Best Compact Gym Equipment 2024

Last Update: May 10, 2024

If you don’t have a lot of space to devote to gym equipment, you want to make the most of what you have. We’ve compiled a list of equipment that’s compact and adds the most value to your setup. Other features we considered were affordability, portability, and versatility.

Compact equipment is a great way to transform a bedroom, living room, or home office into a workout zone. If you have a home gym, choosing compact equipment gives you more space for mat workouts and accumulating more of your favorite equipment!

We are exercise enthusiasts like you, so we understand maximizing space and value.

Here’s Our List of the Best Compact Gym Equipment 2024:

• Best Compact Treadmill: ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill
• Best Compact Treadmill Runner-Up: NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill
• Best Compact Exercise Bike With a Screen: CAROL Bike
• Best Compact Exercise Bike Without a Screen: Concept2 BikeERG
• Best Compact Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowERG
• Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical
• Best Compact WalkingPad: WalkingPad X25 Treadmill
• Best High-End Compact Treadmill: Matrix TF50 Treadmill
• Best Compact Home Gym: Sole SRVO

Best Compact Treadmill: ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill

Runners and walkers who need a compact folding treadmill should consider the ProForm Carbon TLX. ProForm falls under the iFIT umbrella, which means that the TLX is compatible with iFIT smart training classes. The TLX does not require a subscription but using iFIT certainly enhances your training experience.

Hydraulic assistance makes folding and unfolding the ProForm Carbon TLX treadmill a little easier. It uses a kick-release lever to release the deck from its folded position. The deck softly lowers to the ground once released. It’s not too hard to lift the deck back into place. The TLX weighs less than 250 lbs and has transport wheels. Rolling it around is not too hard as long as you can tilt the treadmill onto its wheels.

iFIT provides all of the training content for the TLX. You don’t have to subscribe to iFIT, but there are no training options on the TLX outside of the manual training mode without it. If you want to use iFIT, you’ll need to download the iFIT app onto your phone or tablet since there is no touchscreen. iFIT has thousands of training classes for the treadmill. These classes are filmed outdoors and are led by top trainers. The speed and incline will automatically adjust according to the workout’s preset levels. There are also tons of non-treadmill classes to help you build a more well-rounded workout routine.

The ProForm Carbon TLX has a speed range of 0 to 12 mph. The motor is 3 HP, which is enough to support regular running. The deck measures 20 inches wide by 60 inches long and can accommodate a long running stride. The cushioning is firm. The incline range is 0 to 12%, so no decline, unfortunately.

My favorite aspect of the TLX is the price. It’s just under $1000 and has great features for this price point.

Read Our Full Review Of The ProForm Carbon TLX Treadmill Here

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Best Compact Treadmill Runner-Up: NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill

The NordicTrack EXP 10i is a great alternative to the ProForm Carbon TLX for runners and walkers who want a built-in touchscreen. It also has a tablet rack so you can choose whether you want to see iFIT content or something on your phone or tablet. I like the EXP 10i more than the EXP 7i because the 10i has a larger screen. I recommend the NordicTrack EXP 10i for walkers and runners who want iFIT training content and soft cushioning.

While the ProForm Carbon TLX pairs with iFIT, it doesn’t have a touchscreen display like the NordicTrack EXP 10i does. With an active iFIT membership, you can access thousands of classes right from the touchscreen. You can also access features like ActivePulse which adjusts the treadmill speed based on your heart rate zone. There is a Google Map integration that lets you create a virtual workout anywhere in the world. These features are only available on iFIT-compatible machines with built-in touchscreens, like the NordicTrack EXP 10i.

The running surface is smaller at 20 inches wide and 55 inches long compared to the standard 60 inches long. The deck is a lot softer than the ProForm TLX’s, so it is a great choice for users who want more shock absorption. The maximum speed of the EXP 10i is 10 mph. This lower speed limit helps prevent users from running out of room on the shorter deck. However, runners with long legs should be cautious about the length of their stride.

