A home gym is a pretty loose term, if you ask me.
For some, it’s a Peloton pushed into the corner of a studio apartment. For others, it’s a full-blown mini gym taking up the entire two-car garage. And for busy moms like me, it’s often as simple as a yoga mat and a stack of weights that you can hide under the bed if you’re in a hurry.
Yet, no matter what yours looks like, it still gets the job done. Many fitness experts agree that creating a home gym can have a positive effect on an individual’s overall mental and physical health.
“Working out from home is a great way to get back into movement because it removes so many of the common barriers, like feeling intimidated at the gym, not knowing what to wear or what equipment to use, or struggling to find time,” shared Your Reformer founder and pilates instructor, Emma Stallworthy.
The Mayo Clinic has recommended that adults get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity every day. But, according to Stallworthy, even a small amount of time spent moving can make a big difference.
“Not everyone can do a full hour-long workout class, so home workouts offer flexibility and a low-pressure environment, and studies show even 20 minutes can be impactful. You can build consistency and progress at your own pace, in a way that fits your life,” she suggested.
- Best Workout Bundle: Pvolve Home Workout Bundle
- Best Smart Gym: AEKE K1 Smart Home Gym System
- Best Dumbbells: Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best Walking Pad: MERACH T14 Walking Pad
- Best Running Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 9 Womens Shoes
- Best Pilates Equipment: Your Reformer Pilates Prop Kit for Home Workouts
- Best Massage Gun: TheraGun Therabody Mini by Therabody
- Best Fitness Tracker: Apple Watch Series 10
As a health and wellness writer, I’ve had the opportunity to put some of the most popular fitness items to the test — from the month I spent wearing two fitness trackers to the weeks I devoted to Jennifer Aniston’s workout program. Of course, there’ve been small-scale items in the mix as well, from booty bands and balls to foam rollers, yoga blocks, and more.
Naturally, many of us turn to one destination for all our home gym essentials. Amazon is filled with all sorts of interesting fitness finds, from treadmills and rowing machines to smart scales and weight sets. If you’re looking to kickstart your fitness journey in the best way possible, they’re really the online store to know.
Ahead, I’ve rounded up some of my favorite affordable home gym essentials. There’s something on this list for everyone, whether you’re a beginner to running, a seasoned yogi, or trying to hunt for some great fitness deals, our curated edit is for you.
Shop this article by category:
- Best Workout Equipment | Best Smart Gym Equipment | Best Workout Machines | Best Workout Equipment for Traveling | Best Recovery Tools | Best Fitness Trackers and Devices | Best Workout Clothing | Best Workout Accessories
Best Workout Equipment
Best Workout Bundle: Pvolve Home Workout Bundle
Pros:
- Felt far less pressure on my joints than in typical workouts
- The mat and equipment are all compact and easy to move and clean up (ideal for small apartments)
- Less soreness and overall pain than typical workouts, while still seeing results
Cons:
- Learning how to put on the equipment (specifically the P. band) can be a bit of a challenge
You could easily spend hours searching for all the workout equipment you need. Or, you could snag a whole bundle that’s already A-lister approved. The latter is the offer from Pvolve, a more gentle workout method that Jennifer Aniston has given her stamp of approval. After using the Pvolve bundle and following the workouts for a few months, I’ve become a major fan myself.
Believe it or not, HITT classes are not the only way to get fit fast. The Pvolve method puts this idea into question, taking you through a variety of low-impact movements that mimic motions we do every day — like stretching, balancing, crunching, and leaning. There are classes for every goal — from pelvic floor strengthening to mindfulness, and full-body sculpting.
After each workout, my core is on fire. Like hurts to laugh, on fire. However, the exhaustion and soreness I used to experience with typical classes never hit me. It can take some time to get used to the equipment, but once you get the flow down, Pvolve is it. For anyone who wants to work out from home, I strongly recommend it.
