Your Guide to the Best Strength Training Equipment for Home

Building strength doesn't require an expensive gym membership or hours spent commuting to and from fitness centers. With the right strength training equipment for home, you can achieve impressive results in the comfort and convenience of your own space. 

Whether you're a beginner looking to start your fitness journey or an experienced lifter wanting to supplement your gym workouts, this guide will help you choose the best equipment for your needs, space, and budget, covering: 

• Why strength train at home? 

• What to look for in home strength training equipment 

• The 12 best pieces of strength training equipment for home

  • The best beginner strength training equipment 

  • The best intermediate strength training equipment 

  • The best advanced strength training equipment 

  • Specialty strength training equipment for specific goals

• Tips for building an at-home strength training workout routine

Let’s dive in! 

Why strength train at home?

Strength training offers a number of benefits, including increased muscle mass, improved bone density, enhanced metabolism, and better overall functional fitness. When you bring these benefits home, you add even more advantages, such as: 

• Convenience: No commute time, no waiting for equipment, and no gym hours to work around.

• Privacy: Train without feeling self-conscious or judged.

• Cost-effectiveness: Save on recurring membership fees.

• Customization: Build a setup tailored specifically to your goals.

• Flexibility: Work out whenever it fits your schedule, even if that's 5 a.m. or 11 p.m.

What to look for in home strength training equipment

Before investing in at-home strength training equipment, consider these important factors:

1. Space requirements

Be realistic about your available space. Some equipment requires a permanent dedicated area (such as a power rack), while other options can be stored away when not in use (such as resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells). Measure your workout area before purchasing anything substantial.

2. Budget considerations

Home strength training equipment ranges from very affordable (resistance bands) to significant investments (complete home gyms). Set a budget and prioritize equipment that offers the most versatility for your money.

Related blog: How Much Does a Home Gym Cost?

3. Your fitness goals

Different equipment serves different purposes. For instance, if you're primarily interested in building muscle mass, free weights might be your priority. For overall fitness, a more varied collection of equipment might serve you better. 

4. Quality and durability

At-home equipment faces different demands than commercial gym equipment. Look for sturdy construction, good warranties, and positive reviews from home users specifically.

The 12 best pieces of strength training equipment for home

Starting strength training at home doesn’t mean you need a fully equipped gym. With just a few key pieces of equipment, you can build muscle, improve endurance, and develop a well-rounded fitness routine. 

Here are our recommendations for the best strength training equipment for home at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels, as well as specialty strength training equipment that aligns with specific fitness goals, including: 

1. Resistance bands

2. Adjustable dumbbells

3. Pull-up bar

4. Kettlebells

5. Adjustable bench

6. Suspension trainers

7. Power rack/squat rack

8. Barbell and weight plates

9. Cable machine

10. Medicine ball

11. Weighted vest

12. Resistance bands with handles

The best beginner home strength training equipment 

The following beginner-friendly tools are budget-friendly, versatile, and perfect for any home workout space:

1. Resistance bands

Resistance bands are an incredibly versatile and portable piece of strength training equipment, making them a great addition to any home gym. Suitable for all fitness levels, they offer a surprisingly effective way to build strength and improve mobility. 

As an inexpensive entry point to strength training, resistance bands allow beginners to get started without a significant investment. They can be used for both isolation exercises targeting specific muscles and full-body movements, providing a well-rounded workout in a compact, travel-friendly form.

2. Adjustable dumbbells

Adjustable dumbbells are a space-efficient alternative to owning a full set of traditional dumbbells, making them ideal for home workouts. They allow for progressive overload, enabling you to increase weight as you build strength over time. 

Additionally, their versatility makes them useful for both upper- and lower-body exercises, from bicep curls and shoulder presses to lunges and squats. Additionally, the ability to quickly change weights ensures seamless transitions between exercises, making your workouts more efficient and effective.

Related blog: The 26 Best Dumbbell Workouts at Home

3. Pull-up bar

A pull-up bar is a compact yet powerful addition to any home gym, with door-mounted options that require minimal space. It is excellent for building strength in the back, arms, and core, making it a valuable tool for upper-body workouts. 

Beyond traditional pull-ups, these bars can also be used for a variety of exercises, including hanging leg raises, chin-ups, and grip-strength training, adding versatility to your workouts.

Related blog: 12 Beginner Strength Training Exercises to Add to Your Workout Routine

The best intermediate home strength training equipment 

Once you’ve built a solid foundation with basic equipment, you might want to expand your setup with tools that offer more versatility and challenge. These intermediate-level options allow you to perform a wider range of exercises while still being relatively compact and affordable:

1. Kettlebells

Kettlebells are perfect for dynamic, compound movements that engage multiple muscle groups at once. They are highly effective for building functional strength and power, making them a great tool for improving overall athletic performance. In addition to strength training, kettlebell exercises also provide cardiovascular benefits, enhancing endurance and conditioning. 

With just a few strategically chosen weights, you can perform a wide range of exercises for a full-body workout, making kettlebells a versatile and efficient addition to any home gym.

2. Adjustable bench

An adjustable bench is a great way to enhance the versatility of your dumbbell exercises. With the ability to adjust to incline, flat, and decline positions, it allows for greater variety in your workouts while helping you target different muscle groups effectively. 

Adjustable benches are particularly useful for chest exercises, providing support to maintain proper form during presses and flys. Beyond weight training, an adjustable bench can also be used for at-home bodyweight exercises like step-ups, adding even more functionality to your routine.

