The right training equipment must suit your goals, the space available, and your training style. You don't need the biggest or most expensive setup to train effectively, but the equipment must be stable, functional, and suitable for the load you intend to use.
In this guide, you'll get an overview of home gym equipment, the difference between 30 and 50 mm weight plates, and accessories like lifting straps, wrist wraps, and training cuffs.
Start with your goals, space, and budget
Before purchasing training equipment, you should clarify three things:
- What do you want to train for? Muscle building, strength, conditioning, or a combination?
- How much space do you have? Should the equipment be permanently set up, or should it be easily stored away?
- How heavily do you want to train? Your anticipated level determines the requirements for barbells, plates, benches, and safety equipment.
Begin with the equipment that supports your most important exercises. You can always expand your setup as your needs and strength evolve.
Which training equipment suits your level?
| Need | Good starting point | Possible expansion |
|---|---|---|
| Limited space | Exercise mat, resistance bands, and adjustable dumbbells | Kettlebell, pull-up bar, and foldable bench |
| Strength training at home | Stable bench, barbell, and weight plates | Squat rack, safety arms, and bumper plates |
| Functional training | Kettlebells, resistance bands, and medicine ball | Cable station, training cuffs, and various handles |
| Gym training | Lifting straps and water bottle | Wrist wraps, training cuffs, and weightlifting belt |
How to build a home gym
A good home gym doesn't necessarily require a large garage. The most important thing is that the equipment fits the space and the exercises you actually want to perform.
Training equipment for an apartment
If space is limited, the equipment should be flexible and easy to store. Adjustable dumbbells replace multiple sets of fixed dumbbells, while resistance bands, an exercise mat, and a kettlebell can be used for many different exercises.
A foldable training bench and a pull-up bar can offer additional possibilities without taking up permanent floor space. Always check that door frames and mounting points are designed to handle the load.
Training equipment for a larger room or garage
If you have more space, you can build your setup around a squat rack, a stable bench, and an Olympic barbell. Add weight plates according to your level, and ensure you have safety arms or other solutions if you train alone.
Rubber mats protect the floor, reduce noise, and provide a more stable surface for the equipment. The thickness should be chosen based on the floor type, the equipment, and whether the weights will be set down controlled or dropped.
What is the difference between 30 and 50 mm weight plates?
The hole diameter of the weight plates must match the sleeves of the barbell. The home gym market is primarily divided into equipment with a diameter of approximately 30 or 50 mm.
30 mm weight plates
30 mm equipment is often called standard equipment and is primarily used for lighter home training. It is typically cheaper and may be sufficient for dumbbells and smaller barbell sets.
Always check the maximum load capacity of the barbell. Capacity can vary significantly between different products, even if they use the same plate diameter.
50 mm weight plates
50 mm is the common Olympic standard and is used in most gyms. This type provides access to a wider selection of Olympic barbells, bumper plates, and heavier plates.
Olympic bars can be constructed with bushings or ball bearings, which affects how the sleeves rotate. This is particularly relevant for dynamic lifts like clean and snatch.
Note that the 50 mm refers to the sleeves of the bar where the weight plates are placed. The actual grip area is significantly narrower, often with a diameter of about 28–29 mm.
Can 30 and 50 mm equipment be used together?
As a rule, you should choose weight plates and barbells from the same system. A 30 mm weight plate will not fit on a 50 mm sleeve, and a 50 mm plate will be too loose on a 30 mm bar. Therefore, it is important to choose your standard before you start buying more plates.
The most important categories of training equipment
A balanced setup can consist of equipment for strength, conditioning, and functional training. You don't need to cover all categories from the beginning. Prioritize what fits your program.
Equipment for strength training
A barbell, weight plates, and a stable bench cover many basic exercises. A squat rack allows you to train exercises such as squats, bench presses, and overhead presses with greater safety.
Adjustable dumbbells are a flexible alternative, especially if you have limited space. They can be used for both large compound exercises and smaller isolation exercises.
Equipment for cardio training
Treadmills, exercise bikes, and rowing machines are popular choices, but they require both space and maintenance. If space is limited, a jump rope, a kettlebell, or bodyweight training can be simpler alternatives.
