Creating the perfect home gym can feel overwhelming, with so many brands, gadgets, and machines all claiming to be the “best.” At Home Gym Guru, our mission is simple: to help you cut through the noise and find home gym equipment that genuinely delivers results.
Whether you’re a beginner looking for affordable starter gear or an experienced lifter building a serious garage setup, our home gym equipment reviews cover everything from strength training machines and cardio equipment to accessories, mats, and recovery tools.
We’ve researched, tested, and reviewed hundreds of products to bring you practical advice, expert recommendations, and no-nonsense insights that make building a home gym simple, affordable, and effective.
What is home gym equipment?
Home gym equipment includes all the fitness tools and machines designed for personal use in your own space. From adjustable dumbbells and weight benches to treadmills, rowing machines, and smart accessories. It allows you to train effectively at home, without the ongoing cost or inconvenience of visiting a commercial gym.
Building a home gym gives you the freedom to work out when you want, how you want, and with equipment tailored to your goals, space, and budget.
At Home Gym Guru, we’ve tested and reviewed the best home gym equipment in the UK to help you create a setup that fits your lifestyle. Whether you’re converting a garage into a full strength studio or squeezing a mini gym into your spare room, this guide will walk you through:
- Essential equipment lists for strength, cardio, and recovery
- Budget and setup advice for all fitness levels
- Top UK buying tips and retailer recommendations
- Expert insights for training smarter at home
Why Build a Home Gym?
A home gym setup isn’t just a luxury, it’s one of the most rewarding investments you can make for your health and consistency.
Here’s why more people across the UK are ditching gym memberships in favour of home training:
- ⏱️ Save time: No commuting or waiting for equipment.
- 💰 Save money: The average UK gym membership (£40–£60/month) means your gear pays for itself in 1–2 years.
- 🧘 Train privately: No crowds, no distractions — just focus.
- 🧱 Customise your space: Build around your own routine and goals.
From compact apartments to garage gyms, there’s a setup for every budget and lifestyle, and the benefits extend far beyond convenience. You’re building a space that motivates you daily.
Essential Home Gym Equipment
Before buying, it helps to understand the three main equipment categories every effective home gym is built on: strength, cardio, and functional gear.
Below, we break down the essentials for each, along with expert recommendations and links to in-depth guides.
Strength Training Equipment
Strength training builds muscle, boosts metabolism, and improves overall fitness. With the right gear, you can do it all at home.
Essential strength equipment includes:
- Adjustable dumbbells – Offer multiple weight levels in one space-saving design.
- Weight bench – Enables pressing, core, and bodyweight movements.
- Barbell & plates – For progressive overload and compound lifts.
- Power rack or squat stand – Adds safety and versatility for big lifts.
- Resistance bands – Great for warm-ups, mobility, and accessory work.
Adjustable Dumbbells
Perfect for small spaces. Adjustable dumbbells replace an entire rack while allowing smooth transitions between exercises.
➡️ Learn more: Best Adjustable Dumbbells in the UK
Weight Benches
A strong, supportive bench turns any corner into a full gym. Choose an adjustable bench for versatility or a folding model for compact setups.
➡️ See: Best Home Gym Benches
Power Racks & Squat Racks
A power rack adds a professional edge to your setup — great for squats, bench presses, and pull-ups. Look for adjustable safety bars and sturdy construction.
➡️ Explore: Best Power Racks & Squat Racks UK
Barbells & Weight Plates
Quality matters here — proper knurling, weight accuracy, and bar spin ensure safe and comfortable lifting.
➡️ Read: Best Barbells & Plates for Home Gyms
Multi Gyms
For all-in-one solutions, a multi gym combines cable exercises, presses, and leg work in one machine — ideal if you want everything in a compact space.
➡️ Browse: Best Home Multi Gyms
Cardio Equipment for Home Gyms
Cardio equipment improves heart health, burns calories, and enhances recovery between strength sessions. The key is choosing a machine that matches your fitness level and available space.
Popular cardio machines for home use include:
- Treadmills – For running, walking, and HIIT workouts.
- Exercise bikes – Low-impact and easy on joints.
- Rowing machines – Provide full-body workouts.
- Cross trainers – Great for joint-friendly conditioning.
- Compact options – Like mini steppers or walking pads.
Treadmills
A home treadmill offers year-round cardio convenience. Look for folding designs, quiet motors, and shock absorption if you’re training in a flat or spare room.
➡️ Check out: Best Home Treadmills in the UK
Exercise Bikes
Whether upright, recumbent, or smart spin bike, cycling builds endurance and burns fat. Modern models include Bluetooth and app tracking.
➡️ See: Best Exercise Bikes UK
Rowing Machines
Rowers engage over 80% of your muscles while being low-impact. We compare air, water, and magnetic resistance models for UK homes.
