Best Home Gym Machines of 2024, According to Fitness Trainers

Overview

Creating the perfect home gym is a journey toward convenience, health, and wellness. It’s about bringing the effectiveness of a fully-equipped gym into the comfort of your home. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast or just starting out, the right home gym equipment can transform your workouts and help you achieve your fitness goals.

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best home gym machines of 2024. Our selection is based on expert analysis and user reviews, covering everything from compact multi-gyms to the best cable machines for home gym to the most space-efficient best home cardio machine. We’ve got insights into equipment that’s ideal for different fitness levels and spaces, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Get ready to enhance your home workouts and step closer to your fitness goals with these must-have home gym equipment. Let’s dive into the world of home fitness and discover your next workout companion!

What Are Gym Machines?

Gym machines are specialized tools designed to enhance your workout experience. They’re perfect for anyone aiming to get fit, build muscle, or maintain their fitness routine. Unlike free weights, these machines guide your movements to target specific muscles, reducing the risk of injury and ensuring you exercise correctly.

From treadmills for runners to stationary bikes for cyclists, each machine serves a unique purpose. They’re especially helpful for beginners, providing a safe and structured way to exercise. Moreover, machines like leg presses and chest presses focus on particular muscle groups, making them ideal for targeted workouts.

Fitness expert Pete McCall highlights the advantages of gym machines, noting, “More importantly, machines can help clients become stronger while establishing the healthy behaviors necessary to make exercise a consistent part of their daily routines”​​.

Whether you’re starting or diversifying your fitness journey, gym machines offer the safety, convenience, and effectiveness needed for a fulfilling workout.

Best Home Gym Machines

Our Top Picks

#1 Tonal Home Gym

4.9

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Type of Equipment: Smart home gym with digital weight resistance

Key features:

• Number of servings :
• Dose:
• Key Ingredients :
• Available flavors :
• Price per serving : Starts at $3,499

What we love:

• Compact wall-mounted design saves floor space
• Digital weight selection from 3-150 pounds for each arm
• Integrated touchscreen for guided workouts
• Bluetooth smart handles provide form correction
• Wide variety of workout programs for all levels

What to consider:

• Very expensive upfront or long-term financing required
• No free weights or a variety of equipment
• Requires internet connection for full features
• Smaller community than gyms or fitness classes

Why We Choose Tonal Home Gym:

Tonal Home Gym is an innovative smart system that delivers fully adjustable strength workouts in a space-saving package. Its digital weight selection and integrated coaching make it effective for personalized training at home. While costly, its financing options and risk-free trial period reduce barriers to exploring this high-tech home gym solution.

Overview

Tonal Home Gym is a highly efficient and technologically advanced fitness equipment designed for effective workouts in small living spaces. It features a 24-inch touchscreen monitor and offers thousands of live or on-demand trainer-led workouts. The companion app tracks your progress and includes a leaderboard for friendly competition within the Tonal community. Additional smart handles and attachments provide virtual spotting and control over digital weight.

Tonal is a versatile home gym system that caters to various fitness goals. With adjustable resistance and structured workout programs, it helps enhance strength, reduce body fat, and improve overall fitness. While not ideal for professional athletes or weightlifters needing high resistance, it’s a solid choice for building strength at home. It’s also suitable for beginners, those with limited space, and those seeking weight selection guidance.

Tonal Home Gym offers a highly intelligent and versatile fitness solution for personalized workouts at home. While it may seem expensive initially, its long-term value, flexible payment plans, and 90-day risk-free trial make it stand out among competitors. Elevate your home fitness experience with Tonal’s compact design, smart technology, and wide range of workouts.

