Do you prefer working out at home? But have lack of space to store workout gear? Well! You are not alone. There are alternatives available than you would have imagined.
In A Hurry? Here Are Our Top Recommendations
Cubii JR1 Under Desk Elliptical
Sunny Health and Fitness Mini Stepper
GoPlus Folding Treadmill
You can still have a personal gym even if you live in a small space. Many people have realized their dream of having a fitness space in studio apartments.
The latest technology has bought good things in small packages such as compact exercise equipment. We all love our tiny gadgets and portable, foldable stuff. Right? This same logic is fit for gym gears.
Manufacturers understood the need of consumers living in small apartments who love to own a gym at home but struggle because of space issues. They don’t have room for a 300-pound treadmill or squat racks. The small workout equipment range from HIIT cardio machines to adjustable kettlebells. Let us know our favorites.
Our Top 3 Picks for the Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Table could not be displayed.10 Best Compact Exercise Equipment
Cubii JR1 Under Desk Elliptical – Best Compact Elliptical Trainer
If you want the best-rated elliptical trainer, here it is— The Cubii JR1. It has 5,500 Amazon reviews.
An ergonomic Cubii JR1 under-desk elliptical with an LCD that measures distance traveled, burned calories, rotations per minute (rpm), and other biometrics. There are eight resistance levels that you may adjust as per your need. It comes in two color shades, Purple and Aqua.
Are you missing your live workout sessions? Just grab your laptop or smartphone and follow the Cubii fitness trainer, who will be your guide via Facebook Live sessions. Cubii claims a 60-minute under-the-desk elliptical workout results in the burning of 150 calories. Choose Cubii Pro if you prefer an elliptical with Bluetooth capabilities.
Key Features
- It is a compact elliptical that fits under any desk and lets you work out at your home or office. Sometimes our hectic schedules prevent us from paying attention to our health. An under-desk elliptical is convenient to use while working if you have one.
- A smooth gliding action with a choice of 8 resistance levels, according to the manufacturer, is provided. It helps in desk exercise while gaining strength. Adjusting levels make it versatile for every age group.
- It is whisper-quiet mini exercise equipment. So you can enjoy your favorite book, watch TV and be productive all the time.
- The LCD allows you to track your daily workout activity by assessing calories burned, distance traveled, strides pedaled and much more.
- This multi-tasking tool helps your legs moving and shed those extra pounds by working out at your office or home. Whenever you want to relax and burn calories, start pedaling, simple!
Pros
- In-built LCD panel
- 8 resistance levels
- Weighs just 250 Pounds
- Easy to use and assemble
- Not noisy
Cons
- Bit expensive
- Big to lay somewhere around
- A tad heavy for some people
Sunny Health and Fitness Mini Stepper – Best Mini Stair Stepper
Sunny Health & Fitness Mini Stepper with resistance bands helps you get fit at home. It is a complete body cardio machine that strengthens your muscles and tones your body.
You can work out anywhere and anytime. This stepper comes with removable resistance bands that are easy and simple to assemble and affordable.
It has an LED display that displays how long you used the machine, how many steps you took, and how many calories you burned. When the resistance is high, the action is difficult to complete. Within a few minutes, the muscles begin to burn. Before continuing, try a few repetitions.
Key Features
- It comes with an in-built LCD monitor to measure your daily steps and total calories burned, making your exercise reasonable and efficient.
- The resistance bands can be attached or detached for high-quality training purpose. It tightens over 20 different core muscles, and low-impact exercises tone the chest, back, and shoulders.
- The hydraulic drive system allows smooth stepping motion. You have to attach the resistance bands.
- You can adjust the machine for a short burst or long steps with height adjustment knobs.
- Stable and solid foot plates ensure the non-slipping of the feet.
Pros
- Wide non-slip pedals
- Height adjustment
- Hydraulic drive system
- LCD panel
- Removable bands
- Easy to use and assemble
- Perfect for small space
Cons
- Always read manual before use
- No noise canceling pad
GoPlus Folding Treadmill – Best Compact Treadmill
The GoPlus 2-in-1 foldable treadmill with a dual-display is a 2.25 horsepower under-desk electrical pad treadmill that features remote controls and Bluetooth speaker that is great during workouts.
The treadmill has a simple user interface and is easy and simple to assemble. Once assembled, the treadmill has optional arms and a mobile holder. It can be folded and hidden under the bed after use without arms attached.
Key Features
- The touch screen panel on the armrest allows you to control the speed while jogging. There will be a colorful light flashing when you run. The LED display monitors your distance, speed, time, and calories to know your running status.