➡️ Learn more: Best Rowing Machines for Home Use
Cross Trainers
Cross trainers (ellipticals) offer smooth, full-body movement. They’re perfect for home users who want low-impact training.
➡️ Explore: Best Cross Trainers UK
Compact Cardio Machines
For small homes or apartments, mini steppers and walking pads deliver quick, space-saving workouts.
➡️ Read: Best Compact Cardio Equipment
Functional, Recovery & Accessory Gear
These often-overlooked items can enhance performance, prevent injury, and improve recovery.
Essential accessories include:
- Yoga mat or exercise mat
- Resistance bands
- Foam roller or massage gun
- Smart scale or fitness tracker
Yoga & Exercise Mats
A reliable mat supports stretching, yoga, and floor workouts. Non-slip surfaces are key for safety.
➡️ Read: Best Yoga Mats UK
Resistance Bands
Add resistance without heavy weights. Great for travel, rehab, and warm-ups.
➡️ See: Best Resistance Bands for Home Workouts
Foam Rollers & Massage Tools
Speed up recovery and reduce soreness with quality foam rollers and percussion guns.
➡️ Explore: Best Recovery Tools for Home Gyms
Smart Fitness Accessories
Smart tech helps track progress and keeps you motivated — from heart-rate monitors to smart mirrors.
➡️ Learn: Best Smart Home Fitness Gear
Best Home Gym Equipment by Budget
How much does it cost to build a home gym?
Most UK setups cost between £300 and £2,000, depending on your goals and space. Here’s a breakdown:
💰 Budget Home Gym (£0–£500)
Start with adjustable dumbbells, resistance bands, and a bench. Add a foldable treadmill or bike later.
➡️ Read: How to Build a Home Gym on a Budget
💸 Mid-Range Home Gym (£500–£1,500)
Combine weights, racks, and cardio gear. This range suits most homeowners who want quality without overspending.
➡️ See: Best Mid-Range Home Gym Setups
💎 Premium Home Gym (£1,500+)
Go pro with multi gyms, smart treadmills, and power racks. Ideal for garages or dedicated fitness rooms.
➡️ Explore: Ultimate Home Gym Setup Guide
Designing Your Home Gym Layout
A smart layout maximises your space and motivation. Think safety, functionality, and flow.
Tips for an effective home gym layout:
- 📏 Measure accurately: Include ceiling height and doorways.
- 🔇 Control noise: Use rubber mats and pads.
- 💨 Ventilation matters: Keep airflow and lighting in mind.
- ⚡ Power outlets: Needed for cardio and smart gear.
➡️ Inspiration: Small Space Home Gym Ideas
Comparing Equipment Types
Choosing between different machines can be confusing. Our comparison guides help you decide:
- Dumbbells vs Barbells – Which builds more strength?
- Treadmill vs Exercise Bike – Which burns more calories?
- Adjustable Bench vs Flat Bench – Which suits home training better?
- Power Rack vs Smith Machine – Which is safer for beginners?
➡️ Explore all: Home Gym Equipment Comparisons
Expert Buying Tips
Buying home gym gear isn’t about buying everything — it’s about buying right.
- 🏆 Invest in quality over quantity.
- 🧩 Build gradually.
- 🔇 Mind noise and flooring.
- 💷 Check UK warranties and delivery.
- ♻️ Choose brands with good resale value.
➡️ See our full guide: How to Choose Home Gym Equipment
Where to Buy Home Gym Equipment in the UK
We recommend these trusted UK retailers for fair prices, quick delivery, and solid warranties:
- Amazon UK – Huge range, fast returns.
- Decathlon – Great value fitness gear.
- Mirafit – UK favourite for racks and weights.
- Argos – Budget-friendly starter kits.
- Fitness Superstore – Premium cardio and multi gyms.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What equipment do I need for a home gym?
Start with essentials: adjustable dumbbells, a bench, resistance bands, and a mat. Add cardio gear as your space and budget allow.
How much space do I need for a home gym?
Even a 2x2m area can fit a compact setup. Garages or spare rooms offer flexibility for racks and machines.
Is it cheaper to build a home gym than pay for a gym membership?
Yes — most UK home gyms pay for themselves within 12–18 months compared to typical membership costs.
What’s the best home gym equipment for beginners?
Start simple: dumbbells, resistance bands, and bodyweight tools. Learn proper form before investing in heavy machinery.
💬 Final Thoughts: Build a Gym That Works for You
Your home gym doesn’t have to be fancy, it just needs to be functional, motivating, and built around your goals.
Whether you’re lifting in your garage, spinning in your living room, or stretching in a small flat, consistency matters more than equipment quantity.
At Home Gym Guru, we’ll keep testing and recommending the best home gym equipment in the UK to help you train smarter, safer, and stronger — all from the comfort of home.