The Best Compact Exercise Equipment for Small Spaces (2024)

Thanks to technology and sheer innovation, many good things now come in small packages: We wear tiny computers on our wrists (love my Apple Watch), and we geek out over things like portable, foldable, reusable straws (it comes with a case!). The same concepts apply to the best home gym equipment. There is a need to accommodate people who live in small spaces. The best compact exercise equipment spans a range of workout styles, from HIIT cardio machines to adjustable kettlebells.

Just because you live in a small space doesn’t mean you can’t have a home gym. Trust me, I know: I have lived and exercised in a studio apartment, and before I built my home gym, I had to store my bumper plates in my fireplace (no, really). 

Someone–and in many cases, more than one person–at Garage Gym Reviews has had their hands on every piece of equipment listed here. We tested and analyzed important space-saving factors, like:

• Footprint: Is it small enough to really be called “compact”?
• Portability: Can you move it around your space easily?
• Value: Is the price accurate?

We have literally reviewed thousands of products to assess the basics and the details, judging workout gear against criteria like durability and performance. We stand by our recommendations because we don’t just say we like these products, we actually use them in our everyday workouts. 

Best Compact Gym Equipment Video Review

Our Picks for the Best Compact Exercise Equipment

• Best Compact Home Gym: Tonal
• Best Compact Treadmill: Walking Pad Folding Treadmill P1
• Best Compact Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg
• Best Home Exercise App: Caliber
• Best Resistance Bands: Living.Fit Resistance Bands
• Best Compact Exercise Bike: NordicTrack S22i
• Best Kettlebell Set for Small Spaces: PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell
• Best Pull-Up Bar: Titan Fitness Pull-Up Bar
• Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Pro HIIT H14
• Best Compact Weight Bench: Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2
• Best Workout Mirror for Small Spaces: Tempo Studio
• Best Foldable Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike
• Best Dumbbell Set for Small Spaces: REP Quickdraw Adjustable Dumbbells
• Best Portable Home Gym: X3 Bar
• Best Bodyweight System: TRX Suspension Trainer

Best Compact Home Gym: Tonal

Good for: Anyone looking for responsive personal training 

Best Compact Home Gym

Tonal Smart Home Gym

GGR Score: 4.6

Check Price

Product Highlights

• AI gets to know you and makes weight adjustments for you
• Up to 200 pounds in digital resistance
• All-in-one gym that takes up minimal space
• Access to on-demand and live classes
• 30-day trial period

Pros & Cons

Pros

• AI gets to know you and makes weight adjustments for you
• Lift up to 200 pounds in digital resistance (much different from free weights)
• All-in-one gym that takes up minimal space
• AI assesses your form and gives real-time cuing
• Access to on-demand and live classes
• 30-day trial period

Cons

• High initial price tag
• Accessories cost extra and are pretty crucial to your workouts
• 12-month initial subscription required (and an additional cost)
• 200 pounds in resistance might not be enough for heavy lifters

Bottom Line

A complete smart home gym that offers versatility in a compact piece of equipment, but at a high price.

Tonal is among best smart home gym equipment there is, as it has earned a 4.6 out of 5 stars from our expert product testers, many of which have used Tonal for years. A 4.6 is one of the highest scores we have ever given, but it’s because this wall-mounted screen delivers a high-tech, full-body workout — and it’s only a little over 4 feet tall and a little under 2 feet wide.

This is compact, however, there are two adjustable cable arms that extend from the screen. Because of those arms and the movements you use those cables for, Tonal suggests that you have a 7-foot-by-7-foot area in front of the machine to be able to exercise. 

With Tonal, you essentially have a personal trainer on your wall. It uses artificial intelligence to watch your movements as you move through your workout. Tonal can adjust your weight and offer form correction cues as you go. It will count your reps for you (huge bonus for those of us who space out a little in that area). There are even advanced features like “Spotter Mode” that will actually drop the resistance if Tonal senses that you’re struggling on an exercise. 

With your subscription to Tonal, you get access to live and on-demand workouts. The live workouts were added in late 2021. “I think those workouts are good, but there are still some technical things Tonal needs to work through before the live classes rival those of, say, Peloton,” says Coop Mitchel, founder of Garage Gym Reviews and someone who has used Tonal over the course of several years. Still, it’s nice to virtually exercise alongside people when you’re doing intense cardio and strength sessions.

To really get the most out of Tonal, you need to have the smart accessories, and those are all sold separately. The unit itself is already around $4,00 plus a mandatory 12-month subscription, so the cost can really start adding up when you throw in the extras like the smart bar, rope, bench, and handles. 

(Pssst: Looking for a Tonal coupon?)

Also, keep in mind that Tonal is wall-mounted, so it isn’t portable. You’ll be bolting this into your wall, so if you live in an apartment, be aware that you’ll be drilling. Tonal also insists on professional installation only (you could void your warranty if you tried to do this on your own).

For more, check out our in-depth Tonal Smart Home Gym review.

Best Compact Treadmill: WalkingPad Folding Treadmill P1

Good for: People who want a compact treadmill they can stow away

Best Compact Treadmill

WalkingPad Folding Treadmill

GGR Score: 3.6

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Folds for easy storage
• Suitable for tall folks and long strides
• Comes assembled
• Compatible with KS Fit App
• Features foot-sensing controls

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Under $450
• Foldable
• Can be controlled by the app or a remote
• Has automatic foot control
• No assembly required

Cons

• Max user weight of 220 lbs
• No obvious warranty

Bottom Line

The WalkingPad is another great option for people who want a way to walk while doing another activity.

There are plenty of folding treadmills on the market, but the WalkingPad has to be one of the most compact. At just over 56 inches long and 21 inches wide, the under-desk treadmill can be folded to just 32 inches long, ensuring it can fit just about anywhere—under your bed, in your closet, or just in the corner of your home gym. 

