The 9 Best Compact Home Gyms in 2023

*HomeGymUnlimited helps consumers find the best home fitness products. When you buy a product we recommend, we may earn a commission.

Here is a list of the best compact home gyms, selected for you by a Personal Trainer.

“Compact” is a broad term in this context. You will find VERY DIFFERENT types of equipment on my list of favorites. With VERY DIFFERENT price levels. 

They have ONE THING in common though… all items on this list are compact and you can use them for a complete workout.

In general, there are 3 types of compact gyms:

• Smart fitness mirrors
  • These mirrors are actually very large screens, connected to the internet. 
  • You need a subscription to follow classes or personal training.
  • They require little space, about the space of a normal large mirror.
  • Not portable.
  • Most expensive compact home gym, plus you need a subscription.
• Boards 
  • Boards with resistance bands come in different variations and qualities
  • Relatively portable, though not in your suitcase
  • Affordable
• Suspension trainers, resistance bands and variations 
  • Suspension trainers can be fixed to a wall or on a branch of a tree. 
  • They easily fit in your suitcase
  • Affordable.

Top Pick
Smart Mirror

Best Smart Mirror:

Tempo Studio

Wall Mounted

Guided Training

Versatile

Check on Tempo.fit

Top Pick
Portable

Best Portable Gym

BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0

Portable

Complete resistance training

Excellent user ratings

Check on Amazon

Top Pick

Best Suspension Trainers:

TRX

Portable

Use body weight

TRX Training Club

Check on Amazon

If you need a compact gym for your home, and money is no obstacle, the Tonal mirror is my top recommendation. This smart mirror aims to replace all other types of strength training equipment and also accommodates cardio training and more.

If you are looking for a more budget friendly option, then check out the Body Boss. I love it and you can do so many exercises with it.

If you need a compact gym for travel, then consider the TRX suspension trainers. They fit in any suitcase and you can train your whole body with them.

Let’s take a look at each brand.

Table of Contents

• Best Smart Mirror:
  • Tempo Studio
• Best Portable Gym
  • BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0
• Best Suspension Trainers:
  • TRX
• The 9 Best Compact Home Gyms
  • Smart Fitness Mirrors 
    • Tempo Studio
    • Tonal
    • Echelon Reflect Smart Fitness Mirror
  • Boards & Foldables
    • BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0
    • Total Gym XLS
    • Gonex Portable Home Gym Workout Equipment 
  • Suspension trainers, resistance bands, and variations 
    • TRX GO Suspension Trainer and the Go Bundle 
    • OYO Personal Gym
    • Brayfit Fusion 400® Door Mounted Resistance Bands
• What to look for in a compact home gym?
  • Type of compact Home Gym
    • Smart fitness mirrors
    • Boards
    • Suspension trainers, resistance bands, and variations
  • Versatility
    • Training Options
    • Resistance
  • Comfort
    • Adjustability
    • User Satisfaction
  • Durability
    • Material 
  • Dimension
    • Footprint and and Storage
    • Installation
  • Budget
• Which compact home gym is best overall?
  • Smart Fitness Mirror
  • Boards
  • Suspension trainers, resistance bands, and variations
• FAQ About Best Compact Home Gym
• What to do next?

The 9 Best Compact Home Gyms

Smart Fitness Mirrors

If you want a compact home gym that has it all and money is no obstacle, then check out the smart fitness mirrors. 

These large screens require very little space and provide almost every training you can imagine. You need a subscription to join the classes and you may need some extra equipment, depending on the fitness mirror you chose. 

If you are interested in buying this type of home gym, this Fitness Mirrors Guide might be useful.

Tempo Studio

If a wall-mounted device like Tonal does not suit your taste, you might want to try Tempo Studio. It is a standing smart fitness mirror that is a little cheaper than Tonal but takes some floor space. 

Your Tempo Studio fitness journey starts with setting your goals in the My Plan app. Then, Tempo will create a personalized plan based on your goals to help you keep track and stay motivated. 

