Feeling fed up with packed-out gyms that don't offer the freedom and flexibility you crave? Well, same. No wonder many are shifting their workout stations to the comfort of their homes.
The perks of a home gym are hard to ignore: no commuting, savings on gym memberships, utmost privacy, and complete freedom and control over your workout environment.
In this review, I discuss the gym tools essential to my home gym and workout routine. This research is a compilation of my search for the best gym equipment for my home.
My Top Picks
I discuss eight exercise equipment in this guide. But if you’re short on time or can’t invest in all eight, here are my top three recommendations.
Powerline Functional Trainer
Best overall home gym exercise equipment. The all-in-one functional trainer packs an accessory rack, a standard pull-up bar, and a no-cable change design.
TRX Suspension Trainer Bundle
Best home exercise equipment for core workouts. The suspension trainer offers excellent versatility, stability, and ergonomics for a wide variety of exercises.
Endurance Spirit Treadmill
Best home exercise equipment for cardiovascular fitness. The treadmill has a 2.5 CHP motor, pro cushion suspension, and various inbuilt workout programs.
Top 8 Home Gym Equipment for Aussies — Reviews and Comparisons
My review and research of the best home gym equipment for Australians considered many key factors. I evaluated and shortlisted the tools and devices based on their ability to withstand regular and intense use, the various exercises they can perform, ease of use, value for money, and customer reviews to gauge user satisfaction. Here's everything I found.
1. Powerline Functional Trainer
Best Overall Home Exercise Equipment
Pulley placement: Side-by-Side Swivel
Weight capacity: 95 kg
Skill level: Beginner
The Powerline PFT100 offers a comprehensive setup if you're keen on full-body workouts. You get a functional trainer for completing various full-body exercises—upright row, crossover, incline, bench, pec fly, and more.
Best Bits of the Powerline Functional Trainer
The all-in-one trainer's structural pieces are sturdy. It has an accessory rack and a standard pull-up bar. The trainer allows you to adjust the resistance, angle, and height to suit your fitness goals. In addition, the unit has a no-cable change design for quick transitions between exercises.
Powerline's functional trainer is also adaptable, with a dual independent weight stack system that provides dedicated resistance. It allows you to build strength, improve your core, and increase endurance through shoulder presses, cable crossovers, leg kickbacks, and pull-ups. And while it comes with 72 kg stacks, you can upgrade the weight to 95 kg.
The build and design of the trainer include an extra-wide mainframe and the option to bolt it to the ground. This ensures the machine stays put during your workouts. Likewise, the trainer packs vertically adjustable pulleys. You get a smooth swivel from each pulley through a 180° range of motion.
The goal of a Functional Trainer is to allow you to move your body in a variety of natural ways, simulating functional training movements in your day-to-day life. So, don't hesitate to experiment and find the settings and exercises that work best for you.
Areas of Improvement
The functional trainer is heavy home gym equipment, so it’s not easy to reposition it by yourself after installation. This poses a challenge if you regularly rearrange your home gym setup.
Powerline Functional Trainer: Overall Verdict
Despite its heavy weight, the Powerline Functional Trainer is excellent for home gyms with scarce space. It fits under a standard 2.4 m ceiling with a more ideal width. The trainer, even for a beginner, is easy to use, with an excellent grip and feel provided by the handles. The pulleys are simple to adjust, which makes it a convenient personal trainer.
2. TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer Bundle
Best for Core Workouts
Style: All-in-One Bundle
Weight capacity: 317 kg
Skill level: Intermediate
The TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer Bundle is my top pick for core strengthening. It includes the essential workouts and training equipment you need to achieve fast and effective results at home. In addition to a strong core, this kit helps develop defined muscles and a flexible body.
Pros of the TRX Suspension Trainer
The suspension trainer system is easy and quick to set up. You can use the door anchor to secure the straps to the door or use the x-mount, which anchors to a wall or the ceiling. You can also wrap the suspension anchor around a sturdy beam or tree to use the trainer outside.
The kit's integrated handles and foot cradles enhance foundational movements such as squats, hinges, rotations, pushes, and pulls. The handles offer extra grip, and the foot cradles support lunges and planks. The carabiner with the trainer has a weight-bearing capacity of up to 317 kg and supports a wide range of core workouts, including chest presses, bicep curls, and chest fly.