GGR head of content and certified personal trainer Nicole Davis has used the WalkingPad for over a year and a half and rates the portability a 4.5 out of 5. Not only is the treadmill extremely compact, but the folding mechanism has held up over the years. “I’ve been folding and unfolding the WalkingPad multiple times each week since I’ve owned it, and the folding function still works like a charm,” she says.

For its compact and lightweight features, the WalkingPad had to make some sacrifices, namely in the size of the motor and construction. It gets a 3 out of 5 for construction and durability, as the user weight limit sits at 220 pounds, much lower than the industry standard of 275 pounds.

Additionally, the 1-horsepower motor on the WalkingPad won’t support more vigorous running; as the name suggests, it’s a walking treadmill. Shorter, lighter people may get away with some light jogging, but the WalkingPad maxes out at under 4 miles per hour. Still, if you want a small, compact cardio machine to supplement your cardiovascular exercise, this is a fine one to use, 

Check out our WalkingPad review for more information.

Best Compact Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowErg

Good for: People looking for a budget-friendly rower that folds in half

Best Compact Rowing Machine

Concept2 RowErg

GGR Score: 4.6

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Priced around $1,000
• Uses air resistance generated by the fanned flywheel
• Advanced PM5 Performance Monitor
• Low impact full-body workout fitness machine
• Lightweight and easily portable
• Can be broken down into two pieces for storage
• Can also be hung for storage

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Best-selling rowing machine in the world
• Easy assembly
• Accommodates users up to 6.6 feet tall and 500-pound weight
• Ergonomic seat and handlebar
• Seat is 14”
• 10-degree angle on handle for natural grip
• Air-resistance
• Adjustable airflow
• Performance Monitor 5 (PM5) monitor
• Nickel-plated steel chain
• Adjustable footrests
• Easy to store
• Limited 5-year warranty

Cons

• Priced around $1,000
• Few built-in workouts

Bottom Line

The Concept 2 Model D Rower is the best rowing machine we've tested and reviewed, including those that are much more expensive like the WaterRower. There's a reason you can find Concept 2 products in nearly every gym in the world, including CrossFit Boxes, and home gyms. After having the Model D for over two years, we are still as satisfied with it as we were on day one.

Generally speaking, the best rowing machines aren’t really compact. They are around 6 to 7 feet long at minimum. However, you can find foldable rowing machines and those that store upright. We chose the Concept2 RowErg for this list because, while it doesn’t fold, it does easily store upright and it’s incredibly lightweight, so moving it around is easy.

I have owned a Concept2 for more than 5 years, and it still works as well as it did on Day One. Since I bought it, I have lived in a small apartment and then moved into a small house, where I kept it in my living room until I built a garage gym.

This scores a perfect 5 out of 5 on our portability rating because at just 57 pounds, it is so wildly easy to move. I have rolled it over carpet, hardwood, grass (gotta love rowing outside), and rubber flooring with zero issues. To store it, you just tilt it upright on the front wheels and flywheel. That’s it.

Having logged literally thousands of miles on the Concept2, I can tell you that this is a machine that is built to last. I’ve never had any maintenance issues with mine. However, I have also been a CrossFitter for close to 10 years, and in that time, I have seen those heavily-used rowers require deep cleans as well as new monitors on occasion.

RELATED: Hydrow Review

The monitor on the Concept2 RowErg is incredibly easy to use, spitting out all the metrics you need (and some you might even care much about unless you’re really data-driven). You can rotate through different screen views, like making the time the largest feature and the other metrics, like distance, splits, and stroke rate, smaller. I love that you can choose a preset program or even customize a program to count down calories, meters, or time (watching the meters tick off a 5K row is so satisfying).

This machine uses air resistance, so it isn’t quiet. There is a constant whooshing of air through the flywheel. I wouldn’t call it a disruptive noise if you have neighbors, but it isn’t as quiet as magnetic rowers.

Ergonomically speaking, the seat is hard plastic. It’s curved to take pressure off your back, but it isn’t cushioned. The longest row I’ve ever done is a 10K on it, and I had no issues. But if you remember the 2018 CrossFit Games, Event 4: Marathon Row, many of those athletes sat on towels to ease the literal pain in the a@@.

For more, check out our in-depth Concept2 RowErg review.

Best Home Exercise App: Caliber

Good for: Anyone at any fitness level with any amount of home gym equipment

Best Home Exercise App

Caliber Strength Training

GGR Score: 4.68

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Strength training and nutrition app
• Personalized, data-driven workout programs
• Expert habit coaching
• Free and paid versions
• Private 1:1 coaching available
• Weekly lessons, metric tracking, nutrition syncing

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Scientifically-based training plans
• Individualized coaching for both fitness and nutrition with paid subscriptions is reported to be very thorough
• Free version offers a library of curated workout plans
• Reportedly easy-to-use

Cons

• Personalized macronutrient goals only available with paid versions

Bottom Line

Caliber Strength Training is a fitness coaching program grounded in scientific principles designed to increase strength and improve body composition. The app offers both group and individual training plans which are written and modified by a certified coach based on progress.

We get it; no matter how much space a mobile workout app takes up on your phone, it’s not going to take up more physical space in your home gym. However, we like Caliber as the best home exercise app because it can provide personalized programming for any sort of home gym setup, whether it’s a compact minimal gym, or a decked out garage gym that rivals Dwayne “The Rock Johnson’s home gym.

Caliber also meets you where you are financially, with a free version, as well as two paid modes of coaching. The free version gives you full access to the app’s video library, workout suggestions, and workout tracker—just no access to coaching. 

