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Are you looking for the best home gym equipment for weight loss? Then, this article is for you.

As a personal trainer, I helped many people lose weight and get in shape for years. I tried many types of gym equipment. And found that certain machines and exercises are more effective than others.
So, I put together this guide to help you find the most effective equipment and exercises that will allow you to achieve your weight loss goals faster.
Table of Contents
- Should you lift weights or do cardio exercise to lose weight?
- Best Cardio Machine for Weight Loss
- Best Strength Training Equipment for Weight Loss
- 10 Best Home Gym Equipment For Weight Loss
- What to look for in the best home gym equipment for weight loss?
- Which home gym equipment is best for weight loss?
- FAQs about the best home gym equipment for weight loss
- What to do next?
Should you lift weights or do cardio exercise to lose weight?
According to Harvard Health, a survey conducted in 2017-2018 found that around 73% of adult Americans are overweight or obese [1].
Weight gain results from a combination of lifestyle factors, including poor diet, lack of physical activity, genes, stress, and sleep [2].
Harvard Health says a healthy diet and exercise is still the best way to help you lose weight and keep it off.
But what kind of exercise should you do, cardio or strength training?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says everyone needs aerobic exercise and muscle-strengthening workouts [3].
They recommend adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and two days of muscle-strengthening activity per week [4].
Cardio or aerobic exercise helps you lose weight by burning calories. While strength training helps you lose weight by building lean muscle mass. The more muscle you have, the faster your metabolic rate will be [5].
Additionally, a study found that aerobic exercise helps avoid weight gain. And weight training helps control belly fat [6].
So a combination of cardio and strength training is the most effective way to lose weight. Using these machines will elevate your heart and breathing rate, so consult your doctor if you can do these exercises.
If you are looking for a cardio machine for aerobic exercise, I recommend the Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Limit Treadmill. Running is one of the most effective exercises for losing weight, so a treadmill is one of my top recommendations.
This treadmill offers a speed range of 0.6 to 11 mph and inclines up to 15 percent. It also comes with 9 workout programs. Plus, it can hold up to 285 pounds of weight and is foldable to save space.
If you are looking for strength training equipment for muscle-strengthening workouts, I recommend the WF Athletic Supply Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells. Dumbbells are beginner-friendly and versatile equipment, so they are a must-have.
These dumbbells offer weights ranging from 5 to 45 pounds. They are available in pairs and in sets. You can buy a set with a tree rack for easy storage.
The dumbbells have a hexagonal shape and use rubber-coated steel. And the handles have a rubber-padded grip for safety and comfort.
Before starting any workout regimen or trying out any workout machines, always consult your physician. Keep reading to know more about these equipment and explore other options.
10 Best Home Gym Equipment For Weight Loss
Cardio Machines
A Harvard Health article listed several activities and their calorie-burning potential within 30 minutes of movement [7]. Here are some aerobic exercises that burned the most calories based on their list.
Aerobic Exercise | Calories Burned* | Pace or Speed |
Running | 375 | 7.5 mph (8 min/mile) |
Rope Jumping | 340 | Fast |
Step Aerobics | 300 | High Impact |
Elliptical Trainer | 270 | General |
Rowing | 255 | Vigorous |
So if you want to lose weight, I suggest you include at least one of these activities in your weight loss routine. I listed some workout machines that can help you do these cardio workouts.
For more cardio machines options, check out our article on The 12 Best Home Workout Machines For Weight Loss.
Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Limit Treadmill
Features | Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Limit Treadmill |
Dimensions | Length: 62 in (157.48 cm) Width: 28 in (71.12 cm) Height: 52 in (132.08 cm) |
Weight | 125.7 lbs (57.02 kg) |
Maximum User Weight | 285 lbs (129.27 kg) |
Incline | 0 -15% |
Speed | 0.6 – 11 mph |
Running Surface | 16 in x 52.5 in Tread Belt |
Workout programs | 9 Pre-installed Workout Modes |
Deck To Floor Height | Min: 6.81 in (17.30 cm) Max: 10.55 in (26.80 cm) |
Storage | Foldable |
Other Features | Bottle Holder Emergency Stop Brake Soft Drop System Built-in Speakers Transportation Wheels |
Warranty | 3 Year Structural Frame 180 Days Other Parts And Components |
Since running burns the most calories, a treadmill is a must-have piece of equipment. Treadmills are versatile machines; you can use them for walking, running, jogging, and sprinting.
