9 Best Pieces of Home Gym Equipment for Under $500
Did you know that 67% of people don't use their gym membership? If the gym intimidates you, doesn't fit your busy schedule, or is plain too expensive, you're not alone.
If you're ready to embark on your fitness journey from the comfort of your own home without breaking the bank, we've got you covered.
Setting up a home gym doesn't need to be a costly affair—with a budget of $500, you can buy some gym equipment essentials that lay the foundation for a healthier lifestyle.
Whether you're a fitness newbie or someone seeking budget-friendly exercise options, this guide will take you through the nine best pieces of home gym equipment under $500. We cover strength, cardio, and recovery exercises, ensuring a balanced and effective workout routine.
1. Incline Bench (Flat to Incline Bench - $149)
An incline bench is a versatile piece of equipment that allows you to perform various upper-body exercises with different angles of resistance. From chest presses to shoulder workouts, this bench provides a stable foundation for your strength training routines.
Benefits:
- Provides versatile angles of resistance for targeted muscle engagement
- Allows for proper form and alignment during various exercises
Exercises:
- Incline dumbbell press for chest development
- Incline dumbbell flyes for sculpting the chest muscles
- Incline shoulder presses for building shoulder strength
Safety tip: Ensure the bench is securely positioned, and adjust the incline to suit your exercise.
2. Dumbbell Set (21kg Dumbbell Spin-Lock Set - $119)
A pair of dumbbells are essential for targeting specific muscle groups and building overall strength. This adjustable set allows you to increase the weight as you progress gradually. From bicep curls to overhead presses, dumbbells offer a wide range of exercise possibilities.
Benefits:
- Offers incremental weight options for progressive resistance training
- Targets a wide range of muscle groups for comprehensive workouts
Exercises:
- Dumbbell curls for bicep isolation
- Shoulder presses for deltoid development
- Lunges for lower body strength and stability
Safety tip: Always prioritise proper form and choose an appropriate weight for each exercise.
3. Barbell (Pump Bar - $40)
Pair your dumbbell set with a versatile barbell to enhance your strength training further. The pump bar can be used with the weight plates from your dumbbell set to perform exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
Related: Click the following link to learn how to improve your bench press.
Benefits:
- Supports compound movements for full-body engagement
- Utilises interchangeable weight plates for customisable resistance
Exercises:
- Squats for lower body strength
- Deadlifts for overall muscle development
- Bench presses for chest and triceps activation
Safety tip: Focus on maintaining a neutral spine and proper barbell grip.
4. Kettlebells (Vinyl Dipped Kettlebell - 6kg - $26.40)
Kettlebells provide a dynamic way to build strength and improve cardiovascular fitness. A vinyl-dipped kettlebell is perfect for swings, squats, and other functional exercises that engage multiple muscle groups.
Benefits:
- Enhances cardiovascular fitness and muscular endurance
- Challenges coordination and stabilising muscles during exercises
Exercises:
- Kettlebell swings for explosive hip power
- Goblet squats for lower body strength
- Turkish get-ups for core and full-body stabilisation
Safety tip: Start with a manageable weight and practise proper kettlebell handling.
5. Gym Mat/Yoga Mat (FitClub Yoga Mat - $39)
A comfortable workout surface is essential for floor-based exercises and stretches. The FitClub Yoga Mat offers cushioning and grip, making it ideal for yoga, core workouts, and stretching routines.
Benefits:
- Provides cushioning and support for floor-based exercises
- Enhances grip and stability during yoga and stretching routines
Exercises:
- Planks for core strengthening
- Push-ups for chest, shoulders, and triceps activation
- Yoga poses for flexibility and balance
Safety tip: Place the mat on a flat and clean surface for a secure workout area.
6. Fit Ball (FitClub Fit Ball 65cm - Medium - $29)
Fit balls add an element of instability to your workouts, engaging your core muscles and improving balance. This medium-sized fit ball can be incorporated into exercises like planks, squats, and leg lifts.
Benefits:
- Engages core muscles and improves stability
- Adds variety and challenge to traditional exercises
Exercises:
- Stability ball crunches for core activation
- Wall squats for lower body strength
- Hamstring curls for posterior chain development
Safety tip: Always maintain proper alignment during exercises. Keep the ball on a secure surface.
7. Foam Roller (EVA Roller 300mm - $14.95)
Recovery is a crucial part of any fitness routine. A foam roller helps alleviate muscle soreness and tension by using self-myofascial release techniques. Roll out your muscles after workouts to aid in recovery and prevent injury.
Benefits:
- Aids in muscle recovery and reduces post-workout soreness
- Targets trigger points and improves flexibility
Exercises:
- Foam rolling the back muscles to alleviate tension
- Rolling out the IT band to address tightness
Safety tip: Ensure gentle pressure and controlled movements for effective self-myofascial release.
8. Resistance Bands (Power Resistance Band – Medium - $30)
Resistance bands are versatile tools that provide added resistance during exercises. They're perfect for strength training, mobility work, and rehab exercises. The Power Resistance Band in medium intensity offers a wide range of resistance levels.
Benefits:
- Provides scalable resistance for muscle activation and strength training
- Offers versatility for both upper and lower body workouts
Exercises:
- Banded squats for glute activation
- Lat pulldowns for back and bicep engagement
- Seated rows for upper back strengthening
Safety tip: Gradually increase tension as you become more comfortable with each exercise.
9. Skipping Rope (Elite Jump Rope - $40)
Cardiovascular workouts are essential for overall fitness. The Elite Jump Rope offers an effective and fun way to improve your cardiovascular endurance. It's a simple yet highly effective piece of equipment for burning calories.
Benefits:
- Enhances cardiovascular endurance and coordination
- Offers a convenient and efficient form of cardio workout
Exercises:
- Basic skipping for a quick warm-up
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT) with jumping variations
Safety tip: Maintain an upright posture and land softly to reduce impact on your joints.
Comparing Costs: Home Gym vs Gym Membership
While setting up a home gym incurs an initial investment, it's essential to consider the long-term advantages and cost-effectiveness.
A gym membership involves monthly fees that quickly add up. According to Canstar Blue, Australians spend an average of $81 per month or $972/year on gym fees). There’s also travel time, and the inconvenience of adhering to a set schedule. In contrast, a home gym offers the flexibility to work out at your convenience, eliminates commuting, and provides a private space to focus on your fitness goals.
Let's take a closer look at how home gyms and gym memberships stack up:
| Factor | Home Gym | Gym Membership |
| Initial Investment |
Upfront investment in equipment E.g. $500 |
Sign-up fee |
| Monthly Expenses | No recurring fees |
Monthly membership fees E.g. $81/month ($972/yr) |
| Travel Time | No commuting | Travel time to & from the gym |
| Flexibility | Anytime convenience | Gym operating hours |
| Privacy | Private and comfortable | Shared gym space |
| Equipment Variety | Customisable equipment |
Gym facilities and classes (wait times for equipment) |
| Support and Guidance | Online resources and tutorials | In-person trainers and help |
Build the Ultimate Budget Home Gym Today
Building a home gym on a budget is possible. Our cost-effective range of equipment and free workout plans cater to strength training, cardiovascular fitness, and recovery. With these versatile pieces, you can embark on a comprehensive fitness routine that suits your health goals and lifestyle.
Remember that consistency is key, regardless of where you choose to exercise.
So, whether you're new to fitness or seeking to elevate your current routine, these budget-friendly options are a step in the right direction.