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If you’ve thought about building your own home gym, you’ve likely had that wallet-draining feeling that potentially scares you away from the blueprints. Yes, you can spend too much on home gym essentials — as you can on workout apparel, high-protein foods, or any fitness-related expense. The best budget home gym equipment can make your training layout as engaging and...
The post The 12 Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2023 appeared first on BarBend.
If you’ve thought about building your own home gym, you’ve likely had that wallet-draining feeling that potentially scares you away from the blueprints. Yes, you can spend too much on home gym essentials — as you can on workout apparel, high-protein foods, or any fitness-related expense. The best budget home gym equipment can make your training layout as engaging and effective as your favorite gyms in the world without the strain on your finances.
Naturally, there’s no one-size-fits-all category when it comes to building your home gym. Some athletes may prefer a strength training setup, while others lean more toward a layout showcasing the best cardio machines. So, to cater to as many home gym enthusiasts as possible, we’ve gathered our notes from testing hundreds of training essentials, consulted with customer reviews, and dove deep into our research to come up with our favorite budget picks for home gym equipment available today.
The Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2023
How We Tested
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this round-up, we combed through our experience with hundreds of fitness equipment options across multiple training disciplines, taking a multi-point methodology to land on a rating for each chosen budget-friendly profile based on a 1 to 5 scale.
Naturally, looking at all of the best home gyms is a chore in and of itself — comparing the best barbells to the best treadmills is like comparing apples to oranges. So, the metrics had to be adjusted based on the products at play, but we were able to find some common components across the board.
We viewed each chosen budget home gym staple based on how large of a footprint it consumed in our training space. Could this be a cog in the machine or the sole structure in our setup? We also looked for the best home gym equipment that would be versatile enough for multiple exercises and training sessions, as well as profiles we’d actually enjoy using day in and day out.
Finally, a “budget-friendly” list implies that price played into the decision making process. As such, we looked for home gym equipment that was capable of high-quality, hard-nosed workouts while still being easy on our wallets.
Best Budget Weight Bench: REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
The REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench is a great option for powerlifting competitors to consider. It's made from 11-gauge steel, is rated at 1,000 pounds, and meets the height standards set by the International Powerlifting Federation.
Shop REP Fitness
Specs
Pros
Cons
A weight bench can be a great place to start when building out the home gym of your dreams, and if you’re looking for a great quality-to-cost ratio, we’ve yet to find a silhouette as impressive as the FB-5000 Competition Weight Bench from REP Fitness. The durable 11-gauge steel can support loads up to 1,000 pounds, and the sturdy vinyl pad is plenty comfortable across a slew of movements — all for less than $240. For these reasons, we give the FB-5000 a 4.5 out of 5 for overall construction.
The only reason we didn’t give this profile — one of the best weight benches available today — a perfect construction score was due to the absence of leveling feet. While they are coated in rubber to protect your home gym flooring, there aren’t any toggles to stabilize the unit when placed over an unlevel floor. Because of this, some customers have stated that the bench can feel wobbly at times, so we recommend having some rubber or cardboard shims at the ready if your space isn’t as level as a freshly-poured concrete slab.
Despite the slight shakiness over uneven flooring, we’ve found no signs of durability issues with this weight bench, meaning your minimal investment can carry you through years of training and progress. “I’ve used the FB-5000 for three years now, and it’s still as strong as the day I received it,” says our tester. “It’s that good.”
Jake tests the FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench at the BarBend garage.
Additionally, we appreciate how REP offers a standard 12-inch pad as well as a wider 14-inch Thompson Fat Pad with this setup (available for $30 more). This can be great for wider-backed athletes who need a little more support across their shoulder blades and torsos during hard presses. REP also has a convenient wall-mounted flat bench hanger that pairs with this unit. The $39.99 accessory can help ease any storage qualms you may have, taking the FB-5000 off your floor and onto the wall when not in use.