If you want to use a treadmill in your weight loss journey, I recommend the Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Limit Treadmill. This treadmill offers a speed of up to 11 mph.
The data from Harvard uses a speed of 7.5 mph. So you can burn more calories if you maximize this treadmill’s speed range.
Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill has up to 15% incline feature, so you can adjust your workout intensity and increase your calorie burn. You can also choose from the 9 workout programs for more variety.
The deck has a shock absorption system to reduce the impact on your joints. It can hold up to 285 pounds of weight. And this treadmill is foldable to save space.
This treadmill has a soft drop system, which allows you to lower the deck slowly when you unfold it to ensure your safety. And the handles have integrated pulse sensors to track your heart rate.
The Sunny Health & Fitness treadmill is convenient to use as it includes quick incline buttons (2%, 5%, 9%, and 12%) and quick speed buttons (1, 3, 5, and 9 mph). Plus, there are two bottle holders and a built-in speaker.
Crossrope Get Lean – Weighted Jump Rope Set
Features | Crossrope Get Lean – Weighted Jump Rope Set |
Rope Length | 9 ft (2.74 m) |
Rope Weight | ¼ lbs (0.11 kg) ½ lbs (0.22 kg) |
Recommended User Height | 5 ft 9.5 in – 6 ft 1.5 in (176.5 cm – 186.7 cm) |
Grip Material | Urethane |
Color | Silver, White, Black, and Green |
Warranty | Not Specified |
If you are into rope jumping, I recommend the Crossrope Get Lean Weighted Jump Rope Set. This set comes with two weighted ropes to provide challenging cardio and fat-burning exercises.
The lighter rope weighs 1/4 pound for a high-intensity cardio workout. And the other rope weighs 1/2 pound for a more challenging workout.
The ropes have a length of 9 feet, which is suitable for users with a height of 5 feet and 9.5 inches to 6 feet and 1.5 inches. If you are short, ropes with shorter lengths are also available.
The handles of these jump ropes are slim and sleek to provide a more natural and comfortable grip. This jump rope set uses a fast clip system, which allows you to switch ropes quickly.
Rope jumping is an intense exercise, so consult your doctor before starting a jump rope regimen.
Yes4All Aerobic Exercise Workout Step
Features | Yes4All Aerobic Exercise Workout Step |
Dimensions | Length: 42.5 in (107.95 cm) Width: 16 in (40.64 cm) Height: 8 in (20.32 cm) |
Item Weight | 8.6 lbs (3.9 kg) |
Material | High-Density Polyethylene |
Maximum Weight Capacity | 300 lbs (136.08 kg) |
Color | Green/Black, Gray/Black, Pink/Black, Blue/Black, Pink/Grey, Yellow/Dark Blue, and Teal/Purple |
Warranty | 1 Year Warranty 60 Day Return |
If you want to do step exercises, check out the Yes4All Aerobic Exercise Workout Step. The step platform offers three height adjustments for extra challenge and variety.
The platform starts at a 4-inch height. Then you can add one or two pairs of 2-inch risers at the bottom to increase the height by 6 and 8 inches.
This step platform uses high-density polyethylene and can support up to 300 pounds of weight.
You can do your cardio exercise with ease using this equipment, as it uses a textured non-slip surface and non-skid feet to prevent slippage.
You can also use this step platform as a low-rise workout bench for strength training exercises.
Niceday Elliptical Machine
Features | Niceday Elliptical Machine |
Dimensions | Length: 48 in (121.92 cm) Width: 25 in (63.50cm) Height: 62 in (157.48 cm) |
Stride Length | 15.5 in (39.37 cm) |
Pedal Step Height | Not Specified |
Weight | 106 lbs (48.08 kg) |
Maximum User Weight | 400 lbs (181.44 kg) |
Resistance Levels | 16 |
Workout Programs | Not Specified |
Warranty | 1 Year |
Other Features | 16LB Flywheel Hyper-Quiet Magnetic Drive System 90% Pre-built Pulse Monitor Device Holder Transportation Wheels |
If you are looking for a knee-friendly cardio machine, I recommend the Niceday Elliptical Machine. Ellipticals are not as hard on your knees as treadmills, jump ropes, and step aerobics.
