Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more
Gym memberships aren’t getting any cheaper, and with life feeling busier than ever, squeezing in a workout can be a challenge. But creating your own home setup doesn’t have to drain your wallet or take up unnecessary space.
Whether you’re just getting started or want to elevate the space you already have, there are plenty of smart, affordable ways to build a workout area that fits your goals, routine, budget and removes any pressure you might feel whilst at the gym.
The best part? You don’t need a dedicated room, a massive equipment haul, or a Pinterest-perfect aesthetic to make it work. A few clever tweaks – think multi-use gear, lightweight equipment that stores away neatly, and simple organisational upgrades. Even small changes, like adding a mat that doesn’t slide around or creating a designated spot for your dumbbells, can help you stay consistent and actually enjoy yourself.
And if motivation starts to fade after January, a fresh yet functional setup can make all the difference. It removes the biggest barriers that can occasionally feel like climbing a mountain: travel time, overcrowded gyms, and the mental load of packing a bag or figuring out a schedule. From compact equipment to space-saving hacks, here’s how to create a home gym that feels motivating and doesn’t break the bank.
Shop the Best At-Home Gym Equipment:
Best of Metro Deals
Get exclusive discounts with Metro Deals – save on getaways and spa days. Powered by Wowcher
Bannatyne Spa
Spa day for two with treatments, lunch & prosecco — save up to 57% off.
Other deals
Mystery Escape
Hotel stay with return flights from as low as £92pp — save on worldwide holiday packages.
Beach Retreat (Lanzarote)
4* Lanzarote beach holiday with flights — save up to 58%.
UK Getaway
4* Radisson Blu Durham stay with breakfast, spa access & late checkout — save 60% off.
Drive Supercars
3–12 lap supercar driving experiences from £16.99 — save up to 65%.
Menkind Wireless Jumping Rope
Skipping is known to be one of the best exercises out there as it works multiple muscle groups simultaneously.
However, skipping indoors is mostly a big no, as no one wants any breakages or accidents, but thankfully, wireless alternatives have become a new invention, so you don’t have to panic about causing trouble, and can achieve a full workout.
Dunelm Set of 6 Core Balance Hex Dumbbells
Dumbbells are always a great addition to a workout.
Whether you’re doing something simple like toning or participating in boxing and need extra weight, these nifty additions are brilliant.
Not only do you have the option to make it more challenging by opting for a heavier weight, but they can be neatly tucked away in a corner of the room or next to the sofa, so they aren’t unsightly.
Kimjaly 4 mm Thick Ultra Grippy Dynamic Yoga Mat
Why not practice some mindfulness as you embark on your fitness journey with yoga?
A transformative exercise that not only tones and stretches the body, but also helps train the mind.
To have an effective session, you need a good base with an appropriate soft, non-slip mat to support you.
This option comes with markings and guides to make sure you’re aligned during the workout.
Phoenix Fitness Stair Climber
There is always a queue for this equipment in the gym, so jump ahead and do it in the comfort of your living room without the fuss or pressure of those around you.
From targeting your legs, glutes and core, it is fitted with a handle-bar for support and even engages your arms.
You can track your progress with the built-in LCD screen that records time, steps and RPM.
The best thing is that it easily folds down, so it doesn’t become a permanent fixture in the room.
Opti Vinyl Dumbbell and Barbell Set
This adjustable dumbbell and barbell set gives you everything you need for a full-body strength workout.
With a spin-lock system, you can quickly change weights to match your strength level.
Its vinyl-coated plates offer a comfortable grip while you tone arms, shoulders, chest, back and legs.
Ideal for home gyms, beginners and seasoned lifters alike that need that extra training time.
Davina Fitness 65cm Swiss Ball with Pump
An exercise ball is a brilliant addition to any workout.
It’s easy to inflate, lightweight and can perfectly accommodate a range of exercises from crunches, planks, bridges and seated weight sets, a simple way to add core strength and flexibility to your routines.
Huawei FreeClip 2
The Huawei FreeClip 2 are the brand’s latest open‑ear, clip‑style wireless earphones, designed for all‑day comfort and awareness.
Refining the original FreeClip design, they’re smaller and lighter, using a soft C‑Bridge that sits outside the ear canal, allowing you to hear your surroundings while listening.
