The Best Compact Exercise Equipment for Any Small Space

For athletes in search of home gym equipment, the journey can be tougher than originally planned. Not only do you need to think about the upfront costs of each piece, but you’ll also want to consider how much space you’ll need to sacrifice to actually house the gear. The best compact exercise equipment can help keep dimensions small while still giving you plenty of room to train at your highest intensity.

Naturally, compact exercise equipment can come in all shapes and sizes depending on your workout discipline of choice. For example, if you’re a dedicated runner, you’ll likely want to scoop up a compact treadmill before a small-scale cable machine (although we are big fans of cross-training). To help you make the most of your available floor plan, we’ve gotten hands-on with hundreds of products and consulted with our in-house experts to land on our favorite pieces of compact exercise equipment.

The Best Compact Exercise Equipment of 2024

• Best Compact Squat Rack: REP Fitness SR-4000 Squat Rack
• Best Compact Treadmill: NordicTrack EXP 7i
• Best Compact Dumbbells: SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell Set
• Best Compact Cable Machine: Beyond Power Voltra I
• Best Compact Rowing Machine: Echelon Row
• Best Compact Exercise Bike: NordicTrack Commercial S22i
• Best Compact Home Gym Machine: Vitruvian Trainer+
• Best Compact Elliptical: Bowflex Max Trainer M6
• Best Compact Kettlebell: Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell
• Best Compact Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber
• Best Compact Weight Bench: Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench
• Best Compact Suspension Trainer: TRX Home2 System
• Best Compact Portable Home Gym: LIT Method AXIS Smart System
• Best Resistance Bands Kit: Original Gorilla Bow
• Best Compact Pull-Up Bar: ProsourceFit Foldable Doorway Pull-Up Bar

How We Tested and Chose the Best Compact Exercise Equipment

The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To determine the best pieces of small home gym equipment available today, we got hands-on with over 200 different profiles from the industry’s best brands, from the best treadmills and squat racks to cable machines, portable home gyms, and more. 

Of course, the science of comparing a squat rack to an exercise bike is imperfect in nature — the specs don’t necessarily line up. However, we were able to compare each pick to other silhouettes from its respective category, using a multi-point methodology to rate each profile on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Below are some of the categories and components that played into our rankings.

Size

Okay, so “compact” home gym equipment should naturally be smaller in dimensions than other options in their respective categories. However, comparing, say, a rowing machine to a set of adjustable dumbbells just seems illogical. So, we did our best to look for smaller fitness profiles for each pick, listing the product dimensions wherever appropriate.

For example, most athletes can understand that a full-fledged squat rack will take up more room than an adjustable kettlebell, so we opted for a compact yet high-quality squat stand over a more cumbersome power rack. Additionally, we looked for adjustable options when it came to free weights like dumbbells and kettlebells, as these can be more space-saving given their ability to pack in multiple working weights across a single silhouette.

Capabilities like foldability and storage conveniences were also considered for this guide. After all, compact fitness equipment isn’t just for athletes with limited available space — they can also be great picks for those looking to keep their workout setup as clean and organized as possible.

Training Versatility

In addition to the footprint of each chosen piece of exercise equipment, we noted how versatile it was in terms of its workout potential. Having a piece of gym equipment that can be used for multiple exercises and movements can also be beneficial when trying to make the most of your floor plan — you’re not giving up a swath of space for a single exercise. As such, we included as many picks as possible that could act as centerpieces to a well-rounded home workout.

Versatile fitness equipment can also help keep your training top of mind when on the go. We examined a handful of picks that offered a nice sense of portability, which can be especially beneficial for those that need to take their workouts on the road with them for long stretches. 

In theory, a portable home gym option can be excellent for compact-conscious athletes — if a unit can be set up on the road, odds are that it’s smaller and manageable than a standalone profile, right?

[Related: Best Portable Home Gyms]

Quality

According to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, our expert reviewer, “Don’t forgo quality for size. ‘’Compact’ doesn’t mean ‘cheap.’ It is certainly possible to find high-quality equipment that doesn’t take up a ton of space.” 

As such, we’ve included profiles in this round-up showcasing small but mighty silhouettes. These units often feature a durable design constructed from high-quality materials, sturdy weight capacities for regular use (where appropriate), and a lack of plastic components that need delicate attention and care.

Value

The price of compact fitness equipment can vary, especially when comparing items for different disciplines like strength training or cardio workouts. While smaller profiles can inherently be cheaper than larger vessels — less material often lends itself to lower costs — we did our best to seek out home workout gear that showcased a high value for its respective price tag.

For example, you may be paying a premium for a worthwhile exercise bike or home cable machine, but we looked for justified costs in relation to the equipment’s performance and footprint. If a silhouette was the best in its class yet still kept dimensions to a minimum, we tended to favor that pick for its given category.

