Fitness

How to choose the right fitness equipment for home workouts?

Are you a sports enthusiast or would you like to create a workout routine at home, just like at the gym, but in the comfort of your own home? Creating your own home gym is becoming increasingly popular. However, before you get started, there are several factors to consider in order to make the right choice: the space available, your budget, the type of exercises you want to do, and your fitness level.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced athlete, it is essential to choose equipment that is suited to your goals and your level. Take the time to assess your needs in order to create a motivating, functional, and sustainable environment. 

To learn more, check out our guide to creating your own home gym.

1. The available space
2. The type of exercise desired
3. The level of physical fitness
4. The budget
5. The desired features

1. The available space

Before choosing your fitness equipment, start by defining and measuring the space you want to allocate to your gym area. Some machines, such as treadmills and stationary bikes, can be bulky and require a dedicated space. On the other hand, more compact solutions such as a foldable rowing machine or an adjustable weight bench can easily fit into a condo or small room.

Also consider ease of storage: many machines are designed to be folded up and stored away after use, allowing you to optimize space without compromising on comfort. 

2. The type of exercise desired

Do you want to improve your cardio, build muscle, or work on your flexibility? The choice of equipment depends directly on your goals.

• For cardio, choose machines such as stationary bikes, treadmills, or rowing machines, which help build endurance while burning calories.
• For muscle building, opt for weight benches, multi-function stations, or dumbbells, which are perfect for targeting different muscle groups.
• For mobility and flexibility, yoga accessories, stretching mats, or balance boards are ideal for improving your posture, balance, and overall well-being. 

3. The level of physical fitness

Your choice of fitness equipment should also take into account your current fitness level. If you are just starting out, opt for simple, intuitive, and safe equipment, such as a stationary bike or elliptical trainer with built-in programs. These machines allow you to start gently while following guided workouts.

In contrast, more experienced athletes can turn to more technical and high-performance equipment, such as a water resistance rowing machine, a complete weight training station, or modular accessories. These solutions offer a greater variety of exercises and allow you to push your limits while diversifying your workouts.

4. The budget

The cost of fitness equipment varies considerably depending on its features, build quality, and level of sophistication. Basic equipment can be found for around $300, while the most advanced models can easily exceed $2,000.

Beyond the purchase price, consider durability and frequency of use: a more expensive but sturdy machine that suits your needs may prove more cost-effective in the long run. Don't forget the costs associated with setting up your gym space: renovations to a dedicated room, painting, lighting, or specialized flooring may represent an additional investment to anticipate.

5. The desired features

Some fitness equipment includes advanced features such as Bluetooth connectivity, connected screens, personalized training programs, or compatibility with mobile apps. These options allow you to track your performance, vary your workouts, and stay motivated over the long term.

Other equipment focuses on simplicity, with quick setup and intuitive use. The choice depends on your budget, your interest in tracking data, and your preference for a connected or minimalist experience. 

What are the key benefits of each of our fitness machines?

No matter what type of workout you want to do, endurance, strength, flexibility, or fitness, there are several fitness machines to choose from. Understanding their unique features will help you choose the one that best suits your needs, space, and budget.Tapis de course : le choix de la performance 

• Treadmill: the choice for performance
• Elliptical trainer: the gentle, full-body option
• Rowing machine: a challenge for the whole body
• Stationary bike: training accessible to everyone
• Exercise bench: weight training at home

Treadmill: the choice for performance

Running or walking on a treadmill allows you to exercise all year round, whatever the weather. This home fitness companion improves your cardio, burns calories, and helps you stay active simply and effectively.

What types of treadmills exist?

• Foldable treadmills are perfect for small spaces. Easy to store after use, they are suitable for apartments or multipurpose rooms. 
• Connected treadmills offer an interactive experience with virtual courses, personalized programs, and performance tracking via mobile apps. 
• Professional models are designed for intensive use. They have a larger running surface, better stability, and more powerful motors, ideal for regular or demanding athletes. 

What criteria should you use to make the right choice?

• Motor power: For running, choose a motor with at least 2 HP. This guarantees a smooth stride, better durability, and consistent performance, even at high speeds. 
• Running surface: It must be wide and comfortable enough, especially if you have a long stride or plan on doing long sessions. A surface that is too narrow can limit your movements and affect your comfort. 
• Adjustable incline: This allows you to vary the intensity of your workout, simulate inclines, and work your muscles more, especially your legs and glutes. It's also an excellent way to increase your calorie burn. 

Motivating features

Treadmills offer a motivating and personalized workout thanks to their built-in programs and performance tracking (calories, distance, heart rate). The cushioning system reduces impact on joints for greater comfort and safety, even during long workouts.

Elliptical trainer: the gentle, full-body option

The elliptical trainer is an ideal choice for a full-body home workout while being gentle on the joints. Its smooth, low-impact motion helps improve cardiovascular fitness and engages both the upper and lower body. Perfect for beginners, people in rehabilitation, or anyone looking to maintain joint mobility.