- This innovative treadmill glides in small spaces for storage. You can fold and slide it under the bed as it comes with in-built wheels.
- A folding handrail indicates a speed of 1-4 km/h; when raised, it shows a 1-12 km/h speed. It helps you achieve your fitness goals.
- It is a powerful low noise machine suitable for home and office. It contains a seven-layer shock-absorbing, non-slip running belt which helps prevent injury to the knees or ankles.
- It allows you to connect your electronic devices to the treadmill via Bluetooth. Use a phone holder for watching movies, shows, or changing songs while exercising. The convenient remote control helps you shut down during an emergency.
Pros
- Easy setup
- Simple and effective functionality
- Built-in Bluetooth speaker
- Simple design
- Includes maintenance accessories
Cons
- Manual can be better
- Remove arms for storing flat under the bed.
- Even with wheels, it is challenging to move.
- Bit louder
Sunny Health and Fitness Rowing Machine – Best Compact Rowing Machine
You will love working out at this rowing machine by Sunny Health and Fitness. A padded seat and sweat-resistant handlebars make for a power workout, and it uses magnetic resistance with eight different levels.
You must make manual adjustments using the knobs because it is a cheap bargain.
The pre-programmed software automatically sets the work rate on expensive rowing machines. High resistance levels don’t burn fat quickly. But in fact, a medium-intensity resistance workout benefits the body the most.
Transportation wheels help you move and store the gear anywhere. You can pair this machine with the best heart rate monitor for rowing as it does not have one.
Key Features
- The hydraulic resistance system has a smooth and quiet row during all 12 resistance levels.
- Track your workout with a digital monitor mentioning time, speed, count, total calories, and scan.
- Fit adjustable pedal straps to your feet and enjoy the tailored workout.
- It is an ergonomic product with pivoting foot pedals, foam handlers, and cushioned seats to provide comfort while functioning.
- The compact design allows you to store and move from one room to another.
- It includes a product manual with detailed usage and instructions.
Pros
- Quality product at a reasonable price
- Accommodate a large number of users
- Large foot pedals
- Sweat-resistant handlebars
- Quiet magnetic resistance
- Adjustable eight intensity levels
- Foldable and easy to store
Cons
- Basic console
- No workout programs
- No heart rate monitoring
Exerpeutic Folding Exercise Bike– Best Compact Exercise Bike
A cushy seat with generous padding makes this bike very comfortable. Leg stabilizers prevent the foot from tipping during workout sessions.
Its heavy-duty steel tubes can hold a weight capacity of up to 300 pounds.
It is equipped with wheels so that you slide it without lifting. It is noise resistant and has eight resistance levels for smooth pedaling. The V-belt drive and flywheel allow you to work out quietly without screechy noises. You can watch TV or favorite shows while exercising.
Key Features
- You can adjust the seat height for a comfortable cushioned seat. You will not get tired during long sessions.
- The LCD computer screen allows you to watch your distance, calories, time, speed, and pulse.
- Pair it with a MyCLoud Fitness Cadence sensor, track your food calories and take fitness classes.
- It is perfect for smaller spaces and folds to fit under the bed.
- The solid steel frame provides effective and safe workouts.
- The eight resistance levels help you grow and improve your strength.
Pros
- Affordable and durable
- Solid and quality product built
- Eight resistance levels
Cons
- It misses bells and whistles
- Maybe bit irritating for petite people
Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike – Best Compact Upright Exercise Bike
Shed those unwanted pounds at your home comfortably with Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike.
It is a compact exercise bike that features portability and eight resistance levels. It has an LCD screen to monitor your daily workout activity.
Pedal grips offer total control, and basket cages prevent feet from slipping. For the ideal seating position, you may raise and lower the seat. The steel frame body holds up to 250lbs and is scratch resistant.
Key Features
- Fitness enthusiasts of all levels will love this product. It comes with eight adjustable magnetic resistance levels to tailor your workouts.
- It is designed for efficient and comfortable training sessions as it has cushioned seat with foam-covered handlebars.
- Track your progress with an LCD computer screen that acts as an odometer and monitors distance, time, current speed, and calories burned.
- It features weighted counterbalance pedals for maximum foot support. The pedals have adjustable foot straps to customize according to your foot size.
- This foldable design bike holds an innovative frame that folds up to facilitate convenient storage.
Pros
- Space-saving design
- Adjustable bike seat height
- Padded seat for comfort
Cons
Perfect Fitness Pushup Stands – Best Pushup Stands for Small Spaces
It has been popular since the 2000s, and its stackable fitness stand is one of Amazon’s best sellers.