The Niceday elliptical machine has a 16-pound flywheel that offers up to 16 levels of resistance. It has a 15.5-inch stride length, which is short enough that you don’t have to stretch your legs too far to pedal.
If you are on the heavier side, this elliptical machine is a good choice, because it can support up to 400 pounds. Niceday has a smooth and quiet operation, as it controls the sound up to 20 decibels only.
This elliptical includes stationary and moving handles, which allow you to exercise your upper body. It is also convenient, as it comes 90% pre-assembled, so you can use it immediately.
Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine
Features | Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine |
Dimensions | Length: 96 in (244 cm) Width: 24 in (61 cm) Height: 14 in (36 cm) for standard legs 20 in (51 cm) for tall legs |
Monorail Length | 54 in (147.16 cm) |
Monitor | PM5 |
Power Requirement | Takes two D cell batteries. |
Maximum User Weight | 500 lb (227 kg) as tested by Concept2. 300 lb (135 kg) as tested per European Stationary Fitness Equipment Testing Standard EN 20957-7. |
Resistance | 10 Levels of Air Resistance |
Noise Level | Loud |
Material | Aluminum and Steel |
Storage | Can be stored upright Can be separated into two parts |
Warranty | 5 years for frame 2 years for parts |
Additional Features | Bluetooth-enabled Online Logbook |
If you are looking for a rowing machine, I recommend the Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine. It offers up to 10 levels of resistance, which you can adjust using the damper setting on the side.
This rower uses air for resistance, which is louder than other types of resistance. But if the noise doesn’t bother you, this is a great rower for home use. Try to use it first before buying to see if you can handle the noise it makes.
Rowing machines like Concept work both your upper and lower body. So a rower is a good option if you are looking for a full-body cardio machine.
You can track your progress using the PM5 monitor, which self-calibrates and can give you comparable data.
It has a weight capacity of 500 pounds. And you can separate the machine into two for storage to save space.
Strength Training Equipment
The National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) recommends a weight lifting program for weight loss that includes two phases: stabilization endurance training and strength endurance training.
Stabilization endurance training or circuit training keeps your heart rate elevated to increase caloric burn by doing a series of exercises with little to no rest.
Strength endurance training uses supersets, where you perform two exercises back-to-back with little to no rest between sets.
NASM created a lifting plan for weight loss for these two phases, where the following exercises are included.
Phase 1: Stabilization Endurance Training | Phase 2: Strength Endurance Training |
Push-up | Single Arm Row/Suspension Trainer Row |
Step-up to Balance | Dumbbell Squat/Step up to Balance |
Suspension Trainer Row | Bench Press/Push-up |
Ball Squat | Wood Chop/Pallof Press |
Glute Bridge | |
Pallof Press |
The following strength training equipment helps you do these exercises. So keep reading to learn more about them.
WF Athletic Supply Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells
Features | WF Athletic Supply Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells |
Dimensions | Varies by weight |
Weights | 5, 8, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 lbs |
Material | Steel & Rubber |
Color | Black |
Warranty | Not Specified |
When it comes to weight lifting, dumbbells are my number one recommendation, especially for beginners. They are versatile equipment that you can use for various fitness goals, including weight loss.
If you are looking for dumbbells, I recommend the WF Athletic Supply Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells. This dumbbell set offers a wide range of weight options, from 5 to 45 pounds.
They are available in pairs and in sets. You also have the option to include a tree rack in your purchase, so that you can store them efficiently.
These dumbbells use rubber-coated steel to ensure they are durable and long-lasting. They have hexagonal shapes to avoid the risk of them rolling away. And the handles have a rubber-padded grip for traction and comfort.
