Home gyms have become more popular than ever, and for good reason: they’re convenient, cost-effective in the long run, and offer full control over your workout environment. But setting up your own training space is about more than just buying a few dumbbells and calling it a day. The right equipment helps you reach your strength and fitness goals safely and efficiently, while also ensuring you make the most of your investment too.
In this article, we break down the key considerations and essential pieces of kit you’ll need to create a home gym that will support your workout goals long into the future.
Questions to ask before you buy
To help you narrow down the choices out there, here are some questions you can ask yourself:
1. How often will you train at home?
If you anticipate most of your workouts taking place at home, investing in durable, versatile gear is a no-brainer. You’ll want equipment that supports progressive overload (the practice of steadily increasing weight, intensity, or volume) and can handle regular use. If, however, you still plan to maintain a membership at a local gym and only train at home once a week or so, you might opt for fewer or more compact pieces. Understanding how frequently you’ll be using your home gym helps you prioritise what’s actually needed and set a realistic budget.
2. Are you looking to lift heavy over time?
For those focused on muscle growth and strength gains, having the option to lift heavy safely is really important. Exercises like squats, bench presses, and deadlifts are usually central to progressive overload and these lifts often require spotter arms, safety bars, or a partner to ensure you’re protected. If you know you’ll be pushing your limits, a robust rack, a decent barbell, and quality weight plates are absolute essentials. On the other hand, if your goal is general fitness, bodyweight training, or lighter resistance work, you may not need all the bells and whistles of a powerlifting-style setup.
3. How much space do you have?
Space is often a deciding factor when choosing home gym equipment. If you have a roomy garage or spare room, you can set up a full power rack and still have space for accessories like rowing machines or cable stations. But in a smaller flat or shared living situation, every square inch counts. Folding racks, adjustable dumbbells, and stackable bumper plates can be game-changers for compact areas. Be honest about your square footage before you buy so you don’t end up with kit you can’t properly use or store. You don’t want to sit on the sofa looking through a power rack to see the TV!
Individual equipment essentials
Kettlebells and dumbbells
Often considered entry-level gear, kettlebells and dumbbells actually offer an impressive range of workout options. Kettlebell swings are fantastic for explosive power and cardio conditioning, while dumbbells let you work individual limbs for better balance and symmetry.They’re also great for exercises like goblet squats, walking lunges, chest presses, and shoulder presses. They’re compact, versatile, and relatively affordable. You can target your entire body with just a few pairs.
Barbells and plates
If you’re serious about strength and hypertrophy (muscle growth), a barbell and a good collection of plates are non-negotiable. A quality barbell can handle heavy loads and is designed for smooth rotation, which is essential for exercises like cleans and snatches. Bumper plates, made of thick rubber, are ideal because they minimise damage when dropped, keeping both your floor and your barbell safe.
Compound lifts such as squats, deadlifts, and bench presses are the backbone of most effective strength programmes, and they require a reliable barbell and plates. Start with a moderate set of bumper plates (e.g., a pair of 5 kg, 10 kg, 15 kg, and 20 kg) and add more as you get stronger.
Rack options: folding vs. power
A rack provides not only stability and safety but also opens up the possibility for more challenging exercises, especially if you’re training alone. But which one is best for your home gym?
Folding racks: Perfect for multipurpose spaces. Fold them against the wall post-workout, freeing up room for your car, office, or day-to-day life. Despite their compact design, high-quality folding racks still offer the support and safety you need for big lifts.
Full power racks: If you have a dedicated home gym area, a full cage or power rack is the gold standard. They often include pull-up bars, spotter arms, and attachment points for dip bars or cable systems. The trade-off is that they require more permanent floor space.
Weight bench
A bench, particularly an adjustable one, extends your available exercises. Shift between flat, incline, and decline positions to target different angles for chest, shoulders, and arms. You can also use it for step-ups, split squats, or even as a box for plyometric drills.
A bench transforms the humble dumbbell or barbell into a tool for targeting multiple muscle groups with precision. Look for a bench that’s stable and easy to adjust.
Environment considerations
It’s not just about the gear itself; setting the right environment makes your workouts safer and more enjoyable. Rubber gym flooring or heavy-duty mats can protect your floors from dropped weights and reduce noise levels. Adequate lighting helps with visibility (especially important if you’re checking your form or progress, or recording content for your social channels), and good ventilation ensures you don’t overheat in a cramped space. Shelving or wall-mounted storage is also useful to keep smaller items like resistance bands, kettlebells, or plates tidy and accessible.
A comfortable, well-organised environment encourages consistency and reduces the risk of accidents. If you’re lifting in a garage or basement, consider adding a portable fan or a space heater to maintain a more comfortable temperature year-round.
Ready for a hassle-free setup?
Putting together a home gym that meets your needs doesn’t have to be daunting. At Again Faster, we’ve done the legwork for you by creating a range of home gym equipment packages. These home gym bundles include competition-quality gear - racks, barbells, bumper plates, and more - curated to help you train effectively regardless of your space constraints.
Whether you’re just getting started or upgrading your current setup, our packages make it simple to invest in the must-haves without compromising on quality or safety. Build your ideal workout space and start moving towards your goals.
Happy lifting.
