym is the answer.

You can create an area in your home dedicated to a gym. It’s a good investment. You can also squeeze in some weight or cardio training to break up your hours at home. You can live, work and exercise without ever leaving home.

We’ve compiled a list of the best fitness equipment available, including many intelligent and internet-connected items. We have also included some accessories to help you build your home gym using traditional and innovative methods.

Peloton Bike

pros & cons

pros

• Brand recognition is a must.
• The best and most popular workouts are live classes and on-demand activities.
• A solid, minimalistic design that defines an entire category

Cons

• It’s costly
• The features of Connected are minimal without a subscription

Features:

• Large touchscreen display
• The seat and handlebars can be adjusted

Would we begin this guide with something else? The indoor spin bike from Peloton has adjustable handlebars, a seat that can be adjusted, and a 21-inch touchscreen. The display lets you participate in live and on-demand cycling classes at home. This feature costs $24 extra per month. Peloton offers a variety of workouts, such as yoga, boot camp, running, stretching, and meditation.

The Peloton exercise bike is perfect for anyone who loves to cycle or wants the latest, trendiest fitness equipment. It’s also great for people of all fitness levels. So, even if you are a complete beginner, you will be able to burn tons of calories and get a full-body workout in no time. It’s easy to start any workout routine using your intelligent home gym without scheduling live classes or hiring a personal trainer. You can work out in your Peloton community and even match the tempo. No studio is required.

Bowflex VeloCore

pros & cons

pros

• Leaning Mode adds core muscle to workouts and increases immersion.
• The first year of service required and the free weights are both covered
• The armband includes Bluetooth HR technology to track off-bike activities.
• After the first year, the JRNY app costs $19.99 per month.

Cons

• The screen resolution isn’t relatively as high as Peloton
• Virtual and on-demand rides only. No live workouts.
• There are fewer workouts available and fewer types of exercises than competing services such as Peloton or Echelon.

Features:

• 22-inch screen
• Turning side to side is a simulation.
• Classes led by trainers are available.

The VeloCore is an excellent alternative to Peloton, especially if it has a 22-inch display. The VeloCore is a superb option if you want to buy a Peloton competitor and enjoy a more virtual reality experience.

The bike’s chassis tilts to the left and right during workouts to simulate turning. The realistic leaning adds an extra fitness benefit, activating your abs and muscles that would otherwise be dormant during a stationary bike ride. The bike has magnetic resistance, looks great, and supports clip-in and regular shoes.

Bowflex JRNY is the platform that comes with VeloCore. It offers virtual coach classes, both recorded and trainer-led. You can also stream radio stations and enjoy a scenic virtual ride. It also allows you to sign in to streaming services like Amazon, Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+. JRNY can even sync ride data to other apps like Peloton.

Bowflex Treadmill 22

pros & cons

pros

• Commercial-grade build quality
• Streaming content is available on the tablet.
• Built-in streaming to keep boredom at bay

Cons

• Prices are high
• It occupies a large amount of floor space
• JRNY subscription is required for all connected running programs

Features:

• 22-inch display
• Exercises that are adapted to your abilities
• Up to 20% Discount on Offers

Although Peloton is still the leader in the connected stationary bicycle market, its forays into treadmills have met with mixed results. Other established manufacturers have developed products that offer all the features of the Peloton Tread and more.

Bowflex Treadmill 22, for example, is the first. The unit has a 22-inch screen, which is as large as its name suggests. This gives it much more space to show the vast library of adaptive and on-demand workouts available via the JRNY App. This unit also allows runners who need a distraction to watch content from Netflix or Disney+.

The Tread 22 treadmill is an excellent choice from a hardware and construction standpoint. It offers a maximum weight of 400 pounds and a top speed of up to 12MPH.

NordicTrack X32i

pros & cons

pros

• The 40% incline is a great way to simulate mountain hiking and support HIIT workouts.
• The 4.25 HP motor is the most powerful one we’ve ever seen
• Virtual running experience on a massive screen

Cons

• The cost of buying a car is very high
• It needs a large floor area
• The iFit is only included for one month, while cheaper models have a full year.

Features:

• As much as 40% slope
• Built-in Bluetooth
• Reflex Cushioning

The NordicTrack X32i treadmill, priced at almost $4,500, must be the best in the industry. It does this in nearly every aspect. This unit is packed with features. It has one of the giant touchscreens ever seen on a fitness machine, offering an almost ridiculous 40% incline.

This unit has comfort features such as NordicTrack Reflex Cushioning and Bluetooth connectivity for your favorite headphones, albeit a pricey package.

