Honestly, the only downside is having to buy each pair individually or invest in a set from the brand: 5-50 lbs, 5-75 lbs, 5-100 lbs, 55-75 lbs, and 80-100 lbs. (Remember, racks are sold separately.)
For tech enthusiasts who don’t mind spending a fortune, this new device offers a versatile, high-power tool in an extremely small footprint. It takes the design of a cable trainer commonly used in gyms and streamlines it into a portable package.
What our testers think
The design and engineering are beyond stellar – NASA scientists will be impressed with this innovative cable machine. It weighs only 13 pounds but can produce up to 200 pounds of resistance (the same as the much bulkier Tonal Smart Gym). Honestly, this is a lot of power in a small footprint. “It’s very smooth compared to a standard aluminum pulley system,” says Tyree Booker, a certified personal trainer at Lionel University and a former college football player. “Its ability to replicate chain weight changes, resistance band tension, and add extra weight on eccentric movements is one of the best features of this machine.”
After extensive testing, the price and limited warranty will be the biggest turnoffs for most people. That said, we’d definitely incorporate it into our dream “money is not a goal” minimalist setup and combine it with the Bells of Steel Manticore six-post power rack for easy setup.
Say goodbye to the cheap door-to-door bars you’ve had since college. This durable upgrade is rock solid and half the price of the competition.
What our testers think
Unlike door pull-up bars, you can complete high-quality workouts without having to worry if they suddenly fall, slip, or break. The heavyweight 11-gauge steel construction is extremely strong and provides a solid foundation that won’t move or bend. Of course, there is some assembly required, but as long as you have a drill, leveling, and know where the wall studs are, it will take you less than 15 minutes. This is one of the most affordable home workout machines on our list.
Saving speed just got easier with the Bowflex SelectTech 1090 Adjustable Dumbbells. Keep your home gym space streamlined and stylish with a pair of weights that are adjustable from 10 to 90 pounds.
What our testers think
These adjustable dumbbells solve a major obstacle for home gym owners: space. If you don’t have enough room for a full set of weights (and let’s be honest, most of us don’t), these pack 90 pounds of variable resistance into a streamlined package. Simply use the knobs on the side of the handle to control the weight adjustment on either side, starting at 10 pounds. One set replaces 17 sets of dumbbells, so you can easily master progressive overload.
If you’re looking for a versatile barbell for your training, try the Major Fitness Home Gym Barbell. Even if you are doing metcon training and heavy plate training, it will not scratch easily.
What our testers think
From bench presses and squats to deadlifts and cleans, our tester (an Olympic weightlifter) thinks the Major Fitness barbell is a steal. The bar’s moderate knurling provides a solid grip for heavier lifts, but not to the point of being overly aggressive. Note that our testers noted that while the barbell uses needle bearings in its rotation system, it doesn’t rotate much.
Regardless of your training style, this barbell can only hold up to 750 pounds, which won’t impress Olympic-level lifters, but is ideal for those just starting out on their weightlifting journey. . It’s constructed with the needs of powerlifters and Olympic lifters in mind, featuring the aforementioned knurled markings, a 30mm shaft, and a 16-inch loadable sleeve length for maximum versatility and durability.
This machine is truly the first of its kind, combining the powerful training benefits of a hyperextension machine and a Nordic bench into a reliable home tool. Trust us, this thing is worth every penny.
What our testers think
The muscles of the posterior chain (also known as the back of the body, including the glutes, hamstrings, and lower back) are critical to athletic performance. They provide power, stability and control while running, jumping and lifting. The problem is, they’re notoriously difficult to train effectively in a compact home gym.