As you exercise, the 3D Tempo Vision tracks all your movements and checks if you have the proper form. Then, it will instantly provide you with feedback and guidance to ensure that you can maximize your workouts and keep you safe. 

For each workout, Tempo gives weight recommendations, sets your pace, counts your reps, and tracks your progress so you can focus on your routine. In addition, you can gain access to live and on-demand classes by elite coaches on various activities such as cardio, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), cardio-boxing, strength training, and low-impact exercise.

You can set up Tempo Studio in any room of your house where you have enough space for it to stand upright. Unlike Tonal, which has collapsible workout arms, you have to use the weight plates, collars, or dumbbells included for the exercises in Tempo. However, you don’t need to worry about storage because Tempo has a small cabinet below the console where you can store your equipment.

Tonal

Tonal is a smart fitness mirror with a console where you can stream classes, track your progress and listen to music while working out. The console contains two collapsible workout arms powered by a digital weight system that adapts to you in real-time. Plus, it is a wall-mounted device that requires no floor space.

Tonal has the most advanced features on this list because it uses magnets for resistance, replacing all other types of strength training equipment.Your Tonal experience starts by evaluating how strong you are so it can tailor each program to your fitness level. 

If you choose Tonal, you can forget about buying plates, barbells, and bands because this equipment can provide you with the same exercise. Tonal’s patented digital weight system delivers you with 200 pounds of resistance using magnets and electricity. The adjustable arms support upper and lower body exercises such as squats and chest presses.

You can access a library of workout classes focusing on strength training, dance cardio, yoga, pilates, kickboxing, and more. You can select from curated programs such as Four Weeks to Fat Loss or Lean Muscle Mastery. You have the option to customize your workouts too.

Echelon Reflect Smart Fitness Mirror

If Tempo is still too expensive for you, Echelon Reflect Smart Fitness Mirror is a budget-friendly option. It is a wall-mounted fitness mirror like Tonal but lacks high-end features offered by other expensive fitness mirrors.

This fitness mirror is worth considering if you are looking for a workout variety. By syncing your phone to the mirror, you can access on-demand classes with motivating instructors focusing on meditation, strength training, kickboxing, pilates, core exercises, cardio, yoga, and stretching. This is not a touchscreen, so you must sync your phone and connect to the Echelon Fit app.

You can enjoy training with a group in the comfort of your home by joining the live sessions where everyone can keep track of their form.

The best part about Echelon Reflect is that it will fit well in the ambiance of your home as it looks exactly like a mirror, especially when not in use. 

The major drawback I observed is that Echelon Reflect serves as a screen. You can use this to keep track of your form, see workout instructions, and watch training videos. But unlike Tonal and Tempo, there are no recommendations, customized workouts, feedback, or progress tracking.

Boards & Foldables

Boards provide an alternative surface while performing exercises. They can range from simple wooden boards to more advanced models, which may have extra features like handles or resistance bands attached to them. 

They are relatively portable or foldable, so you can store them away in a closet or under a bed when not in use. They’re affordable enough that you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank when purchasing one.

BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0

BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0 is an affordable board type of compact home gym. Unlike Tonal, which uses a wall-mounted console, BodyBoss 2.0 uses a platform that you can step on during your workouts. It is a complete resistance training system that you can take anywhere due to its portable and foldable design. 

You will get one set of resistance bands and handles that can give you up to 30 lbs of resistance at a normal length of 30 inches. If you shorten using the anchor points, the resistance can increase up to 80 lbs per band. You can adjust it up to 10 anchor points, so the shorter the length, the higher the resistance. 

Each anchor point can withstand up to 500 lbs of force. The anchor points can turn up to 180° from flush to upright position.

BodyBoss 2.0 comes with a collapsible workout bar with easy-grip padding, which you can use for exercises such as squats and ab twists. You can also use the included door anchor to simulate lat pull downs, chest flies, and tricep extensions. The wrist/ankle straps fit all sizes and are sweat-resistant.

When it comes to popularity, it is second to TRX GO Suspension Trainer. BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0 has 5200+ ratings on Amazon and 1200+ reviews on the BodyBoss website. So a lot of users love this brand.