Best Compact Squat Rack: REP Fitness SR-4000 Squat Rack

If you’re looking for a foundational piece of training equipment to target different muscle groups across one unit, a squat rack can be an excellent starting point. Unfortunately, power racks can eat up a good chunk of flooring, especially once you add on some compatible attachments. The SR-4000 from REP Fitness forgoes the typical 4-post design for a 2-post stand profile, helping shave the dimensions down slightly. However, this unit is plenty capable of hard-nosed strength training thanks to its 1,000-pound weight capacity.

We scored the construction at 4.25 out of 5 due to its 3-inch by 3-inch 11-gauge steel frame. This all-metal profile is one of our favorites for stability and sturdiness, so we were happy to see it strewn across this more compact profile.

Additionally, we like how the SR-4000 is compatible with REP’s 4,000 series of attachments, which include spotter arms, dip stations, iso arms, and more. Be mindful, though, that the 2-post design will limit your layout potential. You may need to add and remove accessories more often than required from a 4-post power rack.

As far as stability, our tester said this SR-4000 is one of the most grounded squat stands they’ve tested. “I immediately noticed the stability difference when I jumped up for some pull-ups,” they stated in reference to their 4.75 out of 5 stability rating. “Due to the increased length of both the back and front feet, I experienced little to no wiggle even on dynamic movements like butterfly pull-ups and muscle-ups.”

If you’re looking to add even more stability to your squat stand, the SR-4000 does come equipped with pre-drilled feet for easier bolting. Naturally, this is more applicable to those training in a garage gym (or those that own their home), but having these pre-drilled slots can take a lot of strain out this potential installation process.

Finally, we like this compact squat stand for its stable yet manageable footprint, but we highly recommend measuring your height clearance before ordering an SR-4000 for your own setup. We scored the footprint at 4 out of 5 because the minimum height is 96 inches, which is also the standard ceiling height for most rooms. (1) You’ll need the extra clearance overhead, especially if you plan on using the included pull-up bar during your home exercise routines.

Best Compact Treadmill: NordicTrack EXP 7i

Treadmills can be a tough piece of fitness equipment to plan around when dealing with confined floor plans. You’ll want a compact folding treadmill that still has enough bells and whistles to make each run, walk, or jog enjoyable. Thanks to its iFIT fitness app compatibility, folding deck, and smaller-than-average dimensions, the NordicTrack EXP 7i is our pick for small spaces.

We scored the footprint at 4 out of 5 for this NordicTrack treadmill, as the working dimensions take up 17.16 square feet of space — an approachable swath of flooring that’s less demanding than other units in the category. Additionally, the EXP 7i can fold up for easier storage to 9.21 square feet, which is the equivalent of your average loveseat. (2)

Our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 instructor, also enjoyed the iFIT training experience, along with the tech components that come with it. “The embedded SmartAdjust technology allows the machine to adjust to the suggested incline and speed of whatever class you’re streaming,” they said in reference to their 4 out of 5 adjustability rating. “I enjoyed this feature because it allowed me to zone out and just focus on the workout versus worrying about switching up my speed and incline.”

[Related: iFIT Review]

Outside of the streaming capabilities — iFIT has over 17,000 live and on-demand workouts to choose from — and automatic speed and incline adjustments, we rated the tech at 4 out of 5 in part due to the integrated 7-inch smart HD touchscreen display. 

This pivoting console can be great for viewing your training metrics and workouts, and touchscreens aren’t as prevalent in treadmills of this price point and stature. Naturally, though, we did drop our score slightly because some may find the 7-inch display — roughly the size of the average smartphone screen — too small during workouts.

The EXP 7i may not be an ideal fit for taller athletes given the shorter running deck length. We typically recommend a 60-inch length for taller individuals, as this can give you more space to comfortably open up your strides during runs. However, if you’re tight on space, we think this can be an excellent vessel for hitting your fitness goals from the comforts of your own home. 

Read our full NordicTrack EXP 7i Treadmill Review.

Best Compact Dumbbells: SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell Set

Adjustable dumbbells can be an excellent space-saving option for athletes, as they can shrink an entire set of dumbbells into a single paired set of weights. For our money, the NÜOBELLs from SMRTFT are the best of the bunch thanks to their impressive weight range, easy-to-use adjustment mechanism, and stylish round head design that gives them that iconic dumbbell feel during training.

These SMRTFT adjustable dumbbells have been a staple of my home gym for years now, and I really enjoy how versatile they are across different workout setups. We scored the adjustability at 4.7 out of 5 thanks to the turn-style handle mechanism. 

You simply need to toggle the handle to your weight of choice, and both dumbbell heads are adjusted accordingly. Other adjustable dumbbells require you to set each head, or may even feature an added locking pin that can make the entire process more of an involved effort.

I’d also rate the value at 4 out of 5 for these NÜOBELLs because while the upfront cost is high (SMRTFT does offer a cheaper, albeit lighter 5- to 50-pound weight set for $615), you’re essentially getting up to 16 dumbbell weights in a single pair. When you compare the flooring needed to house a standard set of dumbbells at the same weight range, the NÜOBELLs are the clear winner.