Upgrades include improved sound from dual‑diaphragm drivers, longer battery life (up to nine hours on a single charge), IP57 water resistance, and adaptive audio features powered by AI, making them a strong option for commuting, workouts and wearing from morning to night.
Power Tower Dip Station Pull Up Bar
This versatile all-in-one station lets you train your upper body using your own bodyweight.
The adjustable tower supports all kinds of workouts from pull-ups, dips, leg raises and even push-ups, making it ideal for building strength at home. Its sturdy frame offers stability while still fitting neatly into most spaces, giving you a multifunctional setup without the need for multiple machines.
WonderCore 2 Home Multi Gym
Another brilliant multi-gym that has been tried and tested by one of our very own writers who claims ‘it’s game-changing for beginners,’ is the WonderCore2.
Compact, and taking up hardly any space this machine targets your core whilst offering a range of full-body exercises with its pull cables.
It also comes with adjustable resistance and a built-in twisted seat to maximise its offerings.
Folding Treadmill Walking Pad
You may have seen numerous walking pads circulating around social media, and we can confirm they’re worth the hype and investment.
Perfect for getting your daily steps in when the weather isn’t the nicest, using it for a session, or whilst you work from home.
It is fitted with an LED screen to track your progress, offers three speed modes from 1-6 km/h, and can be easily folded down and put away under the sofa or bed.
Walking has never been easier.
DomYos Smart Cross Trainer Initial Elliptical 100
A smooth, low-impact cardio machine ideal for anyone wanting a joint-friendly workout.
This smart cross trainer offers full-body movement while syncing with fitness apps to track progress and guide sessions.
Compact but sturdy, it provides effective home cardio training – helping boost stamina and tone muscles with adjustable resistance.
At only £199.99, it’s a bargain.
Home Fitness Code Stationary Exercise Bike
Another excellent equipment addition to add to your baskets is this sturdy indoor bike that offers adjustable resistance, a smooth ride and an LCD display to track time, distance, speed and calories.
With customisable seat height and handlebars, it’s built for comfort during longer sessions.
Whether you’re doing steady-state cardio or interval training, it’s an accessible, budget-friendly way to boost your fitness from home.
THERABODY Theragun Relief Handheld Smart Percussive Therapy Device
An integral part to exercising is recovery. Invest in a gadget that will aid muscle relaxation and provide gentle yet effective post-workout recovery.
Compact and easy to hold, it also helps improve mobility and reduce tightness -perfect for anyone looking to enhance their recovery routine, or to even de-stress after a long day.
Homcom 8KG Weighted Vest
If you’re needing an extra challenge then a weighted vest is a great addition.
This adjustable weighted vest adds extra intensity to walks, strength training and bodyweight workouts.
Designed with secure straps and reflective detailing, it stays in place while boosting resistance to help build strength and endurance.
The compact 8kg load is evenly distributed for comfort, making it a simple way to elevate everyday training.
Fitbit Inspire 3
When in the motion of exercising we can often forget to track our progress.
A classic gadget that has been a much-loved tool to help with this is Fitbit.
An easy-to-wear fitness tracker that records your daily movement, heart rate, sleep and even stress.
It’s a great investment for anyone wanting motivation, gentle nudges and simple health insights to support long-term wellness goals.
Lululemon Back to Life Sport Bottle 24oz
Get yourself a durable, double-wall insulated bottle designed to keep drinks cold during workouts and throughout the day so you’re kept hydrated and refreshed.
The leak-resistant straw lid makes it easy to sip on the move, while the finish offers a comfortable grip.
Stylish and practical, it’s a gym-bag or home workout staple.
Luna Ring Gen 2 with Surge Charger
Add a bit of style to your workout with a smart ring designed to track sleep, recovery, heart rate, activity and stress – all from your finger.
Using tiny sensors, it provides detailed insights without the bulk of a smartwatch.
Perfect for anyone wanting deeper wellness data in a minimalist, stylish design that blends seamlessly into daily wear.
Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram
Share your views in the comments below
MORE: H&M Move’s new Wellness Edit is the affordable activewear you’ll want to workout in
MORE: M&S extend Goodmove activewear range that will help you look the part in 2026 workouts
MORE: ‘Best purchase ever’ Amazon walking pad now on sale – making fitness goals more achievable
