The Home Gym Starter's Guide

Hectic schedules and limited access to gyms can make following a consistent workout routine challenging. Amidst the daily travails of life, the COVID pandemic altered the fitness landscape significantly over the last few years, compelling people to switch from commercial gyms to home workouts during lockdowns and social distancing mandates. As a result, there has been a surge in demand for affordable and effective home gym equipment, especially on e-commerce platforms like Amazon. As a result, many people have turned to Amazon to find the best deals on fitness equipment and set up their home gym. This article will discuss the best affordable and highest-rated home strength and fitness equipment from Amazon to help you achieve your fitness goals without breaking the bank. All links are the top ranked and best-selling options. We have also included various programs that you can follow along with the privacy of your own home.

Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are versatile and affordable equipment with many different uses for strength training and rehabilitation exercises. These bands provide a variable and adjustable resistance. They come in various types, including loop bands (aka mini bands), tube bands, and figure-eight bands, each with specific advantages. The benefits of resistance bands include their portability, affordability, and versatility. They are easy to store, and you can take them anywhere, making them an excellent option for those who travel frequently or have limited space at home. Additionally, resistance bands can be used for a wide range of exercises and angles, making them a versatile option for strength training when you don't have much space. Lastly, you can hook them to doors and tie them to poles, rails, trees, or anything sturdy enough to support the resistance.

When it comes to purchasing resistance bands, Amazon offers a variety of affordable options, including the WODFitters Resistance Bands, Fit Simplify Resistance Bands, and Whatafit Resistance Bands Set. These sets come with multiple bands of varying resistance levels and can be used for a full-body workout.

To use resistance bands for strength training, start with a lower resistance level and gradually increase (progressive overload) as you build strength. Resistance bands allow performing most standard exercises, such as bicep curls, tricep extensions, squats, lunges, and more. In addition, they are a good option for less conventional exercises that you might see in a physical therapy clinic, such as crab walks or band pull-aparts, which can isolate weak muscle groups prone to injury, such as the rotator cuff. Such muscles often get neglected because the body tends to compensate. Athletes will often use them to activate these muscles during warm-ups. Targeting these areas makes resistance bands an excellent option for injury prevention. If you aren't sure how to use resistance bands safely and effectively, be sure to use the proper form and consult a fitness professional or physical therapist.

Pros:

Lightweight and portable

Versatile and can be used for a variety of exercises

Can be adjusted for different resistance levels

Affordable compared to other equipment

Cons:

Can break or snap if not used properly

Limited to a certain range of motion

Can be difficult to measure progression

Dumbbells

Dumbbells are a classic and essential piece of equipment for strength training, and they are a popular choice for those looking to set up a home gym. If you want to build strength or put on size progressively, they will take you beyond what resistance bands can provide. Dumbbells come in various styles and weight increments and are suitable for most exercises. Besides the general benefits of resistance training, dumbbells have many benefits, such as the ability to train muscle groups unilaterally. Unilateral exercise refers to exercises that target each side of the body separately. Training unilaterally can prevent imbalances from compensatory patterns and improve balance and stability. Additionally, dumbbells are relatively safe and easy to use for various workout programs.

When purchasing dumbbells, Amazon offers a wide range of options, including adjustable dumbbells such as the Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbells and the ATIVAFIT Adjustable Dumbbells. These excellent space-saving options allow for a range of weight options without the need for multiple sets of dumbbells.

Another popular option if you're sticking to lighter weights is the Amazon Basics Neoprene Dumbbell Set, which includes a range of weights and a storage rack. The neoprene coating provides a comfortable and secure grip during workouts. Suppose you have more space for a complete set. A good starting option would be CAP Barbell Coated Hex Dumbbell Weight Set.

When using dumbbells for strength training, it's essential to start with a weight that is comfortable for you and gradually increases as you build strength. Proper form is also important to prevent injury and ensure you target the intended muscle groups.

Overall, dumbbells are a versatile and essential piece of equipment for strength training, and Amazon offers a variety of affordable options to choose from.

Pros:

Versatile and can be used for a wide variety of exercises

Can be adjusted for different weights

Easy to measure progression

Can be used for both strength and cardio workouts

Easy to store and transport

Cons:

Can be expensive, especially for heavier weights

May require a separate weight rack for storage

Kettlebells

Kettlebells are unique equipment that has become increasingly popular in recent years. They are a type of weight that resembles a cannonball with a handle. Kettlebells provide a full-body workout and can help improve strength, coordination, endurance, and balance. One of the key benefits of using kettlebells is their versatility and functionality, allowing you to perform various functional or sport-specific exercises other equipment isn't suitable for, including swings, cleans, snatches, and presses. They are also great for functional training exercises, which mimic real-life movements and help improve overall fitness and agility.

