If you purchase an independently reviewed product or service through a link on our website, Rolling Stone may receive an affiliate commission. Whether you hate exercising in front of people, don’t want to pay a monthly membership fee, or don’t have a lot of time, setting up a home gym is an effective and convenient way to get a workout in. Exercising in a small home or apartment where space is limited can be tough, but it’s still possible (and even easy) if you have the essential tools, from the right workout earbuds to easy-to-use fitness apps .
Experts also say it’s not always how you move that matters, but that you actually get moving. “When you’re stuck at home it’s easy to get lazy and fall into an unhealthy routine,” says Matt Williams, a NASM-certified personal trainer from Los Angeles. “Doing a workout or even just going for a brisk walk can dramatically improve your physical health and overall mental well-being.
It can also help reduce anxiety.” Fortunately, it’s never been easier to exercise at home, whether you want to set up a home gym or just pick up a few equipment essentials. We’ve put together this guide to help you get a full workout from equipment that’s small enough to fit in a closet — or in some cases, a desk drawer — based on personal testing, trainer feedback, and positive user experience from brands we trust.
Here’s what to get. One of the toughest parts of working out is knowing where to even begin. Having a personal tr.