To adjust the All-in-One Suspension Trainer, a simple thumb press against the locking anchor allows for strap lengthening. At the same time, a pull on the tab shortens them, letting you easily tweak the difficulty level of your workout. The exercise equipment is easy to use and operate.
Before using the suspension trainer, check the straps or ropes, carabiners, and anchor points for signs of wear or damage. To prevent injuries, I also recommend adjusting the height to a level that is comfortable and safe for you.
What Can Improve?
I found the foot cradle loops much smaller, making them somewhat restrictive, particularly when performing lunges or planks. This is especially noticeable if you prefer or wear larger, bulkier shoes, such as running or military boots—the tight fit is often an issue.
TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer: Final Verdict
The TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer Bundle allows for diverse core-strengthening exercises. Its design minimises slip risks, adding a layer of safety to your workout. It would be an unbeatable home gym equipment choice with a few tweaks, especially to the foot cradles.
3. Everfit Magnetic Rowing Machine
Best for a Total Body Workout from one machine
Style: Magnetic
Power source: Battery-Powered
Skill level: Beginner
The Everfit Magnetic Rowing Machine with LCD monitor facilitates cardiovascular and strength exercises, making it excellent for enhancing endurance, shedding calories, and sculpting muscles.
Best Bits of Everfit Magnetic Rowing Machine
The key highlight of the Everfit is its eight adjustable resistance levels with up to 10 levels of manual resistance, which offers the flexibility to customise your workout intensity. If you’re a beginner, you can start with a moderate damper setting between 3 and 5, focusing on honing your technique before cranking up the resistance as your proficiency improves.
Unlike an air resistance system, the heavy-duty model uses a magnetic resistance system that allows you to control the resistance level better. Everfit's magnetic design maximises strength training, making it suitable for working large muscle groups, including arm and core muscles.
The rowing machine is compact and foldable, making it easier to tuck away after each exercise session. It has adjustable, large, anti-slip footrests and an ergonomic seat for good comfort during workouts. The equipment is constructed with a solid steel frame, supports up to 150 kg, has durable pulling straps, and a rowing length of 130 cm.
Interested in exploring other rowing machines? My in-depth review and analysis of the best home rowing machines provide detailed insights into various options available in Australia.
Areas of Improvement
Based on my evaluation of the affordable home rowing machine, the space between the seat and the central unit may be too tight for people taller than 188 cm. This could potentially lead to the handlebar touching the main unit during the forward stroke of a rowing motion.
Everfit Magnetic Rowing Machine: Overall Verdict
I recommend the Everfit Magnetic Rowing Machine if you want an efficient, quiet, space-efficient rower for your home gym. It's supportive and adaptable and facilitates a varied workout regime, making it a contender worth considering for a home gym addition.
4. Finer Form Multifunctional Adjustable Weight Bench
Best for Hyperextension Workouts
Weight capacity: 453 kg
Skill level: Beginner
The Finer Form Multifunctional Adjustable Weight Bench is among the best value-for-money home exercise equipment. It offers the functionality of several benches combined into one, making it ideal for hyperextension workouts and a variety of other exercises.
Best Bits of the Finer Form Multifunctional Adjustable Weight Bench
The weight bench's adjustability is my favourite feature. Whether you want a flat bench for your bench presses or need a decline or incline for working through your dumbbell routine, the weight bench is a good fit.
Another is the Roman chair portion of the bench, designed for a range of hyperextension and flexibility exercises. The pad on the chair is adjustable; you can work on your back hyperextensions and side bends using the Roman chair or combine it with the bench set to an incline position for sit-ups, twisting sit-ups, and reverse crunches. I recommend the equipment as an ab workout bench to build large muscle groups.
Finer Form's adjustable weight bench design allows flat, decline, and six incline adjustment levels. Likewise, you can change the different increments on the bench chair. Its high-strength steel construction supports a weight limit of 453 kg, offering stability.
