Health & Fitness
Unleash the Power of Home Fitness: The 9 Best Smart Home-Gym Machines
Working out at home has become a popular choice for many even after the pandemic. Fortunately, the at-home workout equipment available today has significantly improved in sophistication over the past few years. These advanced workout stations are so comprehensive that they raise the question of whether a gym membership is still necessary. Additionally, several fitness brands have introduced exciting at-home workout classes that provide the same energy and sense of community as in-person studio sessions. These classes not only track your performance but also adapt to your fitness progress, making them highly effective.
While the investment in these machines can be substantial, we have taken the initiative to test out some of the most promising options. We have also consulted with fitness experts to determine which ones are truly worth the cost. Whether you prefer guided trail runs, cycling, weightlifting, or even rowing with a world-class trainer, there is undoubtedly an ideal at-home workout solution for every type of exerciser.
By embracing the convenience and effectiveness of these advanced at-home workout options, individuals can maintain their fitness routines without the need to visit a traditional gym. This shift has empowered people to exercise in the comfort and privacy of their living rooms or bedrooms while receiving professional guidance and motivation through virtual classes.
Ultimately, the evolution of at-home workout equipment and classes has revolutionized the fitness industry, offering flexibility and convenience without compromising on results. So, if you are considering transforming your home into a personal fitness hub, there are plenty of compelling options available to suit your preferences and fitness goals.
1- Best overall smart home-gym equipment
The Peloton Guide stands out as the best overall smart home-gym equipment for several compelling reasons. It offers an impressive level of versatility, catering to a wide range of workout types, including strength training, cycling, running, yoga, stretching, and cardio. With a subscription cost of $24 per month, it provides access to a diverse array of guided workouts without any additional expense for existing Peloton members. Although the base package does not include any accessories, dumbbells and mats are available with other Guide bundles.
What sets the Peloton Guide apart is its compact and efficient design. Rather than being a bulky machine, it is a camera that connects to a monitor or TV. This space-saving feature makes it an ideal addition to any home gym setup. The Guide tracks your movements during Peloton classes, providing detailed feedback on your performance in weight training, yoga, or cycling sessions. The feedback includes information about the number of sets completed and the muscle groups activated, which helps you monitor your progress effectively.
During a month of testing, the tracking feature proved to be surprisingly effective. The on-screen half-circle meter fills as you hold a pose or perform a repetition, encouraging you to stay committed to each rep and set within the workout. This reinforcement and real-time feedback make the Guide more motivating than following standard workout videos on platforms like YouTube.
For Peloton enthusiasts familiar with the network of classes and instructors, the Guide serves as a valuable companion. It seamlessly integrates with the Peloton app, enabling metric tracking and synchronization, just like the Peloton Bike and Tread. The Guide also replicates the feel of being in an in-person class by displaying icons of other members currently participating in the same class or session.
Despite not being a traditional fitness machine, the Peloton Guide's affordability and wide variety of workouts make it an excellent choice for at-home fitness. Priced at $295, it is the most budget-friendly option among the devices in this category while still offering an extensive range of workouts without the need for bulky equipment.
In conclusion, due to its versatility, affordability, and seamless integration with the larger Peloton network, the Peloton Guide emerges as the best overall smart home-gym equipment for individuals looking to elevate their at-home workout experience.
2- Best for a variety of classes
For those seeking a variety of workout classes, the Mirror stands out as the best option. Acquired by Lululemon in 2020, the Mirror now offers Lululemon Studio membership, granting users access to a diverse range of boutique gym classes. This feature-rich equipment caters to a wide array of fitness needs, making it a favorite during testing.
For a monthly subscription cost of $39, Mirror users can enjoy live and on-demand workouts spanning cardio, strength training, yoga, Pilates, boxing, and more. The addition of the Lululemon Studio umbrella expands the options further, allowing users to take classes from renowned studios such as Pure Barre, Rumble, Y7, and Dogpound, among others. With at least 50 new classes added weekly, the Mirror provides exceptional versatility and keeps your fitness routine fresh and engaging.
Mirror comes with essential accessories, including ankle weights, weights, resistance bands, and a heart-rate monitor. This comprehensive set of tools ensures that you have everything you need to maximize your workouts.
