A home gym that pays for itself: what to buy first

A typical gym membership costs hundreds of pounds a year. Spend it once on the right kit and it's yours. Buy in this order and you won't end up with a treadmill full of washing.

1. Adjustable dumbbells (start here)

One pair replaces a whole rack of weights and fits under a bed. Look for quick dial or pin changes and a weight range you'll grow into, not just what you lift today.

2. A bench that folds away

An adjustable bench (flat, incline, decline) doubles what you can do with dumbbells. Check the max user + weight load and that it folds flat if space is tight.

3. Squat stand or power rack (the big one)

For heavy squats and bench press, you want safety arms that catch the bar. Measure your ceiling height first, and put it in a garage or ground floor, not upstairs.

Lift heavy only with safety arms or spotters set at the right height. If you're new to lifting, get a session with a qualified coach first.

4. Cardio that doesn't take over the room

A folding treadmill, a rowing machine that stands upright, or an exercise bike. Rowers work the whole body and store easily; treadmills are the noisiest for flats.

5. The cheap bits that make it work

Rubber floor tiles protect the floor (and keep the neighbours happy), and resistance bands add warm-ups and lighter work for almost nothing.

Sources

• NHS: physical activity guidelines for adults
• Which?: treadmill reviews
• Which?: exercise bike reviews

We haven't tested every item ourselves. We compare specs, load ratings and independent owner reviews. Check with your GP before starting a new exercise routine if you have a health condition. Prices from UK listings, Nov 2026.