Try the Incline Dumbbell Press to target your upper chest and shoulder muscles. Adjust the bench to an incline position, sit with a dumbbell in each hand, lean back, and bring the dumbbells to your chest. Press the dumbbells up and together, then lower them back down. Repeat for your desired number of reps.
Areas of Improvement
The multifunctional bench lacks a wider preacher curl attachment for the Roman chair, which would allow for bar use. It’s only really suited for a single dumbbell, which is a bit restrictive if you have larger hands and find it tricky to position both elbows on the attachment comfortably.
Finer Form Multifunctional Weight Bench: Overall Verdict
The heavy-duty adjustable bench from Fine Form is popular due to its multifunctional design. You can use it as a flat, incline, decline, sit-up, or back hyperextension bench. I highly recommend it as a multipurpose bench for various home workouts.
5. Endurance Spirit Treadmill
Best for Cardiovascular Fitness
Horsepower: 2.5 CHP
Maximum user weight: 150 kg
Skill level: Beginner
The Endurance Spirit Home Treadmill is a convenient and compact solution for cardiovascular fitness. The equipment offers a soft, supportive platform for walking, jogging, and running.
Pros of the Endurance Spirit Treadmill
Endurance's treadmill has a powerful 2.5-CHP motor for smooth movement at high speeds. It has a pro cushion suspension, which enhances safety, comfort, and overall performance. The treadmill absorbs the shock of your footfalls, helping reduce stress on knee joints and back. This also ensures you are less prone to muscle soreness or leg pain.
The treadmill also has built-in workout programs to help you mix up your routine and keep things interesting. Likewise, the equipment can automatically adjust its incline and speed to challenge you at the right amount. If you work in a limited space, the home treadmill's foldable design means you can lift and store away single-handedly, which is a huge plus.
Our resource on the best treadmills available in Australia provides detailed reviews and comparisons of various treadmill models. You'll find an ideal pick whether you're a fitness enthusiast looking for advanced features or just starting your fitness journey and need a beginner-friendly model.
Cons of the Endurance Spirit Treadmill
The treadmill's wheels struggle on the carpet, especially the thicker types, requiring more effort to move around. But if you don't intend to move the equipment frequently, then it's not so much of a dealbreaker. Similarly, the manual is a bit light on details, particularly on the device's audio features, which is a bit frustrating if you're new to it.
Endurance Spirit Treadmill: Final Verdict
The Spirit Home Treadmill by Endurance Treadmills is excellent for enhancing your at-home cardio sessions. It arrives fully assembled and ready to hit the ground running, making it a hassle-free addition to your fitness routine.
6. Elite Commercial Flat Bench
Style: Commercial Flat Bench
Tested max load: 800 kg
Skill level: Beginner
The Elite Commercial Flat Bench offers a reliable base for bench presses and other exercises; its wide, flat surface ensures good support whether you're lifting weights or engaging in bodyweight workouts.
Pros of the Elite Commercial Flat Bench
The Elite Commercial Flat Bench has a robust powder-coated steel construction for durability and stability. It handles heavy loads of up to 800 kg and endure rigorous workouts. The comfortable padding and reinforced upholstery ensure a safe and pleasant bench press experience.
With a compact footprint, robust tubing, and clean lines, the commercial equipment is ideal for a small-sized home gym. Its high-grip rubber feet enhance stability, ensuring the bench stays in place. Another highlight is the seamless design, no loose parts, and smooth cushion integration.
Elite's Commercial Flat Bench has a 7 cm pad with an underlay and EVA foam. From my evaluation, the thick padding offers sufficient comfort during bench presses and excellent support in any lifting position.
Not sure which to choose between a flat bench and an adjustable weight bench? Here's my rule of thumb: if you value stability and simplicity, choose a flat bench. However, an adjustable bench is worth the extra investment if you want versatility and the ability to perform a wider range of exercises.
What Can Improve?
The Elite Commercial Flat Bench isn't foldable despite its efficient design and ergonomics. So, you can't easily stow it away post-workout. To store it, you need to dismantle the attachments, which is a bit of a hassle.