3. Suspension trainers

Suspension trainers are an excellent tool for strength training, using body weight as resistance to build muscle and improve overall fitness. They are highly portable and space-efficient, making them perfect for home gyms or travel. In addition to targeting major muscle groups, suspension training enhances core stability, as nearly every movement requires balance and control. With hundreds of exercise variations available, they offer a versatile and effective way to challenge your body at any fitness level.

The best advanced strength training equipment 

For those who are serious about lifting heavy and maximizing their strength potential at home, investing in advanced equipment can take your workouts to the next level. These pieces of gear provide the structure and resistance needed for heavy lifts and progressive overload:

1. Power rack/squat rack

A power rack or squat rack is the centerpiece of any serious home gym, providing a safe and sturdy setup for heavy lifting. It allows you to perform essential strength movements like squats, bench presses, and overhead presses with added security. Many models also include pull-up bars and attachments, making them a versatile investment for full-body training. 

For maximum safety and adaptability, look for a rack with adjustable safety arms to support your lifts and prevent injury.

2. Barbell and weight plates

A barbell and weight plates are essential for serious strength training, allowing for the most effective progressive overload. They are key for classic compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses, which build full-body strength. 

Standard Olympic barbells weigh 20kg (45 lbs), but shorter options are available for those with limited space. If noise and floor protection are concerns, consider using bumper plates, which are designed to absorb impact and reduce sound during lifts.

3. Cable machine

A cable machine provides consistent resistance throughout a movement, ensuring that muscles remain engaged from start to finish. It’s especially useful for isolation exercises, such as tricep pushdowns and cable curls, that are difficult to replicate with free weights. 

Cable machines also allow for high-rep, lower-weight training, making them ideal for building endurance and muscle definition. Compact versions are available for home use, offering a space-efficient way to incorporate cable exercises into your home gym.

Specialty strength training equipment for specific goals

If you have particular training goals—such as improving explosiveness, enhancing endurance, or adding resistance to bodyweight exercises—specialty equipment can help. These tools may not be essential, but they offer unique benefits that can complement your routine:

1. Medicine balls

Medicine balls are perfect for improving explosive movements and core training, offering a dynamic way to enhance your strength workouts. They add variety to traditional exercises, allowing for throws, slams, and rotational movements that challenge both power and stability. 

Medicine balls are also great for partner workouts, as they can be passed or tossed back and forth, adding a fun and interactive element to training.

2. Weighted vest

A weighted vest is an excellent tool for intensifying bodyweight exercises, such as push-ups, squats, and pull-ups, by adding extra resistance. It helps build functional strength, improving your ability to perform everyday activities with greater ease and efficiency. 

With adjustable options, a weighted vest allows you to gradually increase the intensity of your workouts, making it a versatile and progressive addition to any fitness routine.

3. Resistance bands with handles

Resistance bands with handles are more durable than basic bands, offering a sturdier and longer-lasting option for strength training. They can simulate cable exercises, providing a similar feel to traditional gym machines but in a more compact and portable form. With door attachments, these bands expand your exercise possibilities, allowing you to perform a wide range of movements. 

Additionally, they can be easily combined with other equipment, such as dumbbells or kettlebells, to add extra resistance and enhance the intensity of your workouts.

Tips for building an at-home strength training workout routine

Creating a strength training routine at home is a convenient and efficient way to build muscle and improve overall fitness. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your workouts, the key is to start simple and focus on building a solid foundation. Here are some practical tips to help you develop a routine that suits your goals, space, and equipment, setting you up for success on your fitness journey:

1. Start simple

Begin with basic equipment that allows for compound movements. Resistance bands and adjustable dumbbells provide excellent versatility for beginners without overwhelming you with options.

2. Focus on progressive overload

The principle of progressive overload—gradually increasing weight, frequency, or repetitions—is essential for strength gains, regardless of equipment. Choose equipment that allows you to progressively challenge yourself.

3. Create a dedicated space

Even if it's just a corner of your living room, having a designated area for your strength training equipment can help maintain motivation and consistency.

4. Develop a balanced routine

Ensure your equipment choices allow you to train all major muscle groups. A well-rounded strength routine should include exercises for legs, chest, back, shoulders, arms, and core.

5. Consider digital guidance

Many home strength training programs like the ones offered on Hydrow, offer app or video guidance. These can help you make the most of your equipment and ensure proper form.

Building a home gym for strength training doesn't have to happen all at once. Start with versatile, foundational pieces like resistance bands, adjustable dumbbells, or kettlebells that offer the most bang for your buck. As your strength increases and your commitment deepens, you can gradually add more specialized equipment for your home strength training exercises.

The best equipment for strength training at home is ultimately the equipment that you'll use consistently. Consider your specific goals, available space, and budget when making your selections. With the right tools and commitment, you can build impressive strength without ever leaving your home.

Remember that even the best at-home strength training equipment is only effective when used regularly and properly. Focus on proper form, progressive overload, and consistency—and you'll be well on your way to achieving your strength goals, all from the comfort of home.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Get started with at-home strength training with Hydrow!

Ready to give strength training a try? Be sure to check out Hydrow’s library of strength-training workouts. And if you’re considering investing in some equipment to make your home gym even more powerful, consider a Hydrow rowing machine. 

Rowing works 86 percent of your muscles in every stroke, providing a highly effective cardio and strength workout that torches calories in just 20 minutes. 

Hydrow also offers an extensive library of workout content led by our team of world-class Athletes and filmed in gorgeous locations around the world. Our rowing, yoga, Pilates, strength training, mobility training, and circuit training workouts will transport you to stunning global destinations and keep you motivated to come back again and again. 

Learn more about the benefits of rowing and a Hydrow rowing machine today!