When it comes to purchasing kettlebells, Amazon offers a variety of affordable options, including the CAP Barbell Cast Iron Kettlebell, the Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebell, and the Amazon Basics Enamel Kettlebell. In addition, these kettlebells come in various weights and materials, allowing you to choose the best option for your fitness level and goals.

When using kettlebells for strength training, it's essential to start with a weight that is comfortable for you and gradually increases as you build strength. Proper form is also crucial to prevent injury and get the most out of your workouts. Consider taking a class or consulting a fitness professional if you are new to kettlebells. Another option is to follow a program like Kettlebell Workouts.

Overall, kettlebells are a unique and effective piece of equipment for strength training, and Amazon offers various affordable options. Incorporating kettlebells into your fitness routine can help improve your overall strength, endurance, and balance..

Pros:

Versatile and can be used for a variety of exercises

Can improve grip strength and cardiovascular health

Compact and easy to store

Can be used for both strength and cardio workouts

Cons:

Can be expensive, especially for heavier weights

May require proper instruction to use correctly

If looking to get started with a program

Pull-Up Bars or Gymnastics Rings

Pull-up bars are effective and practical equipment for upper body strength training and are a great addition to any home gym setup. Their low cost, high value, and take up minimal space make them a no-brainer for any home gym. In addition, they come in various styles, including doorway-mounted bars, wall-mounted bars, and standalone bars.

Using your own body weight, they allow you to target multiple muscle groups in the upper body, including the back, arms, and chest. Some exercises include pull-ups, chin-ups, hanging leg raises, and knee raises. A quick youtube search for bar brothers, barstarzz, or calisthenic motivation with show the superhuman abilities a simple pull-up bar and discipline can build. If you're starting out and looking for guidance on where to start, youtube can be a great resource. If you're looking for a guided program to take you from beginner to advanced, here are some more options. The Ultimate Pull-Up Program, Bar Brothers.

When it comes to purchasing a pull-up bar, Amazon offers a range of affordable options, including the Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar, the Perfect Fitness Multi-Gym Doorway Pull-Up Bar, and the ProsourceFit Multi-Grip Chin-Up/Pull-Up Bar. These bars are easy to install and can be adjusted to fit various door sizes.

Wall-mounted pull-up bars are also available on Amazon for those seeking a more permanent option. These bars can be installed directly into the wall, offering a more sturdy and reliable choice for those looking to perform more advanced variations. Here are some of the top picks off Amazon: ONETWOFIT Wall Mounted Pull Up Bar, OneTwoFit Multifunctional Wall Mounted Pull Up Bar/Chin Up bar,Dip Station, Yes4All Multifunctional Wall Mounted Pull Up, and a heavier duty option for those with more space and looking to do muscle ups Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull Up Chin Up Bar.

Lastly, Amazon offers a range of pull-up/dip stations for those with more space and looking for an all-in-one total calisthenics stations, including Amazon's choice Sportsroyals Power Tower Dip Station, and BangTong&Li Power Tower.

Gymnastics rings can be a great alternative to pull-up bars. Unlike pull-up bars, which offer a fixed grip and limited range of motion, gymnastics rings allow for a greater variety of movements, including dips, muscle-ups, and other advanced gymnastics skills. A learning curve to note with rings is the balance involved with using them. Because rings are hanging rather than fixed like bars, they act like suspension trainers, which require balance and coordination to stabilize your body weight.

One of the most significant benefits of gymnastics rings is their portability and versatility. You can easily set them up anywhere with a sturdy anchor point, whether a tree branch, ceiling beam, or power rack, making them an excellent option for those who need more space or budget for a dedicated pull-up bar or power tower.

Gymnastics rings are also highly adjustable, allowing you to customize the height and width of the rings to suit your specific needs and skill level. In addition, gradually increasing the difficulty of your exercises over time can help you progress more quickly and safely. Finally, if you become proficient on the rings, you will have the strengths, coordination, and balance few people possess. There are reasons why many top coaches and specialists like Ido Portal claim gymnastics rings to be the best upper body strength-developing tool.