As far as the overall design, I really enjoy how SMRTFT incorporates a fully-knurled handle. This helps create an in-hand sensation similar to traditional dumbbells while also improving the grip and control. I scored the handle design at 4.5 out of 5 because I’ve yet to really find an adjustable dumbbell that can match this in-hand experience.

The round head design is also great for keeping sessions similar to your in-gym workouts. Plus, the weight adjustments are sequential, meaning the weight is added or removed from the end plates. This can go a long way in maintaining that well-balanced feel you want in a dumbbell without compromising your range of motion. This does mean, though, that you need to be mindful of how you place the weights back into their respective cradles. I’ve had to realign my approach angle at times in an effort to quickly adjust weights for supersets.

Read our full SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbells Review.

Best Compact Cable Machine: Beyond Power Voltra I

The Beyond Power Voltra I is one of the newest pieces of fitness equipment on the market and essentially acts as a power rack cable attachment. Other cable machines require a hefty footprint to support the weight stacks and frames, so shrinking down the workout discipline to a 13-pound box is definitely a plus for athletes without a lot of space. While you will need a power rack or squat stand (or the $499 Mini Rack sold by Beyond Power), this can be a great way to maximize your training with a sleek, tech-filled cable system.

Our tester enjoyed their training experience with the Voltra 1, rating it at a perfect 5 out of 5. “I like how the chosen resistance is added onto the concentric and eccentric movements of each lift, and the ability to independently adjust where the resistance hits is a great touch, too,” they said. “Plus, I found that the adjustments are lightning quick for little downtime between toggles — an experience I haven’t seen in other smart trainers.”

You can also purchase two Voltra I units to perform dual-cable exercises like crossovers. However, our tester does caution that syncing the motors is still a bit of a challenge with this new tech, which can lead to some imbalanced pulls every now and again. 

Additionally, two units will push your final costs into the $4,000 range, which may be out of reach for more budget-minded athletes.

Speaking of extra purchases, you will need to add a mounting bracket to your order, as the Voltra 1 base bundle does not come with such equipment. We rated the assembly at 3 out of 5 because of this, as you will essentially stall out if you forget to purchase the mounting pieces.

Speaking of durability, we did score the Voltra I at 5 out of 5 thanks to its sturdy build and compact design. However, our tester has a word of caution related to the screen placement and how violently you return the cable to its starting position. 

“The LED screen sits right next to the cable coil, so be sure to ease the attachment head back to its resting spot when you’ve completed your reps,” they said. “You don’t want the carabiner to come thrashing back onto the screen, resulting in a cracked display.”

Best Compact Rowing Machine: Echelon Row

Rowing can be a great low-impact home workout discipline, as the seated positioning can help take gravity out of the equation for improved comfort across your joints. However, the best rowing machines can be large and room-consuming given their long sliding rails and robust resistance mechanisms. The Echelon Row is a top pick for small spaces thanks to a foldable rail profile that shrinks the footprint from 12.25 square feet to 5.83 square feet — a smaller footprint than your average coffee table. (3)

Admittedly, we’ve had more experience with the Echelon Row-S, a near-identical rower to the Echelon Row with an added 22-inch display. Outside of the integrated consoles — the Row only features a convenient tablet holder at the front of the machine — they are virtually the same.

In terms of in-training comfort, our tester, a CrossFit Level 1 instructor, scored the Row at 4 out of 5. “I was pleasantly surprised by the seat cushioning that kept me cozy throughout my trials,” they stated. “Additionally, I appreciated the thicker foot straps that helped in keeping my position during strokes. The foot plates do move up and down during workouts, but I’ve found this to be a common issue with rowing machines of similar stature.”

Because of the lack of a touchscreen (or even basic LCD) display, we were hesitant to rate the Echelon Row any higher than 3.75. There are Bluetooth-controlled resistance toggles built into the handles, which allow you to seamlessly adjust your intensity mid-workout.

Lastly, the Row does feature a lot of plastic components, so we’d recommend moving this unit carefully into position. Combine this makeup with a 300-pound weight capacity, and you may be in for a less durable machine that will need replacing down the road. We scored the durability at 4 out of 5 for these reasons, but with the right care, this can be an optimal pick for effective training in a small space.

Best Compact Exercise Bike: NordicTrack Commercial S22i

If you’re looking for a compact piece of cardio equipment, an exercise bike can be your best bet. Of the bunch, it’s tough to beat the performance and convenience built into the Commercial S22i from NordicTrack. Not only does this stationary bike feature a massive 22-inch smart HD touchscreen for iFIT streams and clear visuals, but this is one of the few home exercise bikes that can support inclines and declines for added training variety.

When it comes to adjusting the inclines, declines, and 24 varying resistance levels, this NordicTrack bike can make automatic adjustments to them via SmartAdjust technology. Our tester admired this seamless convenience, rating the adjustability at 5 out of 5. “I really like how this tech takes the strain out of your rides,” they added. “It makes simulating on-road rides much easier as you don’t have to account for the varying pitches and falls associated with your favorite trails.”