Total Gym XLS

If you don’t prefer a smart fitness mirror like Tonal, then maybe a foldable compact machine like Total Gym XLS is for you.

The Total Gym XLS provides you with a variety of workouts and resistance. You get about 80 exercises, 30 workout programs and up to 6 levels of resistance. 

You can use the ribbed squat stand to target your thighs, glutes, and calves. The wing attachment is excellent for upper and lower body exercises. The leg-pull accessory with two ankle cuffs can exercise both of your legs at once. The frame can hold up to 400 lbs of weight and is compatible with weight bars if you have plans on doing weight lifting. It has a slider seat rail where you can use your bodyweight for the exercises.

The Total Gym XLS gives you a full-body workout such as cardio, strength training, and stretching, concentrating on all the major muscle groups. This product is excellent for all fitness levels, ages 8-80. You can have a comfortable workout because the glide board has padding and head support.

You can stream free workout classes on Total Gym TV if you need more guidance on your workouts. It is an on-demand streaming platform that you can access on any device. Moreover, you will get supporting materials such as Start It Up DVD, Exercise Guide, and Nutrition Guide as well.

Your Total Gym XLS arrives fully assembled and ready to use. It is foldable, so you don’t have to worry about space.

Gonex Portable Home Gym Workout Equipment

Gonex Portable Home Gym is the only compact gym on this list with ab rollers. Just like BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0, it is a board type of compact home gym and uses a platform for workouts. BodyBoss is cheaper, but it has no Ab rollers. So it depends on which feature you are looking for. 

Gonex has 14 exercise accessories such as Ab Roller Wheel, Elastic Resistance Bands, 3-section Bar, 30lbs/50lbs Resistance Bands, Push-up Stand, Post Landmine Sleeve, and others. 

You can install the push-up stand at different positions to target various muscle groups. The short resistance band can hold up to 30 lbs while the longer one can give you up to 50 lbs of resistance. The Ab Roller has 4 levels of difficulty so you can improve little by little.

You can get an instructional manual with 43-Page full-body muscle workouts and 70 movement videos designed by a professional fitness coach.

It uses a honeycomb structure on the platform to avoid deformations. The brand uses an anti-slip for stability and an anti-scratch base. 

This compact home gym equipment is foldable and portable as it fits into a large-capacity bag.

Suspension trainers, resistance bands, and variations

Should you decide to take your exercise routine outside or if you prefer more portable equipment than boards, then the best way to go is to buy this type of compact home gym.

You can anchor a suspension trainer to a wall or on a branch of a tree, therefore you can use them anywhere. Resistance bands work similar to suspension trainers but use your body parts such as your legs or feet. They easily fit in your suitcase and won’t take up much room in your home gym. They are very affordable and easy to use, making them the perfect addition to any fitness routine.

TRX GO Suspension Trainer and the Go Bundle

TRX GO Suspension Trainer is the most popular brand for beginners because it uses only one anchor point, so it is easy to set up. Unlike other brands, TRX uses your body weight for workouts.

As a beginner, you can begin with the seven foundational movements: push, pull, plank, lunge, hinge, squat, and rotate. After that, you can advance to more challenging exercises.

The four different exercise bands can hold up to 700 lbs. You can connect these bands into an indoor/outdoor anchor or the TRX X-mount wall anchor.

You can use the locking loop to secure the bands to avoid the risk of slipping. The integrated handle and foot cradles are applicable for upright and floor-based routines.

You can get 30-day free access to the TRX Training Club app. On this app, you can watch up to 500+ on-demand workout classes, daily live videos from coaches, and new workouts weekly.

You can bring or store it anywhere because all included training accessories can fit into a mesh bag and only weighs less than 2 lbs. Plus, you will get a stainless steel water bottle.

TRX GO Suspension Trainer is the most popular and best-rated brand on this list. It has 4.8 out 5 stars with 6500+ five-star reviews on Amazon.