More Workout Equipment
If you’re a serious lifter, you may be interested in this option from Bowflex. Each dumbbell can be adjusted to 52.5 pounds and is equipped with a storage rack. A 2-month JRNY Mobile-Only Membership is included, too, which will give users access to motion tracking — good form is everything!
Commerce Updates Editor, Holly J Coley, loves this ball for basic home workouts. She says it helps her keep her form while pumping out sit-ups or Russian twists. If she’s super ambitious, she adds in some lower leg raises with the ball between her ankles.
“Allegedly, some people like to use it instead of a chair, but that’s a little ‘extra’ for me,” she noted. “It’s way more comfortable than lying on my hardwood floor and forces me to keep proper form.”
A kettlebell that does the job of six kettlebells? This handy piece of equipment feels like a no-brainer, considering it easily adjusts from 8 to 40 pounds and takes up minimal room. We’ve put it through various exercises and can confirm — it’s durable, ergonomic, and versatile enough that you can easily switch between movements. Plus, users can enjoy a two-month free trial of the JRNY app, which gives you access to trainers that help you get the most out of your home workouts.
Best Smart Gym Equipment
Best Smart Gym: AEKE K1 Smart Home Gym System
Pros:
- The system covers everything you need for full-body workouts and the sleek, space-saving design blends in without cluttering
- AEKE K1 provides a 6D body assessment to identify potential physical imbalances and limitations, and creates personalized plans based on the report
- Includes “Smart Weight Recommendation,” which automatically reduces the weight load if needed
- No subscription fees (unlike some competitors that charge monthly fees)
Cons:
- AEKE K1 offers up to 220 pounds of digital resistance, which may be limiting for extreme weightlifters
- Some users have reported minor software quirks, such as occasional lags during tutorials
Introducing AEKE K1, the sleek all-in-one home gym system that brings elite personal training into your home. Centered around a sturdy yet sophisticated folding fitness mirror, AEKE K1 is designed to elevate your space rather than clutter it like traditional, bulky home gym equipment. The high-end design isn’t just built for aesthetics; it’s powered by adaptive technology that’s meant to optimize your performance.
Utilizing advanced AI, a bright 4K UHD interface, smart safety features and 2.1 Hi-Fi sound system, AEKE K1 provides smart workout adjustments and live feedback to help users meet their goals and customize their routine from day one. The journey begins with a 6D body assessment, measuring body composition, cardio capacity, posture, flexibility and other key health data.
From there, AEKE K1 users enjoy personalized workout plans, interactive fitness games for the whole family and full-body workouts with zero subscription fees. It coaches you through your regimen, providing corrections within 0.5 seconds and automated analyses of your progress — so you can keep yourself in check. While it retails at a premium price point, users argue that the adaptive technology and space-saving design make this smart gym a worthy long-term health investment.
More Smart gym equipment
Level up your jump rope game with high-energy games and exciting challenges geared to help you reach goals. With a high-precision nine-axis gyroscope, this smart jump rope accurately detects every jump and captures movement trajectories in real time for fluid motion feedback.
Sure, planking can be boring, but have you tried the Stealth? This is the groundbreaking video game integrated core trainer. The machine carefully calibrates with your phone’s motion detector to recognize every movement you make into gameplay actions on the screen of your smartphone.
Best Workout Machines
Best Walking Pad: MERACH T14 Walking Pad
Pros:
- Wider speed range and more incline options
- Comes with an LED display
- Pairs via Bluetooth with the Merarch fitness app, offering coaching and classes
- Shock-absorbing belt to help support the joints
Cons:
- Less compact than some other under-desk models (may stick out from under a desk, per testing)
Home gym? What about, office gym? If you’re a serious multitasker, an under-desk treadmill might be just what you need. Promising more power, the Merarch is a bit bulkier than the other treadmills we tested, but still small enough to slide under a desk with just a touch of its tail sticking out. It offers a challenging 9% incline and reaches up to 4 MPH, so you can work up a little sweat while punching away at the keyboard, if you’re into that.