#2 NordicTrack Fusion CST

4.8

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Type of Equipment: Smart home gym with strength and cardio capabilities using cable pulley resistance

Key features:

• Number of servings :
• Dose:
• Key Ingredients :
• Protein Blend :
• Available flavors :
• Price : $1,799

What we love:

• Compact design fits in small spaces
• 20 digital resistance levels for strength and cardio workouts
• Full-length mirror for form checks
• iFit compatibility for interactive guided workouts
• Durable steel frame construction

What to consider:

• Large footprint still requires some dedicated space
• Additional monthly iFit subscription cost
• No weight stacks like other machines
• On the more expensive side compared to dumbbells or kettlebells

Why We Choose NordicTrack Fusion CST:

NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio is a versatile smart gym machine that allows full body strength and cardio workouts with just one piece of equipment at home. While expensive, it takes up less space than a full rack of weights and machines while providing automatic adjustments through iFit classes. Best for those wanting comprehensive home workouts in a small footprint.

Overview

NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio is a cutting-edge fitness device that combines cardio and strength training. It uses the Silent Magnetic Resistance system and a variety of pulleys to simulate weight movement from 10 to 100 pounds, giving you the advantage of a full-body workout in a small space. This versatile equipment replaces traditional gym equipment, targeting major muscle groups with a single device.

Fusion CST Studio is an ideal home gym setup that offers a comprehensive body workout. It features a cable and magnetic resistance system, a mirror, three sets of cables for full-body movements, and an interactive 10-inch HD tablet for streaming iFit workouts. With its heavy-duty steel frame and adjustable tablet stand, it provides a versatile and convenient fitness solution for your home gym.

NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio offers 20 resistance settings for various strength and cardio exercises, allowing for a versatile workout. It caters to various fitness goals, from strength building and toning to weight loss and cross-training. The iFit compatibility offers an interactive, guided workout experience with automatic weight adjustments. It’s not mandatory to subscribe to iFit, but it is recommended to access all features and get the most out of your Fusion CST Studio.

#3 Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym

4.8

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Type of Equipment: Bowflex PR3000 Home Gym

Key features:

• Number of servings :
• Dose:
• Key Ingredients :
• Available flavors :
• Price : $999

What we love:

• Performs over 50 exercises for full body workout
• 210 lbs of resistance included (upgradable to 310 lbs)
• Compact design saves space
• Heavy-duty steel construction
• Comes with an exercise chart

What to consider:

• Large and heavy, difficult to move/relocate
• Not foldable for storage
• Additional cost to upgrade resistance
• Bench does not adjust horizontally

Why We Choose Bowflex PR3000:

Bowflex PR3000 is a versatile home gym that provides a robust full-body workout with over 50 exercises. Though large, its steel construction makes it very durable. It offers great value for the price compared to gym memberships or buying individual strength equipment.

Overview

Bowflex PR3000 takes home workouts to the next level, surpassing its predecessor, the PR1000. With over 50 resistance exercises, this gym allows a variety of full-body and targeted workouts. Its Power Rod resistance system is user-friendly and easier on the joints than traditional equipment like weights and barbells. Upgrade the Power Rod from 210 to 310 pounds for a greater challenge. In this review, we’ll cover the specifications, features, pros, and cons of the Bowflex PR3000, helping you decide if it suits your workout needs.

By using the product links, you support our research without extra cost. Trust us – our editorial team consults fitness and wellness experts to ensure the highest quality recommendations. We’ve extensively researched equipment, gear, and recovery tools to provide accurate content. Customer satisfaction is key, so we only feature highly-rated products. The PR3000 offers over 50 resistance exercises for full-body and targeted workouts.

Work your arms and back with the lat tower, and your chest and core with the vertical bench. The 4-inch upholstered roller cushions are perfect for leg extensions and curls, while the multi-use hand grips and ankle cuffs add variety. Forget hand weights and barbells, the PR3000 uses the Power Rod system for manual resistance, ranging from 5 to 210 pounds. For an extra challenge, purchase additional Power Rods for up to 310 pounds of resistance.