The adjustments don’t stop there, though. The S22i features several saddle and handlebar settings, which makes achieving a comfortable, approachable setup that much easier. As such, we rated the ergonomics at 4.8 out of 5.

In terms of footprint, the Commercial S22i is fairly compact on its own, taking up around 9.32 square feet of space — a roughly ⅔ equivalent to your standard loveseat. (2) Additionally, the entire profile weighs 205 pounds for added stability, and the wheeled front base can help with any maneuvering that may need to occur pre-workout. 

However, our tester scored the footprint and portability at 3.5 out of 5 due to the fact that handling the 22-inch touchscreen can be a bit of a bear at times. It almost acts as a large counterweight when trying to wheel the unit into position for a worthwhile session.

Finally, while finding a place for this exercise bike shouldn’t be a taxing endeavor, we do recommend storing it in a climate-controlled environment like your living room, bedroom, or home office. Per the NordicTrack warranty information, any coverage can potentially be voided if the Commercial S22i is housed in a non-climate-controlled environment, such as a garage.

Read our full NordicTrack S22i Exercise Bike Review.

Best Compact Home Gym Machine: Vitruvian Trainer+

For those looking for a compact, muscle-building piece of home gym equipment, the Vitruvian Trainer+ can be hard to beat. With a sleek, platform-like design, this functional trainer can easily fit underneath a nearby sofa or bed frame post-workout. Don’t let the simple design fool you, though — the Vitruvian Trainer+ can deliver up to 440 pounds of resistance with toggleable intensities at different points for a fresh take on strength training each and every day.

I personally own a Vitruvian Trainer+ and can easily see why this home gym machine gets all of its praise. The resistance felt in hand is unlike any barbell workout, and I really like how seamless the adjustments are within your workouts. I can swap between concentric and eccentric loads without much issue. 

Plus, there’s a vast assortment of workouts and movements to choose from for a complete total-body workout each day. As such, I rated the overall experience at 4 out of 5.

[Related: Best Smart Home Gyms]

Our tester also scored the footprint at 5 out of 5 thanks to a slim 4.53-inch height that can fit seamlessly under a coffee table, sofa, or other piece of furniture when not in use. There are also transport wheels at one end of the machine for easier maneuvering. 

However, the triangular edges do limit this all-in-one machine to horizontal storage — I would be cautious to store this profile upright, as you’d need to lean the unit at a certain pitch to help it remain in place.

The Vitruvian Trainer+ is also compatible with a number of accessories, including multiple bars and straps for effective resistance training. In my opinion, though, the staggered weight bench is the best add-on available, as it truly gives you that bench press sensation while still keeping your back and shoulders comfortable.

We did have to drop the score slightly to 4 out of 5 for the category, though, because add-ons are only available in preset bundles. The kits start out at $300, and while I highly recommend at least opting for the ‘Entry Kit’  — which includes a long bar, tricep rope, premium handles, workout mat, and added safety cables — an extra cost is an extra cost.

Best Compact Elliptical: Bowflex Max Trainer M6

Like other larger cardio equipment, ellipticals can be tough to fit into a compact home gym space. The Max Trainer M6 from Bowflex, on the contrary, utilizes a vertical orientation to keep its footprint to just 8.31 square feet. Additionally, the somewhat vertical stepping motion allows you to move in two planes of motion for even more lower body engagement.

Kate Meier, BarBend editorial member and NASM-Certified Personal Trainer, scored the footprint at 4.5 out of 5, saying, “It’s a pretty compact machine and I really like how space-saving the vertical orientation is. However, maneuvering the entire unit takes some getting used to. You need to find the perfect axis to conveniently roll the M6 with its front base wheels.”

For reference, your typical elliptical will take up between 12 and 13 square feet of space. Yes, this Max Trainer M6 may be a bear to move at times given its vertical profile, but overall, it’s quite the space saver when compared to other silhouettes in the category.

In addition to the lower body and posterior chain work experienced with the M6, we also appreciated the moving handlebars that allowed for some upper body training, too. Meier added. “The upper grips engage more bicep and back thanks to the horizontal pulling motion. The lower grips work more of your triceps through a vertical pushing motion.”

From a durability standpoint, the Max Trainer M6 does feature a lot of plastic across its design, but we still believe it to be a sturdy enough machine for regular use. We rated this elliptical-climber hybrid at 4.5 out of 5 for the category. Additionally, the adjustable floor stabilizers are a definite plus if you’re training over uneven flooring.

Now, when it comes to tech, there is a little give and take. The M6 does come equipped with a speedometer-like display that can provide some unique motivation in training, but there is no touchscreen for streaming on-demand workouts through the compatible JRNY app. 

Additionally, Meier stated that signing up for the JRNY app can be troublesome — there was a bit of a delay between entering her credit card information and actual account activation. We scored the tech capabilities at 4 out of 5.