Once it was out of the box, setup was simple. I plugged it into the wall, pressed the red power button, and downloaded the Merarch app, which connected via Bluetooth in seconds. From there, I was able to explore different activity data and even access coaching and competitions. This is certainly a strong selling point for someone who takes their walking seriously.
It’s not just a walking pad, but a smart walking pad, and if you commit to using it, you can track your progress and watch it pay off. We were quite impressed with its performance, especially the fact that it offers a 9% incline. I felt the heat rising after a few minutes, and that was just on 6%. Dedicated power-walkers will appreciate the challenge.
More Workout Machines
For a heart-pounding, authentic cycle experience, hop on the original Peloton bike. Its compact design makes it ideal for those with a small space, plus it comes with lots of bells and whistles. Along with having a tilting seat (perfect for pretending you’re racing downhill), it has a large touchscreen to follow live classes and workouts.
Don’t let bad weather ruin your workout. The NordicTrack T Series folds (a must for those who live in an apartment), offers automatic incline, and has a wide enough belt for comfortable running and power-walking.
“I refuse to let New York winters mess up my workout routine, so I’ve always kept some exercise equipment in my home for snow days,” Coley said.”The NordiTrack T Series 6.5 treadmill was well worth the splurge — and honestly, it wasn’t much of an investment compared to other treadmills of similar quality.”
Whether you’re just entering the weight room or have been living in the gym for a while, the JX Fitness Home Gym is designed for a range of different exercises that can be tailored to your specific fitness goals. It comes with a long bar, a 148-pound weight stack, adjustable leg exercise pedal and backrest cushion, kick bar, ankle strap, short bar, and more!
If you’re on a hybrid work schedule but still want to get exercise throughout the day, you’ll love this under-desk elliptical machine. The best-selling GUGTTR Elliptical Machine has both manual and auto modes with 12-level speeds. It’s also accessible, with two remotes for changing modes. It’s also good for seniors who don’t want to bend over, plus it’s lightweight and portable.
Rowing machines can take up quite a bit of room, which is why this foldable design is an ideal choice if you’re short on space. Its flywheel design is quiet (good if you want to work out without waking the house), while caster wheels on the front make transport a breeze. The performance monitor has a USB port to store workout data, so you can see how you’re doing week after week!
Best Workout Equipment for Traveling
Best Pilates Equipment: Your Reformer Pilates Prop Kit for Home Workouts
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to pack away or travel with
- Versatile enough to use for many toning movements and lower-impact exercises
- Solid, durable material with a sleek finish
Cons:
- Better suited for lower-impact workouts
We’re all eager to jump on the reformer, but floor pilates is also a core-buster, and you can take your sweat session just about anywhere with the right equipment. If you’re traveling, reach for smaller, packable items that can still get you that desirable burn. Pilates props are a great place to start.
The Prop Kit by Your Reformer is a personal favorite, suitable for beginners and more experienced users alike. It’s durable and light enough to throw into a carry-on, but still sleek enough that everyone will be asking you where it’s from. Don’t worry, this set definitely won’t dampen your aesthetic.
Between the 2.2-pound weights, ring, and ball, you can take yourself through various movements that target strength, flexibility, and balance. The props are all made with quality materials designed for durability, including polypropylene, fiberglass, and solid iron. It’s truly the ideal kit for the person who never wants to miss a workout.
More Workout Equipment for Traveling
Resistance bands can be intimidating to a newbie at the gym, but trust us, they’re worth it. These bands can be used to elevate almost any workout at the gym or at home, from barbells and pull-ups to squats and floor exercises. Reviews have also praised the band’s high-quality latex material and long-lasting elasticity. Available in 6 levels of tension, ranging from 2 to 150 pounds.
The wildly versatile and surprisingly stylish Bala Bangles became a quick hit after the brand made an appearance on Shark Tank.
