Setting up your personal workout space can be a difficult task if you're not clear about what you need. The fitness world offers countless products that meet different needs and demands, but not everything is important when you're planning to build your own home gym. It's important to focus your efforts and identify spaces for essential items; with these, you'll be able to develop any routine and then focus on strengthening it with specific training equipment.
Rack, Half Rack or Half Cage
Essential for exercises like pull-ups, presses, and barbell squats. Some models include pulley systems with weight plates or even a Smith bar for complete versatility.
Olympic Bar
Ideal for lifting with a load. We recommend a bar with a 700 to 1,500 lb capacity, with coatings such as Cerakote, black oxide, or chrome, and medium knurling for optimal grip.
Collars
Essential for securely attaching the plates to the bar. The best ones include quick-locking mechanisms and interior protection to prevent scratching the sleeves.
Discs or Bumpers
Rubber, urethane, or Hi-Temp discs, depending on the application. They may have grips for added comfort. They adapt to both machines and individual workouts.
Adjustable Bench
Versatile for presses, rows, and exercises like hip thrusts. Make sure it's sturdy, the right size, and easy to move if space is limited.
Heel Lift
A simple but key accessory for improving squat technique and properly activating the posterior chain. It can be fixed or used individually for each foot.
Power Bands
Resistance bands that allow you to work out anywhere. They're useful for assisted training, warming up, or adding tension to traditional movements.
Stand for Bulgarians
Allows you to perform Bulgarian lunges with stability. Adjustable versions accommodate different sizes and working angles.
Hexagonal Bar
Excellent for beginners or for rehabilitation. It allows for centered weight distribution, ideal for safe and technical deadlifts.
Rubber Paddles
They cushion impacts, protect the floor, and allow for deficits in exercises like squats. They're also useful for lifting weights in a more controlled manner.
Adjustable Dumbbells
They replace an entire rack of dumbbells, taking up only the space of a pair. They allow for multiple weight configurations in a single product.
Do you have more budget?
With an extra investment you can incorporate professional performance machines:
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Freemotion Dual Cable Cross
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ILUS Optimal Dual Cable
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Bench Glute Builder V8 or ILUS Glute Thruster
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Leg Press ILUS or Atlantis
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Dual Leg Extension/Curl
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Rowing or Lat Pull Down type machines
Summary table of essential equipment for home gyms
| Equipment | Main function | Key benefit | Recommended example | Space required |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rack / Half Rack | Barbell support, pull-ups, pulleys | Full body workout | ILUS Pulley / Half Rack | 1.2 × 1.5 m |
| Olympic Bar | Weightlifting with discs | Olympic standard and durability | ILUS Cerakote / Oxide Bar | In-rack use |
| Collars | Attach discs to the bar | Safety and security | ILUS Plastic Collars | — |
| Discs / Bumpers | Variable load | Durability and surface protection | Hi-Temp Bumpers / Jordan Discs | Rack 0.5 × 0.5 m |
| Adjustable Bench | Press, row, hip thrust | Multi-position, easy transport | ILUS Adjustable Bench | 0.5 × 1.3 m |
| Heel Lift | Squats | Improves posture and activation | ILUS Heel Wedge | — |
| Power Bands | Elastic resistance | Portability, continuous progression | ILUS Power Bands | — |
| Stand for Bulgarians | Bulgarian thrusts | Stability and fit | ILUS Single-Leg Stand | 0.4 × 0.6 m |
| Hexagonal Bar | Centered Deadlift | Safe technique | Hex Bar ILUS | 0.8 × 1.2 m |
| Rubber Paddles | Deadlift, deficit, floor protection | Impact absorption | Rubber Tiles ILUS | According to provision |
| Adjustable Dumbbells | General force | Complete set replacement | Adjustable PowerBlock / ILUS | 0.4 × 0.4 m |
ILUS Fitness represents brands in Chile such as Keiser, Freemotion Fitness, Booty Builder, DRAX, Exxentric, Atlantis Strength, Glute Builder, WellnessSpace Brands, Prime Fitness USA, Gymleco, The Occlusion Cuff and PowerBlock.
With this guide, you can now design your own home gym efficiently and with professional equipment. Prioritize the essentials, plan your space well, and train like the best from the comfort of your home.
ILLUSTRATION. Together we are stronger.
