From one home gym enthusiast to another.
Home Gym Guide.
Working out where to start, what to buy or whether there’s room for one more attachment? You’re in the right place.
Fundamentals · 12 chapters
Build a gym that works for you.
Start with the space you’ve got and the training you enjoy. These guides will help you choose the kit, spot the awkward details and leave a bit of room to actually use it.
Start with the basics See the full series
The fundamentals
Start at chapter one, or jump to the bit you need.
12 guides
- Chapter 01 · Planning
Building your first home gym
A useful home gym starts with the training you actually do. You can worry about the impressive-looking extras later.
2 min read - Chapter 02 · Planning
How much space does a home gym need?
Enough for the kit, and enough to use it. Here’s how to work out what will fit before the delivery turns up.
2 min read - Chapter 03 · Planning
What should you budget for a home gym?
The equipment price is only part of it. Work out what the whole setup will cost, then decide what can wait.
2 min read - Chapter 04 · Planning
Choosing flooring for your home gym
It’s easy to leave flooring until last. Sort it before the rack arrives and save yourself a lot of moving things twice.
2 min read - Chapter 05 · Equipment
Choosing a power rack you can build around
The rack is likely to stay longer than most of your attachments. Give yourself room to use it, and a sensible route to the upgrades you want.
2 min read - Chapter 06 · Equipment
Choosing a barbell for your home gym
Pick a bar for the lifts you enjoy, then make sure it works with your rack, plates and room. Shorter isn’t always more convenient.
2 min read - Chapter 07 · Equipment
Choosing weight plates
It’s tempting to compare sets by total weight alone. The plate type, thickness and smaller increments deserve a look too.
2 min read - Chapter 08 · Equipment
Choosing a weight bench
You’ll spend plenty of time on it, and probably move it more than you expect. Choose around your exercises and the space inside your rack.
2 min read - Chapter 09 · Equipment
Fixed or adjustable dumbbells?
Fixed pairs are ready to grab. Adjustables save space. The better choice depends on how you train and how much room you want to give them.
2 min read - Chapter 10 · Equipment
Choosing a cable machine for home
A cable system can add a lot to a home gym. Make sure the space, resistance and setup suit the exercises you want to do.
2 min read - Chapter 11 · Getting ready
Give your gym kit somewhere to live
Good storage makes the room easier to train in. Start with the heavy, awkward pieces, then find a home for the small stuff.
2 min read - Chapter 12 · Getting ready
Your home gym buying checklist
Ready to order? Give the room, the kit and the basket one last look. These are the details worth catching before delivery day.
3 min read