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Build an effective home gym without breaking the bank. Our experts share the best budget-friendly equipment picks.
Perfect for beginners
Most popular choice
Serious training
Get the most out of your budget with these expert tips.
Save 30-50% on open-box items with full warranty. Amazon Warehouse offers discounted returned products in like-new condition.
Black Friday, Prime Day, and Cyber Monday offer the best discounts. Plan your purchases around these sales for biggest savings.
Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist often have quality used gym equipment. Many people upgrade their home gyms, selling barely-used gear at deep discounts.
Don't buy everything at once. Start with essentials and add equipment as your budget allows. This prevents overspending on items you might not use.
Common questions about building a budget home gym.
For a basic strength training setup, you need: adjustable dumbbells (or dumbbell set), a bench, and a pull-up bar. This trio covers most major muscle groups and allows for hundreds of exercises.
Absolutely! With $500 you can get: adjustable dumbbells ($150-200), a weight bench ($100-150), resistance bands ($30-50), pull-up bar ($30-50), and have budget for accessories. Check our $500 budget guide above for specific recommendations.
Adjustable dumbbells are more expensive upfront but save space and money long-term. If you're on a very tight budget, fixed dumbbells are cheaper initially but require more storage space. Consider your space constraints.