A group class function (for $19 a month) allows you to sit in on instructor-led workouts, while a second tier of payment allows you to work one-on-one with a coach or trainer, at the cost of at least $200 a month.

While the app offers cardio and HIIT workouts, the app is focused on strength work, following the principles of strength training, earning a 5 out of 5 for progressive overload.

Although the cost is pricey, GGR expert product tester Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, says it’s definitely worth it, giving the program a 5 out of 5 for its value. “For individual fitness coaching, I don’t think there’s a more financially valuable model than what Caliber offers,” she says.

You can see more information on this workout app in our Caliber App review.

Best Resistance Bands: Living.Fit Resistance Bands

Good for: People who want versatility in their resistance bands with a latex-free option

Best Resistance Bands

Living.Fit Resistance Bands

GGR Score: 4.5

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Natural latex material
• Available in sets of 4 or 6 bands
• 6 different resistance levels from 10 lbs to 200 lbs
• Includes door anchor
• 41” length

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Bands for versatile uses
• Wide range of resistance levels
• Can save by purchasing a set
• Comes with door anchor

Cons

• Not a lot of reviews yet
• Bands can’t be bought in pairs
• No handles

Bottom Line

Living.Fit Resistance Bands offer a great range of resistance levels, from 10 pounds with the thin red band, all the way up to 200 pounds with the thickest bands. Bought in sets of four or six bands, these bands are versatile and can be used for a variety of strength training and resistance training exercises.

Quality space-saving exercise equipment is often gear you can use in multiple ways. After testing out the best resistance bands, we like Living.Fit Resistance Bands for their value and versatility. Plus, they have latex-free options available for those with latex allergies.

The regular Living.Fit bands made with natural latex come in a set of four or six bands, ranging from 5 to 200 pounds of resistance between the thinnest and thickest band. The latex-free bands (in neat camo colors) are available in sets of four.

Let’s talk about space. Bands are compact, lightweight, and portable. They weigh just ounces each and are easily tossed into a drawer or basket, or hung on hooks in your garage. 

When it comes to practical use, large-loop tube resistance bands can do a lot:

• Warm-up exercises like pull-aparts
• Strength movements like good mornings, presses and squats
• Assistance for pull-ups and dips
• Mobility work like banded stretches

There’s not a lot of difference between resistance bands across brands, if we’re being honest. The biggest plus for us is the price of these bands; not only are they less expensive than competitors like Rogue or EliteFTS, but the bands are also often marked down. “This is a great price—especially when you buy the whole set,” says GGR Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele, ISSA-CPT. She rates the value a perfect 5 out of 5.

Check out our Living.Fit Resistance Bands review to see if these bands would make a nice addition to your home gym.

Best Compact Exercise Bike: NordicTrack S22i

Good for: An all-in-one cardio machine with interactive programming

Best Compact Exercise Bike

NordicTrack S22i Studio Bike

GGR Score: 4.5

Check Price

Product Highlights

• 24 digital resistance levels
• Incline and decline adjustments
• Fully rotating touchscreen

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Large 22" smart HD touchscreen
• Incline and decline ability
• Compatible with iFIT
• Adjustable seat
• Adjustable handles
• Dual-sided pedals
• Fan
• Comes with 2 3-lb dumbbells
• 24 digital resistance levels

Cons

• Expensive
• iFIT membership not necessary, but most beneficial
• Difficult to assemble
• Can’t be stored in the garage (brand states doing so will void the bike’s warranty)
• Hard to move and weighs more than 200 pounds

Bottom Line

This is the bike to get if you want an indoor cycling bike with interactive programming, incline and decline capabilities, and all the extras.

Exercise bikes are, in general, among the most compact cardio exercise equipment you can find. By nature, they are smaller than ellipticals and treadmills. So when determining which was the best exercise bike, our team looked at more than just the footprint and factored in how much value you’re getting out of the equipment. Based on that, it really doesn’t get better than the NordicTrack Commercial Studio Cycle line. 

Right off the bat, the Commercial S22i (and its sister, the S15i), are more than just exercise bikes. They use iFIT programming (you get a 30-day trial free with purchase), which gives you access not only to cycle workouts but also strength training, yoga and a host of other fitness classes. Both bikes have screens that swivel so you can rotate the display to do HIIT off to the side. 

I fell in love with this bike the minute I put my feet on the pedals and started moving. The Commercial S22i is like one of the best Peloton alternatives because it’s very similar to a Peloton: 22-inch touchscreen, interactive programming that includes live and on-demand classes, pair of dumbbells included. 

So essentially, this is almost like an inclusive home gym. It got perfect 5 out of 5 scores from our testers in customizations, tech capabilities, and the programming.

RELATED: Peloton Bike Review

Where the S22i stands out is that it has incline and decline capabilities, a feature you don’t often see on exercise bikes. When the bike first went into decline (which happens automatically during workouts thanks to iFIT’s auto-adjust feature), I was almost thrown off balance. It does feel like pedaling downhill, minus the wind in your hair.

This compact exercise bike packs in a lot of extras: Cooling fan, Bluetooth connectivity to headphones, dual water bottle holders, and a device holder. 

But, it isn’t perfect. First of all, I put together this bike myself, which I don’t recommend. It took me well over an hour because nothing comes preassembled, you have to run wires to the monitor, and attaching the large console really should be done with a buddy, because it’s large and awkward. If you can afford it, opt for the $200 professional assembly.

While there are transportation wheels on the front of the bike, the S22i weighs 200-plus pounds and isn’t exactly easy to move around, especially on carpet. Lastly, if you store any NordicTrack equipment in a non-temperature controlled environment, the warranty may be voided. 

For more on this bike, check out our in-depth NordicTrack S22i review. 

