The 11 Best Pieces of Exercise Equipment for Small Spaces
iStock
The products featured in this article have been independently reviewed. When you buy something through the retail links on this page, we may earn commission at no cost to you, the reader. Sports Illustrated editorial staff are not involved in the creation of this content. Learn more here.
It is recommended that adults spend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, which equates to 30 minutes per day. That seems easy enough, right? With all of the other responsibilities you need to check off your to-do list, the time it takes to commute to and from the gym and all the other factors out of your control—like that one guy who is always on your favorite machine—it’s no wonder that working out at home has become an increasingly popular option.
Under-desk treadmills and under-desk ellipticals are compact fitness equipment alternatives that are worth considering if you’re limited in space and want to stay active while you work from home. However, there are plenty of options for small exercise equipment that allow you to get in a solid workout, even if you're limited on space.
When looking for the best compact exercise equipment for small spaces, you’ll want to consider the type of exercise you like to do, your budget, fitness level and goals. In this guide, we’ll share our top picks for the best exercise equipment for small spaces, how we chose them and what to look for, considering factors like fitness needs, size, versatility and price.
Our Picks for the Best Exercise Equipment for Small Spaces:
- Best Smart Home Gym for Small Spaces: Tonal
- Best Exercise App for Small Spaces: Future
- Best Folding Treadmill for Small Spaces: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
- Best Lightweight Bike for Small Spaces: Echelon EX-5
- Best Compact Rower for Small Spaces: NordicTrack RW600
- Best Dumbbells for Small Spaces: REP Fitness Ergo Hex Dumbbells
- Best Jump Rope for Small Spaces: REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope
- Best Pull-Up Bar for Small Spaces: REP Fitness 1.25” Pull-Up Bar
- Best Bodyweight Suspension Training for Small Spaces: TRX Home2 System
- Best Yoga Mat for Small Spaces: lululemon The Workout Mat
Best Smart Home Gym: Tonal
Tonal
Key Features:
- Trainer-led workouts can be selected and followed using the 24-inch touchscreen
- Auto-adjusting resistance controls the weight and the spotter and eccentric features
- Output and progress are tracked after each workout
- Wall-mounted design and built-in weights save space
The Tonal workout mirror requires a minimal amount of space and offers many advanced features. All you need is seven feet of wall space and seven feet of surrounding floor space to perform exercises. You don’t need any additional dumbbells or weights because the two built-in adjustable arms offer resistance up to 200 pounds (100 pounds per arm). The arms can be moved up or down to accommodate several different movements. The Smart Accessory Bundle for an additional $495 can be used during classes and includes a bench, roller, bar, rope and bench. These are not required but not having them can limit class options and you’ll need space to store them when not in use.
Tonal uses a baseline strength assessment to get to know your fitness level. During your home workout, it acts as a personal trainer by automatically adjusting the weights to something you can likely handle, based on your strength assessment results. If you prefer, you can also adjust the weight manually. As you start to lift heavier weights, Tonal has a spotter feature that assists in finishing your rep if you need it. There is also an eccentric mode that increases the resistance on the eccentric portion of the lift which can improve performance outcomes.
Related Post: Save on Tonal With These Coupons and Deals
The 24-inch touchscreen can be used to select which interactive class you want from 15 fitness categories. If you have a specific goal in mind, there are extended training programs that add new workouts each week. The range of class offerings gives the user the option to do bodyweight exercises, strength training and more.
Pros:
- Personalized weight suggestions and spotter feature
- Workout data is tracked so you can see your progress over time
- Interactive classes from 15 fitness categories
- Resistance up to 200 pounds
Cons:
- Smart accessories are sold separately
- Expensive
Best Exercise App: Future
Future
Key Features:
- Trainer provides custom workouts based on your fitness goals and equipment
- Workouts can be completed at any time and come with instructions and videos demonstrating each movement with good form
- Progress is tracked by your coach and can be viewed in the app
- Trainers work around your schedule and travel
Future is a personal training app that pairs you with a trainer that fits your fitness objectives. After signing up, you’ll complete a questionnaire about your workout habits, goals and other personal information. From there, Future uses this information to recommend a few coaches, or you can select your own from their extensive roster.
Your coach will then set up a meeting to discuss your goals and experience in depth. They’ll also ask what kind of workouts you like to do, what fitness equipment you have on hand and your available space. All of this information is used to create your customized workout plan and your workouts are sent each week in the app. These can include yoga, HIIT, resistance training, low-impact workouts and more.
Each training session includes instructions and videos that demonstrate how to do each movement with good form. Even though your trainer isn’t present during your workout, you can record videos of yourself and ask for their feedback. Future can be synced to an Apple Watch to receive prompts throughout your workout. After you’ve finished, your coach will ask for details on how it went which allows them to make adjustments as needed. You and your coach can also view stats like the duration, calories burned and your heart rate (tracked by an Apple Watch).