The Mirror not only tracks your workout metrics but also focuses on heart-rate monitoring during various types of exercises. Your score is based on staying within target heart-rate zones, providing valuable insights into your performance and progress. Additionally, Mirror allows you to compare your latest performance with previous scores, offering a sense of achievement and motivation for improvement.
Beyond its functionality, the Mirror sets itself apart with its design aesthetics. When not in use, it resembles an elegant wall mirror, blending seamlessly into your home decor. However, during workouts, it transforms into a vibrant screen, displaying classes and instructors. The initial adjustment to working out with your own reflection and an instructor may take a moment, but once you adapt, the classes become enjoyable and engaging.
Though the communal aspect of group classes might be missed at first, the motivating instructors on Mirror make up for it, ensuring an exciting workout experience. The Mirror also offers a personal training program, where a virtual trainer coaches you through the front-facing camera. For privacy, you can cover the camera with a privacy cap when not in use.
In summary, the Mirror excels as the best choice for individuals seeking a diverse range of workout classes. With its broad selection of fitness styles, seamless design, and personalized metrics tracking, the Mirror provides an enriching and effective at-home workout experience. Whether you prefer cardio, strength training, yoga, Pilates, boxing, or more, the Mirror offers it all under one subscription, making it an outstanding investment for your fitness journey.
3- Best for runners (and aspiring runners)
For runners and aspiring runners, the NordicTrack X22i is the top choice for its exceptional features and integration with iFit classes, making it the best treadmill for guided runs.
The NordicTrack X22i stands out due to its impressive belt speed, which accommodates different running workouts, and its remarkable 40 percent incline capability. This range of incline options allows runners to simulate challenging terrains, enhancing the running experience.
What sets the NordicTrack X22i apart is its seamless integration with iFit classes. iFit offers a wide selection of both live studio classes and on-demand sessions, providing runners with various guided workouts to suit their preferences and goals. The true advantage of iFit comes to fruition when used in combination with NordicTrack devices. For NordicTrack treadmill users, some iFit classes can sync with the treadmill and adjust the incline or decline based on the route being followed in the class. This feature adds an extra dimension of realism and engagement to the guided runs. Outside magazine gear columnist Joe Jackson used the X22i to simulate a trail run in Chamonix, France, thanks to its super-varied incline capabilities. Users can enjoy the feeling of running on different terrains without leaving the comfort of their homes.
For those without a NordicTrack treadmill, iFit classes and sessions are still accessible via tablets or the iFit app. This versatility allows individuals to follow along with their own equipment while benefiting from the expertise and guidance of iFit trainers.
With a subscription cost of $39 per month, iFit offers runners an array of workouts, including running, endurance, strength, and yoga sessions, providing a well-rounded approach to fitness and improving overall running performance.
While the NordicTrack X22i does not come with specific accessories, its impressive features and integration with iFit classes make it an exceptional choice for runners and those looking to start their running journey. The ability to access virtual trail runs and diverse workouts ensures that runners stay motivated and challenged in their pursuit of improved fitness and running prowess.
In conclusion, the NordicTrack X22i is the best treadmill for runners and aspiring runners due to its high-performance features, extensive incline capabilities, and seamless integration with iFit classes. Whether you're a seasoned runner seeking virtual trail runs or a beginner looking to start your running journey, the NordicTrack X22i provides an engaging and effective platform for achieving your running goals.
4- Technogym MyRun Treadmill
For indoor runners seeking a solid treadmill with excellent programming, the Technogym MyRun Treadmill is a strong choice. This treadmill offers versatility for running, strength training, and yoga, making it a versatile fitness tool for various workouts.
One standout feature of the MyRun treadmill is its treadmill surface that adapts to your running style to protect your joints. The surface feels softer and absorbs more impact at lower speeds, providing a more comfortable experience. As you pick up the pace, it offers firm responsiveness, enhancing your running performance. While it may not have the same bouncy feeling as a treadmill with a slatted surface like a Woodway, the MyRun treadmill is a more affordable option, which is a significant advantage.
The programming on the app is a real highlight of the Technogym MyRun. It offers a variety of guided sessions led by trainers with specific focuses, such as building endurance, hill training, and technique drills. The app allows you to select your skill level, and based on that, it recommends appropriate paces and inclines throughout the class. The treadmill automatically adjusts to the changes in speed and incline as instructed by the app, providing a seamless and engaging workout experience.