OYO Personal Gym

OYO Personal Gym is a portable resistance trainer which you can fold and fit in your backpack. It uses SpiraFlex technology, where the resistance bands can replace weights. Astronauts in the International Space Station use this brand to stay fit; you can also use it in your home gym. 

OYO Personal Gym includes:

• One 5lb and two 10lb FlexPacks.
• Door and ankle attachments.
• A nutrition guide.
• Access to training videos.

You can enjoy up to 25 lbs of resistance even though it only weighs 2 lbs. The snap-on FlexPacks resistance is adjustable into 5 or 10 increments up to 25 lbs.

The door and ankle attachments can provide you with various workouts as you can attach them to your door for upper body movement or to your ankle for leg exercises

The SpiraFlex provides you with patented DoubleFlex activation where you can perform two exercises in each movement; pushing and pulling. This system can help you burn calories faster.

You will gain access to an extensive workout library with 197 exercises and 60 videos for different fitness levels, so you can use this brand as you progress. You can also join the 28-Day Beginner Program, 30-Day Standard Program, and 10-Week Challenge Program developed by a fitness director to keep you motivated.

Brayfit Fusion 400® Door Mounted Resistance Bands

If you are looking for a suspension trainer that you can connect to your door, then Brayfit Fusion 400 is the brand to consider. You can attach this compact home gym to any door and easily remove or relocate it anywhere.

Brayfit Fusion 400 includes six (6) resistance bands where each pair can hold up to 25, 35, and 40 lbs. You can use the straight workout bar for squats and curls. You can use the handles to perform standing-chest-height such as a row. This brand is suitable for all fitness levels and all ages.

You can access the BrayFit Mobile Workout Companion App on Google Playstore or Apple Store. Here you can get weekly sample routines with exercise illustrations for every muscle group. There are about 200 exercises you can do together with your BrayFit compact gym.

The material used for top and bottom anchors connected to the door of Brayfit Fusion 400 is steel, so it does not easily detach. The attachments have thick external webbing, so they would not snap during your workouts. The handles use non-slip rubber, and the ankle/wrist straps use padding for comfort.

The equipment is pre-assembled, and you don’t need to use any tool to install it. Using the carabiner attached to a handle, you can connect a powerband from the lower right to a powerband on the lower left. Repeat on the other handle on the other side to cross-bind the cables.

What to look for in a compact home gym?

Type of compact Home Gym

Before buying your compact home gym, you should decide which type of equipment you need.

Smart fitness mirrors

Smart Fitness Mirrors are very useful in aiding your workouts and helping you to get the best results. The mirror is for reflection to provide feedback on your form and posture while doing exercises such as squats or deadlifts. You can also use these for streaming classes and tracking your progress.

Boards

The boards provide an alternative surface while performing exercises. This equipment is for you if you want to train your core muscles and improve their balance. You can use them to perform push-ups, dips, squats, and other types of exercises.

Suspension trainers, resistance bands, and variations

Suspension trainers are portable home gyms anchored to walls, trees, or even at your door. They are great for developing balance and core strength while simultaneously working out your arms, shoulders, and back muscles. 

Resistance bands work similar to suspension trainers, but use your body parts such as your legs or feet. It has less weight resistance, so it’s easier for beginners to use.

Versatility

Training Options

When it comes to compact gyms, versatility is essential. A compact gym aims to combine multiple exercises into a single piece of equipment. Therefore, the more workouts a brand can offer, the better.

If you’re considering purchasing a piece of exercise equipment, consider the features you want. An ab roller can help strengthen your core muscles. A slider machine allows you to strengthen various muscle groups. A power rack is ideal for bodybuilders. You may also want to consider what kind of training you want to focus on—full-body workout, cardio, or strength training?

If you need guidance during your workouts, choose among the brands that offer workout videos, illustrations, apps, or exercise guides.

Resistance

If you’re a fan of resistance training, the brands listed here offer resistance ranging from 5 lbs to 2000 lbs.

Tonal can give you up to 200 lbs of resistance and adapts to you in real-time. OYO Personal Gym is also a brand to consider because it uses a patented DoubleFlex activation where you can perform two exercises in each movement; pushing and pulling.