Best Kettlebell Set for Small Spaces: Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebells

Good for: People who are looking to save space but want multiple kettlebell options

Best Kettlebell

PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell

GGR Score: 4.2

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Feels like a fixed kettlebell
• Easy adjustment mechanism
• Weight goes up to 52.9 lbs
• Rubber bottom to protect flooring
• Comes in kilos or pounds

Made in USA

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Space-saving design
• Replaces 5 kettlebells
• The grip feels very nice to use
• Color coded weight labels

Cons

• The unusual shape doesn't exactly feel like a standard kettlebell
• It uses a pin mechanism, so if you lose the pin, you won't be able to use all of the weights

Bottom Line

The Powerblock Adjustable Kettlebell features a cowbell-like, space-saving design that can replace 4 kettlebells. It doesn't feel quite like a traditional kettlebell due to it's shape, but it's sturdy and enjoyable to use.

One of the most challenging aspects of building out a complete home gym is finding the room for all your weights. You need a heavy kettlebell for farmers’ carries, a light kettlebell for overhead stability work, and one that’s just right for swings. Put those side-by-side, and you just lost about 3 square feet of precious space.

Enter the PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebells. Available in two sizes, these kettlebells can range from as little as 16 pounds to over 60 pounds, helping you fulfill your many kettlebell weight requirements. Each kettlebell replaces five typical kettlebells, making these one of the best adjustable kettlebells; plus, it has a compact footprint, earning a 4.5 out of 5 for its compactness.

The kettlebell is built solidly, earning a 5 out of 5 for its construction and durability. Our expert product tester liked that the pin remained secure while in use; he never felt like the kettlebell was going to come loose. “The flat shape of the kettlebell actually felt better than traditional, spherical kettlebells,” he notes, rating the feel of the kettlebell a 4 out of 5.

The maximum weight of 62 pounds may not be as heavy as some powerlifters want to go, so you may want a different adjustable kettlebell if that sounds like you. Still, for its great feel and compactness, we recommend this as a solid space-saver.

You can read more about this set in our PowerBlock Adjustable Kettlebell review. 

Best Pull-Up Bar: Titan Fitness Pull-Up Bar

Good for: (one line describing whom the product best suits)

Best Pull-Up Bar

Titan Wall Mounted Pull Up Chin Bar

GGR Score: 4.5

Community Score: 4.3

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Heavyweight steel construction ensures stability
• 500-lb weight capacity
• Matte black powder coating
• Adjustable mounting

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Can be installed vertically or horizontally
• Weight capacity of 500 lbs
• Can be mounted on concrete or wood
• Heavy-duty steel construction

Cons

• Mounting hardware not included
• May not work for kipping movements
• Short 1-year warranty

Bottom Line

This pull-up bar is a great option for home gym owners looking for an affordable way to do suspended work. It has a high weight capacity and can be bolted to a variety of surfaces.

Obviously, a wall-mounted pull-up bar will save you a lot of floor space, since it will be off the floor. But there’s more to the Titan Fitness Pull-Up Bar that we like other than the compact footprint; it is our pick for the best pull-up bar, of course.

The pull-up bar is made solidly with 11-gauge steel, which gives it a substantial user weight capacity of 500 pounds. GGR founder Coop Mitchell appreciates the versatility of its installation. The bar is able to be mounted on studs that are 16, 32, or 52 inches apart, or on a concrete wall anywhere up to 52 inches apart. You get that solid build and versatility for under $100. Yeah it gets a 5 out of 5 for its value.

The black powder coat that comes with the Titan Pull-Up Bar is pretty standard for fitness equipment companies, but it’s not the grippiness texture.

If your home gym area has a low ceiling height, it may be difficult to use a wall-mounted pull-up bar properly. Exercises like bar muscle-ups will be completely out of the picture, and getting your chin over the bar may get your head close to the ceiling, too. If you don’t have the ceiling height—-or are renting and can’t bolt a pull-up bar into a wall—you may want to opt for a door-mounted pull-up bar. Still, if you can make the Titan bar work, it’s a real treat.

Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Pro HIIT 14

Good for: Cardio fanatics who enjoy HIIT training

Best Compact Elliptical

ProForm Pro HIIT H14

GGR Score: 3.9

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Unique hybrid trainer that focuses on high-intensity interval training (HIIT)
• Combines upper-body punching movements with elliptical stepping 
• Effectively work your calves, hamstrings, quads, glutes, biceps, and triceps. 
• iFIT-enabled and a 30-day family membership is included
• 14-inch smart HD touchscreen display
• 26 resistance levels with silent magnetic resistance
• 30-pound inertia-enhanced flywheel

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Works your entire body
• Quick, intense workouts
• Low-impact
• Compact
• Immersive training
• Preprogrammed workouts available with WiFi connection

Cons

• Assembly is reportedly difficult
• Not great for casual workouts
• Subscription required for full functionality

Bottom Line

The ProForm HIIT H14 is a high-quality and uniquely designed hybrid trainer that effectively provides intense workouts on a compact machine.

I’ve always been a fan of elliptical training for its low-impact, high-output style. It’s running without running, which is my favorite kind of running.

The ProForm Pro HIIT 14 is one of the most compact ellipticals out there. Whereas most home elliptical machines are around 7 to 8 feet long, this is just over 4 feet in length because it’s tall, not long. Its design is more of a stair stepper, which saves you substantial space.

RELATED: Best Compact Elliptical

Our product testers got a chance to test this out at the iFIT headquarters, and one of the first things they did was tray to move it. It weighs more than 200 pounds, but there are front transport wheels on it to make moving it a little easier.

“You can move this around a room using the transport wheels for just an average person, but you’d definitely need another set of hands for moving this up or down the stairs,” says GGR product tester Caroline Lubinsky.