Of course, this competition-grade weight bench does have its limits — we do not recommend this flat bench for those wanting to perform inclined or declined workouts. We’d, instead, recommend an adjustable bench for those needs (REP’s BlackWing Weight Bench is one of our favorites). But if you’re looking for a rock-solid foundation to build your cost-effective home gym around, this can be an excellent starting point.
Read our full REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench Review.
Best Budget Squat Rack: Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
Titan T-3 Tall Squat Stand With Pull-Up Bar
Titan T-3 Tall Squat Stand With Pull-Up Bar
This tall squat stand from Titan Fitness' T-3 Series checks all of the necessary boxes when it comes to solid workouts built around a barbell (and then some). With its small footprint and low-price point, it's a great rack for people just getting started and shoppers on a budget.
Shop Titan Fitness
Specs
Pros
Cons
The best squat racks can upgrade your home training setup by creating a secure, stable environment for performing the back squat and other heavy lifts. Unfortunately, though, these bulky apparatuses can eat up a good chunk of space, as well as a large portion of your budget. Thankfully, squat stands can be worthwhile for athletes looking to save across both parameters, with the T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand being one of our favorites on the market.
This impressive piece of exercise equipment comes in at just under $350 — a savings of roughly $240 compared to Titan’s T-3 Series Power Rack. Additionally, you’re only sacrificing a little bit of weight capacity with this squat stand, as this budget-friendly unit is still capable of supporting racked loads up to 1,000 pounds. For reference, the T-Series Power Rack can support 1,100 pounds of loaded weight.
Having used this T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand in previous years, I can attest to its sturdiness and build quality. I was able to perform a wide range of squat variations, both light and heavy, and had no issues with sliding a weight bench into the interior for bench press and other pressing motions. I’ll admit, though, that my weight bench is a little narrower, so athletes with a bench wider than 42 inches will be unable to create a similar setup. Because of this, I give this Titan Fitness squat stand a 4 out of 5 for versatility.
It’s also worth pointing out that this squat stand comes equipped with a pull-up bar capable of reaching 89 inches in height. This can be great for athletes wanting to add some bodyweight training to their regimen. Be mindful, though, that while the pull-up bar height can be adjusted, the overall height of the squat stand cannot, which is why I rate this squat stand a 4 out of 5 for accomodations.
You’ll need ceilings measuring at least 7’8.5” tall to accommodate this profile. Thankfully, Titan offers this rack in a smaller silhouette measuring 72 inches tall, but this profile doesn’t feature a pull-up bar attachment.
[Related: Power Rack vs. Squat Stand: Which Piece of Equipment Do You Need?]
Best Budget Barbell: Living.Fit Barbell
Living.Fit Chrome Barbell
Living.Fit Chrome Barbell
Living.Fit's chrome barbell is ideal for all types of exercise, including weightlifting, powerlifting, or Olympic lifting. The sleeves rotate smoothly and the bar is super durable.
Shop Living.Fit
Specs
Pros
Cons
When it comes to keeping your home gym setup as versatile as possible, a barbell can be the perfect tool for the task. We’ve gotten hands-on with tons of barbells — including well-known profiles like the Rogue Ohio Bar and REP Fitness Colorado Bar — but in our opinion, Living.Fit’s Barbell takes the cake for home gym needs. This unit’s 200,000 PSI tensile strength and 1,500-pound load capacity are impressive in their own respects, but the low price of $199.99 is what really catches the eye when comparing barbells for your own needs.
We also like the attention to the build quality within this versatile piece of gym equipment. “I really like how there are bronze bushings but also bearings in the loading sleeves,” says Jake Herod, BarBend’s lead video reviewer. “It gives you that really solid spin rate which really comes in handy as you go to turn the bar and get under it during your Olympic movements.”
Jake Bench Pressing with the Living.Fit Barbell.