Jaime Plumaker, a Junior Data Analyst at The Post and accomplished Cycling Instructor at AB Fitness, swears by the popular Bala Bangles: “Perfect for an at-home workout or bringing them to pilates classes. I like to wear them on my arms and ankles when I am walking to add an extra burn.”
With more than 16,000 reviews, the Sportneer Ankle Weight is a small but mighty fitness essential worth looking into. The weight is simple to adjust with its removable sandbags, and the velcro straps ensure a snug fit. This can be used for either ankles or arms and is the perfect addition to your workout routine.
Best Recovery Tools
Best Vibration Plate: Lifepro Waver Vibration Plate
Pros:
- Ideal for recovery and circulation, but also can be used as a workout tool (comes with bands)
- Remote-controlled
- 99 speed levels to choose from
- Small and easy to store under a bed or a couch
Cons:
- Some Amazon reviewers mentioned issues with the power cord fitting easily
There’s always a hot, new device circulating the internet, and vibration plates seem to be making waves on my TikTok feed. Yes, that’s right. A small, shaking platform that delivers full-body vibrations to enhance muscle contraction, improve circulation, and help your body’s natural healing abilities kick in. You can use it to work out or as a recovery tool, which makes it double the value, in my opinion.
All of these benefits sound amazing, to say the least. However, I did have some reservations at first. I’ve always thought that my foam roller did the trick for sore muscles, but little did I know that the Life Pro Waver was just what I had been missing. With 99 speed settings, I shouldn’t have been so surprised. This thing can literally sweep you off your feet. It works fast and has a full-body effect.
I’ve been using it after running, and found that the hardcore oscillation movement helps eliminate a lot of the tension I’ll feel around my joints (it’s also my secret to stress-reduction, but that’s another story). The second I step off this machine, I feel like a whole new person — as if my workout was just erased, and a new jolt of energy is unleashed.
More Recovery Tools
I’ve been addicted to saunaing for years, so when I had the chance to try out the HeatPod Sauna Blanket, I did not hesitate. This portable, infrared blanket managed to get me heated faster than the sauna stall at my gym, and by the time my 40-minute session was over, I was soaked in sweat and my muscles felt rejuvenated. It’s fast-acting, cleans with water and soap, and folds away for easy storage. I only wish I’d discovered this earlier.
Well-known on the internet and loved by our editors, the Theragun brand delivers powerful, percussive massage equipment that you can bring anywhere. It’s a smaller rendition of their best-selling design, and it’s scientifically backed to relieve everyday aches, pains, and tension.
“It has three different power settings, a long battery life, and a convenient case (and size) to take it on the go,” Sr. SEO Manager, Meaghan Roche explained. “The relief it provides is priceless. Pro tip:?give this as a gift to your partner, and you can both reap the benefits.”
I was introduced to this roller by a physical therapist, and they were not messing around. This roller is definitely of higher quality than some others, and you can tell by the sturdiness of the foam. The hollow core allows deeper compression, which ultimately feels a lot like a sports massage. For some, it may be on the firm side, but if you’re prone to tight muscles, you’ll want to give it a shot.
Immersing yourself in a cold plunge may not be for everyone. But, for those who are into it, you don’t have to journey to the cool waters of Amsterdam to get your plunge on. The Cold Pod is compact enough for the backyard or patio, is easy to transport, and can hold up to 116 gallons of liquid. It comes with a pump, drain hose, and also has eight legs for support, so even if you’re shivering up a storm, it should stay calm as an undisturbed sea.
Best Fitness Trackers and Devices
Best Fitness Tracker: Apple Watch Series 10
Pros:
- More advanced smart features (Siri, Apple Pay, App Store, Call/Texting)
- Easy to integrate with the iPhone and access to the entire Apple store is very convenient (user-friendly for more iPhone users)
- Different band and style options are available — easier to customize
Cons:
- Shorter battery life (between 18 and 36 hours)
- More basic fitness tracking (HR, ECG, blood oxygen, AI coaching)
- It can be difficult to put the watch on yourself
A smartwatch might be exactly what you need to commit to your new fitness regimen. Apple already boasts a family of advanced smartwatches, but the Series 10 takes a new focus on health and wellness. As the thinnest Apple Watch to date, the lightweight design makes it easy to wear day and night, no matter the activity. I took one for a spin for a few months and learned quite a bit about myself.
