My First 6 Home Gym Purchases If I Had to Do it Again

Written by: Jake Jaworski

Introduction

Here are the first six items I’m going with if I had to build my home gym again.

I’ve tested hundreds of pieces of equipment over the past seven years and if I had to do it again, I’d choose this core of equipment to build around.

These are all high-value options that I would likely never have to upgrade again and I know that I would use them frequently.

1. Rogue Ohio Bar (Stainless Steel)
2. NEXO Matte Black Bumper Plates (use code GGE10 to save 10%).
3. Stall Mats
4. REP PR-5000
5. REP AB-5200
6. Rogue Echo Bike

1 & 2: Barbell and Some Bumper Plates

To start, I’m going to start with a barbell and some plates. I like to do various workouts, including Olympic lifts, so I’m going, to begin with, a multi-purpose bar and some bumper plates.

This first decision is not a very controversial one. For the multi-purpose bar, I’m going to go with a Rogue Ohio Bar and pay a little bit more for the stainless steel version. I live in a diverse midwest climate, so this coating will help keep it looking fresh without much maintenance, and I prefer the feeling of a non-coated bar.

This barbell will allow me to perform any lift comfortably and be durable enough to outlast all climates and situations.

I choose bumper plates over iron because I enjoy performing those Olympic lifts every so often. Bumper plates are quieter. Plus, my wife enjoys using them, so that doesn’t hurt my decision.

The difference between most bumper plates is minimal and not something many notice. Therefore, I’m simply going with the best-priced bumpers of the ones I’ve tested. That would be the NEXO Matte Black Bumper Plates. While some thinner options may be on the market, the importance does not outweigh the cost savings you get with these. However, If I were to find a deal on a similar pair, I would have no issues grabbing the option on sale.

From there, I can do hundreds of workouts and ease my way into the home gym routine.

3: Stall Mats

Flooring is next. I believe that stall mats are the best value flooring you can get, providing solid protection for your floor. It’s also much more enjoyable to lift on these than concrete or carpet.

If I have the funds, I will fill up the gym immediately and build off this flooring. Therefore, you have an established base to grow from.

It doesn’t matter where you purchase them, but I’d ensure they have a smooth top.

In my first home gym buildout, this is something I waited entirely too long to do. I learned the benefits of solid flooring and would do it much sooner if I had to do it again.

4. REP PR-5000

I want a rack that can turn into an “all-in-one” unit. While I’m tempted to pay a little bit more upfront for an all-in-one from Force USA, I like the idea of building it one at a time with a REP PR-5000 rack. I’d also upgrade to the clear coat package because it is too sweet (buy once, cry once).

Plus, it seems like they are adding another option every few months, and I wouldn’t want to miss out on the opportunity to grab what’s next potentially.

Later in my home gym journey, I’ll decide what attachments I want to add.

5. Adjustable Bench

As someone who tests out many gym equipment, I’ve gone through many benches. My go-to bench continues to be the REP AB-5200 with a wide pad attachment. It’s likely a bit overbuilt for many, but I appreciate its size, ability to be stored against the wall, ease of moving around/adjusting. and grippy pad.

6. Rogue Echo Bike

It’s time for some cardio equipment.

Considering the price, built quality, space needed, and overall performance, it’s not difficult to say that the Rogue Echo Bike is the best cardio option for most of the home gym population. I use it at least 3-4 times a week for warming up, a quick workout, or supplementing a session.

For someone who lives a busy life, getting in a quick workout at a moment’s notice is a luxury. Whether you have 15 minutes before your next Zoom call or half an hour until it is time to leave for the kid’s soccer game, the Rogue Echo Bike is likely your best option.

It’ll also wake you up quickly and can serve as a solid warmup option. 5-10 minutes on this thing, and you’re ready to go!

That’s It For Now

Maybe we’ll do the following six soon? For additional home gym inspiration, check out The Home Gym Guide.

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