This is an overview of machines you can consider to buy for your home gym. If you want to dig into more detail refer to the related articles section of this post.

 

 

 

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The treadmill would probably be the most common machine you consider for your home gym. Treadmills come with electric motors. Therefore you will need power and take care of maintenance. Inform yourself whether the top portion of the treadmill can be removed for easier transport. The simplest form of a treadmill stays at the same angle at all times. If you go a bit more upmarket, you will be able to angle them to simulate running uphill. Newer treadmills are self-propelled. If you opt for hits you will have less maintenance and power cost, but the initial buy price will be higher. Personally, I like running outside which can save a lot of costs. If your climate does not allow for this or if there are no good running routes you might want to opt for a treadmill instead.

 

 

An air bike is a good alternative to a treadmill. It is especially good for interval training which recently has been hyped as good for weight loss. They take up a little less space and cost less than a treadmill. Currently, the Rogue Echo bike is one of the best value for money options in this category. Watch out whether the model you are buying has a chain. Air bikes got a pretty bad reputation in the 80 and 90s for the chains constantly having to be maintained and breaking. 

 

 

A lat pulldown machine might not be the first big purchase for your home gym, but a great addition in the second round. A lat pulldown machine can usually also be used as a rowing machine. A lat pulldown leaves you with more options that a barbell usually won't cover. While the first round is usually a rack and treadmill with barbell and plates, the second round can be a lat pulldown and a squat belt machine.

 

 

A hip belt squat machine is especially good to bring your leg workouts up. Constant back squatting can be hard on the lower back. A hip belt squat is cheaper than a leg press machine and still gives you the free weight experience. If you need more squatting volume but want to put less stress on your back, this is a great option.  

 

 

Technically not a machine, but still a big item a rack will be the cornerstone of your new gym. When you get a gym, decide whether you want a full rack, half-rack or a full rack with storage. Look into different options and decide whether you want to attach the rack to the floor or a wall. If those are not options, look into a flat foot rack to put on a carpet. 

 

 

The first machines for your gym should be relevant to the exercises you want to do. A rack and an air bike are a great start in my opinion and may even be enough for most people. From this core, you can branch out to your more personal needs and make your home gym your own.