Types of Resistance

Elliptical trainers offer different types of resistance to customize your workout. Models with manual magnetic resistance, adjustable via a dial, are simple and accessible. Motorized versions, which are more precise and programmable, allow you to adjust intensity according to your goals and access a variety of programs—perfect for progressing at your own pace.

Choosing the Right Elliptical

• Stride length: Determines the smoothness of the motion—longer strides feel more natural, especially for taller users.
• Flywheel weight: Affects stability and pedaling consistency—a heavier flywheel ensures a smoother motion, ideal for longer or more intense sessions.
• Frame design: Varies depending on your needs—dual-handle models engage the entire body, while compact versions are ideal for smaller spaces.

Useful Features

Ellipticals come with practical features that enhance your workout: built-in programs, performance tracking (calories, distance, heart rate), and Bluetooth connectivity to sync your data with apps and track your progress in real time.

Rowing machine: a challenge for the whole body

The rowing machine is a full-body fitness device for home workouts. It engages the legs, arms, back, core, and cardiovascular system, providing an excellent balance of muscle strengthening and endurance. Perfect for an effective, quick workout that works the entire body.

Muscles Targeted

Each rowing stroke works the legs, arms, back, and core. In just a few minutes, your whole body is engaged, helping burn calories while toning muscles efficiently.

Types of Resistance

• Air: Resistance increases the harder you row, making it ideal for dynamic, progressive workouts.

• Water: Closely simulates the feel of actual rowing, providing smooth, natural resistance for an immersive experience.

• Magnetic: Quiet and adjustable, perfect for home use, especially in apartments.

• Electromagnetic: Electronically controlled for ultra-precise adjustment, often programmable via console or app. Ideal for structured workouts and performance tracking.

• Hydraulic Pistons: Found on compact models, offering independent resistance for each arm. Convenient for small spaces but less smooth than other systems.

Choosing the Right Rowing Machine

• Resistance levels: Adjustable resistance lets you tailor the intensity to your fitness level, from beginner to advanced.

• Connectivity and features: Some rowers are compatible with coaching apps, come with built-in programs, or display performance data (time, distance, calories, heart rate).

• Stability and build quality: A sturdy, non-slip frame ensures good stability during intense sessions.

• Size and footprint: Beyond folding capability, check the unfolded dimensions to make sure the machine fits in your designated space.

For a full guide on rowing machines and their benefits, check out our dedicated blog article on the topic.

Stationary bike: training accessible to everyone

The stationary bike is an essential and versatile fitness device, perfect for home workouts. It helps improve cardiovascular fitness, burn calories, and build endurance while being gentle on the joints—suitable for all fitness levels to stay active every day.

Types of Stationary Bikes

• Upright bike: The classic model, mimicking the position of a road bike. Ideal for a dynamic workout and an active posture.

• Recumbent bike: Features a backrest and a reclined position for added comfort. Recommended for people with lower back pain or limited mobility.

• Spin bike: Designed for more intense sessions, with a heavy flywheel and a sporty posture. Perfect for HIIT workouts or indoor cycling enthusiasts.

Choosing the Right Bike

• Resistance type: Magnetic or mechanical. Magnetic resistance provides smooth, quiet pedaling—ideal for home use. Mechanical resistance is simpler and suitable for basic needs but less precise.

• Seat and handlebar comfort: Good padding and ergonomic adjustments are essential to prevent discomfort, especially during long or frequent sessions.

• Stability and weight: A sturdy, well-balanced bike ensures better stability, particularly for intense or regular workouts.

• Customizable adjustments: Being able to adjust seat height and handlebars allows for optimal posture, tailored to each user’s body.

Performance and Connected Features

Stationary bikes come with a variety of programs, performance tracking (time, distance, calories, heart rate), and, in some models, Bluetooth connectivity to sync your data with apps and track your progress.

Exercise bench: weight training at home

The workout bench is a must-have for home strength training. Compact and versatile, it allows for a full range of exercises: flat for bench presses, inclined for shoulders and upper chest, and declined for abs and decline presses.

Available in fixed or adjustable models, it offers multiple angles and may include bar holders or footrests. Its versatility makes it easy to pair with dumbbells, barbells, weight plates, or resistance bands to vary your workouts.

Which accessories should you choose for home workouts?

Fitness accessories enhance home workouts by adding variety, optimizing results, and complementing equipment like treadmills, stationary bikes, or workout benches.

Floor Mats
Essential for floor exercises, a fitness mat provides comfort and safety, protects your joints, and safeguards your floors. Choose a non-slip model that’s thick enough for proper cushioning.

Equipment Protection Mats
Placed under stationary bikes, rowing machines, or treadmills, these mats absorb vibrations, reduce noise, protect floors, and improve equipment stability, even on delicate surfaces.

Dumbbells
Perfect for strength training, dumbbells, especially adjustable models—allow you to vary weights without taking up too much space. When paired with a workout bench, they effectively target arms, shoulders, chest, and legs.

Exercise Balls
A stability ball improves balance, strengthens the core, and encourages good posture. It can also double as an ergonomic seat.

Resistance Bands
Versatile and easy to transport, resistance bands engage different muscle groups and suit all fitness levels thanks to their varying resistance levels. They provide a gentle alternative to traditional weights.