Home gym buying guides

Planning / 3 MIN READ

Build around the exercises you do, keep the gear that works, and add the rest as you need it.

Racks / 3 MIN READ

Check the space for squats and bench presses, the included safeties and the attachments you want to add.

Cable machines / 3 MIN READ

Check how much resistance reaches the handle and how you change the weight between sets.

Digital strength / 3 MIN READ

Compare portable cable units with larger digital gyms, including what comes with each package.

Dumbbells / 4 MIN READ

How much weight comes in the box, how small are the jumps, and can you add more later?

Benches / 3 MIN READ

Start with flat height and the positions you use. Decline, wider pads and attachments can follow.

Barbells / 2 MIN READ

Shaft diameter, centre knurl and grip marks give you a clearer starting point than the finish alone.

Weight plates / 2 MIN READ

Choose the pairs you need, leave room on the bar for collars, and add small plates for gradual increases.

Cardio / 3 MIN READ

Walking at a desk, cycling intervals and regular running need different machines and different rooms.

Small spaces / 3 MIN READ

Choose equipment around the space it occupies during training and the effort of putting it away.

Australian buyers / 3 MIN READ

Compare Australian retailers first. For an import, add freight and check who will help if something goes wrong.

Marketplace buying / 2 MIN READ

Check the model, seller and quantity, then compare the delivered price with a specialist shop.

Specialty strength / 2 MIN READ

Buy for an exercise you will repeat, and allow for changing the machine between movements.

Room essentials / 2 MIN READ

Practical room purchases from Bunnings and specialist gym suppliers, from surface protection to a dedicated lifting platform.

What to buy for your home gym