#4 BowFlex Treadmill 22

4.7

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Type of Equipment: Treadmill

Key features:

• Number of servings :
• Dose:
• Key Ingredients :
• Available flavors :
• Price : $2,499
• Certifications :
• Testing scores : Texture– 4.9/5, Mixability– 4.7/5, Quality – 4.3/5, Third-party test– 4.8/5

What we love:

• Heavy-duty construction for high-intensity workouts
• Large 22-inch touchscreen for interactive workouts
• Wide running belt suitable for all sizes
• Extensive library of on-demand and adaptive workouts

What to consider:

• Very heavy and difficult to move once assembled
• A monthly JRNY subscription is required after the free trial
• Lacks live classes and social features of Peloton

Why We Choose Bowflex Treadmill 22:

Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a high-quality, durable treadmill for home use. Its large touchscreen and adaptive workouts provide an engaging experience, though the monthly subscription adds to the cost of ownership.

Overview

Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a powerhouse of a fitness machine designed for long-term home use. Despite its premium price tag, its robust construction, potent 4.0 HP motor, and integration with popular entertainment platforms such as Netflix and Disney Plus make it a worthwhile investment.

While the required subscription to the JRNY app might be a drawback for some, it provides a wide range of training options tailored to personal fitness goals. The heavy-duty build ensures longevity and can withstand rigorous use, reflecting its top-tier design and performance.

Standing tall amidst its competitors, the Treadmill 22 has earned high acclaim in the 2021 Tom’s Guide Awards for health and fitness tech. Every penny spent on this high-end treadmill is justified by its superior performance, durability, and the extensive features it offers. The choice is clear for home fitness enthusiasts: the Bowflex Treadmill 22 is a powerhouse built to last.

#5 Total Gym XLS Workouts

4.6

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Type of Equipment: Total body home gym

Key features:

• Number of servings :
• Dose:
• Key Ingredients :
• Available flavors :
• Price : $939.55
• Certifications :
• Testing scores : Texture– 4.4/5, Mixability– 4.7/5, Quality – 4.6/5, Third-party test– 9/5

What we love:

• Performs over 85 exercises for full body workout
• Adjustable incline bench for varying resistance levels
• Compact, portable design folds for storage
• Heavy-duty steel frame supports up to 400 lbs
• Comes with additional attachments

What to consider:

• Not ideal for those solely focused on strength training
• Smaller range of motion compared to gym equipment
• Higher price point than resistance bands

Why We Choose Total Gym XLS:

Total Gym XLS is a versatile home gym option that provides an effective full-body workout in a compact machine. Its adjustable incline bench allows you to target all major muscle groups, making it a great alternative for those short on space. The lifetime frame warranty also inspires confidence in heavy-duty construction.

Overview

Total Gym XLS is a versatile home workout system that offers over 85 exercises. With a compact design, it’s perfect for small spaces. Notable features include a wing attachment and leg pulley system, enhancing workout options. While Chuck Norris’ endorsement raises eyebrows, we’ll analyze the machine’s strengths and weaknesses to help you decide if it’s right for your fitness goals.

Total Gym XLS is thoroughly examined, from its physical attributes to its adaptability and durability. This innovative machine offers a variety of exercises on a steel tube structure with chrome-plated upper rails and powder-coated lower rails. It’s compact and easy to fold, making it perfect for limited spaces. With six resistance levels, ranging from 6% to 54% of body weight, it provides a flexible workout experience.

Total Gym XLS is a versatile fitness machine that caters to various fitness goals. With its compact design, adjustable resistance, and wide range of exercises, it offers a convenient and comprehensive full-body workout experience. This durable and reliable home fitness choice provides over 85 exercises using body weight as resistance and can support up to 400 lbs.