Best Compact Kettlebell: Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition-Style Kettlebell

Kettlebell training can be great for refreshing your strength training regimen, as the oblong weights employ more stabilizers than a dumbbell, and the profiles can be used for tackling different muscle groups from your glutes, core muscles, arms, whole body, and more. Like dumbbells, though, having a robust set of differing weights can begin to add up. The Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition-Style Kettlebell helps bring this invigorating training style to tight quarters thanks to its versatile 41-in-1 design.

This adjustable kettlebell is my personal weight of choice for home workouts, as it allows me to have a bevy of working weights at my disposal at all times. Bells of Steel does offer a lighter version with weights from 12 to 20.5 kilograms (26.5 to 45.2 pounds), but I’d recommend paying the extra cost and opting for the 32-kilogram (70.5-pound) max bundle. Not only does this give you more weight to work with, but the price isn’t that much more— $299 as opposed to $199.

I scored the weight range at 5 out of 5 because just one Bells of Steel kettlebell can replace up to 41 different weights. Other adjustable kettlebells on the market rarely offer such versatility — they can typically replace between 6 and 10 working weights — and you’d be hard pressed to house this many standard kettlebells unless you have a full-fledged commercial gym at your disposal (or a really exquisite shelving system).

As far as durability, I also enjoy the steel makeup and cast plates of this adjustable competition-style kettlebell. While the exterior finish does begin to show its use and abuse rather quickly, I have no qualms about the overall integrity of the profile. I rated the durability at 4.5 out of 5 and have full confidence that this adjustable weight bundle will outlast my training career.

Lastly, an adjustable kettlebell is only as good as its adjustment system. This is where convenience starts to falter with this Bells of Steel operation. 

You need to unscrew the bottom base — which is also flat to prevent any rolling — and then unscrew the locking nut that keeps the cast plates in place. I scored the adjustability at 3 out of 5 because of this more involved process. It does keep everything secure during swings and presses, though, so it’s more of a trade-off between security and convenience.

Best Compact Vertical Climber: MaxiClimber Vertical Climber

For athletes wanting a vertical climber for their compact training space, the MaxiClimber can be just the ticket. At just 33 pounds, this bare-bones cardio machine can be easily transported to your room of choice. Plus, a folding mechanism shrinks the 7.04-square-foot footprint to just 3.02 square feet, which can be a huge benefit when it comes to storing your gear after a hard workout.

We also rated the footprint at 5 out of 5 for this MaxiClimber offering because it can be literally placed anywhere. This vertical climber doesn’t require any electricity, so there’s no need to position it within cord’s reach of an outlet. 

The basic LCD display, however, is battery operated, and it showcases your steps taken and calories burned. Admittedly, this may be too little information for data-minded athletes, but when you think of how simple this unit is, it sort of makes sense.

Speaking of basics, the MaxiClimber is rather simple in its design. Yes, our tester said that this allows for easy assembly, but it does raise some questions regarding its durability over extended use. “It’s definitely not the most substantial climber I’ve used in training,” our tester said in reference to their 2 out of 5 durability score. “I would like to see more metal than plastic, and while I definitely think this MaxiClimber works for training, I don’t expect it to be a stable, trusty silhouette for long.”

The durability of this vertical climber can also be observed via its weight capacity. The MaxiClimber has a listed max weight of 240 pounds, which may be too low for some athletes. Of course, you can’t really expect a rock-solid setup from a lightweight machine under 35 pounds — weight supports weight, after all.

While there aren’t any conveniences like cupholders or media shelves across this compact stepper — we scored the MaxiClimber at 2 out of 5 for the category — we still think this can be a great unit for novice athletes looking to reinvigorate their cardio. The motion is easy to pick up, and it costs just $299.

[Related: The Best Stair Climbers for Budget, Small Spaces, And More]

Best Compact Weight Bench: Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench

When you’re looking for foundational home gym equipment, a weight bench can be a no-brainer for strength training. To save space, though, it can be beneficial to opt for a lightweight profile that either folds onto itself or is compatible with some form of storage accessory. This Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench is our top pick for training in small spaces thanks to its moveable 37.2-pound frame, as well as its compatibility with an on-wall hanging system. Plus, even when adding both the bench and hanger to your cart, you’re still under $200 for the entire package.

While our tester, a certified personal trainer, did point out that this 4-post bench may not be the best for heavier presses — the longer feet can get in the way of your own foot positioning — they still rated its overall value a 4.5 out of 5. It’s not the flashiest weight bench on the market, but if you’re just looking for a profile to support your dumbbell workouts, it’s a great choice that won’t hit your wallet too heavily,” they said. 

We also scored the stability a 4 out of 5, mostly due to the four-legged silhouette. We experienced no wobbles or jostling during workouts, which helped keep our minds focused on the lift rather than the fear of any imbalances. Granted, the 661-pound weight rating does mean this isn’t the best bench for heavy sets or heavier athletes, but it should be able to support light- to medium-intensity sessions.

The Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench also comes with a black powder coat, which can help prevent any rust or corrosion over time. This can be especially beneficial for garage gym enthusiasts that keep their exercise equipment in a non-climate-controlled environment.

Finally, this simple yet effective weight bench does not feature a wheeled base for easy maneuvering. At roughly 37 pounds, though, we doubt many would have a tough time getting it into position.

Best Compact Suspension Trainer: TRX Home2 System

The TRX Home2 System has its roots in compact training … or, should we say, combat training. Navy SEAL Randy Hetrick designed the TRX system in 1997 during deployment as a means to have worthwhile workout equipment on hand that didn’t take up a bunch of space in a pack. While the suspension trainer isn’t on the battlefront anymore, it can still be a space-saving way to break a sweat in your own combat zone — your home gym.

We appreciate the simple setup of the Home2 System, as all you need for training is a sturdy door and a bit of space to allow for your suspended body positioning. We rated the setup at 4 out of 5, though, because you may need to “test” a few doors in your home and ensure your framing can support your body weight. The last thing you want mid-workout is to realize you’ve chosen an ill-supported door that can send you plummeting to the ground.

Having used this TRX Home2 System before, I also appreciate the portability and small footprint of the base bundle. You get your classic nylon webbing straps capable of supporting up to 350 pounds, a door anchor, and a suspension anchor if you’re hooking into a structured hook. All of these items fit conveniently in a mesh carrying bag that takes up minimal space in your gym bag or on a shelf. I rated the footprint at 5 out of 5.

There are plenty of exercises to be had with the TRX Home2 System, but understandably, it can be a new sensation for beginner athletes not used to the discipline. Unfortunately, though, there isn’t a list of workout guidelines included in the packaging. 

I recommend doing a little research online to understand the movements before your workout, though you can also download the TRX Training Club app, which is free for a 30-day trial and available afterward for $7.99 or $19.99 monthly — depending on if you want instructor-led live classes or not.

Best Compact Portable Home Gym: LIT Method AXIS Smart System

Okay, so compact exercise equipment for small spaces is inherently more petite than standard gym equipment. However, portable fitness gear can elevate the space-saving qualities even further by shrinking everything down to totable, transportable dimensions. Capable of fitting in an (included) 5.25-square-inch carrying case, the LIT Method Axis Smart Resistance Band System is our favorite portable option for compact workouts.

We scored the portability at 5 out of 5 for this smart resistance system thanks to its convenient case that takes up little space within your gym bag or in storage. You can easily keep this kit on an end table without sacrificing any of your floorplan. If you do want to upgrade your workout potential, the Axis Smart System does have a handful of available add-ons, like a long bar and Pilates straps (more on these later).

In terms of the tech, these are some seriously smart bands. The end carabiners house a sensor that can track your reps, weight lifted, time under tension, and calories burned. 

However, our tester did note that these stats are only accessible through the companion app, which requires a $14.99 monthly subscription. While this is a lower cost of entry than some of the best fitness apps on the market, we understand that not every athlete is willing to add another charge to their monthly expenses. As such, we rated the tech at 4 out of 5.

From an accessories perspective, we scored the LIT Axis at 3.5 out of 5. Jake Herod, BarBend’s lead video reviewer and certified nutrition coach, enjoyed how easy it was to swap between the included ankle cuffs and handle attachments when setting up for a session. “I like how the accessories rely on a carabiner, so it only takes a couple seconds to change out attachments for an arm or leg workout,” he noted. 

However, we did drop the kit slightly due to the cost of extra add-ons. For example, the compatible bar attachment costs roughly $90, which is almost half of the base bundle itself.

While the available accessories leave something to be desired, and the 200-pound resistance may be too little for stronger athletes, this can still be a worthwhile bundle to have on-hand, especially if you’re training in compact confines and want the freedom to travel with your gear.

Best Resistance Bands Kit: Original Gorilla Bow

For keeping things small and compact, you can rarely go wrong with the best resistance bands. The Original Gorilla Bow amplifies this training discipline by stringing the bands across an aluminum bow frame, allowing you to mimic your favorite barbell workouts with little lost to the imagination. Additionally, the bundle can be expanded upon with extra bands, giving you plenty of potential for high-intensity training that’s similar to your plate-loaded regimens.

I’ve owned the Original Gorilla Bow for a few years now, and really appreciate how similar the experience is to a common barbell workout. I scored the experience at 4 out of 5, because you can quickly mimic your bench press, deadlift, and even squat motion depending on where you brace the bands.

I do recommend starting light, though, and getting a feel for your setups. When you brace the bands across your back, you do need to have a straight plane of motion. Otherwise, the bands can have a tendency to ride up toward your cranium for a quick snap at the back of the neck.

Design-wise, the Original Gorilla Bow looks like a longbow you’d find in a museum exhibit depicting Renaissance-era warfare. The resistance bands feature bulbed ends that slide into the notches at both ends of the aluminum frame.