The NordicTrack EXP 10i has dimensions of 70.8” long, 34.9” wide, and 59.7” tall. It has a folding deck that uses hydraulic assistance to ease lifting and lowering the deck. It uses a kick-release mechanism. The EXP 10i weighs around 200 lbs but is fairly easy to tilt and roll short distances on its transport wheels. The EXP 7i is fairly compact and portable for a treadmill of its size and utility.

Read Our Full Review Of The NordicTrack EXP 10i Treadmill Here

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Best Compact Exercise Bike With a Screen: CAROL Bike

The CAROL Bike is an excellent exercise bike with extensive training options. I chose this bike for this award not because it was the smallest studio bike available but because it adds so much value to the space you give it. The CAROL Bike delivers quality workouts in a very short period of time with AI resistance. You can also use the CAROL bike with a variety of other training platforms.

The CAROL Bike uses AI technology to give you the hardest and shortest exercise stimulus possible. CAROL’s most noteworthy training type is the REHIT workout. With a CAROL membership, AI automatically adjusts your resistance to an intense challenge for 10 to 30 seconds. Because the CAROL bike makes rapid and extreme resistance adjustments, it has a freewheeling safety clutch to prevent your legs from spinning out of control. If you don’t have a CAROL membership, you can still train with a select amount of CAROL workouts.

In addition to REHIT workouts, the CAROL Bike is my favorite bike to use with Zwift and Peloton. You can download these apps to the CAROL Bike screen and get custom onscreen controls to match the app you are training in. There are also entertainment apps, like Netflix, that provide a distraction during endurance rides.

Whether you are a dedicated cyclist or a beginner with only a short amount of time to work out, the CAROL Bike is a great option for you. It has a high-quality and sturdy frame that is appropriate for commercial use. The CAROL Bike looks sleek and high-end. The CAROL Bike is 45.5 inches long and 22 inches wide. It weighs 120 lbs. CAROL recommends a 45.5 by 45.5-inch space for this bike.

Read Our Full Review Of The CAROL Bike Here

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Best Compact Exercise Bike Without a Screen: Concept2 BikeERG

The Concept2 BikeERG is less than half the price of the CAROL Bike. It is fairly low-tech compared to the CAROL Bike, but it has a lot of versatility. The BikeERG combines the features of a studio bike, air bike, and upright exercise bike. The BikeERG is a great addition to a garage gym and can be easily relocated as needed.

The Concept2 BikeERG weighs only 68 lbs and does not have a bulky touchscreen. This design makes the BikeERG very easy to transport compared to high-tech, feature-rich studio bikes like the NordicTrack S22i. Despite its light aluminum frame, the BikeERG feels very sturdy and can support a maximum user weight of 350 lbs. The handlebar height and saddle height are easily adjustable to accommodate a wide range of heights. You can use the Concept BikeERG with the handlebars lifted higher for more upright cycling or lower for studio cycling.

The BikeERG is a non-traditional air bike. It has a fan with an adjustable damper to change the airflow. The resistance is unlimited because it intensifies the harder your pedal. The air resistance is loud, so be mindful of disturbing others when placing the BikeERG in your space. It does not have moving arms like most air bikes. Instead, the handlebars have tons of stationary grip options that help you replicate outdoor cycling.

The BikeERG uses Concept2’s signature PM5 monitor. This monitor is battery-powered, so you do not have to plug the bike in to train. It has onboard training content and can also pair with third-party training apps like Zwift. The BikeERG’s unlimited resistance makes it a great option for sprints or endurance training. The only limitation is the difficulty of adjusting the damper setting while training. The BikeERG is better when you vary your rpm to adjust the intensity.

Read Our Full Review Of The Concept2 BikeERG Here

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Best Compact Rowing Machine: Concept2 RowERG

The Concept2 RowERG is one of the best rowing machines available. Once you add in its lightweight frame and compact storage options, it is a no-brainer for the award of the best compact rowing machine. The Concept2 RowERG is reasonably priced and does not require a subscription, so it may be a good pick for budget shoppers.

