As more people look to stay fit and healthy from the comfort of their own homes, home gyms have become an increasingly popular option.
With various brands offering different types of equipment, it can be challenging to know which one is right for you. So, I decided to try them out for you first.
This article will provide an overview of some of the top home fitness brands on the market today, outlining each brand’s strengths and weaknesses so that you can make an informed decision when the time comes to purchase your gym setup.
Quick Summary
- The 10 best fitness equipment brands for gyms are Rogue Fitness, REP Fitness, Tonal, Life Fitness, Tempo, Peloton, NordicTrack, TRX, Mirror, and Bowflex.
- Key considerations when choosing home gym brands include safety features, warranty length, and the brand's reputation.
- Regular strength training is critical to overall fitness, as emphasized by the Mayo Clinic.
- In my opinion, for serious athletes, Rogue Fitness and TRX stand out for their exceptional quality and ability to withstand intense workouts.
10 Best Fitness Equipment Brands For Gyms
Rogue Fitness
Rogue Fitness, established in 2005, is renowned for its high-quality, safety-tested home fitness equipment. They offer a lifetime warranty on many models, highlighting their commitment to safety, durability, and customer service.
In my MMA training, I've relied on Rogue Fitness for its durable equipment. Their safety-tested gear, backed by a lifetime warranty, has been a staple in my rigorous workouts.
However, some people might need to find a price tag that is more affordable for their budget. Their brand isn't known for having cheap gym equipment.
Additionally, while they offer safety mechanisms on their machines, they are not certified by safety testing organizations like UL or ETL, which may concern some customers.
Check out these articles on some great Rogue Equipment:
REP Fitness
REP Fitness has been a leading brand helping fitness enthusiasts since 2010. REP offers a wide range of exercise equipment, including cardio equipment, quality power racks, top weight plates, and good adjustable weight benches.
In addition to its home equipment range, REP sells heavy-duty commercial-gym-grade CrossFit rigs designed for certified personal trainer-led fitness classes.
REP builds products using heavy-duty materials like steel or powder-coated frames designed to last over time.
REP Fitness offers high-quality exercise equipment at an affordable price, and you’ll find excellent support from top-notch customer service.
REP Fitness assures 100% satisfaction with their products. However, they lack pre-programmed workouts and tracking software.
Additionally, their bulkier cardio equipment like rowing machines and ellipticals might not suit smaller spaces.
Using REP Fitness equipment, I appreciate their commitment to satisfaction, though I miss having pre-programmed workouts for my MMA conditioning.
Tonal
Tonal is a revolutionary home fitness system that is taking the fitness world by storm.
This unique and innovative equipment combines virtual training, free weights, and machines to create a comprehensive workout experience.
As an MMA fighter, Tonal's blend of virtual training and free weights offers a versatile workout that complements my training regime.
The advantage of Tonal equipment is convenience. Instead of having multiple pieces of equipment, Tonal provides everything in one easy-to-use machine.
Tonal features tons of built-in challenges, progression measuring, tracking, and a library of hundreds of workouts that allow customization based on your fitness level. Tonal is expensive compared to traditional gym equipment.
Life Fitness
Life Fitness, known for its reliable strength and cardio machines, offers versatile programming and customization.
Their equipment integrates with apps like iFit Coach and Peloton, providing access to numerous workouts.
While built with premium materials, the higher cost of Life Fitness equipment may be a consideration for some home gym owners.
Life Fitness machines have supported my strength and cardio routines with their versatile programming, essential for my MMA training.
Tempo
Tempo Studio caters to diverse fitness goals with its array of machines and accessories, standing out for its affordability.
Their range includes budget-friendly to higher-end models, accommodating different budgets.
However, Tempo's lower price point may reflect in comparatively lesser durability and longevity than pricier brands.
In my home gym, Tempo's affordable range has been a great addition for maintaining my fitness outside the MMA gym.
“Strength training, also called weight training or resistance training, is an important part of any fitness routine. It helps make you stronger and also builds muscle endurance.”
- Emily Cronkleton, Certified Yoga Teacher
Peloton
Peloton targets users looking for a high-end cardio machine for home workouts like running and cycling, but anyone who enjoys high-intensity interval training or yoga can also benefit from a Peloton subscription.
Peloton grew in popularity for its live and on-demand classes, giving users a studio-style spin class at home.
Some users may consider Peloton a bit pricey with a monthly subscription on top of the equipment cost; overall, it may still be cheaper than a monthly gym membership.
For my cardio sessions, Peloton has been an effective tool, offering high-intensity workouts crucial for MMA endurance.