Pros:
- Customized workout plan is based on your goals and available equipment
- Option to record yourself to ask for feedback
- Workouts can be completed at any time
- Choose or switch your trainer at any time
Cons:
- Costly monthly subscription
Best Folding Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 2450
NordicTrack
Key Features:
- Provides up to 12 percent incline and -3 percent decline
- Foldable deck and built-in wheels
- Unlimited access to live and on-demand classes featuring studio or scenic workouts led by a trainer with an iFit subscription
The NordicTrack Commercial 2450 has many great features usually found in a commercial treadmill, but it has a folding design that is ideal for smaller spaces. The 22-inch rotating screen can be used to follow workouts on or off the treadmill if you subscribe to iFit for an additional $39 a month. With a subscription, you’ll have access to over 1,000 on-demand home workouts from a variety of class types. However, this is not mandatory. You can also use this treadmill in manual mode where you’ll see metrics like distance, speed, time duration and more displayed during your workout.
After you’re finished, the bar underneath the deck assists in raising and folding it to a more compact size. It also clicks securely into place to prevent any movement. The folded footprint of this treadmill is 42.6 inches long, 39.2 inches wide and 72.9 inches tall.
This cushioned deck is 60 inches long and 22 inches wide, providing plenty of room for those with a larger stride, and the cushioning helps absorb impact from each footstrike. It’s great for walking, jogging and running with a max speed of 12 miles per hour—a five-minute mile pace. You can elevate your workout by training at an incline of up to 12 percent or at a decline down to negative three. Speed and incline are adjusted automatically during an iFit class and can also be adjusted easily using the quick touch buttons on each side of the screen.
Pros:
- Spacious, cushioned deck
- Incline technology to minimize noise
- Quick touch buttons to make adjustments
- Max user capacity is 300 pounds
Cons:
- iFit programming is an additional cost
- Expensive compared to other brands
Best Lightweight Bike: Echelon EX-5
Echelon
Key Features:
- Rear flywheel with magnetic resistance
- Adjustable seat and handlebars
- Compact, lightweight design
The Echelon EX-5 bike is great for training for a race or for a morning sweat session. At just 106 pounds, it’s a great option for those who need an exercise bike light enough to move between uses. It has a relatively small footprint of 58 inches long, 20 inches wide and 55 inches tall. Despite its size and maneuverability, there are two large bottle holders below the handlebars and dumbbell holders on the back (weights sold separately).
This exercise bike does not have a built-in screen but it comes equipped with a device holder that can hold smart devices from 5.5 to 12.5 inches in size and flip 180 degrees for great workouts off the bike. You don’t need an Echelon Premier subscription to use the bike, but for an additional $34.99 per month, you’ll gain access to more than 1,000 on-demand workouts and daily live classes led by instructors. Classes include biking, running, rowing and functional training.
The height and depth of the handlebars and seat can be adjusted to a comfortable position and the handlebars have elbow rests. There are 32 levels of magnetic resistance you can use to advance the intensity of your workout and the knob is easily accessible.
Pros:
- Device holder can be flipped for workouts off the bike
- Dual-sided SPD bike shoe compatible pedals with toe cages
- Competition-style seat
Cons:
- No built-in screen
Best Compact Rower: NordicTrack RW600
NordicTrack
Key Features:
- Air and magnetic resistance systems control 26 levels of resistance
- Compact, foldable design
- Bluetooth-compatible 10-inch Smart HD touchscreen for an immersive experience
- Ergonomic handle and molded seat
The NordicTrack RW600 has a small footprint and folds vertically for easy storage. The front-mounted transport wheels can be used to move it in and out of your space. After sitting on the molded seat, you can adjust the oversized, pivoting foot pedals to a comfortable position. Workouts can be followed using the 10-inch Smart HD touchscreen where you’ll see metrics like your distance, strokes per minute, time duration and more being tracked. With an optional iFit membership, you can do an instructor-led studio session or choose a more scenic setting for rowing.
This rower has an adjustable air resistance system and NordicTrack’s patented Silent Magnetic Resistance (SMR) system. During an iFit class, the SMR adjusts automatically or you can use the quick touch buttons on the display to make changes.
Reviews on Amazon mention that this machine is easy to store and takes up little space. One reviewer stated, “This rowing machine is awesome! Lightweight and easy to move if needed, doesn’t take up a ton of space, and the big screen offers lots of interactive programs. The all-body workout is better than I expected!”