TRX GO Suspension Trainer System
Features | TRX GO Suspension Trainer |
Dimension | Length: 50 in (127 cm) Width:1.97 in (5 cm) Height: 0.1 in (0.25 cm) |
Product Weight | 1.5 lbs (0.68 kg) |
Material | Nylon, Foam Handles |
Weight Capacity | 700 lbs (317.52 kg) |
Warranty | 3 Year Warranty |
Other Features | Suspension Training Strap Indoor/Outdoor Anchors Mesh Carrying Bag |
Since the exercises recommended by NASM include suspension trainer exercises. I decided to add the TRX GO Suspension Trainer System to this list.
The TRX GO Suspension Trainer System is a convenient workout equipment, as you can use it for various body weight exercises. For starters, you can use it to perform 7 exercises, such as push, pull, plank, lunge, hinge, squat, and rotate.
Then you can advance into more challenging exercises with the help of the TRX training club, where you’ll gain access to 500+ workouts led by TRX trainers.
The whole TRS set fits into a mesh carrying bag and is lightweight, so you can bring and use it anywhere. Plus, it can hold a weight of up to 700 pounds.
Greater Goods Professional Exercise Ball
Features | Greater Goods Professional Exercise Ball |
Dimensions | Diameter: 21.65-29.53 in ( 55-75 cm) |
Product Weight | 3.37 lbs (1.53 kg) |
Material | Cellflex Material |
Color | Deep Sky Blue, Avocado Green, Blush Pink, Jet Black, Pebble Gray, and Watermelon Pink |
Maximum Weight Capacity | 660 lbs (399.37 kg) |
Warranty | Not Specified |
If you are looking for an exercise ball, I recommend the Greater Goods Professional Exercise Ball. These exercise balls are available in three sizes: 55, 65, and 75 cm in diameter, so whether you are short or tall, you can find a suitable ball for your height.
Exercise balls are great for basic strength training exercises. If you have limited mobility or are on the heavier side, you can use this exercise ball as a support.
You can sit or lean on them to prevent too much strain on your body. These exercise balls are safe to use as it has a weight capacity of 660 pounds and features an anti-burst safety mechanism.
DMoose Pull Up Resistance and Workout Bands
Features | DMoose Pull Up Resistance and Workout Bands |
Dimension | Length: 81.9 in (208.03 cm) Width: varies by resistance |
Material | Natural latex |
Resistance Levels | 5 varying resistance levels |
Warranty | 30-Days Money Back Guarantee |
Like dumbbells, resistance bands are also beginner-friendly strength training equipment. So if you are looking to use a resistance band in your weight loss routine, I recommend the DMoose Pull Up Resistance and Workout Bands.
This band offers 5 varying resistance levels. You can check the resistances below.
Color | Resistance | Width |
Yellow | Extra Light: 5-35 pounds | 0.25 inches |
Red | Light: 15-65 pounds | 0.50 inches |
Black | Medium: 35-80 pounds | 0.85 inches |
Purple | Heavy: 50-110 pounds | 1.25 inches |
Green | Extra Heavy: 60-135 pounds | 1.75 inches |
Gray | Super Heavy: 65-175 pounds | 2.5 inches |
Each band has a circumference of 81.9 inches and uses high-quality latex that is environment-friendly and durable. Like suspension trainers, resistance bands are lightweight and portable, so they are a go-to equipment for strength training.
Bintiva Kettlebell
Features | Bintiva Kettlebell |
Dimensions | Varies by weight |
Weights | 5, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 lbs |
Material | Vinyl, Cast Iron |
Color | Red, Gray, Green, Black, Yellow, Orange, and Blue |
Warranty | Not Specified |
Another strength training equipment effective for losing weight is the kettlebells. Kettlebell workouts require explosive movements like swings and snatches, which are great for burning calories and building muscles.
So if you want to use kettlebells for your weight loss routine, I recommend the Bintiva Kettlebell. These kettlebells have various weight options: 5, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, and 30 pounds.
Bintiva kettlebells use vinyl-coated cast iron to protect you and your floors. It includes a protective bottom to make it stable and safer to use. The kettlebells are color-coded and labeled for easy identification.
What to look for in the best home gym equipment for weight loss?
Type of Exercise
When looking for equipment for weight loss, check what exercises a certain machine can perform. Experts recommend cardio exercises and muscle-strengthening workouts if you want to lose weight and get in shape.