NordicTrack
NordicTrack is trusted in the home fitness industry, offering a wide selection of affordable gym equipment without compromising durability and longevity.
Many models are compatible with apps like iFit Coach and Peloton.
Some machines come with adjustments like incline/decline to simulate natural outdoor terrain when exercising at home.
NordicTrack's equipment has been a reliable part of my MMA training, offering both affordability and quality.
Related Article: NordicTrack Fusion CST Review
TRX
Invented by a former Navy Seal, TRX revolutionized home workouts with its unique suspension system that helps users build core strength, stability, and mobility.
TRX is easy to store away when not in use and lightweight enough to take traveling to work out anywhere.
TRX equipment leverages body weight for a wide range of exercises, offering versatility and flexibility in workouts.
However, its focus on bodyweight exercises may not suit those like bodybuilders or individuals aiming for rapid muscle gain, who require heavier weight training.
TRX has been integral in my MMA training, providing bodyweight exercises that enhance my core strength and flexibility.
Mirror
The Mirror offers an interactive workout with routines, custom programs, and certified trainer guidance, all in a space-efficient, wall-mounted design.
It enables workout customization to fit various fitness levels and goals without extra equipment.
While more affordable than some gym equipment, the Mirror's cost and its ongoing subscription for full access might be a consideration for potential buyers.
Using the Mirror, I've added variety to my MMA training with its interactive workouts and custom programs.
Bowflex
Bowflex is one of the leading brands that revolutionized working out at home.
Whether you are looking for a good exercise bike, rowing machine, or resistance training equipment, Bowflex offers a wide range of gym equipment that can meet individual fitness-related needs and budgets.
One important pro, as well as a con, of Bowflex equipment relates to its JRNY app. While it offers a generous 1-year trial on the app, it lacks live-class options.
Bowflex's diverse equipment range has complemented my MMA training, fitting both my fitness needs and budget.
Best Home Gym for Small Spaces
REP Fitness offers the FT3000 Compact Trainer, which gives you everything you need for a complete workout with a small footprint.
Even with a small footprint, this unit provides a pull-up bar and a pair of 180-lb. weight stacks.
Related Article: Small Home Gym Ideas
Best Home Gym for the Money
REP Fitness offers a basic, affordable, yet durable power rack in the PR-1100, which is a great place to start and add accessories as the budget allows.
The 700-lb weight capacity is enough for most users.
There are many positive customer reviews recounting the ease of assembly and the flexibility of adding accessories based on personal needs and goals.
Best Smart Gym Equipment
NordicTrack offers a solid, smart piece of equipment in its Fusion CST Studio, which includes a 10-inch tablet and a 70-inch full-length mirror.
You’ll have twenty resistance settings from 10 to 100 pounds and class options offering body sculpting, boot camps, cross-training, and HIIT.
Best Starter Equipment
The TRX Home2 is a great suspension trainer offering a bodyweight workout adaptable to all fitness levels.
The Home2 is an excellent system to test out exercising at home before investing in more expensive equipment.
Pair this with a yoga mat, and you have what you need for full-body workouts.
Related Article: How to Build a Home Gym
What to Look for in Home Gym Brands
You’ll want to assess your needs and goals when shopping for home gym brands. You should regularly incorporate some strength training into your routine, as it is critical to overall fitness, according to the Mayo Clinic [1].
A key differentiator among top home fitness equipment brands is their integration of cutting-edge technology. This includes features like advanced fitness tracking, virtual classes, and interactive workout experiences that cater to the evolving demands of home fitness enthusiasts.
Additionally, keep these three criteria at the top of your list: safety, warranty, and reputation.
Safety
Look for machines that feature safety mechanisms such as safety bars and weight safety clips. Also, consider the gym equipment’s construction; look for solid welds and a solid frame.
Additionally, check whether the machine has been certified by safety testing organizations like UL or ETL, which indicates it meets safety standards.
Warranty
In addition to safety, you should consider the warranty your gym equipment offers.
When investing in home fitness equipment, the long-term durability and warranty options offered by the brand are critical. Prospective buyers should look for brands that stand behind their products with substantial warranties and have a reputation for equipment that withstands the test of time.
Reputable companies usually provide a long-term warranty as a sign of confidence in their product’s quality. Look for brands with at least a 5-year warranty, though some offer lifetime warranties.
Reputation
Before buying, evaluate the brand's reputation. Read customer reviews and research the brand's history and customer service record.
A lifetime guarantee on gym equipment is a strong indicator of a brand's reliability and commitment to quality.
Doing this due diligence will help you find reliable brands that stand by their products and commit to providing quality home gym equipment.
References:
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/strength-training/art-20046670
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