However, I do give the adjustment process a 3.75 out of 5 because it is somewhat of an acquired skill. You need to notch one end of the band, brace the bow between your frame, and then pull the final bulbed end into position. After a few tries, you can get the rhythm down quickly, but admittedly, it is more complicated than other resistance band bundles that simply employ a carabiner connected to a door or wall anchor.

I also like that Gorilla Bow comes with a convenient carrying case for all of your bands, which can range from 10 to 100 pounds. However, the portability is compromised down to a 3.5 out of 5 score, in my opinion, due to the fact that the aluminum bow frame does not break down for easier storage. Thankfully, though, the lightweight, thin design stores easily in a closet or underneath your sofa, so the portability only comes into play if you want to travel with this innovative resistance band kit.

Best Compact Pull-Up Bar: ProsourceFit Foldable Doorway Pull-Up Bar

While some of us may be traumatized from gym classes of yesteryear, pull-ups can still be an effective upper body workout targeting your arms, chest, and back muscles. In terms of compact home gym equipment, a doorway pull-up bar is going to be your best bet, like this Foldable Doorway Pull-Up Bar from ProsourceFit. Having used one of these devices in the past, I can attest to its sturdiness thanks to the multiple anchor points that sit along your doorframe. Paired with the steel frame, it’s easy to see how this bar can support up to 440 pounds.

In terms of the workout experience, I rated this ProsourceFit pull-up bar at 3.5 out of 5. You can definitely get some solid reps in with the profile, and I appreciated the multiple grip points for some added versatility. However, I do caution that you make sure to control your body through each rep — jostling the bar or grunting out an extra rep can lead to some scuffs and scrapes along your doorframe.

In terms of in-training comfort, I was happy to see that this pull-up bar featured EVA foam handles. This created a cozy yet controllable grip point, enough for a 4 out of 5 rating. Naturally, the foam can begin to slip if you have particularly sweaty palms, so it may be best to have a towel at the ready to wipe off in-between sets.

The ProsourceFit Foldable Doorway Pull-Up Bar weighs 7.5 pounds, meaning it shouldn’t be too much of a strain to hold as you line up everything pre-workout. Additionally, its foldable nature makes storage much easier, especially if you need to remove the profile in order to make traveling through the doorway less of a pain. I scored the overall footprint and portability at 4 out of 5, because it can be a quick, effective solution for workouts yet isn’t a burden to break down.

While this ProsourceFit doorway pull-up bar can fit most doors, the brand states that doorway depths larger than 8.25 inches are not compatible with the bracing arms. Be sure to measure your door frames before adding one of these simple fitness tools to your cart.

What To Consider Before Buying Compact Exercise Equipment

Okay, so if you’re shopping for compact fitness equipment, you’re likely looking to keep your fitness footprint as small as possible. Outside of the dimensions of your desired exercise equipment, below are a few factors to consider before finalizing your cart.

Your Fitness Needs

Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, our expert reviewer, states “The first thing I encourage athletes to do is to prioritize, ‘What type of exercise do you want to do the most?’” 

She continues, “Weight training? Consider a pair of adjustable dumbbells, an adjustable kettlebell, or a set of resistance bands. Cardio? Decide if you’re more likely to stick with running or walking, cycling, or rowing. Start with your biggest priority and determine the best option within your budget that fits your space, rather than purchasing something just because it is marketed as compact.”

Remember, too, that your first few fitness equipment purchases don’t mark the end of your training journey. There is always room for expansion down the road. Start with the gear you think will work best initially, and as you progress, you can add pieces to fit your training style.

Available Space

While your fitness equipment may fall within your definition of “compact,” you still need to account for how much actual space you have to spare within your home gym. Before thinking about which fitness items you want to outfit your training space with, be sure to take some measurements of your floor plan and ceiling height to ensure your new gear fits within your means. This can be especially helpful when looking at larger equipment like squat racks, treadmills, and other machines.

Portability and Storage

If you’re looking to turn a living space into a multipurpose room, it can also be helpful to look for adjustable or foldable options that eliminate clutter while also keeping in-training performance top of mind. 

For example, adjustable dumbbells and kettlebells shrink an entire weight rack worth of working weights into a single or paired silhouette, while the best foldable treadmills can help you regain some floor space when workouts aren’t actively on your schedule. Some compact fitness equipment can practically disappear entirely underneath furniture or a nearby shelf thanks to their streamlined designs and lightweight profiles.

Portable fitness equipment can also be a worthwhile investment for athletes training in tight quarters. After all, these pieces are designed to be transported easily with few headaches or cumbersome carries, so it makes sense that portable equipment often marries well to the compact mindset.

How Much Does the Best Compact Exercise Equipment Cost?

Our list of the best compact exercise equipment encompasses tech-savvy machines, heavy weights, and portable training tools, meaning the products on our list span a wide range in terms of cost. If you’re looking for straightforward gear — like, say, a pull-up bar — you can expect to pay less than $200. Cardio and strength fiends in search of space-saving machines, on the other hand, can find themselves spending upwards of $1,000.

