What do I need for a Home gym?

Since the lockdowns, training and fitness at home have become far more common. Initially a necessity with gyms and fitness clubs closed, people now have fully bought into the convenience and effectvenesss of training at home. As personal trainers we often get asked, “what should I get in my gym”. This can be from clients looking for just the basics in a smaller space, to those with a big space and budget looking for a close-to-commercial gym set up. Below we go through just some of the options, using al the knowledge that we have built up over 22 years in fitness to help you make the most effective choices. .

🟢 BASIC (3–5 items) – “Do everything in a small space”

This is enough to get strong, mobile, and consistent.

What to get

• Adjustable dumbbells
• Resistance bands
• Exercise mat
• Suspension trainer or TX
• Optional: kettlebell

👉 This combo covers push, pull, legs, and core (even advanced training). A suspension trainer in particular is unmatched for versality, portability and range of use from beginner to advanced.

Original TRX trainer £135.95 or a basic Amazon model for around £30 (surprisingly close to the original)

Strongway adjustable barbell dumbbell set £59.95 on Amazon

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Why this works

• Dumbbells = strength + progression
• Bands = mobility + assistance
• Pull-up = upper body + core
• Mat = floor work

👉 This setup alone can last years if used properly.

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🟡 INTERMEDIATE – “Feels like a small gym”

Now you’re adding structure and heavier loading.

What to add

• Adjustable bench
• Heavier dumbbells or barbell set
• 7ft Olympic barbell and plates
• Dip bars or pull-up station
• Optional: cardio (rower / walking pad)

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Example upgrades

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Why this level matters

• Bench = multiplies your exercise options
• 7ft barbell is actually ver versatile from legs to pulling to pushing to core.
• Cardio = optional but useful

👉 This is where your home gym becomes genuinely equivalent to most commercial gyms

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🔴 FULL SETUP – “Commercial-level home gym”

This is if you want maximum convenience + zero limitations

What to include

• Leg press machine – allows for heavy leg work for those not confident using a very heavy barbell or Hex bar.
• Cable machine / functional trainer
• Hex bar barbell + plates – amazing to get you into a safe effective squat position
• Cardio machine (rower, treadmill, bike)
• Flooring + storage

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Example “full works” kit

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Why go full setup?

• Zero waiting / full flexibility
• Best for serious strength or long-term use
• Replicates almost everything in a gym

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📊 Comparison Table (what each level gives you)

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🧠 What most people get wrong when they ask “what do I need for a home gym?

From real user experience:

“People overcomplicate home gyms… adjustable dumbbells + bands + TRX cover everything.”

👉 Biggest mistake = buying too much too early