You can store the Concept2 RowERG upright or in two pieces. A latch at the end of the monorail near the footrests lets you disconnect the rail from the rest of the rowing machine. Then you can stand each piece upright side by side for compact storage. Alternatively, you can stand the entire rower upright. When set up for use the Concept2 RowERG’s dimensions are 96” long and 24” wide. Keep in mind that if you stand it up it will be about 96” tall. The RowERG has transport wheels and weighs only 57 lbs.

The Concept2 RowERG does not require electricity, allowing you to put it almost anywhere. You can even train outdoors with it and move it back inside in two pieces for storage. The battery-powered PM5 monitor is easy to use and comes with onboard programs. The air resistance is loud. Training in a garage or outdoors might be the best option for exercisers who live in close proximity to others.

The RowERG comes in two heights: standard or tall. The tall option comes with longer legs to lift the rowing machine higher off the floor and may not be the best option for exercisers with small spaces. The seat is basic but comfortable. The handle is also comfortable to use. The RowERG has a chain drive which makes the rower even louder. The design is pretty simple, but it is super durable and should last you a long time. Concept2 makes it easy to replace parts if necessary.

Read Our Full Review Of The Concept2 RowERG Here

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Best Compact Elliptical: ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical

Ellipticals can be some of the largest cardio machines. If you like the low-impact, full-body training of an elliptical, the ProForm Pro HIIT H14 has those elliptical benefits with a more compact build. Instead of using a horizontal stride, the HIIT H14 has a vertical elliptical path. For training content, subscribe to iFIT with the HIIT H14.

Most ellipticals have a horizontal stride that somewhat mimics a running stride. The ProForm HIIT H14’s pedals travel up and down more than they travel forward and backward. It feels comparable to training on a stair stepper. The HIIT H14 is low-impact since your feet stay on the pedals the entire time. The moving handles engage your arms, or you can use the stationary handles to isolate your legs.

The ProFom Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical is an iFIT machine. You need a subscription to make the most of its 14-inch touchscreen display. With iFIT, there are thousands of training classes. There are classes specifically designed for the elliptical that follow an instructor as they train on an elliptical in a studio or train outdoors hiking, skiing, or even skating. You can even follow along with the walking and running classes with the HIIT H14. Only the manual training and one featured iFIT class are available without a subscription.

The HIIT H14’s dimensions are 52” long, 29” wide, and 66” high. It weighs around 200 lbs. A 10-year warranty covers the frame. Parts are covered for 2 years while labor is covered for only 1 year. The maximum user weight is 325 lbs. The HIIT H14 feels very stable even if you are training at a high speed.

Read Our Full Review Of The ProForm Pro HIIT H14 Elliptical Here

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Best Compact WalkingPad: WalkingPad X25 Treadmill

If you really want to go for a run indoors but hardly have the space for it, the WalkingPad X25 is here to rescue you. The X25’s deck folds in half to store ultra compactly after you are done running. It’s not ideal for long daily running, but it is a great option for runners who find themselves stuck inside occasionally. It’s also a good beginner treadmill for a young runner who needs to fit a treadmill in their bedroom, dorm, or apartment.

WalkingPad is best known for their compact under-desk treadmills. However, they also make treadmills suitable for running. These treadmills have decks that fold in half. The WalkingPad X25 is their most powerful running treadmill with a speed limit of 9.9 mph. The running deck is 17.32” wide and 47.24” long. Not all runners will be able to hit the top speed with so little room to stretch out their stride, so be cautious when running faster on the X25. For example, my stride length when running just under 9.9 mph is 55 inches long. Most runners naturally shorten their stride when running on a treadmill.

The deck and treadmill belt fold in half. Then you can fold the entire deck up onto the motor hood beneath the console handle. The X25 has transport wheels so you can roll it around when it is folded. The X25 can be stored upright against a wall, in a closet, and behind furniture. It’s 10.1 inches tall when folded flat. You could potentially store it underneath a lofted bed or other furniture with high clearance.

