The Best Home Gym Equipment for Beginners, According to Fitness Pros

While gym closures may have gotten in the way of your full body workout, there's a myriad of home gym equipment that can support any fitness goal—whether you're a beginner getting your feet wet in a small space, or a vet whose ready to break that sports bra and those cute workout clothes out of retirement. Intense power lifters can pick up sledgehammers and adjustable benches to improve their setup, while those looking to focus on cardio can shop air bikes and weighted jump ropes. Overall, the key to finding the best workout equipment for your home? "Purchase items you'll actually use," says trainer and writer Tamara Pridgett.

To help you choose which gear is right for you, we spoke with Pridgett, as well as Lore McSpadden-Walker of Positive Force Movement in Rochester, NY, and fitness pro and author Jay Cardiello. One item that our experts urged you not to buy: a scale, since they say fitness should be built around feeling energized and confident, not simply reaching a target weight.

"Ultimately, your movement practice should help you alleviate pain and find more vitality. If it's leaving you feeling drained, and serving more as a source of guilt, shame, or obligation than a source of joy and playfulness, it's time to reevaluate your approach," says McSpadden. Ahead, home gym equipment that should help you do just that.