Finding the Best Machines For Home Gym: Key Considerations

When looking for which machines best for home gym, it’s crucial to weigh several important factors. Here’s a guide to help you navigate through the options:

• Define Your Fitness Goals: Understand what you aim to achieve – muscle building, weight loss, improving cardiovascular health, or general fitness. Different machines cater to different objectives.
• Space Availability: Assess the space you have. Some of the best cable machines for home gym are large and require ample room, so pick one that fits well in your available area.
• Budgeting: Set a budget. Prices for gym machines vary widely. Establish how much you’re willing to spend and search for the best option within that price range.
• User-Friendliness: If you’re a beginner, you’ll want a machine that’s easy to use and understand. Check for clear instructions and straightforward controls.
• Versatility: Opt for a machine that offers a range of exercises. The more versatile it is, the more varied and engaging your workouts can be.
• Durability and Build Quality: Ensure the machine is well-built and durable. High-quality materials generally mean a longer-lasting and safer machine.
• Maintenance and Warranty: Consider the maintenance needs and check the warranty. A longer warranty often indicates the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
• User Reviews and Feedback: Read what others have to say about the machine. User experiences can give you insights into performance, reliability, and overall satisfaction.

How Did We Choose the Best Home Gym Machines?

Selecting the best home gym machines involved a thorough and careful process, mirroring the approach we took for virtual personal trainers. Our team, comprising fitness experts and enthusiasts, evaluated a wide range of gym equipment available on the market.

Here’s a breakdown of the key criteria we used in our selection process:

• Variety and Quality of Exercises Offered: We focused on machines that provide a diverse range of workouts. This diversity ensures that regardless of your fitness goals – whether it’s cardio, strength training, or flexibility exercises – there’s a machine that fits your needs.
• Space and Equipment Requirements: Understanding that home gym space is often limited, we prioritized machines that are space-efficient. Additionally, we considered the ease of setting up and using the equipment, catering to those who prefer hassle-free installation.
• Manufacturer Reputation and Durability: We chose equipment from reputable manufacturers known for quality and durability. Long-lasting machines mean better value for your investment.
• Expert Endorsements and Safety Features: Safety is paramount. We looked for machines recommended by fitness professionals and those equipped with safety features to minimize the risk of injury during workouts.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Value for money is critical. We assessed the cost relative to the features and benefits offered, ensuring that the machines provide excellent value without breaking the bank.
• Customer Feedback and Reviews: User experiences offer invaluable insights. We extensively reviewed customer feedback to gauge satisfaction levels and the real-world performance of the machines.

Best Home Gym Workouts and Their Targets

When it comes to home workouts, there are various types to choose from, each targeting specific goals. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand these workout types:

• Cardiovascular (Cardio) Workouts: Cardio exercises are key to raising your heart and improving overall fitness. They’re particularly effective for burning calories and play a significant role in enhancing heart health and boosting stamina. Incorporating the best cardio machines for home gym can greatly enhance your workout experience. Treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines are among the most popular and effective options.
• Strength Training: This involves exercises that focus on building muscle strength. Using leg exercise machines and machines like weight benches, dumbbells, or resistance machines helps target specific muscle groups. Strength training is great for building muscle mass, enhancing metabolic rate, and improving overall body strength.
• Flexibility Exercises: These workouts, like yoga or stretching routines, aim to improve the flexibility of your muscles and joints. They’re essential for a well-rounded fitness routine as they help reduce the risk of injuries and improve posture.
• Balance Training: Exercises like Pilates or using a balance ball work on improving your balance and core strength. This type of workout is particularly beneficial as you age, helping to prevent falls and improve overall stability.
• High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT): HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by brief rest periods. This type of workout is excellent for burning calories in a short amount of time and is effective in improving cardiovascular fitness.
• Functional Fitness: These exercises mimic everyday actions, helping improve your ability to perform daily activities. They focus on movements that use multiple muscle groups and joints, enhancing overall functional strength.

Why You Should Opt for The Best Home Gym Workout Machines

Home gym workouts offer a multitude of benefits and their effectiveness is well-documented by reputable sources like the Canadian Medical Association Journal[1]. Here are some key reasons to consider setting up a home gym:

Strength and Health Benefits:

Strength training, a key component of home workouts, plays a crucial role in overall fitness. It helps reduce body fat, increase lean muscle mass, and burn calories more efficiently. Regular strength training is also beneficial for developing strong bones, managing weight, and enhancing the quality of life by improving the ability to perform daily activities. It even contributes to better balance and a reduced risk of falling, which is particularly important as one age​​s.