Due to its compact nature, this resembles more of a vertical climber rather than an elliptical. Instead of long, running-like strides, the pedals glide in much more of an up-and-down motion. This gives you a swift kick in the glutes!

As far as workouts go, the Pro HIIT 14 is compatible with iFIT programming, which streams on the machine’s 14-inch touchscreen. You get a 30-day free trial with your purchase, unlocking access to literally thousands of live and on-demand workouts. iFIT auto-adjusts the speed on the machine so all you have to do is think about surviving your workout.

Like many high-end machines, this has a high price tag of around $1,700, though financing is available. Also, the assembly is complicated. We gave it a very low 2 out of 5 because you can expect the process to take a few hours. Keep that in mind you may want to tack on an extra $200 for in-home assembly.

Read more in our ProForm Pro HIIT 14 review.

Best Compact Weight Bench: Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2

Good for: People who want a compact weight bench that has incline and decline adjustments

Best Compact Bench

Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2

GGR Score: 4.3

Community Score: 4.7

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Extremely stable, durable and versatile flat-incline-decline bench
• Lower height profile (17.2" in flat position)
• Revised locking ring system
• Commercial grade high-density back pad
• Transport wheels and additional Ironmaster PRO attachment options

Pros & Cons

Pros

• IPF height (17.2 inches tall)
• Compact and lightweight (64 pounds without seat, 68 pounds with seat)
• 11- and 12-gauge steel frame
• Wide base and large footpads increases stability
• 11 lockout angles give you incline, decline, flat and upright positions
• Compatible with most Ironmaster PRO attachments
• High-density, commercial grade pad is very dense/firm
• Free shipping
• Some parts come pre-assembled
• Vertical storage
• Great warranty (10 years)

Cons

• 10.25-inch width back pad may be narrow for some
• No handle to assist with transport and storage
• The seat does not have its own adjustment and is always at a 90 degree angle
• Some reviews reported that the tapered seat is narrow and uncomfortable
• Upholstery on back seat is not non-slip

Bottom Line

The Ironmaster Super Bench PRO is undoubtedly a well-constructed, sturdy, and extremely versatile bench that is a great option for most home gym users. However, if a narrower back pad and seat is something that bothers you, this bench may not be your cup of tea.

All the best weight benches are going to take up a fair amount of space (they do, after all, have to support a whole human), but the Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2 makes the most out of the space it takes up by offering incline and decline adjustments, a commercial-grade back pad, and 11 lockout angles.

For those in small spaces who need something easy to move, this earned a perfect 5 out of 5 on portability, thanks to vertical storage, a handle, and front transport wheels. That last piece is key because it allows you to safely stand the bench up when it’s not in use without the fear that it’s going to fall over and injure someone or cause damage.

Coop Mitchell, founder of Garage Gym Reviews, has this bench in his own home gym and uses it often. He loves the changes Ironmaster made between the first and second iterations: a handle for portability, laser-etched numbers for seat and pad adjustments, and a tapered pad.

The biggest reason we love this bench besides its attachments, which we’ll get to in a second, is just how sturdy it is. You can lift some serious weight on this thing and not feel it wobble at all—it has a 1,000-pound weight capacity when flat and a 600-pound limit when used as an incline bench, so unless you’re Tom Stoltman or Larry Wheels that should be more than enough for your lifting needs.

“The frame mixes 11- and 12-gauage steel,” Coop says. “I’d prefer 11-gauge throughout, but the mix does lighten the overall weight of the bench.”

Our one big beef with this weight bench is that the seat is at a 90-degree angle at all times and can’t be adjusted. The back pad is also 10.5 inches in width, when the industry standard is closer to 11.5 to 12 inches, so it may not be the best pick for bigger lifters.

If your workout space permits it, this bench can also be equipped with a number of different attachments:

For more, check out our full Ironmaster Super Bench Pro V2 review.

Best Workout Mirror for Small Spaces: Tempo Studio

Good for: Affordable in-home personal training and cardio workouts

Best Workout Mirror

Tempo Studio

GGR Score: 4.6

Check Price

Product Highlights

• All-in-one smart home gym
• Sturdy A-frame aluminum design
• Comes with weight plates, loadable dumbbell handles, a barbell, foam roller, workout mat, and barbell collars
• AI technology that uses 3D Time-of-Flight sensors to capture your movement patterns and provide form corrections, rep counting, weight recommendations, and stat tracking
• Acts as a virtual personal trainer to help improve your exercise technique and reduce your risk of injury from exercise

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Massive touch screen with great production quality
• Comes with free weights for resistance training
• Great variety of workout classes, programs, and types
• Works with most fitness wearables to track all fitness metrics
• Provides daily "readiness" scores and adjusts workouts automatically
• Can track body composition
• Can create completely custom programs
• 3D sensors track movement to provide technique feedback

Cons

• Basic package doesn’t come with sufficient weight for people who can lift really heavy.
• By the time you add up the cost of accessories and extra weights if you need them, Tempo is one of the most expensive smart home gyms.
• Touchscreen lags at times.

Bottom Line

Tempo Studio is a great all-in-one smart home gym. It would be a great fit for anyone who likes to do a little bit of everything—strength training, full body workouts, HIIT, cardio, and restorative exercise.

When it comes to workout mirrors, the Tempo Studio makes a unique blend of smart tech and instruction mixed in with classic free weights and training. Taking up 2 feet wide and 1.6 feet deep, it’s very compact, but comes with a bar, plates, and dumbbells—-along with the smart mirror. You’ll also need space to move around near the Tempo Studio…but you’ll need that for any equipment.

With a variety of training modes from weight training to mobility work, Tempo uses motion-tracking sensors to count reps and give technique cues, too. GGR founder Coop MItchell found the technology fairly dependable. 