Additionally, we give this barbell a 4.5 out of 5 for usability thanks to its comfortable yet grippy volcano-style knurling. The 1.2mm knurls are tacky enough to give you plenty of control during presses, yet the grip won’t absolutely shred your hands when throwing the bar overhead for a snatch or clean and jerk. Our tester also enjoyed the dual-banded knurling rings that gave them excellent guidance when finding their ideal hand placement for a given lift.
We docked this barbell for usability, though, because it’s not a complete standout for all strength training disciplines. The tensile strength and multi-use nature can be great for most garage gym enthusiasts, but it may be underwhelming for athletes seasoned in a specific discipline like powerlifting or Olympic lifting.
Being more versed in powerlifting-centric training, I would have appreciated a center knurling patch for more control during squats, but I get why it was omitted. It’s a multi-use bar, and that patch could be uncomfortable during cleans or overhead presses.
Read our full Living.Fit Barbell Review.
Best Budget Weight Plates: REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
These cast iron profiles can be a great way to build out your strength training setup while keeping costs to a minimum. The vintage look and standard barbell fitment are sure to fit any home gym, and REP's available bundles allow you to load up on weight plates at a number of popular totals.
Shop REP Fitness
Specs
Pros
Cons
There are plenty of top-tier weight plates on the market, but we recommend sticking with cast iron options for the sake of keeping costs low. These profiles are typically less expensive than their synthetic rubber or urethane brethren, but that doesn’t mean there’s a drop-off in quality. Take these Old School Iron Plates from REP Fitness, for example, offering a great vintage aesthetic and sturdy makeup perfect for achieving that desirable progressive overload in training.
I’ve trained with these weight plates in a handful of gyms and always appreciate the deep-lipped design around the edge. This gives you a great sense of control when loading a barbell or placing your gear back onto its storage rack. Additionally, the raised silver lettering is a stylish touch that gives every rep a vintage, gritty vibe.
These REP Fitness plates also earn our high regard thanks to their purchasing structure. You can order paired packages of 2.5-pound, 5-pound, 10-pound, 25-pound, 35-pound, or 45-pound profiles if you’re only in need of a few weights for your setup. Additionally, REP offers six bundled sets at 175lbs, 245lbs, 265lbs, 335lbs, 355lbs, 425lbs, which can be great for...
Click here to view the article.
The post The 12 Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2023 appeared first on BarBend.
If you’ve thought about building your own home gym, you’ve likely had that wallet-draining feeling that potentially scares you away from the blueprints. Yes, you can spend too much on home gym essentials — as you can on workout apparel, high-protein foods, or any fitness-related expense. The best budget home gym equipment can make your training layout as engaging and effective as your favorite gyms in the world without the strain on your finances.
Naturally, there’s no one-size-fits-all category when it comes to building your home gym. Some athletes may prefer a strength training setup, while others lean more toward a layout showcasing the best cardio machines. So, to cater to as many home gym enthusiasts as possible, we’ve gathered our notes from testing hundreds of training essentials, consulted with customer reviews, and dove deep into our research to come up with our favorite budget picks for home gym equipment available today.
The Best Budget Home Gym Equipment of 2023
- Best Budget Weight Bench: REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
- Best Budget Squat Rack: Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
- Best Budget Barbell: Living.Fit Barbell
- Best Budget Weight Plates: REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
- Best Budget Adjustable Dumbbells: Ativafit 66-Pound Adjustable Dumbbells
- Best Budget Kettlebells: Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell
- Best Budget Resistance Bands: Living.Fit Resistance Bands
- Best Budget Treadmill: Horizon Fitness T101
- Best Budget Exercise Bike: Yosuda YB001R Magnetic Exercise Bike
- Best Budget Rowing Machine: Bells of Steel Blitz Air Rower
- Best Budget Elliptical: Sunny Health & Fitness Premium Cardio Climber Stepping Elliptical Machine
- Best Budget All-in-One Home Gym Machine: MAXPRO Fitness Cable Home Gym
How We Tested
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. For this round-up, we combed through our experience with hundreds of fitness equipment options across multiple training disciplines, taking a multi-point methodology to land on a rating for each chosen budget-friendly profile based on a 1 to 5 scale.
