Looking to build the best apartment home gym? You’re in the right place! This Apartment Home Gym Buyer’s Guide will help you choose space-saving, effective, and noise-friendly fitness equipment, so you can stay fit without leaving your apartment.
Phase 1: Core Essentials for Apartment Living
These foundational items are compact, versatile, and perfect for starting your fitness journey in a limited space.
Adjustable Dumbbells for Apartment Home Gyms:
- Our first choice is the Rogue Loadable Dumbbells (DB-15). These a little less space saving, but make up for it in durability and functionality. Price $150+$65-$405 (depending on how much weight you need).
- The second choice is the PowerBlock Elite EXP Series Dumbbells. The bonus here is the bigger space savings. These are not as easy to use for things like alternating dumbbell snatches due to their blocky shape, but they are the MOST durable adjustable dumbbells we’ve ever used (other than the Rogue Loadable). Price $359-$697.
- *We cannot recommend the Bowflex Dumbbells after breaking two sets due to their plastic parts.
Adjustable Kettlebell for Small Spaces:
- Sticking with the PowerBlock theme, we recommend the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell. It’s like having 3 kettlebells in one, and is very durable! Price $169-$259.
Resistance Bands for Apartments:
- They are highly portable and versatile! Resistance bands are great for strength training, mobility work, and stretching. We carry these in our van, and use them almost daily. The most durable and long lasting resistance bands we’ve found (and we’ve used a lot of them) are the Rogue Monster Bands. You can definitely get lower priced bands on Amazon, but they always break A LOT faster than the Rogue Monster’s. Price $17-$75+
High Quality Gym Mat
- We LOVE the Dollamur Mats! A high-quality, low-profile mat ideal for apartment use. Provides excellent cushioning for floor exercises, stretching, and mobility work while being easy to roll up and store. Price $95
Estimated Cost: $169–$500+. You could start with just the adjustable kettlebells or dumbbells, then buy more from there.
Phase 2: Enhancing Your Small Apartment Gym
Once you’ve established the basics, consider adding these items to diversify your workouts:
- Foldable Weight Bench: A collapsible bench allows for various exercises and can be stored under a bed or against a wall. We recommend that you go with either a lower priced, less durable bench from Amazon like this, or go all out with the Rogue Fold Up Utility Bench. Price $139-$335.
- Doorway Pull-Up Bar for Apartments: Ideal for upper body workouts without permanent installation. Ensure it’s securely mounted to prevent damage. You can find a number of options on Amazon. Pick the best option based on your doorway.
- Suspension Trainer or Rings: These offer a full-body workout using bodyweight and can be anchored to a door. Rings are typically a better purchase than a TRX, but when using your door to brace your system, you can’t beat the TRX. Price $139 at Amazon.
Estimated Cost: $200–$400+
Phase 3: Advanced Equipment for Dedicated Spaces
For those with a bit more room and commitment, these additions can further enhance your apartment gym:
- Compact Cardio Machines for Apartments:
- Rowing Machine: These are very effective and can be stored on their end for getting out of the way (just make sure your celine is high enough). We like the Concept 2 RowErg. They are simply great! Price $990.
- Stationary Bike for Apartments: The Rogue Echo Bike is a top-tier air bike. This thing is heavy duty! We’ve had one in our garage for a few years, and have used and abused it, and it’s never needed a thing! Price $895.
- Strength Training Alternatives for Small Spaces:
- Weighted Vest for Home Workouts: Great for adding resistance to bodyweight movements without taking up much space. We like the Rogue Echo Vest. You can set it up with 10, 20, or 40 pounds of weight, and there are sized for different sized people (mind blown!). Price $145+weights.
- Sandbags for Strength Training: Versatile and compact, sandbags can be used for strength and conditioning workouts. Rogue and Amazon both offer excellent options. Rogue is usually our choice due to durability and build quality.
Estimated Cost: $1,000–$3,000+
🧠 Tips for Apartment Gym Success
- Noise Management for Apartment Gyms: The Dollamur Mats are great for sound dampening and comfort.
- Storage Solutions for Small Apartment Gyms: Utilize vertical space with wall-mounted racks or over-the-door organizers to keep equipment tidy.
- Routine Variety: Incorporate bodyweight exercises, HIIT, and mobility work to maximize the utility of your equipment and keep workouts engaging. We can help you with our program if you are looking to get into amazing shape?
By thoughtfully selecting equipment that aligns with your space and fitness goals, you can create an effective and enjoyable home gym within your apartment.
Need help building your perfect apartment gym? Reach out, and we’ll help you get started!
Looking for a FULL Home Gym Guide? We’ve got you covered, right here!
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