Choose the form of exercise you will realistically use regularly. An expensive machine only creates value if it suits your daily life and preferences.
Equipment for functional training and cable training
Kettlebells, resistance bands, and medicine balls can be used for many different movements. A cable station provides additional possibilities for controlled pulls, pushes, and isolation exercises.
For cable exercises for legs, glutes, and arms, you can use HookIt Cuffs. They attach around the ankle or wrist, so you don't need to hold directly onto a traditional cable handle.
Accessories for heavy lifts
The most important equipment is the weights and machines, but the right accessories can solve specific limitations in your training.
Lifting straps for pulling exercises
For deadlifts, rows, and lat pulldowns, your grip can tire before the muscles you want to train. Here, StrapIt Lifting Straps can help connect your hand better with the bar or handle.
Use them especially for heavy working sets or high-repetition sets where grip becomes the limiting factor. You can still train without straps on lighter sets if you also want to work directly on grip strength.
Read more in our complete guide to lifting straps.
Wrist wraps for pressing exercises
Wrist wraps support the wrist during heavy pressing exercises like bench press and overhead press. They should not be confused with lifting straps, as they do not help you hold onto the bar.
MakeIt's Wrist Wraps are available in 40 and 60 cm. The shorter model offers a good balance between support and freedom of movement, while the longer model provides a firmer fit.
Read our guide to choosing and using wrist wraps.
How to choose quality over unnecessary features
Evaluate training equipment based on construction, stability, and use rather than the number of features. Consider, among other things:
- Is the maximum load clearly stated?
- Do the dimensions fit your space and existing equipment?
- Are benches, racks, and machines stable during use?
- Can wear parts be replaced?
- Are materials and stitching suitable for repeated stress?
- Is there clear information about delivery, return policy, and warranty?
If the equipment will be used by multiple people or in a gym, you should choose products designed for frequent use and easy cleaning.
Maintenance of training equipment
Regular cleaning and maintenance extend the life of the equipment and create a more pleasant training environment.
- Weight plates: Remove dust and chalk with a slightly damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid harsh cleaning agents.
- Barbells: Brush chalk and dirt out of the knurling with a nylon brush. Follow the manufacturer's instructions before using oil or other care products.
- Cardio machines: Check moving parts and follow the manufacturer's intervals for cleaning and lubrication.
- Straps and cuffs: Air out the equipment after training, and follow the washing instructions for the specific material.
- Velcro: Keep fasteners free of hair and fabric fibers to maintain their grip.
Regularly check cables, stitching, screws, and other stressed parts. Stop using the equipment if you notice obvious damage.
Danish-produced training equipment from MakeIt
More than 50,000 trainees have chosen training equipment from MakeIt. We produce StrapIt, HookIt, and Wrist Wraps, among other things, in our own production facility in Denmark.
Materials come from selected suppliers, after which they are checked, cut, assembled, and sewn in Denmark. This allows us to monitor production and continuously improve construction and fit.
You can read more about our Danish production and materials.
See all training equipment from MakeIt.
Frequently asked questions about training equipment
What do I need for a basic home gym?
A set of adjustable dumbbells, an exercise mat, and resistance bands are a flexible starting point. If you have more space and want to train heavier, you can add a bench, a squat rack, an Olympic barbell, and appropriate weight plates.
Should I choose 30 or 50 mm weight plates?
30 mm may be sufficient for lighter home training. Choose 50 mm if you want Olympic equipment, expect to train heavily, or want access to a wider selection of barbells and plates.
What is the best cardio equipment for home use?
It depends on your space and the type of exercise you prefer. A rowing machine or exercise bike can be effective, while a jump rope and a kettlebell are more space-saving alternatives.
Do I need lifting straps?
Lifting straps make sense if your grip prevents you from completing your planned repetitions in pulling exercises. You don't need to use them if your grip is not limiting the lift.
What is the difference between lifting straps and wrist wraps?
Lifting straps assist grip during pulling exercises by connecting the hand to the bar. Wrist wraps support the wrist during pressing exercises. They therefore have different functions.
How can I extend the life of my training equipment?
Keep the equipment clean and dry, follow the manufacturer's maintenance instructions, and regularly check stitching, cables, screws, and moving parts for wear and tear.