Naturally, looking at all of the best home gyms is a chore in and of itself — comparing the best barbells to the best treadmills is like comparing apples to oranges. So, the metrics had to be adjusted based on the products at play, but we were able to find some common components across the board.
We viewed each chosen budget home gym staple based on how large of a footprint it consumed in our training space. Could this be a cog in the machine or the sole structure in our setup? We also looked for the best home gym equipment that would be versatile enough for multiple exercises and training sessions, as well as profiles we’d actually enjoy using day in and day out.
Finally, a “budget-friendly” list implies that price played into the decision making process. As such, we looked for home gym equipment that was capable of high-quality, hard-nosed workouts while still being easy on our wallets.
Best Budget Weight Bench: REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench
The REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench is a great option for powerlifting competitors to consider. It's made from 11-gauge steel, is rated at 1,000 pounds, and meets the height standards set by the International Powerlifting Federation.
Shop REP Fitness
Specs
- Price: $239.99
- Product Dimensions: 50.5” L x 21” W x 16.9” H
- Product Weight: 62lbs
- Pad Dimensions: 48” L x 12” W x 4” H
- Weight Capacity: 1,000lbs
- Materials: 11-gauge Steel
Pros
- The sub-$250 price tag is cheaper than other weight benches offering lower weight capacities.
- This bench features a handle and wheels for easier maneuvering around your setup.
- REP offers a convenient Wall-Mounted Flat Bench Hanger for even more compact storage capabilities.
Cons
- There are no adjustments for incline or decline setups.
- The 4-inch pad thickness may feel too cushioned for some athletes.
- Some customers have noted some wobbliness when training over unlevel flooring.
A weight bench can be a great place to start when building out the home gym of your dreams, and if you’re looking for a great quality-to-cost ratio, we’ve yet to find a silhouette as impressive as the FB-5000 Competition Weight Bench from REP Fitness. The durable 11-gauge steel can support loads up to 1,000 pounds, and the sturdy vinyl pad is plenty comfortable across a slew of movements — all for less than $240. For these reasons, we give the FB-5000 a 4.5 out of 5 for overall construction.
The only reason we didn’t give this profile — one of the best weight benches available today — a perfect construction score was due to the absence of leveling feet. While they are coated in rubber to protect your home gym flooring, there aren’t any toggles to stabilize the unit when placed over an unlevel floor. Because of this, some customers have stated that the bench can feel wobbly at times, so we recommend having some rubber or cardboard shims at the ready if your space isn’t as level as a freshly-poured concrete slab.
Despite the slight shakiness over uneven flooring, we’ve found no signs of durability issues with this weight bench, meaning your minimal investment can carry you through years of training and progress. “I’ve used the FB-5000 for three years now, and it’s still as strong as the day I received it,” says our tester. “It’s that good.”
Additionally, we appreciate how REP offers a standard 12-inch pad as well as a wider 14-inch Thompson Fat Pad with this setup (available for $30 more). This can be great for wider-backed athletes who need a little more support across their shoulder blades and torsos during hard presses. REP also has a convenient wall-mounted flat bench hanger that pairs with this unit. The $39.99 accessory can help ease any storage qualms you may have, taking the FB-5000 off your floor and onto the wall when not in use.
Of course, this competition-grade weight bench does have its limits — we do not recommend this flat bench for those wanting to perform inclined or declined workouts. We’d, instead, recommend an adjustable bench for those needs (REP’s BlackWing Weight Bench is one of our favorites). But if you’re looking for a rock-solid foundation to build your cost-effective home gym around, this can be an excellent starting point.
Read our full REP Fitness FB-5000 Competition Flat Bench Review.
Best Budget Squat Rack: Titan T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand
Titan T-3 Tall Squat Stand With Pull-Up Bar
Titan T-3 Tall Squat Stand With Pull-Up Bar
This tall squat stand from Titan Fitness' T-3 Series checks all of the necessary boxes when it comes to solid workouts built around a barbell (and then some). With its small footprint and low-price point, it's a great rack for people just getting started and shoppers on a budget.