Overall, gymnastics rings are a challenging and effective alternative to pull-up bars, offering a greater range of motion, versatility, and adjustability. If you're looking for a new challenge in your home gym, give gymnastics rings a try. When it comes to purchasing a them, here are some that Amazon offers, including the Reehut-Gymnastic-Adjustable-Straps-Buckles, Vulken Wooden Gymnastic Rings.

When using pull-up bars or gymnastics rings for strength training, starting with a grip and exercise that is comfortable for you and gradually progressing as you build strength is essential. Proper form is also important to prevent injury and ensure you target the intended muscle groups.

Overall, both are versatile and effective pieces of equipment for upper body strength training, and Amazon offers various affordable options.

Pros:

Great for upper body strength and building core stability

Can be used for a variety of exercises, including pull-ups and chin-ups

Easy to install and can be used in small spaces

Affordable compared to other equipment

Cons:

May require a certain level of upper body strength to use

Limited to certain exercises and body parts

Suspension Trainers or Gymnastics Rings

Suspension trainers, also known as suspension straps, are portable equipment for a wide range of strength training exercises. They consist of two adjustable straps with handles that can be attached to a door, tree, or any stable structure.

As gymnastics rings discussed earlier, suspension trainers use one's body weight to perform exercises. The benefit of suspension trainers is they usually come with many accessories and programs that make it easy to begin learning and targeting the whole body. These programs incorporate various circuits of different fitness levels involving push-ups, rows, squats, and lunges.

When it comes to purchasing suspension trainers, Amazon offers a variety of affordable options, including the TRX All-in-One Suspension Training System, TRX on the go, TRX Tactical suspension, the KEAFOLs suspension trainer, and the FITINDEX Bodyweight Resistance Trainer Kit. These kits come with everything you need to get started, including adjustable straps, handles, and an anchor point.

Gymnastics rings can be a great alternative to suspension trainers as we've already mentioned.

Another benefit of suspension trainers is their portability, making them a great option for those who travel frequently or want to workout on the go. They can be easily packed in a bag and taken to the park, beach, or even used in a hotel room.

When using suspension trainers or gymnastics rings for strength training, it's important to start with exercises that are comfortable for you and gradually progress as you build strength. Proper form is also important to prevent injury and ensure that you are targeting the intended muscle groups. If your suspension trainer doesn't already come with workout programs, here's a program to help guide you through progressing Suspension Revolution.

Overall, suspension trainers are a versatile and portable piece of equipment for strength training, and Amazon offers a variety of affordable options to choose from, which are listed below.

Pros:

Can be used for a variety of exercises that target multiple muscle groups

Great for building core strength and improving balance

Lightweight and easy to store

Can be adjusted for different resistance levels

Cons:

May require proper instruction to use correctly

Can be more expensive compared to other equipment

Yoga Mats

Yoga mats are essential for any home gym setup, as they provide a comfortable and stable surface for yoga and other floor-based exercises. They come in various materials, sizes, and thicknesses and can be used for multiple workouts beyond yoga.

One of the key benefits of using a yoga mat is its added cushioning, which can help protect your joints during exercises that involve kneeling, lying, or sitting on the floor. They also provide a non-slip surface, helping to prevent injuries caused by slipping or sliding.

When it comes to purchasing a yoga mat, Amazon offers a wide range of affordable options, including the Gaiam Essentials Thick Yoga Mat, Gaiam Essentials with Premium Carrier Sling, the Balance From GoYoga All-Purpose Yoga Mat, and the Manduka PROlite Yoga Mat. These mats come in various thicknesses and materials, making it easy to find one that suits your preferences and needs.

In addition to yoga, yoga mats can be used for various exercises, including Pilates, stretching, core workouts, and other floor-based strength training. They are also lightweight and portable, making it easy to take them to a yoga class or on the go.

Choosing the right thickness for your needs is essential when using a yoga mat, and cleaning prevents the buildup of bacteria and germs.

Overall, yoga mats are essential for any home gym setup, providing a comfortable and stable surface for a wide range of exercises.

Pros:

- Provides a comfortable and non-slip surface for yoga and stretching exercises

- Can improve balance and stability

- Easy to store and transport

- Affordable compared to other equipment

Cons:

- May wear down over time with frequent use

- Can be limited by surface area and mainly targeted for yoga and stretching exercises

Jump Ropes

Jump ropes are another classic and affordable piece of equipment for home workouts, and they provide an effective cardiovascular workout while improving coordination, agility, and endurance. In addition, they are a versatile piece of equipment, suitable for beginners and advanced users alike, and used in a wide range of workouts, including HIIT, boxing, and CrossFit.