The WalkingPad X25 does not require a subscription to train on it. I like it best for walkers and runners who like to train freeform. WalkingPad has the KS Fit app which does provide some training content. Exercisers can join training programs. The app also controls the treadmill speed to let you use your phone like a remote control. The speed is also adjustable from the dial on the console crossbar.

The X25 is a simple treadmill that is perfect for walkers and runners. It’s a great solution for those days when you just can’t get outside.

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Best High-End Compact Treadmill: Matrix TF50 Treadmill

The Matrix TF50 is my pick for a full-sized treadmill with compact folding for shoppers not constrained by a budget. The TF50 is the most expensive machine on this list. It earns its place on this list with its deck that folds nearly vertically.

Matrix’s folding treadmills for home have some of the most compact folding decks I’ve ever seen. The deck rotates almost 90 degrees to cut the TF50’s footprint almost in half. I picked the TF50 over the TF30 because it has a larger running surface. I recommend the TF50 for runners who want to run fast. The deck is moderately cushioned and measures 20” x 60”. It has a step-up height of 7 inches.

The TF50 uses Matrix’s commercial treadmill manufacturing experience. It has a sturdy build. A lifetime warranty covers the frame, motor, and cushioning. The TF50 is a good investment for a home gym. It supports a maximum user weight of 400 lbs. The motor is 3.25 horsepower and supports walking and running. The maximum speed is 12.5 miles per hour, and the incline range is 0 to 15%.

Matrix treadmills are not manufactured by iFIT but offer iFIT training content to subscribers. iFIT classes are filmed outdoors and guided by top trainers. The speed and incline of the TF50 will automatically adjust according to these workouts. The TF50 comes preloaded with tons of third-party entertainment apps, including Netflix. These smart content options are only available with the touchscreen console options, not the XR low-tech display.

Read Our Full Review Of The Matrix TF50 Treadmill Here

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Best Compact Home Gym: Sole SRVO

The Sole SRVO home gym is compact and uses cables to generate up to 264 lbs of resistance. It is more affordable than many similar products on the market. It does not need to be mounted to a wall, and it does not require a subscription. The Sole SRVO can be purchased by itself or with a complete package of accessories for $500 more.

The Sole SRVO is 41.45 inches long, 20.63 inches wide, and 4.9 inches tall. If you upgrade to the all-in-one complete trainer package, I recommend getting a gym bag to store all of the attachments. You can store it with the SRVO or find an area where they can be stored together. The bench that comes with the set can be folded down, making it possible to store the SRVO and bench side by side under a bed.

The SRVO sits on the floor and has two cables. It does not need to be anchored down, but you will have to put your body weight on it to hold the unit down when training. A dial in the corner of the machine allows you to adjust the resistance up or down. It has a resistance range from 4 to 132 lbs on each side. The SRVO comes with a few standard attachments like knurled metal handles. You can do hundreds of different exercises with either package. Check out the Sole+ app for guidance on how to use the SRVO.

Sole+ is a fitness app that has free training classes just for the SRVO. There are trainer-led classes that teach you how to use the SRVO and how to perform exercises. You can also create your own training programs with the selection of compatible exercises. The SRVO counts your reps and has multiple training styles to make working out even simpler. There are even safety features that will unload the weight if you get in over your head. The only downside to the SRVO is the inability to turn the sound off.

Read Our Full Review Of The Sole SRVO Here

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Factors to Consider When Buying Compact Gym Equipment

The NordicTrack EXP 10i is a folding treadmill with iFIT training content for on and off the machine.

The best compact equipment adds value to your exercise space without intruding into your living space. Because compact equipment is necessary in small spaces, we have also considered factors like storability, portability, and affordability. Exercise equipment that is versatile for a variety of training intensities and styles may save you more space by reducing the need for additional machines.

Value and Versatility

The CAROL Bike has a ton of different training options whether you subscribe to the AI service or not.