Comfort

Adjustability

Every user has different preferences and physiques, so adjustability is critical to cater to the majority. Tonal uses a digital weight system, so you don’t need to adjust the resistance or change weights during training because it adapts to you in real-time. All brands here offer adjustments, but you have to do it manually except Tonal.

User Satisfaction

It would be best if you don’t turn a blind eye to the reviews of each product. Check how other users feel about the product. Does it live up to their expectations? How was the customer service?

BodyBoss 2.0 and TRX GO Suspension Trainer are the most popular and best-rated brands on this list.

Durability

Material

To check if the equipment is safe to use, you need to check if it is durable and stable. Check what kind of material they used for the frames; metals such as steel are advisable. If the equipment has seats, padding wrapped in leather can make you comfortable for long training sessions. Some brands use a rubber grip on the handles and safety-lock mechanisms to prevent injury during your workouts.

Check the weight capacity if it can handle your routines and the resistance levels for the cables. The weight of equipment can help with stability. However, the best way to ensure it is stable is to try it out yourself.

Dimension

Footprint and and Storage

When buying a compact home gym, consider how much space it will take up. Measure the area where you plan to put the gym and make sure it’s large enough to occupy by your new machine.

I recommend you spare some space for this equipment in your home gym. These types of equipment can offer multiple exercises, so you don’t need to buy other machines if your compact home gym already has that feature.  

Brands like Tonal, TRX GO Suspension Trainer, OYO Personal Gym, and Brayfit Fusion 400 have the most space-saving design on this list.

Installation

Installation is also a consideration. You can install compact home gyms in different ways; wall-mounted like Tonal, door-anchored like BrayFit, or platform-based like Gonex and BodyBoss. There are those that take up floor space as well, like Total Gym XLS and Force USA G3 All-In-One Trainer. So you have a variety of options here.

Budget

All good things come with a price, so prepare to spend a little extra on your new machine. It’s always wise to start with a model that suits your current needs and can serve as a springboard for future upgrades. The most affordable compact home gym is the BodyBoss Home Gym 2.0. 

Looking at the price is not the only consideration here. A brand may be expensive, but if it offers all the training you need, it may save you from buying additional workout equipment.

Which compact home gym is best overall?

To help you find the best compact home gym, I listed nine products and highlighted the one I think is the best per category here. 

Smart Fitness Mirror

Tempo Studio is my top recommendation for smart fitness mirrors. Because it is versatile, wall mounted and you get a wide variety of online classes and workouts.

But, competition is strong in Smart Fitness Mirrors. For example Mirror.co is very good as well. Read our Fitness Mirrors Guide for more information.

Boards

For the board type of compact home gym, I recommend Body Boss 2.0. It is portable, you can do a complete resistance training and Body Boss has amazing user ratings.

Suspension trainers, resistance bands, and variations

If you prefer Suspension Trainers, then go for TRX GO Suspension Trainer. Just like any other suspension trainers, TRX GO Suspension Trainer is portable. You can fit all included training accessories into a mesh bag and only weigh less than 2 lbs. 

For your safety, each exercise band can hold up to 700 lbs and uses a locking loop to avoid the risk of slipping. You can perform the seven foundational movements: push, pull, plank, lunge, hinge, squat, and rotate. After that, you can advance to more challenging exercises. 

TRX GO Suspension Trainer is the most popular and best-rated compact home gym on this list, as it has 4.8 out of 5 stars from 6500+ five-star reviews on Amazon.

FAQ About Best Compact Home Gym

What to do next?

A compact gym is an excellent way to incorporate fitness into your life, no matter how small your home gym space is. There are several types of compact home gyms out there, so it might be helpful to have an insight of what makes a good one. Go check out the different categories of compact home gyms to see which type suits you best. 

Look through our list and see how it compares to your needs and budget.

If you are specifically looking for smart fitness mirrors, this Fitness Mirrors Guide might be useful.

Happy Training!

Inge van Haselen
Personal Trainer

Related Articles:

• 9 Best Total Gym Models