Mental and Emotional Well-being:

Regular physical activity, including home workouts, has been shown to significantly improve mood and reduce stress. It stimulates brain chemicals that can leave you feeling happier and more relaxed. Regular exercise can also boost your confidence and self-esteem, thanks to improved physical appearance and strength​

Energy and Endurance:

Engaging in regular exercise can improve your muscle strength and boost your endurance. This means daily tasks and chores become easier to handle. Also, as your heart and lung health improve due to regular exercise, you’ll find you have more energy throughout the day​​

Improved Sleep Quality:

Highlighted in the Journal “Cureus”, Regular physical activity, especially when done as part of a home workout routine, can help you fall asleep faster and improve the quality of your sleep. This is crucial for overall health and well-being​​.

Enhanced Sexual Health:

According to research in the Journal of Education and Health Promotion, regular exercise can improve energy levels and physical appearance, which in turn can boost your sexual life. For women, it may enhance arousal, and for men, it can decrease the likelihood of erectile dysfunction​

Social and Fun Aspects:

Although home workouts are done privately, they can still be social and fun. Many people enjoy sharing their workout routines online or joining virtual fitness communities. This can create a sense of camaraderie and motivation, even from the comfort of your home

Do You Need Home Gym Machines to Keep Fit?

There is the common question, ‘Do you really need gym machines to stay fit?’ The simple answer is no, you don’t need them, but they can be incredibly helpful. Fitness is a versatile journey, and there are many paths to achieving it.

• Bodyweight Exercises: You can achieve a great level of fitness using just your body weight. Exercises like push-ups, squats, lunges, and planks are excellent for building strength and don’t require any equipment.
• Outdoor Activities: Activities like running, 30 minute cycling interval workout, and swimming are fantastic for cardiovascular health and can be done without gym machines. They’re great for burning calories and improving endurance.
• Flexibility and Balance: Practices like yoga and Pilates, which focus on flexibility and balance, can be done with minimal or no equipment. They are crucial for a well-rounded fitness routine and can significantly enhance physical and mental well-being.

This doesn’t mean gym machines for home don’t have their benefits. They are particularly useful for targeted workouts, providing resistance for strength training, and offering safe and controlled movements, especially for beginners or those with specific fitness goals. Home gym cardio machines like treadmills, stationary bikes, and leg exercise machines are designed to enhance certain aspects of fitness more efficiently.

Benefits of Home Gym Machines

Home gym machines come with a host of benefits that can greatly enhance your workout experience. Here’s why incorporating them into your fitness routine can be a game changer:

• Convenience: One of the biggest perks of having a home gym machine is convenience. There’s no need to travel to a gym, which saves time and effort.
• Privacy and Comfort: Home gym machines offer a comfortable and stress-free environment for those who may feel self-conscious or intimidated in a public gym setting.
• Cost-Effective in the Long Run: While the initial investment in a home gym machine might seem high, over time, it can be more cost-effective. You save on gym memberships, travel costs, and time to commute to a gym.
• Customization to Your Needs: Home gym machines allow you to tailor your workouts to your specific fitness goals.
• Reduced Waiting Time: At home, your equipment is always available, ensuring a more efficient workout routine.
• Hygiene and Safety: Using your own equipment minimizes the risk of germs and bacteria that can be prevalent in public gyms.
• Family Involvement: Having gym equipment at home can encourage other family members to engage in fitness activities, promoting a healthy lifestyle for everyone.
• Tracking Progress: It’s easier to track your progress and consistency when you have a dedicated workout space at home.
• Variety of Options: The range of home gym machines available means you can choose equipment that caters exactly to your preferred type of exercise.
• Long-Term Health Investment: Investing in home gym equipment is an investment in your long-term health. Regular exercise contributes to overall better health.