Best Compact Squat Rack	REP Fitness SR-4000 Squat Rack	Starting at $614.98
Best Compact Treadmill	NordicTrack EXP 7i	$1,299
Best Compact Dumbbells	SMRTFT NÜOBELL Adjustable Dumbbell Set	Starting at $615
Best Compact Cable Machine	Beyond Power Voltra I	Starting at $2,099
Best Compact Rowing Machine	Echelon Row	$999.99
Best Compact Exercise Bike	NordicTrack Commercial S22i	$1,999.99
Best Compact Home Gym Machine	Vitruvian Trainer+	Starting at $2,990
Best Compact Elliptical	Bowflex Max Trainer M6	$1,299
Best Compact Kettlebell	Bells of Steel Adjustable Competition Style Kettlebell	$299.99
Best Compact Vertical Climber	MaxiClimber Vertical Climber	$299
Best Compact Weight Bench	Bells of Steel Flat Utility Bench	$149.99
Best Compact Suspension Trainer	TRX Home2 System	$229.95
Best Compact Portable Home Gym	LIT Method AXIS Smart System	$199
Best Resistance Bands Kit	Original Gorilla Bow	Starting at $187.10
Best Compact Pull-Up Bar	ProsourceFit Foldable Doorway Pull-Up Bar	$49.99

Benefits of Compact Exercise Equipment

According to Amanda Capritto, CPT, CES, CNC, CF-L1, CSNC, our expert reviewer, “Compact home gym equipment saves space compared to standard home gym equipment. For people who don’t have the space for regular home gym equipment but still want to exercise at home, compact items provide a solution.” Below are just a handful of perks that can come from keeping your training essentials small and space-saving.

Less Clutter, More Space

As you build out your home gym, it’s easy to find yourself tripping over loose dumbbells and squeezing between cardio machines. Cluttered gyms can be unproductive in a number of ways, from increased injury potential to a lack of space to perform lateral movements and ground exercises like burpees and bicycle crunches. Overstuffed spaces can also make it more difficult to concentrate — nobody wants to be distracted when they’re holding a few hundred pounds over their neck. 

Of course, not everyone has available space to clutter up. Even if all you have is an alcove or a tight corner, you can still get a full-body workout with a space-saving cardio machine, a set of resistance bands, or a pair of adjustable weights that allow for incremental gains without having to make space for 8 to 12 sets of dumbbells. 

Stay Active on the Road

It can be hard to settle on a fitness routine if you spend a lot of time on the road. You can throw a few dumbbells in the back of your car, but you’ll have to get creative if you’re hoping for a full-body workout. Thankfully, there are a number of travel-friendly options that encourage that kind of creativity. 

[Related: Best Airport Workouts for Staying Fit During Travel]

Bodyweight suspension straps, for example, come with anchors that can be set up in seconds in hotel rooms, public parks, and other available spaces. If you’re interested in more intense strength work but lack the weights, a heavy-duty set of strength bands can provide up to 200 pounds of resistance as you cycle through push-ups, curls, and overhead presses. Better yet, they’re thin and lightweight enough to slip into the front pockets of your suitcase. 

Save a Few Bucks

While this isn’t true for all compact exercise equipment, getting machines on the smaller end of the scale can be beneficial for casual exercisers who don’t need a lot of bells and whistles. Compact cardio machines tend to be less expensive than commercial models, as their smaller builds weren’t built to support extensive use and a variety of different body types.

If you’re looking for a straightforward, bare-bones machine and don’t mind the smaller footprint, there’s plenty of well-built models that can cost hundreds or even thousands less than many commercial models. 

[Related: Best Budget Home Gym Equipment]

Final Word

If you’re living in a cramped apartment, bumping weights in a cluttered gym, or searching for travel-friendly gear that you can bring on the road, compact exercise equipment can provide a solution. The picks on our list encompass cardio, strength, and flexibility, and feature products that were designed to save space or provide a uniquely portable workout. 

Since there’s a lot to sort through here, you’ll want to consider the limitations of your space in addition to your fitness needs. Are you looking for an exercise bike or squat rack that can fit in the shed in your backyard? Are you interested in adjustable weights that can relieve your rack of holding so many individual dumbbells? Whether you’re interested in a single machine or a full streamlining of your home gym, there’s an option on this list for you. 

FAQs

References

1. Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. (n.d.). Ceiling Heights in Homes and Offices. Ceiling Heights in homes and offices – Zell/Lurie Real Estate Center. https://realestate.wharton.upenn.edu/working-papers/ceiling-heights-in-homes-and-offices/
2. Jaramillo, C. (2022, December 29). A guide to sofa dimensions & sizes. SeatUp, LLC. https://seatup.com/blog/guide-to-sofa-dimensions/
3. The Ultimate Guide to end table & coffee table sizes. Wayfair. (n.d.). https://www.wayfair.com/sca/ideas-and-advice/guides/the-ultimate-guide-to-end-table-coffee-table-sizes-T12889