Hydrow

pros & cons

pros

• Workouts on demand and live with real trainers in real watercraft
• Comparatively light and easy to transport compared to the larger machines in this list
• Strava supports tracking fitness goals, heart rates, etc.

Cons

• No support is needed for rowing exercises.
• It occupies a large amount of floor space.

Features:

• 22-inch HD Screen
• Test your core for electromagnetic resistance
• Subscribe to On-Demand and Live Workouts

Indoor rowing can significantly increase your upper body strength and improve your core while achieving high-intensity, low-impact cardio. This incredible, holistic workout gets less attention than cycling or running.

The Hydrow smart rower is high-end. The Hydrow smart rower features a 22″ full HD screen with electromagnetic resistance, adjustable pedals, a cushioned chair, and a 22″ full HD display. The device also comes with a subscription of $38 per month (or $456 a year), which offers live and on-demand workouts, including classes taught by “Olympians” and “world-class rowers.” A single membership is suitable for the entire family. This allows multiple household members to use the device and the companion app.

NordicTrack RW900 rower

pros & cons

pros

• Folds for easy storage
• Hydrow is cheaper than Hydrow and has similar build quality
• The companion iFit platform provides comprehensive fitness content for all other exercises

Cons

• Hydrow
• iFit requires a subscription to use the most advanced features

Features:

• Compatible with iFit
• 22-inch HD Screen
• There are 26 levels of resistance.

The NordicTrack RW900 is less expensive than the Hydrow rower and has almost as many positive reviews. It also works with the iFit Platform, which can be used with other exercise equipment, unlike Hydrow’s service and app. It only supports 250 pounds, while the Hydrow can support 375.

NordicTrack remains a well-known brand. The RW900 rower has a 22″ HD screen that allows access to iFit Live and on-demand classes. The rowing machine offers 26 digital resistance settings, a flywheel with inertia enhancement, pivoting foot pedals, and foldable.

Mirror

pros & cons

pros

• No floor space required
• Live trainers offer a unique experience that most machines cannot match.
• The minimalist design is suitable for any bedroom or home fitness facility.

Cons

• Some supported exercise programs require additional equipment
• Installation of this equipment is more complicated than the other listed items
• The live trainer and webcam connected to it could be a greater privacy risk for some than a feature.

Features:

• Displays stats on a 43-inch LCD
• It doesn’t take up any floor space
• Exercises of all types are available

The machines in this list can offer live and on-demand fitness classes. However, they take up much floor space and submit only one type of mechanized workout. The Mirror is an excellent option if you want something more discreet that fits in a small room or focuses solely on free weights and bodyweight exercises.

It is a full-length, literal mirror with a 43″ LCD screen that displays stats and other content. The Mirror is hidden behind a reflective cover, which you can use to monitor your form when taking on-demand and live fitness classes (membership required at $39 per month). Types are available for many activities, such as yoga and strength training. They also have varying lengths and fitness levels.

This service offers personal training with your trainer, who can use the camera to interact and provide feedback in real-time. The Mirror also has six fitness bands and a Bluetooth heart rate monitor.

Tonal

pros & cons

pros

• Compact alternatives to large, weight-based home gymnasiums
• Supports various traditional weight-training exercises
• Weight changes can be made by using the on-handle controls without having to drop them

Cons

• Weights and resistance devices are expensive to replace
• Membership is $49 per month.
• Installing a built-in resistance system requires a professional, sturdy installation.

more details

Features:

• Resistance of 200 pounds
• Exercises guided by real-time feedback
• Flexible arms are ideal for a variety of lifting exercises

Mirror’s design is similar to Tonal’s. This device, however, includes a resistance weight machine in its construction, identical to the one that guides how to use bodyweight and free-weight exercise. Dual arms on the unit provide digital weights that can be controlled by either the user or workout programs and coaching.

Tonal’s highly adjustable arms can offer up to 200 pounds in resistance for a wide range of lifting exercises. The unit provides a complete home gym experience, including guided workouts, feedback in real-time, and resistance adjustments on the fly.

Tempo Studio

pros & cons

pros

• The compact design is a one-stop shop for bodyweight and free weight exercises.
• Simple setup and clear color coding allow you to change your routine quickly.
• The freestanding unit doesn’t require professional installation
• The AI built-in can correct destructive forms and improve workout efficiency

Cons

• It occupies more space than wall-mounted alternatives
• Full functionality still requires a $39/month subscription

more details

Features:

• 42-inch HD touchscreen
• Free weights equipment storage
• Simple installation

Tempo Studio is a new take on “home gyms in mirrors,” focusing on free weight exercise. The 42-inch HD touchscreen displays 16 plates, four of each weight (1.2 lbs, 2.5 lbs, 5 lb, 10 lb) and 75 pounds. The set includes two dumbbells weighing 7.5 pounds and a barbell weighing 25 pounds, along with collars to lock the plates in place.