Cardio machines provide aerobic exercise, which elevates your heart and breathing rate and helps burn calories. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends you do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio workouts per week.
Muscle-strengthening workouts help build lean muscle mass, increase your metabolic rate, and control belly fat. The CDC recommends you do at least two days of muscle-strengthening activity per week.
Any form of movement is beneficial to your weight loss journey. However, if you want an effective weight loss routine and lose weight faster, I recommend focusing on aerobic and strength exercises.
Before trying any exercise program, consult your doctor and make sure you are healthy enough to participate in the program. It is also important to remember that diet also plays a big role in an effective weight loss program.
Calories Burned
Cardio machines such as treadmills, ellipticals, and rowing machines are effective in burning calories. However, if you want to lose weight faster, choose a machine that burns the most calories.
The more calories a machine can burn, the faster you can lose weight. Based on the article released by Harvard Health, running, rope jumping, and step aerobics are some of the most effective exercises for burning calories.
However, you should also choose a machine that you enjoy doing. If you do not enjoy a certain exercise, chances are you will unlikely stick with it for long, which means you will not lose weight as quickly.
Targeted Muscles
You should also check the muscles each exercise or equipment can target. I recommend exercises and equipment that can help target almost all your major muscle groups.
Focusing on getting a full-body workout is better for your overall health. As you strengthen your body, you will become fitter and healthier.
If there are parts of your body that you want to tone, you should do exercises that target those specific muscles or areas. However, I do not advise just doing exercises that target those areas every time.
It might put too much strain on those muscles and cause injury. Do not do exercises that target the same muscles for two consecutive days.
Give your body time to recover. In the meantime, focus on other body parts. So choose a piece of equipment that can help target various muscles in your body.
Weight Capacity
If you are on the heavier side, you might want to look for a machine that can support your weight. Ideally, you should choose one with a weight capacity of 300 pounds or more.
A high weight capacity also means the equipment is durable and can last for years.
Price and Warranty
You should also consider your budget when choosing an exercise machine. Try to find a good piece of equipment within your budget.
There are many ways to exercise without spending too much money. You just have to be smart in choosing your equipment and be creative in how you use it.
Also, ensure your home gym equipment has a warranty. This is important, because it gives you the assurance that your investment is protected.
Which home gym equipment is best for weight loss?
Cardio Machines
The best cardio machine for weight loss in my opinion is the Sunny Health & Fitness High Weight Limit Treadmill. Based on the Harvard Health article, running is one of the best aerobic exercises to lose weight, so treadmills are a must-have in your routine.
This treadmill offers a speed range of 0 to 11 mph and inclines up to 15 percent. It also comes with 9 workout programs for more workout variety.
For your safety, it has a weight capacity of 285 pounds, a shock absorption system, and a soft drop system. It is also convenient to use as it has quick speed and incline buttons and is foldable to save space.
Strength Training Equipment
The best strength training equipment for weight loss in my opinion is the WF Athletic Supply Rubber Encased Hex Dumbbells. Dumbbells are beginner-friendly equipment that you can use for many exercises.
These dumbbells offer weights ranging from 5 to 45 pounds. They are available in pairs and in sets. You can buy a set with a tree rack for easy storage.
The dumbbells have a hexagonal shape and use rubber-coated steel. The handles have a rubber-padded grip for traction and comfort.
FAQs about the best home gym equipment for weight loss
Which gym equipment is best for losing weight?
What gym equipment is best for losing belly fat?
A study found that weight training is effective in reducing abdominal obesity or belly fat [10]. So the best gym equipment for losing belly fat is weight training devices, such as dumbbells, kettlebells, and others.
Which equipment is best for weight loss at home?
A combination of aerobic and muscle-strengthening workouts is the most effective method for weight loss. So the best equipment for weight loss at home is equipment that helps you do these types of exercises, and is also budget-friendly and saves space like dumbbells and treadmills.
What to do next?
Although many studies recommend certain types of weight loss routines, it is important that you enjoy your workouts, do them regularly, and have a healthy diet.
Ultimately, the best home gym equipment for weight loss is whatever machine you find enjoyable and effective. I hope this article was useful to you and that you find the right weight-loss equipment for your home gym.