Home gyms allow you to sculpt muscles and enjoy a full-body workout without hitting the gym. These machines use weight stacks or bendable composite bars to provide resistance, and many can be adjusted to fit the needs of different types of users. Before you invest in a home gym, compare factors like cost, design and quality to find the best model for your fitness needs.
Best Workout Experience
Home gyms utilize either weight stacks or flexible resistance bars, and each offers its own benefits and drawbacks, according to Consumer Search. Bar-based systems like the Bowflex feature a compact design and low price tag, whereas weight stacks tend to take up more room and cost more on average. Despite their drawbacks, machines that rely on weight stacks offer better performance, smoother operation and more even levels of resistance than their bar-based counterparts.
No matter which systems you choose, pick a model that offers at least 200 lbs. of resistance. Consumer Search estimates that this is the minimum amount of weight needed for most users, although you can always add more. If you want to work out with other family members, look for a machine with multiple stations or weight stacks built in.
Budget
Consumer Reports recommends putting together your own home gym if you're on a budget. Instead of buying a weight machine, invest in hand weights, resistance bands, videos and an exercise mat to enjoy a full-body workout.
If you prefer an all-in-one machine, Exercise Equipment Expert estimates that you can find very basic models for around $200. For $400 or less, you can buy an adjustable weight bench that comes with bands and plates for a full-body workout. For a budget of $700, the Bowflex offers upper and lower-body resistance along with an adjustable seat or bench. If you want a serious muscle-building machine, plan to spend between $1,300 and $1,700 on average.
Quality
To get the most from your home gym, look for quality construction and durable design. Consumer Search recommends shopping for these gyms at your local fitness supply store so you can try different models. Pick a unit with a steel frame that's at least two inches square. Test the machine to ensure it is both stable and sturdy, and check that weights or bars move smoothly. Try adjusting the resistance or changing plates to make sure you can adjust the machine quickly and easily. Finally, pay attention to how different elements fit your body, especially if you are very tall or below average height.
Best Rated
Outside Magazine Online named the Hoist V5 the Cadillac of home gyms. With an estimated price of $3,260, this unit is one of the more expensive home gyms on the market, but offers an advanced workout for serious fitness buffs.
Consumer Search also named the Hoist V5 as their top pick overall for its impressive features and quality-design. The website picked the BodyCraft Galena as its best compact model, with a price range of $1,300 to $1,600. For those on a tight budget, Consumer Search recommends the Weider Max Ultra, with a cost of only around $400.
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