Starting your weight lifting journey from home can be one of the most empowering decisions you’ll make. The convenience, the privacy, and the ability to go at your own pace has unbeatable perks. But building a home gym can be overwhelming with so many options available.
The good news is that you don’t need an entire room full of equipment to get started. A few key pieces can set you up for success, and as you progress, you can gradually add more.
Here’s my breakdown of the must-have equipment that I started out with and a few splurge-worthy items that you can add later on based on your goals and budget. I recommend budgeting $1000-$2000 for a starter set up.
1. Barbells with Rack
Barbells are the cornerstone of any weightlifting routine. I highly recommend investing in a rubber-coated barbells instead of the traditional metal ones.
The rubber lasts longer and won’t chip or damage over time, especially when you’re starting to load up those plates.
2. Adjustable Bench
A bench is a must have as it opens up a variety of exercises like bench presses, rows, etc. that are essential for building strength. Adjustable benches with both incline and flat positions, allow for multiple exercises. I would recommend investing in quality as this is something you will potentially use the rest of your life.
3. Squat Rack Full Cage
A squat rack is absolutely essential for lifting heavy, particularly for exercises like squats, bench presses, and overhead presses.
When lifting alone, safety bars are a must-have (trust me, I’ve almost died a few times without these).
4. Barbell & Weight Plates
I like to lift with a Olympic barbell and weight plates. Olympic barbells are typically 7 feet long and 45 pounds, which is a standard size for many exercises, especially squats and deadlifts.
Make sure you buy quality weight plates and collars —you don’t want weights shifting or coming loose during a lift.
5. Yoga Mat
Surprisingly one of the most basic essentials in your home gym. Whether you’re doing stretching, ab work, or floor exercises, the yoga mat will give you a comfortable and non-slip surface.
Plus, they’re inexpensive, so there’s no excuse not to have one. I use mine every week, and it’s well worth the investment.
Nice-to-Have Equipment (Add these later)
As you build your home gym and gain confidence, these items are nice to have but are not essential to start:
- Treadmill If you live in a place with cold winters or unpredictable weather, a treadmill can be a great addition for cardiovascular work. Even though you don’t need it for weightlifting specifically, having a treadmill allows you to stay active and warm up or cool down properly before and after lifting sessions.
- Pulley System This one’s definitely a splurge item. A pulley system can add variety to your workout, especially if you want to incorporate cable exercises like lat pull-downs, tricep pushdowns, or face pulls.
- Rubber Floor Tiles Depending on your space, rubber floor tiles are a smart investment. They protect your floor from the heavy impact of weights and make cleaning easier. If you’re placing weights on a wooden or tiles floors, the floor will dent/chip over time. They also reduce noise, so if you live in an apartment/condo, this will keep your lifting sessions quieter.
- Resistance Bands A inexpensive addition that you can use for warming up, and mobility work. They are also great for adding resistance to bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges.
- Foam Roller As you start lifting heavier, you’ll want to take care of your muscles and joints. A foam roller can be a lifesaver for recovery and muscle relaxation. It helps with sore muscles and can increase flexibility, which is essential for preventing injury in the long term.
- Jump Rope If you’re interested in adding some cardio to your routine, a jump rope is a fun and low-cost way to get your heart rate up. I find it very useful for warm-ups or as part of a HIIT session.
- Medicine Ball Another great addition for more dynamic workouts. It can be used for functional exercises, core work, and even improving balance and coordination.
- Storage Solutions Organization is key to a successful home gym. Invest in aesthetic and practical storage solutions to keep your equipment in order and easily accessible. Storage can be anything from a simple rack for weights to a more polished storage bench or shelves. When everything has a place, it’ll keep your space tidy and guarantee you’ll feel better about working out in a clean space.
Remember: it’s not about having the most equipment; it’s about consistency and using what you have to its fullest.
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