A foam roller, a workout pad, and a heart-rate monitor are also included as bonus accessories. Tempo is a piece of intelligent exercise equipment that allows you to take live or on-demand classes. It costs $39 per month. The workouts can range from interval training with high intensity to strength training. The built-in camera and AI also watch your activity to give you tips and feedback on form and progress.

FightCamp

pros & cons

pros

• Low cost of purchase if you own a heavy bag
• Boxing is a great way to relieve stress at home or the gym.
• A monthly subscription includes optional live and in-person coaching services.

Cons

• You must provide a mobile phone to use the full functionality
• Hand wraps will need to be replaced periodically

more details

Features:

• Buy tackers in a bag or as a package
• Sensors measure the intensity of a hit
• Subscribe to Class and Get a Free Class

FightCamp boxing bag allows you to work out your aggression or unleash your inner Rocky while getting in some cardio.

Sensors are integrated into the boxing gloves that users wear. FightCamp can track in real-time how many punches and hard you are hitting. The platform also offers long-term tracking to see where your form is lacking and how to improve it.

The FightCamp base package costs $99. This includes all the required sensors and wraps. The cost of the package increases to $499 when you add a punching bag that stands alone. FightCamp classes are included in a $39 per month subscription. For that price, you can access hundreds of boxing sessions on demand with guided techniques. You’ll need to connect the sensor data to your TV or mobile device since there is no screen.

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9.

pros & cons

pros

• Strides is a high-level adjustable product that feels right for all users
• The workout fan simulates breezes to keep your cool
• Bluetooth compatibility allows you to pair your favorite earbuds with the included Bluetooth device

Cons

• The screen is too small to be immersive
• The “total body” courses of iFit are challenging to use with a stationary screen

more details

Features:

• 14-inch touchscreen
• Adjustable stride length
• Compatible with iFit

NordicTrack Commercial 14.9. This elliptical is often rated as the best in its class. The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9 features an adjustable stride, a color touchscreen of 14 inches, oversized, cushioned pedals, auto-adjustment capability, and Bluetooth compatibility—Flywheel magnetic resistance of 32 pounds results in quiet and smooth movements.

The elliptical machine is fully integrated with iFit. You can access elite personal trainers and do guided workouts that take you through the terrain of places such as the Canary Islands. The simulation automatically adjusts the resistance and incline on your machine.

The NordicTrack Commercial 14.9. comes with a free month of iFit. After that, it costs $180 per year for an individual plan. It’s $39 a month for a Family Plan or $396 a year for a Full Year of the Family Plan (iFit does not offer a monthly subscription to the individual plan).

NordicTrack FS10i

pros & cons

pros

• Another machine cannot replicate the unique stride motion
• It offers some of the most diverse exercises in a single unit
• Virtual runs can be more realistic with automated incline and Resistance adjustments

Cons

• The range of adjustment for the stride is narrow
• The hybrid design requires a lot of floor space
• The screen is smaller than other machines of similar price.

more details

Features:

• Combination of ellipticals, treadmills, and steppers into one machine
• Bluetooth technology
• 10-inch touchscreen

NordicTrack FS10i has been described as a “FreeStride Trainer.” The elliptical trainer uses a similar motion, but the unique mechanism allows for a hybridized workout. NordicTrack says it can replace an elliptical trainer, a stepper, and a treadmill. With adjustable stride and incline, you can choose from various activities.

This model is a low-impact piece of fitness equipment for your home that will help you keep fit without putting stress on your joints. The unusual mechanism is not cheap, but you also get a 10-inch HD screen, Bluetooth connectivity, and connectivity to the iFit platform for live and on-demand classes.

Bowflex M8

pros & cons

pros

• It provides a low-impact workout similar to an elliptical but takes up less space.
• Track heart rate using the built-in handles and Bluetooth-compatible devices
• The stepper/elliptical offers a complete workout that is more effective than a treadmill or bike

Cons

• It is expensive for a machine that does not have a large display built in for the classes
• Assembly is quite extensive

Features:

• 20 Resistance Levels
• Built-in device holder
• Subscribe to access live and on-demand workouts

The Bowflex M8 max trainer combines a classic stair stepper climb with the smooth stride of an elliptical. This sturdy machine offers 20 resistance settings and grips tracking heart rate. With a JRNY subscription, priced at $19.99 per month, you can access live and on-demand workouts, where the trainer will adjust your resistance automatically and other variables.