Customer reviews state that it has a flat, padded grip and a non-skid surface. So, you can easily use them on any platform. It helps you to engage more muscles during activity. It maximizes the results and increases muscle strength.
Key Features
- It has padded comfort for better grip and joint strain reduction.
- 360-degree stability with a nonslip platform allows you to use it on any surface.
- You can store it easily anywhere with stacking handles.
Pros
- Padded grip
- 360-degree stability
- Durability
- Easy storage
Cons
- Some found handles a bit uncomfortable
Bowflex SelectTech Adjustable Dumbbell – Best Space Saver Dumbbell Set
The Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbell adjusts smoothly from 5 to 52.5 pounds when you turn the dials at the end of the weight.
The Bowflex weight allows for nuanced training progressions. It has two dials for adjusting dumbbell weights. They are quick and elegant to load or unload. These dumbbells are a solid choice for people looking for lifting at home.
Key Features
- Several features maximize the effectiveness of dumbbells. Like they are designed with premium grips for comfort and stability.
- They include molding petal plates for smoother and instant workouts.
- The weight of the dumbbells could be easily adjusted using a dial mechanism. It saves your space by eliminating extra sets.
Pros
- Replaces 15 pairs of weights
- Easy to adjust with a built-in dial
- Premium grips for maximum comfort and handling
- Free shipping and warranties
- 1-Year membership of JRNY App included
Cons
- A bit difficult for smaller framed people
- Bit bulky in shape
- Some reported issues with the locking mechanism
Flybird Adjustable Bench – Best Compact Weight Bench
Flybird deserves a place on our list. It is the best weight bench for a home gym.
As the name suggests, Flybird Adjustable Bench is highly adjustable equipment with three seat position adjustments and seven back position adjustments. The manufacturer specifies a maximum user height of 6’2″.
The bench is stowable that allows users to lean it against the wall or slide it under the bed. It is made of high-quality steel and can weigh up to 700 pounds. It is a decent choice for weight lifters for its incredible weight capacity.
Key Features
- The best part of this adjustable bench is that it can uphold a weight of more than 650lbs. The biggest problem with many Amazon seats is that they have little capacity for people.
- It has a cushy lumber pad- with a seat pad and a back pad. It helps in providing better stability and support to your core body area.
- Your exercise equipment is ready after minor changes because it ships partly constructed.
- Contrary to many other weight benches available online, this one has six inclination positions, four seated positions, and three height settings.
- The arms lock pin system is another excellent feature to mark. Cheaper benches use a peg and ladder system, but this bench has a lock and pin system. You are free to proceed once the pin is locked.
Pros
- Made of commercial-grade steel
- Sturdy and lightweight
- Stowable against the wall or under bed
- Large bottom pad
- Weigh up to 700 pounds
- Lots of adjustable positions
Cons
- Not for tall people
TRX All-in-One Suspension Trainer– Best Space Saver Home Gym System
Military personnel, professional athletes, and those who wish to target their muscles utilize the TRX All-in-One system more often.
It is easy to install and can be affixed anywhere- ceiling or over the door.
Before proceeding, a few tugs will make sure it is locked. The mechanism is suspension training. You can adjust the length of straps and modify levels. Leg exercises can also be performed through lunging and squatting for muscular strength.
Key Features
- The TRX All-in-One System is apt for full-body workouts. It includes a TRX Training Club App access, a suspension anchor, a suspension trainer, and a door anchor.
- It comes with a locking loop for maximizing workout effectiveness without the risk of slipping.
- The integrated handles and foot cradles are solid and built for durability and comfort. It is apt for workouts that require standing and lying down.
- It is safe for up to 700lbs. You can quickly adjust the length by adjusters.
- It offers comfortable foam handles and a foot cradle to enhance your workout.
- It is a portable, lightweight trainer that assembles in less than a minute.
Pros
- Simple and easy setup
- Compact and portable
- Keeps you active
- Cheap and whole-body workout
Cons
- The app is not beginner-friendly
- Some people felt space issues
Compact Exercise Equipment Benefits
We all have seen our other sides when we want to head to the gym for exercise but we didn’t. Why not get a gym at home? You can still exercise from home at your convenience. The compact workout equipment has taken by storm due to its functionality and versatility.
Here are the 5 benefits of having compact exercise equipment at home.
Perform Diverse Exercises With Ease
We all have a lot of things going on in our lives. Whether you are a student or a professional, our busy hectic schedules draw us back to local gym sessions. Why not get foldable exercise equipment at home? It is all that you need to stick to your exercise program.
You don’t have to worry about dress codes and timings. Enjoy your workout anytime on your own terms conveniently.