Elite Commercial Flat Bench: Final Verdict
The Elite Commercial Flat Bench is a worthwhile investment. The impressively high weight limit of 800 kg lets you do bench presses, chest presses, bicep curls, and floor-to-bench planks in the comfort of your home. It has a higher weight-bearing capacity and is more affordable than the Finer Form Multifunctional Weight Bench.
7. NordicTrack Dumbbells
Best for Joint Isolation Exercises
Style: Adjustable Dumbbells
Number of pieces: 2
Skill level: Beginner
The NordicTrack Dumbbell set adds variety to your home workouts, especially for joint isolation exercises. You can do various workouts, such as dumbbell fly, dumbbell lateral raise, bicep curls, and hammer curls.
Best Bits of NordicTrack Dumbbells
For starters, each dumbbell is adjustable from 4.5 kg to 24.9 kg. This feature allows you to switch up your workout intensity on the fly, with weight adjustments available in either 1.1 kg or 2.2 kg increments.
These adjustable dumbbells are also space-efficient. They don't take up much floor gym space and don't need a rack to hold them. You can store them in the provided custom-moulded trays and stash them in a corner. The set offers the same value as thirty fixed dumbbells.
NordicTrack's Dumbbells are easy to use. Move the levers outward or inward to increase or decrease the weight and the levers up or down to customise the dumbbells. The tool is made of hardened plastic and steel for durability and knurled handles for a non-slip grip.
Isolation exercises target a specific muscle group while minimising the involvement of other muscles. For example, bicep curls and tricep extensions focus on the biceps and triceps muscles, respectively, and primarily involve the elbow joint. Another example is the dumbbell flye for the chest muscles (pectoralis major), which primarily involves the shoulder joint.
Areas of Improvement
The NordicTrack Dumbbells are not without fault. First, the weight set has some gaps in the available options. You can add a small or medium increment to the basic settings. The next weight after a slightly increased amount is a significantly increased amount.
You can adjust this by putting different weights on each end of the dumbbell, which would make them unbalanced and give you a slight increase. But I don't recommend doing that. Similarly, the weights tend to get out of alignment if not dropped into the trays carefully.
NordicTrack Dumbbells: Overall Verdict
The NordicTrack Dumbbells offer a solid, space-saving solution to enhance your joint isolation training at home. They're built to last and provide a broad range of weight options. If any of its quirks aren't dealbreakers, you're all set for a hassle-free workout experience.
8. ATTIVO ZY18 Power Rack
Best for Free Weight Barbell Exercises
Style: Multifunctional Power Rack
Max load capacity: 220 kg
Skill level: Intermediate
Invest in the ATTIVO ZY18 Power Rack to elevate your free-weight barbell exercises. This multifunctional equipment offers diverse strength training exercises, from barbell back and front squats to rack pulls.
Best Bits of ATTIVO ZY18 Power Rack
At the heart of the ATTIVO ZY18 is its rock-solid build. It has 2x2 upright steel frames that provide a durable construction. The heavy-duty steel structure supports a maximum load of 220 kg. Plus, the option to bolt the cage to the floor using pre-drilled holes on the footplates adds an extra layer of stability for those heavy lifting sessions.
The power rack features a multi-grip pull-up bar with reversible and four-position adjustments for narrow and wide grip pull-ups. You get two J hooks that make adding weights to your barbell or changing exercises to any of its 17 adjustable levels easier and quicker. In addition, its ultra-high molecular weight liners cut noise and protect the bar’s knurling.
The power rack has multiple 2.54 cm mounting holes, ensuring maximum versatility. Likewise, its weight plate holders and safety clips absorb and distribute shock evenly in case of accidental weight drops, making it suitable and safer for barbell workouts.
One of the main advantages of a power rack is its safety, especially when lifting heavy weights. I recommend adjusting the safety bars to a height just below your lift's lowest point. If you can’t complete a rep, you can safely drop the weight onto the safety bars.
Areas of Improvement
While you can secure the ATTIVO ZY18 to the ground for extra stability, the necessary floor fixings are not included in the package on purchase. As a result, you have to source bolts separately. Also, the lack of built-in storage hooks means you'll need to find alternative ways to keep your space tidy.