Shop Titan Fitness
Specs
- Price: $349.99
- Product Dimensions: 47” L x 48” W x 92.5” H
- Interior Dimensions: 41” L x 42” W
- Pull-Up Max Height: 89”
- Product Weight: 140lbs
- Weight Capacity: 1,000lbs
- Materials: 11-gauge Steel
Pros
- The simple squat stand profile makes this unit more affordable than beefier squat racks or power racks.
- The durable 11-gauge steel construction can support weights up to 1,000 pounds.
- This squat stand’s pull-up bar can be adjusted up to 89 inches tall, which can create a more comfortable setup for taller athletes.
Cons
- The 42-inch interior width may feel cramped if trying to fit a weight bench in for presses and other exercises.
- Athletes with 7-foot ceilings won’t be able to fit this structure into their available space given its 92.5-inch height.
- This squat stand cannot support spotter arms or other accessories like other squat racks or power racks.
The best squat racks can upgrade your home training setup by creating a secure, stable environment for performing the back squat and other heavy lifts. Unfortunately, though, these bulky apparatuses can eat up a good chunk of space, as well as a large portion of your budget. Thankfully, squat stands can be worthwhile for athletes looking to save across both parameters, with the T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand being one of our favorites on the market.
This impressive piece of exercise equipment comes in at just under $350 — a savings of roughly $240 compared to Titan’s T-3 Series Power Rack. Additionally, you’re only sacrificing a little bit of weight capacity with this squat stand, as this budget-friendly unit is still capable of supporting racked loads up to 1,000 pounds. For reference, the T-Series Power Rack can support 1,100 pounds of loaded weight.
Having used this T-3 Series Tall Squat Stand in previous years, I can attest to its sturdiness and build quality. I was able to perform a wide range of squat variations, both light and heavy, and had no issues with sliding a weight bench into the interior for bench press and other pressing motions. I’ll admit, though, that my weight bench is a little narrower, so athletes with a bench wider than 42 inches will be unable to create a similar setup. Because of this, I give this Titan Fitness squat stand a 4 out of 5 for versatility.
It’s also worth pointing out that this squat stand comes equipped with a pull-up bar capable of reaching 89 inches in height. This can be great for athletes wanting to add some bodyweight training to their regimen. Be mindful, though, that while the pull-up bar height can be adjusted, the overall height of the squat stand cannot, which is why I rate this squat stand a 4 out of 5 for accomodations.
You’ll need ceilings measuring at least 7’8.5” tall to accommodate this profile. Thankfully, Titan offers this rack in a smaller silhouette measuring 72 inches tall, but this profile doesn’t feature a pull-up bar attachment.
[Related: Power Rack vs. Squat Stand: Which Piece of Equipment Do You Need?]
Best Budget Barbell: Living.Fit Barbell
Living.Fit Chrome Barbell
Living.Fit Chrome Barbell
Living.Fit's chrome barbell is ideal for all types of exercise, including weightlifting, powerlifting, or Olympic lifting. The sleeves rotate smoothly and the bar is super durable.
Shop Living.Fit
Specs
- Price: $199.99
- Tensile Strength: 200,000 PSI
- Weight Rating: 1,500lbs
- Diameter: 28mm
- Coating: Chrome
- Knurling: IWF standard knurling with 1.2mm depth
Pros
- This barbell’s weight rating and tensile strength are higher than other profiles at this price point.
- A lifetime warranty covers this barbell against any material, functionality, or workmanship defects.
- The volcano-style knurling is grippy enough for multiple exercises without tearing up your palms.
Cons
- Those wanting to train in a specific discipline like powerlifting or Olympic weightlifting may want a more specialized barbell.
- There isn’t a center knurling patch for better control during back squats.