“It missed some reps every once in a while, and the form critiques felt pretty average, but overall I like the technology,” he says. “Because they’re using AI, the technology will only get better as the user base grows, so that’s encouraging.”

If you’re expecting a ton of weight with this, you’ll be sad to hear that it’s only change plates, with 10 pounds being the heaviest plate available. Coop also points out that weight changes can be time-consuming, and would prefer something more akin to an adjustable dumbbell. While this isn’t ideal for heavy lifters, it’s a great workout mirror for people wanting to get a decent sweat.

For a more in-depth look, read our Tempo Studio review.

Best Foldable Exercise Bike: Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike

Good for: People who want to log miles on a no-frills, stowable bike

Best Foldable Exercise Bike

Marcy Fitness Upright Foldable Exercise Bike

GGR Score: 4.3

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Sturdy
• 14-gauge steel frame
• Adjustable seat
• Transport wheels for portability
• Comfortable seat
• 8 resistance levels
• Weighs just 37 lbs

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Sturdy, even when pedaling hard
• Design is aesthetically pleasing
• Comfortable padded seat
• Made of 14-gauge steel

Cons

• Heavier than most competitors
• Shows only basic stats (time, distance, calories)
• No heart rate monitoring

Bottom Line

A sturdy and affordable exercise bike that's a great fit for home gyms of any sizes.

When it comes to the best folding exercise bikes, there’s one thing you should know: These aren’t going to be high-tech, full-of-frills machines. Their value proposition is how small they are. If you go into it knowing that, then you have accurately calibrated your expectations and won’t set yourself up for disappointment. 

That’s the lens we had to take when testing multiple foldable bikes. Our staff writer, Amanda Capritto, says the Marcy Foldable Upright Exercise Bike tops the list and has even found a permanent spot in her home gym. Yes, it’s small and light and easy to move, like any other folding bike, but the quality construction sets it apart. Amanda gave this a 5 out of 5 for durability, noting the thick, 14-gauge steel makes the Marcy bike feel incredibly sturdy during workouts, even during hard pedaling. 

She also says that the LCD display on the Marcy bike is larger than most of the other screens you find on these compact bikes. True, it only displays time, calories, and distance, but that’s pretty standard for these machines. 

Amanda points out that while there aren’t many levels of resistance (just eight), this is great for beginners or can be used effectively in warm-ups and cool-downs. 

Get even more details from our in-depth Marcy Foldable Exercise Bike review.

Best Dumbbell Set for Small Spaces: REP Quickdraw Adjustable Dumbbells

Good for: Those who want a durable set of adjustable dumbbells

Best Dumbbell Set

REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell

GGR Score: 4.3

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Adjustable dumbbells ranging from 5 to 60 lbs
• Patented Lock-N-Load steel switches for quick weight changes
• Can be bought as 30-lb, 40-lb, 50-lb, or 60-lb pairs
• Fully knurled handle
• Durability tested for drops
• Lifetime warranty

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Very durable and tested for drops
• Lifetime warranty
• Can be expanded from 30 lbs up to 60 lbs
• Quick weight changes

Cons

• Adder weights can be a bit slower to add or remove
• Longer dumbbell at max weight
• Max weight is only 60 lbs

Bottom Line

The REP Fitness QuickDraw Adjustable Dumbbell is the latest piece of innovative equipment for the company, with patented Lock-N-Load switches for quick weight changes. The dumbbells can go up to a maximum weight of 60 pounds, although they can be purchased at lighter weights and expanded from there. These dumbbells are extremely durable as well, tested for drops at various heights and angles; plus, they’re backed by a lifetime warranty.

If you live in a small space, you can’t have 10 pairs of dumbbells. Getting a pair of the best adjustable dumbbells means having multiple pairs of weights in just two items.

The REP Quickdraw Adjustable Dumbbells are only slightly bigger than a shoe box and provide the same amount of weight options as an entire rack of traditional fixed dumbbells. You get eight weights from 5 to 60 pounds (REP Fitness is planning to release heavier versions in the future). That’s still a win-win in our book, and that’s before you add in the fact that they’re nearly all-metal construction (they get a 4.5 out of 5 on our durability test), can be dropped from up to 32 inches in height (which can’t be said for many other adjustable dumbbells), and feel like a traditional dumbbell.

Some of our prior picks for the best dumbbell set for small spaces, such as the iconic Powerblock adjustable dumbbells, didn’t feel like traditional dumbbells, while others, like the NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells, couldn’t be dropped due to the large amount of plastic that could crack. That’s all to say that the REP adjustable dumbbells are some of the best-built adjustable dumbbells we’ve ever tested.

We love the flat ends that sat comfortably on our thighs while setting up for shoulder presses, and the knurling is a happy medium that provided extra grip on high-rep exercises. “The knurling feels really nice in the hands,” says certified personal trainer and Garage Gym Reviews Everything lead reviewer Lindsay Scheele. “It is slightly passive so it doesn’t feel like you are going to tear your hands up with dynamic movements like the snatch.”

There’s also minimal plate clanging, which was a huge plus for us in testing.

In our testing, we found it very easy to adjust the weights. You simply drop the weights in their cradle and turn the handle to your desired weight.

There is one major downside to these dumbbells: the 10-pound weight increments. This might not be a problem for experienced lifters, though it might be for people who are trying to get stronger through progressive overload. REP doesn’t sell magnetic plates to add weight to their dumbbells, but products like Platemates would work.

Get even more details on our REP Quickdraw Adjustable Dumbbells review.