If you want a dynamic, high-tech stair stepper with virtual classes, this is the machine you need. It’s also compact and offers access to a variety of high-tech features. The machine also comes with a device holder, which allows you to use your smartphone or tablet while using the backlit display of its built-in screen for other metrics.

What is the best machine for home exercise?

The Peloton Bike is my pick for the best home gym equipment. The indoor spin bike features an adjustable handlebar and seat design and a 21-inch touchscreen for creating customized workouts or joining live Peloton classes. The companion app supplements your cardio workout with mindfulness and meditation exercises, yoga, and strength training.

What home gym equipment should you purchase?

Our list includes 13 items, but there are also alternate options that you can consider. Consider your budget, available space, and what type of exercise you prefer before purchasing.

We’d recommend a cardio machine like an indoor bike or a treadmill as a minimum. However, you can also choose a specialty machine to increase your heart rate differently. Mirror offers at-home training, while Tempo Studio and Tonal help to strengthen your muscles. Setting goals and then using this list to find products that meet those goals within your budget is essential.

How did we select these exercise machines?

This buyer’s guide is the result of hours of research. We have also used and owned several machines, accessories, and other products we’ve mentioned. And we read reviews on CNET, our sister site. We also scoured the web to find the best prices and hear customers’ thoughts.

Making a “best list” is impossible, but we are confident that our choices are the best and most cost-effective. These products cover a wide range of needs, wants, and various price points. All of the products we selected are also highly rated on Amazon and other sites.

Why should you purchase home gym equipment?

After discussing the leading equipment you can buy, it’s time to talk about accessories. These products will transform your gym into a fully-fledged workout area. These products are optional. Still, they can be handy for those who want to work out their bodies without bulky equipment.

• Black Mountain set: Black Mountain $30 at Black Mountain
• Yoga mat: Manduka Pro for $112 
• Suspension Training System: TRX only $180
• Buy a high-density roller for just $9.
• Yes4All kettlebells start at $40
• Citybirds: Pull-up bar station for only $200 
• Bowflex SelectTech at $449 Bowflex
• Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable dumbbells for $429 at Bowflex
• Crossrope set: Jump Rope Set for $119 
• BalanceForm mats start at $53
• CenturyOriginal Punching Bag
• Fitness tracker – Fitbit Versa 3, $148

Start with a yoga or fitness mat to create a home gym. Then, you can purchase a dumb exercise kit that includes resistance bands, jump ropes, or punching bags. Get a roller for sore muscles and a fitness tracker, like Version 3, to track your fitness.

Your priorities will depend on the machine you choose. You can get a great workout with the items in this section. It will take more effort on your part to find and track activities. For some athletes, the extra challenge may be appealing.

Does it make sense to join a gym alone?

According to our sister website Healthline, the average cost per month of gym membership in the United States is $58. This can add up to over $20,000 in 30 years (not including inflation). A home gym can be an excellent investment if you are serious about changing your life and improving your health.

You will only save a little money if you buy all the products and machines we feature. You will not only save time by not having to commute to the gym, but you will also gain the convenience of working out when you choose, how you like and wearing what you please. We understand that cost is essential, but it shouldn’t be the only one. We’ve provided a variety of options at different price points. You can buy as much or little as possible based on personal goals and commitments.

What are the advantages of a home fitness center?

A home gym has many benefits. The convenience of working out at home is one of them. The gym may only be open sometimes, as the pandemic taught us. You can access your home gym anytime to set up a routine and exercise when it suits you.

A home gym is convenient, but it also offers privacy. You can work out the way that is most comfortable for you.

A home gym can also save you money over time. You can get more value from your home gym if you use it often and work out regularly.

How often should gym equipment be serviced?

Regularly service your gym equipment, as broken equipment harms your health and safety. Check your gym equipment at least once a week for proper functioning. If you notice a problem, contact the manufacturer to determine the required maintenance.

What is the best floor for a home-based gym?

It depends on the situation. A fitness mat will provide extra protection to hardwood floors and other surfaces that are easily scratched.

A fitness or yoga mat will be ideal for free weight exercises, yoga, and bodyweight resistance when standing on the floor. Snap-together foam and rubber panels are inexpensive and protect your joints and bed.

FAQs