Pros:
- Oversized steel seat rail
- Built-in transport wheels and foldable design
- Dual resistance
Cons:
- iFit membership is an additional $39 per month
- Weight capacity of 250 pounds may be a limiting factor
Best Dumbbells: REP Fitness Ergo Hex Dumbbells
REP Fitness
Key Features:
- Made from premium, ultra-low odor rubber
- Hexagon design
- Ergonomic handle and center knurling
If you’re looking for free weights for your home gym, the REP Fitness Ergo Hex Dumbbells have a hexagon design that prevents them from rolling and makes them easy to store. These are a great way to incorporate strength training if you don’t have the space for a weightlifting setup. They’re available in pairs and are sold in 2.5-pound increments from 2.5 pounds up to 30 pounds, and are sold in five pound increments from 35 to 100 pounds.
Dumbbells are a great way to build strength and depending on your space and budget, investing in some lighter pairs can open the door to cardio workouts. Dumbbells can increase or decrease your workout's intensity by implementing more or fewer reps in each set. The National Institute of Health (NIH) recommends that adults strength-train major muscle groups two or more days per week and note that the benefits of this training increase with age. Dumbbell movements such as deadlifts, squats, shoulder presses, bent-over rows, lunges and more can target several muscle groups at once.
The REP Fitness Ergo Hex Dumbbells have a protective rubber coating that is low-odor and helps minimize wear on both the dumbbells and the floor. The head is attached with friction welding, which is durable long term. The handles have medium knurling that will prevent them from slipping but keep your grip secure.
Pros:
- Can be used for strength and metabolic conditioning
- Durable rubber protects dumbbells and floors
- Many different weight options
- Hexagon design prevents them from rolling
Cons:
- Users may need to purchase heavier dumbbells over time
Best Jump Rope: REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope
Rep Fitness
Key Features:
- Made with durable rubber-coated galvanized steel
- Easy to adjust
- Lightweight
If you’re looking for a piece of home gym equipment that takes up a minimal amount of space and can be used while you’re away from home, the REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope deserves a close look. It’s designed explicitly for cross-training and HIIT so it can be utilized in conjunction with other exercise equipment or movements such as push-ups or squats. It can also be implemented on its own for a Tabata (a HIIT-style workout) and other interval exercises. A jump rope can help build endurance training, which according to the NIH is one of four types of exercises that form a well-rounded workout regimen.
The REP Fitness Speed Cable Jump Rope has a rubber-coated steel cable which makes it durable and prevents it from tangling. It’s 116 inches and can be trimmed and adjusted as needed. The handle is 4.5 inches long and is made of high-quality hard plastic. At just 0.2 pounds, this rope moves fast and you won’t notice its presence in your suitcase while you travel.
Pros:
- Adjustable cable length
- Rubber-coated for extra protection
- Tapered handles
Cons:
- Abrasive surfaces may wear coating more rapidly
Best Pull-Up Bar: REP Fitness 1.25” Pull-Up Bar
Rep Fitness
Key Features:
- Standard-size pull-up bar
- Small footprint
- Made from heavy-duty steel and has a powder coating
- Compatible with REP Fitness power racks if you ever want to expand
The REP Fitness 1.25” Pull-Up Bar has 3.4 feet of usable length and is 1.25 inches in diameter, which is the standard size for exercises like pull-ups, muscle-ups and more. This straight pull-up bar is heavy-duty and made from 4.5 millimeters of powder-coated steel. If you have resistance bands, rings or TRX bands they can be attached to give you more versatility.
This pull-up bar weighs 16.5 pounds and is compatible with Rep power racks if you ever want to expand your home gym.
Pros:
- Standard-size pull-up bar
- Compatible with REP power racks
- Heavy-duty 4.5 millimeter steel
Cons:
- Powder coat may get slippery
Best Bodyweight Suspension Training: TRX Home2 System
TRX
Key Features:
- Resistance powered by your body weight
- Adaptable for all fitness levels
- Sets up in seconds and packs light
- Can be used for cardio, strength and mobility training
The TRX Home2 System can help you take regular workouts a step further by challenging your balance and the ability to engage your core while doing simple movements. For example, a plank with your feet attached to the suspension trainer can challenge your balance, therefore, making you work harder than if your feet were planted on the floor.
Your movement position and body weight create resistance so you won’t need any other equipment if your goal is to incorporate resistance training. As you start to advance, you can increase the level of resistance by simply adjusting your body position.
One of the best features of the TRX Home2 System is that it can be set up or taken down in seconds. There are multiple options for set up, such as a door anchor, and everything you need is included. The straps can be adjusted and moved to different heights, which allows you to do exercises to target each muscle group. It comes with a 30-day free trial to the TRX Training club app where you’ll find on-demand workouts and other guided content. After the trial period, the on-demand access is $5.99 per month and an unlimited access membership is $19.99 per month.