- Advanced athletes lifting heavier totals may want a barbell with 230,000 PSI tensile strength or more.
When it comes to keeping your home gym setup as versatile as possible, a barbell can be the perfect tool for the task. We’ve gotten hands-on with tons of barbells — including well-known profiles like the Rogue Ohio Bar and REP Fitness Colorado Bar — but in our opinion, Living.Fit’s Barbell takes the cake for home gym needs. This unit’s 200,000 PSI tensile strength and 1,500-pound load capacity are impressive in their own respects, but the low price of $199.99 is what really catches the eye when comparing barbells for your own needs.
We also like the attention to the build quality within this versatile piece of gym equipment. “I really like how there are bronze bushings but also bearings in the loading sleeves,” says Jake Herod, BarBend’s lead video reviewer. “It gives you that really solid spin rate which really comes in handy as you go to turn the bar and get under it during your Olympic movements.”
Additionally, we give this barbell a 4.5 out of 5 for usability thanks to its comfortable yet grippy volcano-style knurling. The 1.2mm knurls are tacky enough to give you plenty of control during presses, yet the grip won’t absolutely shred your hands when throwing the bar overhead for a snatch or clean and jerk. Our tester also enjoyed the dual-banded knurling rings that gave them excellent guidance when finding their ideal hand placement for a given lift.
We docked this barbell for usability, though, because it’s not a complete standout for all strength training disciplines. The tensile strength and multi-use nature can be great for most garage gym enthusiasts, but it may be underwhelming for athletes seasoned in a specific discipline like powerlifting or Olympic lifting.
Being more versed in powerlifting-centric training, I would have appreciated a center knurling patch for more control during squats, but I get why it was omitted. It’s a multi-use bar, and that patch could be uncomfortable during cleans or overhead presses.
Read our full Living.Fit Barbell Review.
Best Budget Weight Plates: REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
REP Fitness Old School Iron Plates
These cast iron profiles can be a great way to build out your strength training setup while keeping costs to a minimum. The vintage look and standard barbell fitment are sure to fit any home gym, and REP's available bundles allow you to load up on weight plates at a number of popular totals.
Shop REP Fitness
Specs
- Price: Starting at $19.99
- Center Hole: 52mm (Fits Standard Barbells)
- Available Sets: 175lbs, 245lbs, 265lbs, 335lbs, 355lbs, 425lbs
- Weight Tolerance: ± 3%
Pros
- Plates are available in both paired and bundled sets, giving you options when outfitting your setup.
- These weight plates feature a deep lip for better control during loading and storage.
- The high-quality matte finish and raised silver lettering provide a vintage look that can really set off your home gym aesthetics.
Cons
- REP Fitness only covers iron plates with a one-year warranty.
- The ± 3 percent weight tolerance may not be ideal for competitive athletes wanting more precise weight totals.
- Iron plates are louder than bumper plates and may cause damage to your home gym flooring if dropped.
There are plenty of top-tier weight plates on the market, but we recommend sticking with cast iron options for the sake of keeping costs low. These profiles are typically less expensive than their synthetic rubber or urethane brethren, but that doesn’t mean there’s a drop-off in quality. Take these Old School Iron Plates from REP Fitness, for example, offering a great vintage aesthetic and sturdy makeup perfect for achieving that desirable progressive overload in training.
I’ve trained with these weight plates in a handful of gyms and always appreciate the deep-lipped design around the edge. This gives you a great sense of control when loading a barbell or placing your gear back onto its storage rack. Additionally, the raised silver lettering is a stylish touch that gives every rep a vintage, gritty vibe.
These REP Fitness plates also earn our high regard thanks to their purchasing structure. You can order paired packages of 2.5-pound, 5-pound, 10-pound, 25-pound, 35-pound, or 45-pound profiles if you’re only in need of a few weights for your setup. Additionally, REP offers six bundled sets at 175lbs, 245lbs, 265lbs, 335lbs, 355lbs, 425lbs, which can be great for...
Click here to view the article.
