"I think it’s safe to say that we’re all starting to see the appeal of having a home gym. Depending on where you live, it may be a while before your local gyms are back up and running at full capacity, so it’s time to find some at home fitness solutions that don’t involve breaking the bank.
As lovely as it would be to have a Peloton at home so you can pedal all your worries away, many of us are looking for more affordable solutions. We rounded up nine inexpensive workout equipment options for you so you can step up your home fitness game without ruining that budget you created for the new year.
Kettlebell
Kettlebells are a great addition to your workout routine, especially if you don’t want to invest in a full set of weights. However, they are heavy and a bit of a pain to lug around if you need to build up your strength. To avoid needing to walk home from Target with a kettlebell in hand, I order mine from Amazon, so even if they are super heavy, they’ll be delivered to your door for free. A kettlebell is an ideal tool for enhancing squats and lunges, which can keep your workout session simple, yet effective. This set of three smaller kettlebells is a great place to start if you’re new to strength training.
This set of three smaller kettlebells is a great place to start if you’re new to strength training.
Jump Rope
Are you ready to make your workout a bit more fun? We thought so. Jump ropes are a really fun way to squeeze in some cardio while stuck inside.
This jump rope from the Tone It Up girls is too cute, and you can check out their YouTube jump rope workout for free to learn how to use them.
Exercise Bike
If you’re majorly missing the gym, you might want to invest in some larger workout equipment. Just because a Peloton isn’t in your budget, doesn’t mean you can’t replicate a similar workout.
This bike is under $400 and has over 2,000 five-star reviews—most of which rave about using it with the Peloton app.
Fitness Sliders
This is one of the smallest pieces of workout equipment on this list, which makes it ideal for apartment dwellers like me who are beginning to feel a bit claustrophobic thanks to their lack of square footage. For the days that you want to amp up your usual workout, see if you can incorporate fitness sliders.
These flat discs go beneath your hands and feet and create resistance and tension during floor exercises like lunges.
Source: Amanda Shapin Michelson
Resistance Bands
There are a few reasons to love resistance bands. Not only does this tiny-but-mighty strength-building tool help build tension in your muscles (that’s a good thing), but they are inexpensive and really compact. When you’re ready to start traveling again, a resistance band is the perfect addition to your suitcase if you’re looking to squeeze in a quick-but-effective workout at your hotel.
This 10-minute resistance band workout video is worth a watch if you’re unsure of how to incorporate one into your fitness routine.
Mini Trampoline
For even more fun than a jump rope, why not bounce off a hard day? I first discovered mini trampolines during studio pilates classes. I came for the reformer machines, but stayed for the trampolines. Not only is it really fun to jump on a trampoline, but I’ve found they give a great cardio workout and can build up core strength. There are tons of benefits of using a trampoline in your workout. They can improve endurance and develop better balance, coordination, and motor skills. Not to mention, they’re a great way to relieve stress and tension.
This mini trampoline is collapsible if you need to store it away between workouts.
Dumbbells
If you’re short on storage, dumbbells can be a major space saver compared to some workout equipment. You can add these little weights to your existing exercises, or you can start a routine that really focuses on toning your arms.
This adjustable dumbbell set comes with removable weight bars that allow you to set your desired weight. That way, you don’t have to keep repurchasing weights as your strength begins to build.
Stability Ball
Remember that episode of The Office, where Dwight sat on a stability ball in lieu of a desk chair? Now that most of us are working from home, we can work on our core strength and balance just like Dwight did. Of course, you won’t want to sit on a stability ball all day, but it’s an easy way to make your next Netflix binge session feel more productive, and is a peaceful way to end a high-intensity workout.
Under Desk Elliptical
A what? An under-desk elliptical is a compact piece of workout equipment that allows you to get your fitness on under your desk.
This device is a multitasker’s dream and will make those unnecessary Zoom meetings feel a lot more productive.
Source: Colorjoy Stock
Elliptical Machine
If you want the real deal when it comes to an elliptical machine, the price isn’t as bad as you would think. You won’t be able to sneak this workout in during conference calls, but you will be able to turn your nightly Netflix session into a solid workout.
For less than $500 you can get a gym-quality workout experience all from the comfort of your own home.
Yoga Mat
If you’re like me, you’ll appreciate any workout that allows you to lay down on the floor. Certain elements of barre, pilates, and yoga occur laying or sitting down. Score. Make the experience a lot more enjoyable by investing in a high-quality yoga mat (which will still be cheaper than one month at most gyms).
This cork yoga mat is so unique and is a great way to add extra padding between you and a hard floor.
Running Shoes
Running is a great workout and an ideal way to get some fresh air and sunshine after being cooped up inside all day. One way to help support your body during a run is to invest in a pair of high-quality running shoes. No, your basic tennis shoes won’t do the trick. The right running shoe for you will depend a lot on your body and your personal preferences, so there is no one-size-fits-all recommendation.
Your running shoe should offer cushioning, flexibility, stability, traction, and breathability.
Rowing Machine
Rowing isn’t just for arm strength. With proper technique, a rowing machine can give you an exhaustive full-body workout that will leave your core burning. When you’re ready to get started, try this 30-minute drill workout.
Row all your problems away on this surprisingly sleek rowing machine that has thousands more five-star reviews than you'll probably ever want to read.