With watchOS 11, the new Vitals app provides users with all sorts of health markers, from heart rate to wrist temperature, sleep duration, and even period cycle tracking. Big-picture goals are also easier to achieve than ever — users can answer a few questions and receive a customized interval workout in an instant. That info can be used to track goals with the multi-color Activity Ring, which can be paused whenever a recovery day is needed.
Having all these health features at my disposal certainly helped me set new goals and follow through with them. But, the real selling point for me was that this watch is also a useful tool for everyday life. It’s great for multitaskers who want to send texts while power-walking or others who need to remember to take some deep breaths here and there. If you’re looking for a watch that integrates with your life, the Series 10 is it.
More fitness trackers and devices
An ultimate training companion, the rugged Garmin Forerunner 965 GPS Smartwatch delivers a full suite of cutting-edge training markers plus a side of smart features. Boasting a 1.4-inch AMOLED touchscreen display, the Forerunner is a popular pick for hardcore athletes and outdoor adventurers. It has health metrics for pulse tracking, heart rate, pulse, respiration, VO2, sleep, and recovery, providing plenty of insights that create a daily “Body Battery” score, which measures your energy reserves throughout the day.
Powered by AI, the device uses the camera to keep track of your reps and form, providing personal recommendations to help you improve. You’ll need to be a Peloton member to access it all, but we think it’s worth it, especially with the camera’s self-mode, which allows you to see yourself alongside virtual instructors to make sure you’re doing everything correctly.
If you’re hoping to form some better habits, getting a FitBit is a great place to start. This little watch offers automatic fitness tracking, a built-in GPS to navigate trails, as well as mindfulness sessions, and more smart features. The sleek, yet durable design offers seven days of battery and is water-resistant, so it’s ready for any adventure, no matter the conditions. Snag it now while it’s on sale.
We’ve all heard the saying, “Better safe than sorry,” which is why the She’s Birdie is on our list. If you’re unfamiliar, it’s a personal alarm system for when danger strikes on a run or walk. It may look sleek and unassuming, but its siren can go for 40 minutes straight, plus it also has a built-in strobe light.
Best Workout Clothing
Best Running Shoes: HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 9 Womens Shoes
Pros:
- Cushioned, responsive foam provides ultimate support
- Ideal for people with wide feet, per testing
- A variety of colors are available
Cons:
- Not the most sleek design, according to some reviewers
They’ve been dubbed ugly, and I’m not here to change anyone’s mind on that. The wildly popular Clifton 9’s are not the most attractive shoes I’ve ever sported, but they are the most-loved. My well-worn and marked-up pair proves that point. I’ve been running in these since college, and I still have no complaints.
Maybe I’m being a touch dramatic, but I’d argue that HOKA has fundamentally changed the running shoe industry. Previously, running shoes were focused on speed and distance, but fewer designs were built for people who need extra support — those with wide feet, ankle pain, or bad knees. HOKA Clifton 9s are ultra-cushioned, supportive, and durable enough to make it through rough winter terrain (minus some dirt markets, obviously).
The key feature of these shoes is an early-stage MetarRocker, which starts midfoot to create a smoother transition from heel to toe. The unique shape is said to help alleviate pressure on the knee and ankle. From years of running on them, I know it’s not all hype. These sneakers are the only shoes I can wear all day without pain. Everyone needs a pair of them.
More Workout Clothing
Grab. This. Right. Now. As one of our most-worn wardrobe staples in our workout drawer and a best-seller on Amazon, The Gym People has a seamless, comfortable, and attractive tank top with a built-in sports bra. For a bonus, its less-than-$25 price point makes it a great Amazon buy.