Pros:
- No additional equipment needed
- Comes with a mesh carry bag for easy transport
- Several anchor options
- Adjustable straps allow you to train different muscle groups
Cons:
- Foam handles may wear over time
Best Yoga Mat: lululemon The Workout Mat
lululemon
Key Features:
- Grippy surface that’s designed to keep the mat in place during high-intensity workouts that require shoes and weights
- Closed cell design keeps water out
- Stain resistant and easy to clean
The Workout Mat by lululemon has a grippy surface that’s designed to stay in place during your training session. As you transition from mountain climbers to jump squats the raised textural design helps the mat stay in place. The top side is made to withstand the wear and tear weights and shoes can cause, and the closed-cell design helps keep moisture out. To clean, just wipe down the material with a damp cloth.
The length of this mat is 71 inches and the width is 26 inches, which is a standard yoga mat size. It’s also six millimeters thick to help soften the impact when coming in contact with the mat. After your workout, it can be rolled up and stored. It weighs just over four pounds making it easy to transport. One reviewer on the lululemon website said, “Solid mat for tough workouts. Grips to the ground well and doesn't move at all for high-intensity moves.”
Pros:
- Grippy surface
- Thick
- Can be rolled and stored
Cons:
- Expensive
How We Chose the Best Exercise Equipment for Small Spaces
We researched and selected a variety of products that suit different types of exercise including running, biking, strength, plyometrics and yoga. We considered selections that are budget-friendly and products that cost more but offer more versatility for those who want to ensure they’re getting the benefits from incorporating all four types of exercises. And of course, when considering the best workout equipment for small spaces, favoring options with a small footprint was top priority. After looking at all the model specs, extra features and more, we also scoured the user reviews for insight into the user experience.
What To Look for When Choosing Exercise Equipment for Your Small Space
Fitness Needs
Before investing in gym equipment, it’s important to understand what your goals are. For example, if you want to continue your cardio routine from the gym a compact elliptical or folding treadmill may be enough for you. If you’re new to working out and want some guidance or if you enjoy interactive classes, small exercise equipment with advanced tech features such as built-in programming or class streaming is more ideal. If your goal is to build strength, a few pairs or a set of dumbbells is a great place to start.
Once you’ve made your fitness goals clear, you’ll be able to choose and prioritize small exercise equipment that can play a functional role in reaching your goals.
Size
After you’ve designated your future home gym area, measure the dimensions and keep them handy during your search. The size of your space will help you eliminate options that don’t fit well or prevent you from leaving room for future additions. Keep in mind that you’ll need to allocate room for the type of movements you want to do so you don’t feel restricted or claustrophobic.
Related Post: The Best Compact Cardio Equipment
Versatility
A tight space means that each piece of equipment you choose is precious, so try to select versatile options whenever possible. For example, dumbbells can be used to build upper body and lower body strength, and lighter dumbbells can be incorporated into metabolic exercises. Workout apps usually offer different types of on-demand or live classes. Besides being practical for small spaces, choosing versatile equipment can help you reap all the benefits of building strength in your major muscle groups.
Price
For most, cost typically plays a role in what you purchase for your home gym. Before shopping, determine your budget and make sure to factor in other expenses, such as a fitness app subscription, when applicable. If you plan to piece together your home gym over time, prioritize which piece of equipment you want to purchase first. Keep in mind that if you’re thinking about equipment that is costly upfront, not paying for a gym membership over time will allow you to recoup that cost.
FAQs
How can I work out at home with little space?
Small exercise equipment can vary from dumbbells or a jump rope to a compact elliptical or foldable treadmill. There are also smart home gyms that are wall mounted, like the Tonal, that require wall space and just enough space for you to follow along with each movement.
How do I get cardio in if I have a small space?
A foldable treadmill like the NordicTrack Commercial 2450 is an excellent way to get your cardio in if you’re limited in space. However, a workout mirror or an exercise app are also great options that have an even smaller footprint.
How can I exercise at home without disturbing my neighbors?
Isometric workouts with dumbbells and bodyweight workouts are pretty quiet as long as you avoid jumping workouts. That being said, most cardio machines and workout mirrors are Bluetooth compatible, and using earbuds can also help cut down on noise.
Final Thoughts
There are many great options for exercise equipment on the market that suit a variety of home workout preferences from building strength to cardio. If you like to incorporate different types of training, smart workout machines and mirrors offer subscriptions that give you access to different class types led by trainers. However, equipment like dumbbells or suspension training systems are also versatile. Whichever option you choose depends on your space, budget, preferences and fitness goals.
Prices are accurate and items in stock as of publish time.