Boost Consistency
Small workout equipment helps you track your daily activity without interruptions. They are easy to use and you don’t need a personal trainer for that. It enhances your overall workout performance. Do it the way you want!
Various Forms
Whatever suits your style, perform those exercises. You don’t have performance pressure when you are working out at home.
You can mix up different forms and enjoy your workout period. There is plenty of handheld exercise equipment than you think. Go online, explore and feel free to try something unique.
Lightweight
Compact exercise equipment is lightweight and portable so that it suits everyone. You can store them anywhere even if you live in small spaces. It is easy to carry and use. You can store them in cupboards, under the bed or slide them against the wall, it is your choice.
Comforting
Last but not least, prioritize your rest. You can workout in your Pyjamas too. It is not important to buy gym gear to impress others. After all, privacy is your first call. You are at your home, so be it!
How to Pick Compact Exercise Equipment
You have a variety of options for handheld exercise equipment in the market. You decide what you want. But with so many endless possibilities, you are overwhelmed with what to pick? So, we are here to help you simply with your portable exercise equipment shopping.
Portability
The first thing that comes to our mind is where will I keep this equipment? Well, there are a number of options to make. It is simply a matter of reading the specifications mentioned by the manufacturer before making a purchase decision. Apartments require a mini elliptical machine for small spaces, for example.
Floor Space
Besides portability, space availability comes next. Always consider how your apartment will accommodate these workout equipment. We all know that a Saturday house party needs space, so you might want to consider moving a treadmill under the bed.
Versatility
Always look for a versatile product. Like the TRX All-in-One system that is handy, compact, lightweight, and takes less storage space. It reduces arms, bellies, tones upper and lower body too. It is an example of perfect workout equipment. So, pick something that will do all the routine chores for you.
Type of Equipment
What is your workout preference? Do you love cardio and weight training or want to reduce your belly? After sorting space issues and giving you an idea about variety, you need to pick gym gear for you.
For example, if you like cardio exercises, go for a pedal exerciser or a treadmill. Similarly, if you want muscle toning, dumbbells will be your pick. Choose a home gym that lets you work on your strengths and weaknesses. So, choose wisely.
Product Price
Everything comes with a price tag, so budgeting is vital. You may need to alter your needs and save for it. Make a realistic budget that you wish to splurge on these gears, and then make your selection. Simple!
The Solutions You Were Hunting For
What Is a Disadvantage of Home Exercise Equipment?
A disadvantage of home exercise equipment is that you get repetitive during your whole workout sessions. It may lead to injuries to your knees, bones, or ligaments. For this, you need to be careful. It’s not that machines are bad; it’s just that your form needs to be better.
What Basic Equipment Might You Need to Start Exercising?
The basic equipment you need to begin exercising at home relies on what you want? Do you wish to get in shape or reduce weight? In that case, cardiac exercise is right for you. We suggest a treadmill, an elliptical, a resistance band, a training bench, and a set of dumbbells.
What You Should Do Before You Buy Exercise Equipment?
If you consider purchasing workout equipment, you should recognize a few things— the type of gym equipment, product pricing, available floor space, equipment attributes, and your fitness goals. These factors will determine what will suit you the best.
What Is the Most Affordable Exercise Equipment?
For a sculpted physique, it is best to invest in versatile equipment if you do not wish to spend a lot of money. A few examples are BowFlex adjustable Dumbbells, Cubii JR1 under-desk elliptical, Foam roller, AB wheel, and Exerpeutic exercise bike. Rest depends on how much you are ready to splurge on this equipment.
What Equipment Is Best for a Small Home Gym?
The best equipment for a small home gym is a TRX All-in-One Trainer Suspension System. According to the manufacturer, it is a complete product that successfully ignites your entire body. It improves muscle strength, firms the physique, and measures both your weight and heart rate.
Are Mini Workouts Effective?
Yes! Multiple mini-workouts are effective. Many studies have proven that periodic exercises work best for adults. Performing all the exercises at once won’t produce results. After all, it’s better to do a 5-minute workout than nothing. The results you seek will be apparent with patience and consistency.
Conclusion
Your health should be your priority. Daily exercising improves your daily chores and activity. But if you can’t go to the nearby gym every day, get compact fitness equipment for your house. Everyone, including the elderly, will enjoy it.
Remember, small steps lead to a big victory. Being lazy will not be fruitful. It is best to get yourself working for a better life. Even if you are short of funds, start with a budgeted one.
To get you pumped up for the day, all you need is small workout equipment. Join the league now— what are you waiting for?
I’m a triathlete and life coach, with a focus on holistic health, fitness & women’s issues.
I also write about my gastronomic adventures and my love for the outdoors.