Gym equipment that has onboard training options and multiple types of training content adds value through its versatility. Cardio machines that support easy, endurance, sprint, and power training are ideal over machines that specialize in only one or two areas. Equipment that requires a subscription and does not have alternative content may become a burden if you ever want to cancel the subscription. The CAROL Bike and Matrix TF50 are excellent high-end options with a ton of training potential, offering subscription and non-subscription content. The WalkingPad X25, Sole SRVO, and Concept2 machines do not require subscriptions and come with free training content.

Storage

The Concept2 RowERG can be easily taken apart and put back together.

Compact equipment may not need to be compact 100% of the time. If you can afford to give up more space while you are training, consider a machine that folds or otherwise stores compactly. Examples from this list include the Concept2 RowERG which breaks down into two pieces and the WalkingPad X25 which folds twice.

Most residential treadmills fold, and we have ranked our favorites if you can afford to give up a little more space. We also have suggestions for more compact treadmills, specifically.

Portability

The Concept2 BikeERG is a lightweight exercise bike that can easily move around.

Shoppers who need to maximize their space may not have home gyms or garage gyms dedicated to working out. To more effectively share your space between living and training, consider equipment that is easy to move around. Portability is super important if you plan to train in a different place from where you plan to store the equipment.

Cost

The Sole SRVO is a pricey home gym, but its training service is free with your purchase.

The cost of compact gym equipment ranges from $10 for light dumbbells or resistance bands to thousands of dollars for a high-end cardio machine or complete home gym. Deciding on a budget helps you narrow down your search. A very low-budget compact home gym could be a couple of sets of dumbbells for strength training and a jump rope for cardio. You could even take cardio outside by going for a run or walk. A high-end compact gym could be a folding running treadmill, an all-in-one smart home gym, and a subscription to a popular fitness app, like iFIT or Peloton.

A compact home gym can fit any budget and style of training. It just might take some creativity and planning.

Other Compact Gym Equipment Options

In addition to the equipment we covered in this list, there are several other compact gym equipment categories to round out your home gym.

• Free weights
• Workout/Yoga Mat
• Jump rope
• Agility equipment
• Under-desk cardio equipment
• Stability Ball
• Medicine Ball
• Fitness App

How We Test Equipment

Our testing process involves using the equipment like any consumer might, inspecting the build quality and materials, and conducting performance tests. We have products for months or years so we can review them over time, ensuring that all features are tested. Our reviewers are exercise enthusiasts and use the equipment in their training to discover what is and is not practical. As experts, we consider how a particular machine might suit various types of athletes and training regimens.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are portable gyms worth it?

Portable gyms are great for beginners and exercisers with small spaces. Most portable home gyms are limited in their maximum weight load. They may not be challenging enough for strong athletes, especially for lower-body exercises. Portable gyms often pair with subscription training content to guide your workout sessions. This feature is especially useful for beginners who are not sure where to start or anyone who doesn’t want to plan their sweat sessions in advance.

What is the best size for a small home gym?

A home gym can be any size. Garages make excellent home gyms. The average single-car garage is around 260 square feet. However, you may not need that much space to create a good workout. Compact gym equipment allows you to convert any room into an exercise space.

What is the best piece of home gym equipment?

The best piece of home gym equipment is versatile and meets any gaps in your training. If you are meeting your cardio goals outdoors, the ideal piece of gym equipment might be free weights or a portable all-in-one home gym.

Is it cheaper to go to a gym or make a home gym?

Whether it is cheaper or more expensive to make a home gym versus paying for a gym membership depends on your budget for either option. A gym membership can cost as little as $10 or over $100. This leads to a yearly expense of $120 to $1200. Those numbers will increase if you are not the only one going to the gym. It’s worthwhile to calculate the cost of the equipment you want versus what you are paying for a gym membership to compare the two. Creating a home gym may initially cost more but a gym membership is an ongoing expense that will likely eventually surpass your investment into a home gym.

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