Best Portable Home Gym: X3 Bar

Good for: People who travel or want to be able to take total-body fitness on the go

Best Portable Home Gym

X3 Bar

GGR Score: 4.14

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Up to 300 lbs of force
• Upgrade to up to 600 lbs
• Free workout program included
• No assembly necessary

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Can create up to 300 pounds of force (up to 600 if you get the Elite Band, sold separately)
• Free 12-week workout program with high-quality workout and nutrition advice
• Bar has great knurling
• No assembly necessary
• Bands are dipped in layered latex, making them thick and durable

Cons

• Platform’s embedded rollers don’t allow bands to roll during lift, but that's nitpicky
• Quite pricey at around $550 (financing available)
• Only 1-year warranty for the bands
• Some complaints of the bands wearing down after only a few weeks

Bottom Line

A compact piece of strength training equipment that combines the best parts of resistance bands and barbells into one.

If you’re looking for a home gym that will travel with you and your schedule, I recommend the X3 Bar. This unique full-body exercise equipment is a ground plate anchor, a series of resistance bands, and the unique X3 bar, which hooks onto the resistance bands, mimicking barbell work in a fraction of the space. Plus, the whole package weighs 17 pounds—19 pounds if you use the Elite band. It gets 4.5 out of 5 for its footprint and portability.

Resistance bands can get a bad reputation for not being as challenging as free weights, but that’s simply a myth. The bands here give plenty of resistance—up to 300 pounds. The Elite band (sold separately) can be up to 600 pounds of resistance. That’s a lot of resistance for a deadlift or front squat.

The X3 Bar also comes with a 12-week program for free, which is nice if you want to take out the guesswork of programming for yourself. It’s a four-day push-pull split, meaning you’ll have two push days and two pull days each week. While we’re hesitant to believe outright the guarantee on burning fat and building muscle at the same time, the program also comes with nutrition tips…which should help.

Although many people may want the feel of free weights, we think this is pretty solid program. You can learn more in my X3 Bar review.

Best Bodyweight System: TRX Suspension Trainer

Good for: Anyone looking for a portable bodyweight resistance training system

Best Bodyweight System

TRX Home Suspension Trainer

GGR Score: 4

Community Score: 4.3

Check Price

Product Highlights

• Durable nylon webbing straps with locking adjusters
• Carabiner tested at 1,300 lbs
• Door anchor allows for use in any room with a sturdy door
• Suspension anchor hang straps off bars, hooks, etc.
• Comes with TRX App with workout options
• Mesh Carrying Bag

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Durable nylon webbing straps
• Lightweight and Portable
• Comes with TRX app

Cons

• Learning curve for some exercises
• Expensive compared to other suspension trainers

Bottom Line

The TRX Home Suspension Trainer is a great way to get a full-body workout with a lightweight and portable piece of equipment.

If you’ve ever done a TRX class, you know how challenging the work is. A former Navy Seal, Randy Hetrick, is credited with developing the patented method and equipment in the 1990s, though we saw Total Resistance eXercise really explode in the early 2000s when commercial gyms started offering classes.

Fortunately, you don’t have to step into a gym to do TRX anymore. These lightweight, highly portable straps can be mounted to your ceiling or secured in a doorway for a workout that targets all your major muscle groups. The entire kit–straps, door anchor and suspension anchor–can be tossed into the accompanying mesh bag for easy storage just about anywhere in your home.

Anyone at any fitness level can benefit from working out with the Suspension Trainer. I have used it for years, both in my own workouts as well as in training clients. It excels in areas like core stabilization, supported leg movements, and challenging upper body work. I had been doing CrossFit for years before I took my first TRX class. At the time, I thought I was incredibly fit, but that class proved to me that I had gaps in my fitness. 

Using the straps does require either knowledge of the exercises or some kind of guidance, so I wouldn’t exactly call these beginner-friendly. However, when you purchase the TRX Suspension Trainer, you get access to a seven-day trial of the TRX Training Club, which offers live and on-demand classes. After that, your options for subscription are as little as $4/month. 

Other Compact Exercise Equipment We Researched

There are a lot of great pieces of equipment that didn’t make our list but that we still feel are worth mentioning:

Cardio Machines

Sunny Health & Fitness Magnetic Elliptical: I actually really like this elliptical for people on a budget who also don’t have a lot of space. It’s around $500, has preset workouts and a short stride, which means it won’t take up much room. At this price point, it’s hard to find quality machines. While this isn’t an elliptical that would withstand heavy use, it would be just fine for home workouts.

Sunny Health & Fitness Synergy Magnetic Bike: For a durable, sturdy stationary bike with a small footprint that costs around $500, this is my favorite. Magnetic resistance means it’s quieter than fan bikes, and there is no chain that would require maintenance. There’s also no fancy touchscreen, but there is a device holder you can use if you want to follow an app.

Assault Air Bike: I have one of these at home. While CrossFit has replaced Assault with the Rogue Echo Bike, I still like the OG air bike. It’s incredibly easy to wheel around, and it isn’t much larger than other stationary bikes. Also, nothing destroys your soul quite like sprints on the Assault Air Bike. There are a few pre-programmed workouts, but nothing interactive. The chain definitely needs love from time to time, which is why this didn’t quite make our best-of list.

Home Gyms

Tempo Move: Tempo announced in late 2021 the addition of “Move,” which costs under $500 and gives you a lot of the benefits of the Studio: virtual training, weights included. You do need to have an iPhone XR or later and a TV to use it, however. We haven’t gotten to try it (yet) but are looking forward to it. (Pssst: Get the best Tempo discount codes.)

NordicTrack Vault: The Vault made our list of the best workout mirrors thanks in part to its slim and sleek design, ideal for people who want to do full body exercises in a small space. It even comes with kettlebells, dumbbells and a mat. This didn’t make the cut on our list simply because we found that the workout equipment doesn’t store quite as nicely as it’s supposed to.