Nike is known for having some of the best running shoes on the market. With a sleek and lightweight design, the low-top sneaker is made to last in the gym and on the go. It’s equipped with a mesh fabric and a rubber sole for comfort during a long run. Available in 41 stylish colors and multiple sizes.
Roche owns several pairs of these Kyle Richards-loved leggings from Amazon, and loves the quality and value so much that she has stopped buying?leggings from traditional athleisure brands.
“For under $30, these leggings hold you in without losing their shape, offer seamless support with a high waistband, and most importantly, they’re not see-through,” shared Roche. “I find [them] to not only be flattering and soft, but also super functional as many pairs feature built-in pockets.”
Nike’s Dri-fit Crew Socks are a necessary addition in your fitness OOTD. The moisture-wicking cotton will keep your feet dry and comfortable during a sweaty session in the gym, sports game, or leisure time. Reviews also note that these Nike socks are great quality and long-lasting.
Best Workout Accessories
Best Waterbottle: BrüMate Era 40 oz Tumbler
Pros:
- Unique color options
- Magnetic straw cap
- Most leak-proof, per our spill test
Cons:
- The top of the straw is a bit shorter, which can be annoying for some people
Hydration is key. No workout is complete without a proper water bottle to assist. Stanley Tumblers just happen to be the buzziest brand out there, but I’m not convinced they’re the best. Yes, they’re huge and colorful, but according to our spill test, they may not be the best bottles to throw into your gym bag.
BrüMate, on the other hand, makes some extremely spill-proof tumblers for people who are on the go. The stainless steel bottles are built with unique magnetic straw caps and a locking feature to keep all the contents where they belong. The insulation is top-notch, too. I bring this bottle to hot yoga, and the water is still ice-cold by the time class is over.
On top of the fact that it’s so leak-proof and insulated, I also love the design of this water bottle. It’s smooth and curveless for a sleek, elevated look that you’ll be proud to carry around. Like the uber-popular Stanley, there are still plenty of colors to choose from. If you’re willing to spend a few more dollars, I highly recommend the BrüMate.
More Workout Accessories
Whether you’re looking to hit a new PR in the weight room or lower your mile time on the treadmill, it’s crucial to have a workout playlist for motivation. Thankfully, these Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) are sweat-resistant, equipped with silicone tips for different ear sizes, and have a long battery life — the trifecta for having a great workout.
If you’re on the hunt for a quality yoga mat, you can’t go wrong with the retailer’s namesake brand. For less than $25, enjoy its extra-thick design, assortment of colors, and no-slip construction. It also comes with an elastic strap. over-the-shoulder carrying, making it easy to take to travel with.
If you’re a hardcore athlete, a gym bag is essential to store your gear during training. The Adidas Duffel Bag has multiple pockets and a spacious interior for separating your equipment, making it a great option for sports games. It’s also made with water-resistant material and is equipped with a shoulder strap for easy carrying.
Seasoned runners understand the frustration of stuffed pockets. Luckily, this running vest has all the essential pockets to stow your phone, headphones, protein bar, hair ties, and more. Another great perk — this running vest is made with waterproof nylon fabric and weighs only 5.3 ounces, so it won’t hold you back from hitting your mileage goals.
Looking for a headline-worthy haul? Keep shopping Post Wanted.
Why Trust Post Wanted by the New York Post
This article was written by Miska Salemann, New York Post Commerce Writer/Reporter. As a health-forward member of Gen Z, Miska seeks out experts to weigh in on the benefits, safety and designs of both trending and tried-and-true fitness equipment, workout clothing, dietary supplements and more. Taking matters into her own hands, Miska intrepidly tests wellness products, ranging from Bryan Johnson’s Blueprint Longevity Mix to the viral Oura Ring to Jennifer Aniston’s favorite workout platform – often with her adorable toddler by her side. Before joining The Post, Miska covered lifestyle and consumer topics for the U.S. Sun and The Cannon Beach Gazette.