One of the key benefits of using a jump rope is its portability and convenience. It can be easily packed in a bag and taken with you anywhere, making it ideal for those who want to stay active while traveling or on the go.

Types of jump ropes:

When it comes to purchasing a jump rope, Amazon offers a wide range of affordable options, including the GoxRunx Jump Skipping Rope, XMIAO JUMP ROPE (2 pack), the WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope (weighted),

For speed ropes: Sonic Boom M2 High Speed Jump Rope and LIFEEZY Speed Skipping Rope Adjustable. These ropes come in various lengths and materials, including steel, PVC, and leather, making it easy to find one that suits your preferences and needs.

When using a jump rope, it's important to choose the correct length for your height and start with a slower pace or shorter intervals before gradually increasing the speed and duration of your workout. Proper form is also important to prevent injury and to get the most benefit from your training.

Overall, jump ropes are effective and affordable for cardiovascular workouts and for improving coordination, agility, and endurance. With various affordable options on Amazon, finding a jump rope that suits your needs and budget is easy..

Pros:

- Great for cardio and endurance training

- Lightweight and easy to store

- Can be used indoors or outdoors

- Affordable compared to other equipment

Cons:

- May require practice to master proper technique

- Limited to certain exercises

Adjustable Benches:

An adjustable bench is an essential piece of equipment for any home gym, as it allows for a wide range of exercises and provides a sturdy base for strength training. Whether you're doing chest presses, shoulder presses, or dumbbell rows, an adjustable bench can provide the necessary support and stability for your workouts.

One of the main benefits of an adjustable bench is its versatility. With the ability to adjust the angle of the bench, you can target different muscles and perform various exercises, including incline and decline presses, flys, and curls. This versatility makes an adjustable bench a worthwhile investment for building a complete home gym.

Amazon offers various affordable options for adjustable benches, including the Marcy Adjustable Utility Bench, the Fitness Reality 1000 Super Max Weight Bench, Fitness Reality 2000 Super Max XL and the PASYOU Adjustable Weight Bench. These benches are made of high-quality materials and offer a range of features, including adjustable angles, padded seats, and sturdy frames.

Pros:

- Can be adjusted for different angles and positions for a variety of exercises

- Great for building upper body and core strength

- Easy to store and transport

- Can be used for both strength and cardio workouts

Cons:

- Can be more expensive compared to other equipment

- May require more space compared to other equipment

Foam Rollers

Foam rollers are a popular and affordable piece of equipment. They are a versatile tool that can be used myofascial massage, stretching, and balance training.

One of the main benefits of using a foam roller is its ability to provide deep tissue massage. This can improve blood flow and reduce muscle soreness, making foam rollers a great tool for recovery after a workout.

When it comes to purchasing a foam roller, Amazon offers a wide range of affordable options, including a more standard AmazonBasics High-Density Foam Roller, the LuxFit Speckled Foam Roller, and the TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller. These rollers come in various densities, lengths, and textures, making it easy to find one that suits your preferences and needs.

When using a foam roller, it's important to start with lighter pressure and gradually increase the intensity as you become more comfortable. It's also important to avoid rolling over bony areas or joints and to focus on the muscles that need the most attention.

Overall, foam rollers are a versatile and affordable piece of equipment for improving flexibility, reducing muscle soreness, and promoting recovery.

Pros:

- Great for warming up and improving blood flow

- Can be used for myofascial massage, stretching, and balance training

- Affordable compared to other equipment

- Lightweight and easy to store

Cons:

- May be uncomfortable or painful for some individuals

- Limited to certain exercises.

In conclusion, a wide range of affordable home fitness equipment options are available on Amazon, making it easy to build a complete home gym that suits your needs and budget. From resistance bands to adjustable benches, each piece of equipment offers unique benefits and can help you achieve your fitness goals.

It's important to remember to start slow and gradually increase the intensity through safely progressing overload and to always listen to your body to prevent injury. By incorporating these affordable and versatile pieces of equipment into your workouts, you can build strength, improve flexibility, and achieve your fitness goals from the comfort of your home.

So, look at the options on Amazon and start building your home gym today!

Thanks for reading!