Strength Equipment

Bowflex SelectTech 552 Adjustable Dumbbells: We actually recommend the Bowflex as one of our top picks for adjustable dumbbells. They are shaped like traditional dumbbells, and the weight changes extremely easily. Plus, they are affordable compared to many other similar products. The biggest drawback we see is that they max out at 40 pounds, which might not be heavy enough for many.

NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells: The NÜOBELLs are some of our favorites: They sport a great knurled handle, traditional dumbbell shape, and they adjust weight faster than possibly any other adjustable dumbbell out there. However, they are expensive, and for the price, we think they use too much plastic. 

How We Picked and Tested

We have a team of people who use, test, and review equipment. When it comes specifically to evaluating the best compact workout equipment, we had a discussion around what pieces we had used that make sense in small spaces based on a number of factors, such as:

• Footprint: We looked for items that could be used in a space no larger than a living room
• Portability: Products that stood out to us were those that could be moved around with ease
• Stowability: Bonus points to fitness equipment that could be put away easily
• Versatility: Could the product be used in multiple ways for multiple exercises

Many of the items on this list actually live in our own homes and garage gyms. We know what it’s like to interact with them daily. Someone on our team has used each piece of equipment for multiple workouts to assess factors like durability, performance, ease of use and ergonomics.

Benefits of Compact Exercise Equipment

If you have ever lived in a small apartment, shared a small home with multiple people, or simply tried to do a workout in your living room, you know how valuable it is to have space. For many at-home workouts, you don’t need much more than a 7-foot-by-7-foot space (enough room to lie down and move around). 

Owning compact exercise equipment enables you to:

• Work out just about anywhere in your home: garage, family room, bedroom, yard, heck, even in the kitchen
• Move equipment to other rooms/spaces for flexibility
• Take your equipment with you when you travel
• Stow gear away when it isn’t in use 

What to Look for in Compact Exercise Equipment

If you don’t have a ton of space, then finding fitness equipment with a minimal footprint is key. Here are some key considerations:

Footprint

Most people looking for space-saving exercise equipment have one main concern: size. A squat rack, barbell, and bumper plates can take up quite a bit of floor space. And cardio machines? Well, they tend to be big, heavy, and overwhelming. 

So, measure your space, and compare it with the measurement of the equipment. Also, just because something is big doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a dealbreaker; there are products like folding treadmills and foldable bikes that actually transform the footprint of the workout machine. 

Portability

If you’re like me, you transform any space in your home into a gym. I’ve even moved my squat rack into the kitchen on occasion, because sometimes a lady likes to snack while she squats. 

Before I invest in equipment, I’m often checking to see how easily I can move it around. Some important factors there include:

• Transportation wheels
• Product weight
• Product size

Also, if you travel a lot, find portable gym pieces that can go with you. Maintaining your fitness routine on the road is important. Resistance bands and yoga mats travel well; bumper plates, not so much. 

Versatility

I’m a sucker for equipment that takes up a little space and can be used for a lot of things. I think adjustable dumbbells have got to be one of the most fantastic products out there. You can go heavy for dumbbell deadlifts and squats, or keep it light for accessory and mobility work. All in one product!

Not every piece of equipment will have more than one use, but many on our list do: Cardio equipment that comes with interactive programming often has yoga and strength training classes, and you can get whole-body workouts with home gyms.

RELATED: Best Dumbbell Exercises

Policies

It’s always wise to read the fine print. Check out the following for any piece of exercise equipment you are considering:

• Warranty
• Return policy
• Initial trial period

Cost/Value

You’ll obviously want to keep your budget in mind when looking for the best compact exercise equipment but you should also consider what’s going to give you the most bang for your buck. For example, it might be worth it to go a little over your budget if you find a piece of equipment that can be used for multiple training methods instead of buying multiple items.

FAQs About Compact Exercise Equipment

Anthony O'Reilly, CPT, CNC

Anthony O'Reilly is a NASM-certified nutrition coach and personal trainer whose work has been featured in Muscle & Fitness and BarBend, and previously was an award-winning reporter and photographer for newspapers on Long Island and Queens, NY. After spending most of his life overweight, he dropped 80 pounds and took control of his health and fitness. Outside of work, he still enjoys Little Debbie cakes but offsets them with rigorous hikes and workouts. He's an avid Manchester United supporter, through thick and thin.

Further reading

Help is Here: A Guide to Troubleshooting ProForm Treadmills

by Lauren Strong, CPT

Thanks to technology and sheer innovation, many good things now come in small packages: We wear tiny computers on our wrists (love my Apple Watch), and we geek out over things like portable, foldable, reusable straws (it comes with a case!). The same concepts apply to the best home gym equipment. There is a need to accommodate people who live in small spaces. The best compact exercise equipment spans a range of workout styles,  » Read more about: The Best Compact Exercise Equipment for Small Spaces (2024)  » Read more

Fitness Most Wanted 2024: The Best in Strength, Cardio, Nutrition, And More

by Nicole Davis, CPT, PN1-NC

This year's Fitness Most Wanted Awards honor the best and most innovative fitness equipment, recovery products, supplements, and more. Read on for our 50 picks, chosen by our expert team of certified personal trainers, strength coaches, nutrition coaches, dietitians, and more. Read more

WalkingPad Review (2024): TikTok Fad or Worth It?

by Lauren Strong, CPT

Looking for an under-desk treadmill for your WFH office? Check out this WalkingPad review with our expert take after one year of use. Read more

Keiser M3i Indoor Bike Review (2024): It Really Is Worth That Much

by Anthony O'Reilly CPT, CNC

Our Keiser M3i Indoor Bike review will let you know why this stationary bike is worth the more than $2,000 price tag. Read more