ATTIVO ZY18 Power Rack: Final Verdict
The ATTIVO ZY18 lets you do the most basic yet essential barbell exercises in the comfort of your garage or home gym. It’s made to serve functional builders, lifters, and fitness enthusiasts. And if you’re worried about space, its compact dimensions ensure it fits snugly in smaller areas.
Other Notable Mentions
These eight home gym equipment aren’t the only tools I came across in my research; I haven’t included a few as their functionality is covered by other exercise equipment. Nevertheless, you can get them if you have the resources and a large enough gym space.
- Elliptical Machine: This machine is great for a full-body workout, but its functionality is covered by the rowing machine and treadmill in terms of cardio, and resistance bands for strength training.
- Exercise Bikes: These are excellent for cardio workouts and can be a great alternative to running for those with joint issues. However, the cardio benefits can also be achieved with a treadmill or elliptical machine.
- Exercise Ball: Also known as a stability ball, it's used for balance training and to improve core strength. However, similar benefits can be achieved with yoga and Pilates exercises.
- Battle Ropes: These are used for high-intensity interval training (HIIT) workouts. The same HIIT workout can be achieved with a combination of other equipment like dumbbells and jump ropes.
- Plyo Box: Used for plyometric training such as box jumps. Squats, lunges, and running can achieve the same lower body and cardio workout.
- Vibration Plate: This equipment is used for improving circulation, flexibility, and muscle strength. However, regular cardio and strength training exercises can also achieve these benefits.
Remember, the best gym equipment is the one you will use consistently. I recommend trying different equipment and exercises to find what works best for you. If you often frequent the gym, you should also know which equipment is crucial to your fitness journey and goal.
How to Choose the Best Workout Equipment for a Home Gym?
Choosing the right workout equipment for your home gym isn't a one-size-fits-all affair. The best gear for your setup hinges on a few key considerations:
#1 - Fitness Goals
You must assess your fitness goals to find the best home gym equipment. People have many fitness goals, including:
- Burn fat and lose weight
- Grow stronger glutes
- Build a stronger core
- Improve upper body strength
- Enhance your cardiovascular fitness and endurance
- Increase your flexibility
- Muscle strengthening
Knowing your training goals can help you pick the best exercise equipment for home use. If your goal is to burn fat and lose weight, a treadmill, a functional trainer, or a rowing machine is the best.
#2 - Gym Space
This is essential if you have minimal space to set up your home gym. Ensure the equipment will fit perfectly in your compact space and leave enough room for movement and safety during workouts.
Take measurements of your minimal space and use them as a reference when looking for large pieces of gym equipment, such as a treadmill, personal trainer, rowing machine, or power cage.
#3 - Budget
You must set a realistic budget to build a reliable home gym with the best equipment for your fitness goals. Know how much you can spend on the equipment and prioritise gym essentials. Determine which gym equipment products will provide the most comprehensive workout without taking too much floor space.
What is the Best Home Gym Equipment to Buy?
Everyone has their training and fitness goals. Thus, to find the best gym equipment, you must consider your objectives, home space, and budget. Here are two popular home gym equipment that are excellent starting points.
#1 - Cardio Equipment
If your fitness goal is improving cardiovascular fitness and health, the best home gym equipment to consider is cardio equipment. Some reliable options include a row machine, treadmill, and exercise bike. Depending on your training goals, you can adjust these home gym equipment to different resistance levels.
Darren Sherwood
#2 - All-in-One Gym Machines
These are the best home gym equipment to consider for a full-body workout. They usually have multiple features, including a cable pulley system, leg press, and bench press. I recommend them for fitness junkies who want to perform various workouts without switching from one equipment to another.
What is the Best Quality Gym Equipment?
When it comes to the quality of home gym equipment, you get what you pay for. As with everything, quality has a price, and it’s pretty high.
The best gym equipment is made of quality materials and craftsmanship and is backed by a reliable warranty. It also comes with all the essential features.
Quality gym products also often come from reputable brands. You can find many positive garage gym reviews about these products online. So, you can gauge the quality of gym equipment through customer reviews.
Is Home Gym Better than Gym?
Home gyms have become more popular over time. The idea of working from home exploded in popularity during the pandemic. So, should you build a home gym or get a gym membership? Let’s find out.
