12 Tips on Buying Exercise Equipment for Home Gyms

No matter your fitness goals, it’s great to have a space to work out at home. If you’re thinking of developing or enhancing your home gym, you want to have the right exercise equipment on hand.

Before you head out to shop for gym equipment, it’s important to consider what you want, what you need, and what you can afford. There’s so much to choose from in the fitness world.

But what works for your neighbor’s home gym, won’t necessarily work for you. It takes some planning to find the right home gym setup for your needs.

We have some ideas. Here are 12 tips for buying the right exercise equipment for your home gym.

1. Know Your Options

The choices for a home gym can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not used to working out on a regular basis. There are many great options for keeping your body strong and in great shape.

Before you buy, take some time to learn about all your options. You don’t want to make a rash decision. Many people do this and end up with unused gym equipment collecting dust in their exercise space.

Among your options, consider the following:

• Treadmill
• Elliptical machine
• Rowing machine
• Stationary bike
• Weight machine
• Stair-climber machine
• Cross-country ski simulator
• Smaller pieces of exercise gear

There’s no “right” choice. It depends on your fitness goals, physical ability, and your budget. Above all, you want to choose pieces you’ll actually use and enjoy.

2. Measure Your Space

Looking at exercise equipment in a sporting goods store can be deceiving. These spaces are huge, and you may not realize how big the exercise machines are.

If you buy on impulse, you may discover the equipment is too large for the space you have. Before you buy, measure your space first.

Consider what you need and what can fit comfortably in the room. You need room to move about, so there should be adequate space between each piece.

Many exercise machines come in varying sizes. Choose what works best for the space you have.

Take your room measurements with you to the fitness store. Ask questions. Make sure you’re getting pieces you love that will fit in your workout space.

3. Consider Your Physical Ability

You have to consider your health as you plan your home gym. Some pieces of equipment aren’t appropriate for individuals with physical limitations.

Your equipment should match your interests, objectives, and physical abilities. If you have existing health issues such as arthritis, back problems, or heart disease, you should discuss your exercise needs with your doctor.

You don’t want to choose equipment that will be too taxing on your body or negatively affect your health. Whatever your age or physical ability, you want the right equipment for your individual needs.

4. Set a Budget

With an endless array of exercise equipment on the market, it’s possible to set up a home gym without breaking the bank. Review your gym equipment budget and consider how much you want to spend.

There are fantastic choices at a variety of price points. Plan what you want and need. And look for equipment that meets your needs and fits your budget.

Before you head to the store or start shopping online, have your budget in mind. From the latest high-tech machines to good second-hand options, you can have a home gym you’ll love and use for years to come.

5. Beware of “Get Fit Quick” Scams

Getting fit takes time, dedication, and effort. Don’t believe anyone who promises fast, miraculous results. They simply want your money.

Fitness machines can help you as you work to reach your fitness goals. And different machines can help you target specific muscle groups and areas of the body.

Lofty claims promising fast results are common in the fitness industry. But don’t believe the hype.

Good physical fitness requires focus and endurance to reach your goals. Quality exercise equipment can assist you as you do the work to achieve your fitness goals.

6. Read Reviews

Fitness machines and equipment are an investment. You don’t want to regret your purchases down the road.

Once you have a piece of equipment in mind, do your research. Talk to a fitness expert and read online reviews. 

One negative review isn’t a big deal. But if you notice multiple poor reviews, steer clear. Pay attention to comments about the quality of the fitness equipment and the consumer’s experience with the seller.

7. Test Before You Buy 

It’s okay to buy some fitness equipment online. But it’s always better to test equipment before you buy.

What looks good online may not be quite as appealing in person. If exercise machines are too large, difficult to operate, or uncomfortable, you won’t use them.

Many fitness retailers have machines on display for you to try. Wear your workout clothes and athletic shoes to test out equipment.

Make sure the machine is the proper size for you and that you feel comfortable using it.

8. Compare Prices

Multiple retailers often sell the same brands of exercise equipment. It makes sense to do your research and compare prices.

You may be able to find the same piece of equipment for a cheaper price with another retailer. Don’t forget to look for sales or ask for a discount.

Understand the delivery options and compare these prices as well. Some retailers will price-match or even beat another store’s price to get your business.

If you’re considering buying used equipment, inspect it well before buying. Most second-hand equipment is sold “as is.” Sales are often final with no option for return.

9. Understand the Fine Print

New fitness equipment usually comes with a warranty or guarantee program. Make sure you know the retailer’s policy for returns or exchanges before making a purchase.

Some retailers have changed their return policies due to the pandemic. They may have stricter rules regarding returns and delivery.

It’s always a good idea to ask questions and read the fine print. Find out if you can return the equipment if it doesn’t fit your needs. 

Understand the warranty and the costs associated with shipping and delivery as you weigh your options.

10. Invest in “Smart” Equipment

Are you looking for the latest in fitness equipment? If so, you should take a look at the many amazing “smart” exercise machines on the market.

Home gym equipment has come a long way in recent years. There are many options with preset workouts, touch screens, scenery changes, heart monitors, and more.

You can stream expert trainers and work out along with them and others. These high-tech machines do come with a higher price tag. 

Of course, you don’t need smart machines to get a great workout. But if you’re looking for the latest trend, working out with smart technology can be a lot of fun.

11. Don’t Forget the Small Stuff

If you’re thinking about creating a home workout space, you may have exercise machines on your radar. But low-cost pieces like a stability ball, hand weights, resistance band, jump rope, and other options are fantastic for fitness.

If you don’t have room for multiple machines, think of other ways you can reach your fitness goals. Some inexpensive items can help you get in shape.

Consider buying one exercise machine such as a weight station, treadmill, or elliptical machine and adding additional smaller items to outfit your home gym.

12. Choose Pieces You Will Use

The best piece of exercise equipment is one you’ll use on a regular basis. If you have a gym membership, think of the machines you use the most. And consider the ones you never touch.

Shop for what you like. Getting in shape and staying in shape is a game of endurance. You need equipment you will use and come back to time after time.

If you’ve never used a rowing machine before, don’t rush out to buy one. Think about what works for you and what you’ll stick with long-term. 

Your perfect home gym is one you will love and enjoy during your weekly workout schedule.

Tips for Buying Exercise Equipment

Having a home gym is convenient and fun. You can work out whenever you want without ever leaving home. 

Choosing the right exercise equipment takes some thought and planning. Make sure you choose pieces that suit your needs, fit your space, and match your physical ability.

Read reviews, compare prices, and test equipment before you buy. Getting in shape takes time, so you want to choose workout equipment you will use and enjoy for years to come.

Before you go, take a look at our online fitness magazine, dedicated to your health and well-being.