Treadmill
Best for serious running. Noise control should be considered, and checking an actual unit is recommended.
Home Gym 2
Equipment Selection Guide
Choose the right direction based on your available space and training goals, then select the best main equipment and supporting items for your home gym.
Start by deciding the direction
The main options are all-in-one racks, free weights (power racks), multi gyms, isolation machines, and cardio machines. Narrow down the best choice based on your purpose and installation conditions.
All-in-One Rack
An all-in-one rack combines the functions of a power rack, Smith machine, and cable machine into one unit. Because it allows a wide variety of training styles—free weights, Smith machine work, and cable exercises—in a single machine, it is one of the best options for Japanese home gyms where space is often limited compared with overseas setups. This is currently one of the most popular home gym categories. If your budget and space allow, it is one of the most recommended choices for a typical home gym in Japan.
- ★Versatile and space-efficient, making it easier to train the whole body
- ★Because of its size and weight, delivery access and floor protection should be planned in advance
Free Weights (Power Rack)
This is serious training built around a barbell and rack. Combined with a bench, it allows you to train the whole body at high intensity, and adding cable options such as lat pulldown or high/low pulley expands the exercise variety even further.
- ★Supports heavy training loads with high freedom of movement
- ★Proper form and safety setup are essential
Multi Gym
A single machine that supports multiple exercises. It is space-efficient and easier to use thanks to its guided movement path, making it a good option for beginners or for shared family use. On the other hand, the maximum load and freedom of movement may be lower than with free weights.
Isolation Machines (Lat / Leg, etc.)
These specialized machines help you efficiently target specific muscle groups such as the back or legs. If you have enough space, combining them with a power rack can create a highly complete setup with fewer training blind spots.
Cardio Machines
Popular cardio options for home use include treadmills, fitness bikes, and cross trainers. For apartment living in particular, it is important to check noise levels and installation size in advance.
Fitness Bike
Known for quiet operation. You can choose from upright, recumbent, and spin-bike styles.
Cross Trainer
Low impact and relatively quiet, making it easier to use even in apartment settings.
What else do you need? (Supporting Items)
Adding benches, bars and plates, dumbbells, flooring, attachments, mirrors, and training gear can significantly expand your exercise options even in a limited space.
Bench
An adjustable bench is generally the easiest to use, and the balance between durability and weight is important.
Bar & Plates
Choose based on load capacity and training level. Rubber-coated types help reduce noise and protect the floor.
Dumbbells
Adjustable dumbbells are convenient for saving space and allow quick weight changes.
Mat (Flooring)
Easy-to-install joint mats are practical, and even placing them only under each machine can be effective.
Attachments
You can add dips, leg options, and more to expand exercise variety without taking much extra space.
Mirror
Useful for checking form and boosting motivation. Lightweight, shatter-resistant materials are a safe choice.
Training Gear
Items such as grips can be helpful even for beginners and make it easier to target specific muscles.