Public Gym
A gym is any public fitness centre open to everyone at a fee (membership). They are often filled with lots of exercise equipment to work out.
Pros of a Gym
- Fitness instructors and trainers
- More pieces of gym equipment
- Premium quality and highly durable equipment
- Change of scenery
- Wide range of workout classes
- Socialisation and motivation
Cons of a Gym
- Some gyms have costly membership fees
- Commuting and heavy traffic during peak hours
- Strangers with different behaviours and cultures
- Sharing and waiting on equipment
Home Gym
A home gym is a private fitness space that contains the most essential equipment for your fitness journey.
Pros of Home Gym
- Workout at your own pace
- No sharing or waiting on a piece of equipment
- Private workouts with no distractions
- No commuting and monthly membership
- Freedom to wear anything
Cons of Home Gym
- Steep initial investment
- No help from a fitness trainer or instructor
- Limited space to set up more equipment
- Excuses to skip a workout session
Choosing between public and home gyms depends on your personal fitness goals and preferences. Depending on your needs and budget, you must decide what works for you.
Darren Sherwood
Home Exercise Safety Tips
It's crucial to create a safe environment for exercise. This means ensuring that the area where you're working out is free of obstacles that could cause trips or falls. If you're using equipment, ensure it's in good working order and used correctly. And always have enough space to perform all exercises.
I also recommend warming up before starting your workout to help prevent injuries. Spend 5-10 minutes doing a light aerobic activity such as jogging in place or jumping jacks to get your blood flowing and your muscles warmed up. This should be followed by stretching to increase flexibility and prepare your body for exercise.
Finally, listen to your body. It's important to push yourself, but not to the point of pain. If something hurts, stop doing it. Maintain proper form during exercises to prevent injuries. Remember, consistency is critical in fitness, but overdoing it can lead to injuries and burnout. So, it's better to do lighter exercises regularly than to push too hard and end up having to take time off to recover.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about home gym equipment.
What is the most useful piece of gym equipment?
Some commonly recommended items include a training bench, dumbbell set, barbell set, kettlebell set, pull-up frame and bar, treadmill, stationary bicycle, rowing machine, resistance bands, suspension training system, adjustable weight bench, and a jump rope. Each piece of equipment can be used for various exercises targeting different muscle groups, making them versatile and valuable additions to any gym setup.
What is the best machine for muscle growth?
The best machines for muscle growth include the Smith Machine, Cable Machine, Hack Squat, Chest Supported Row, and Pullover Machine. The Lat Pulldown machine is also highly recommended as it helps sculpt a strong, muscular back and works the latissimus dorsi or lats, a large muscle group starting near the back of the armpit and extending down the torso to the pelvis in a wing shape.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of these machines can be maximized with proper form, technique, and a well-rounded exercise routine. As always, I recommend consulting a fitness professional to ensure exercises are performed correctly and safely.
What gym equipment is best for beginners?
For beginners, I recommend starting with simple and versatile gym equipment. Some of the best gym equipment for beginners include:
- Dumbbells: They are versatile and can be used for a variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups.
- Barbell: It's great for compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
- Weight Plates: They are used with barbells for strength training.
- Resistance Bands: They offer variable resistance and are good for strength training and flexibility exercises.
- Jump Rope: It's a simple and effective tool for improving cardiovascular fitness.
- Pull-up Bar: It's used for upper body exercises.
- Balance Trainer Ball: It improves balance and core strength.
- Yoga Mat: It's essential for floor exercises and yoga.
- Workout Bench: It's used for a variety of weight-lifting exercises.
- Cardiovascular Machines: Such as exercise bikes, treadmills, stairmasters, and rowing machines.
Remember to learn the correct form and technique for each exercise to prevent injuries.
Laura Kemp
Wrapping Up
Working out at home should be fun and safe. So, finding the best home gym equipment is essential to staying consistent. My research and testing show that the Powerline Functional Trainer is the best home exercise equipment, offering a full-body workout.
However, to choose the best tools, consider a blend of personal fitness goals, functionality, and versatility. Hopefully, these pieces of equipment have helped you curate a home gym setup for effective workouts and consistency. Share your thoughts with me in the comments below.
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