Building a home gym doesn’t have to be expensive. You can tailor your workouts to your goals without breaking the bank. It just takes a little more work! Online shopping makes it easy to find affordable options that work well, last long, and keep you motivated. There’s no shortage of wallet-friendly gear for someone focusing on strength, cardio, or overall fitness. The real challenge is knowing what’s worth buying and what’s just a waste of space. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of budget-friendly fitness equipment you can snag online. These picks strike the perfect balance between quality, price, and functionality, making it easy to stay fit without overspending.
Dumbbells ($20 and up)
A good set of dumbbells is one of the most versatile pieces of fitness equipment you can own. Adjustable dumbbells are a practical choice for those dealing with limited space. Brands like CAP Barbell and Bowflex offer inexpensive sets that allow you to easily switch between weights. Fixed-weight dumbbells made of neoprene or rubber are also great for beginners who want lighter options. Dumbbells support a range of exercises, from bicep curls to overhead presses, making them a must-have for strength training.
Resistance Bands ($10 to $30)
Compact, lightweight, and shockingly effective, resistance bands are a budget-friendly wonder. These stretchy bands can add intensity to bodyweight exercises or even replace dumbbells. Most sets include bands with varying resistance levels, so you can start light and gradually increase the challenge. They’re perfect for everything from glute bridges to upper-body workouts. Look for options like those from Fit Simplify or Theraband, which get high marks for durability and performance.
Yoga Mats ($15 to $40)
A quality yoga mat should be your go-to surface for stretching, Pilates, core workouts, and more. Mats with non-slip surfaces helps you stay safe and stable during your sessions. Check out Gaiam and BalanceFrom. These companies offer high-quality mats at wallet-friendly prices. Prioritize mats that are thick enough to cushion your joints but not so soft that they make balancing tricky.
Kettlebells ($20 and up)
Kettlebells are a powerhouse tool for combining strength and cardio exercises. They’re excellent for moves like kettlebell swings, goblet squats, and Turkish get-ups. Many brands, such as Amazon Basics, offer cast-iron kettlebells that are durable and pretty cheap. If multiple weights seem too costly, start with one medium-weight kettlebell until you decide to expand your collection.
Jump Ropes ($10 to $20)
Jumping rope can give you a killer cardiovascular workout that burns calories quickly and boosts coordination. Speed ropes are great for cardio intervals, while weighted ropes add resistance for more intense sessions. Brands like WOD Nation and DEGOL sell high-quality jump ropes with adjustable lengths, so you’ll always get the right fit.
Stability Balls ($15 to $30)
Stability balls, also known as exercise balls or Swiss balls, are among the most versatile pieces of fitness gear. They’re fantastic for core workouts, balance training, or even as a substitute for a chair to improve posture. Options like those from Dynapro or Trideer provide sturdy, burst-resistant designs that hold up well over time.
Foam Rollers ($10 to $25)
Foam rollers are your secret weapon for fitness recovery. They help release muscle tightness, improve circulation, and enhance flexibility. Textured rollers add extra intensity, but beginners can get smooth options. High-density rollers from ProsourceFit or Amazon Basics combine durability with affordability. Use them before or after workouts for the best results.
Adjustable Bench ($50 to $150)
An adjustable bench steps up your strength training game, supporting exercises like chest presses or Bulgarian split squats. Many options, such as those from Flybird or Fitness Reality, feature adjustable angles and foldable designs to save space. This is one of those items where spending a bit more upfront means long-term value and safety.
Pull-Up Bars ($20 to $40)
Strengthening your back, shoulders, and arms becomes easier with a pull-up bar. Doorway pull-up bars are the most affordable and space-saving option. Look for models with padded grips to protect your hands during workouts. Iron Gym and Perfect Fitness make solid products that can easily support your weight.
Ab Wheels ($10 to $20)
Toning your core doesn’t need complicated machines. An ab wheel is a simple, budget-friendly gadget that effectively works your entire midsection. Many models, like those from Valeo or Fitnessery, come with knee pads for added comfort. The compact size means it’s easy to store when not in use.
Medicine Balls ($15 to $40)
Medicine balls combine strength, power, and conditioning into one piece of equipment. Use them for wall throws, Russian twists, or squats with an added challenge. Medicine balls like those from Amazon Basics or Champion Sports come in multiple sizes and weights, catering to different fitness levels.
Door Anchors for Resistance Bands ($5 to $15)
Resistance bands become even more versatile when paired with a door anchor. These small additions allow you to perform exercises like lat pulldowns or chest presses using any sturdy doorframe. Options like Whatafit or Black Mountain Products anchors are easy to use, turning your home into a mini gym.
Portable Pedal Exercisers ($30 to $50)
Portable pedal exercisers are a compact alternative to bulky cardio machines. These small devices are great for use under a desk or for quick at-home cycling sessions. DeskCycle or Vaunn offer lightweight and wallet-friendly models that can help you stay active even when seated.
Weight Plates ($10 and up)
If you’re into barbell workouts, weight plates are an excellent addition to your setup. Both cast iron and rubber-coated plates are widely available online. CAP Barbell and BalanceFrom provide budget-friendly options that allow you to increase your lifting capacity over time.
Speed Ladders ($15 to $30)
Speed ladders are perfect for agility and conditioning training. Set them up on any flat surface for drills that enhance footwork, coordination, and speed. Options from Yes4All or SKLZ are easy to pack and store, making them a great addition to any workout routine.
Adjustable Workout Bars ($30 to $50)
Adjustable workout bars bring versatility to your exercise routine. They can be used for bodyweight exercises like dips, rows, or modified push-ups. Look for sturdy, non-slip options such as Cap Barbell or Body Bar flex models.
Ankle Weights ($15 to $30)
Adding resistance to your lower-body workouts becomes easy with ankle weights. These compact tools are perfect for leg lifts or walking routines. Affordable options from Tone Fitness or Nordic Lifting strike a balance between durability and ease of use.
Sandbags ($20 to $60)
For functional strength training, sandbags are hard to beat. These adjustable tools can be filled with sand to create a customizable workout experience. Options like Yes4All Sandbags offer varying weight ranges to meet different strength levels.
Treadmills Under $300
Treadmills used to be a luxury item, but budget-friendly models have made them more accessible. Portable and foldable designs, such as those from SereneLife or Sunny Health & Fitness, are great for home use. They offer enough features to support walking or light jogging without breaking the bank.