One downside is that most of the runs are in the 20- to 30-minute range, limiting options for those seeking longer runs. Additionally, the total number of workouts available (currently a few dozen) is relatively small compared to some other fitness apps like Peloton or SoulCycle, which offer larger libraries of classes.
It's worth noting that some of the classes on the MyRun app are taught in Italian or Spanish with English subtitles, as Technogym is based in Europe. While this may not be a significant problem, it's something to consider for those who prefer workouts in their native language.
The MyRun app also offers "outdoors" options, where you can run along with scenic views from various locations around the world, such as the lavender fields of Provence and the Algarve coast of Portugal. In addition to the running workouts, the app provides strength and yoga workouts, both bodyweight and equipment-based (equipment not included), which you can do off the treadmill.
Overall, the Technogym MyRun Treadmill offers a satisfying running experience with its adaptable surface and guided workouts through the app. It may have some limitations in terms of workout length and class variety compared to other apps, but it remains a compelling choice for indoor runners seeking a well-rounded fitness tool with effective programming.
5- Best for low-impact workouts
For individuals seeking low-impact workouts with a diverse range of options, the Hydrow rower stands out as the best choice. This commercial-gym-grade rower offers versatility, providing workouts for rowing, strength training, yoga, and Pilates, making it an ideal low-impact solution for those concerned about their knees and hips.
The Hydrow rower features a computer-controlled resistance mechanism that replicates the sensation of rowing on water, delivering an authentic and engaging rowing experience. Its 22-inch touchscreen allows users to access nearly 3,000 prerecorded workouts, with more being continuously added. In addition to rowing classes, you can also enjoy yoga, Pilates, and strength-training sessions, which complement your cardio workouts effectively.
The rower's screen can be easily tilted off-center, allowing you to view the workouts while on a mat, perfect for participating in yoga or Pilates classes alongside your rowing routine. This flexibility enhances the overall workout experience and ensures that users can achieve a well-rounded fitness regimen.
The Hydrow rower offers a monthly subscription rate of $38, which includes delivery. The subscription provides access to a wealth of workout options, creating a rewarding and motivating fitness experience. Additional packages are available, offering extras such as a heart-rate monitor, a foam roller, and a mat to enhance your workout setup.
One standout aspect of the Hydrow rower is the immersive visual experience it offers. Instead of watching instructors in a blank space or indoor studio, the classes take place on open waters, providing a sense of freedom and connection to nature during indoor workouts. The classes are filmed in various locations worldwide, such as Miami, the River Thames in London, and the California coastline, creating a refreshing and inspiring ambiance for users.
Overall, the Hydrow rower excels as the best option for low-impact workouts due to its commercial-grade quality, diverse workout options, and immersive visual experience. Whether you want to enjoy the sensation of rowing on water or explore complementary low-impact workouts like yoga and Pilates, the Hydrow rower offers an exceptional fitness solution that is gentle on your joints while keeping you engaged and motivated in your fitness journey.
For metric-conscious exercisers who enjoy rowing and prefer data-based workouts, the Ergatta rower is the top choice. Ergatta's programming focuses on providing interactive workouts with a data-driven approach, making it ideal for those who appreciate tracking their metrics during rowing sessions.
Ergatta combines a handsome cherrywood WaterRower, a respected leader in the rowing industry, with an arm that features a visual display for interactive workouts. When not in use, the rower stands up vertically, saving space in your home gym. If you already own a WaterRower, you can opt to buy the add-on display panel for $549, which provides access to Ergatta's programming.
Ergatta's subscription cost is $29 per month, and it offers a unique approach to workouts compared to traditional classes led by instructors. Instead, it provides "game-based" workouts, including interval sessions, virtual races, progressive programming to enhance your speed and endurance, and an "open row" option for rowing on your own.
The data-focused experience with Ergatta is different from other rowers like the Hydrow. The visual display provides detailed metrics, including 500-meter splits, speed, cadence, and distance traveled. The workout experience is akin to a pared-down video game, where lines represent you and other users of similar ability that the machine has matched up with you to race against. This game-like approach adds an element of fun and competition to your rowing sessions.
While the Hydrow rower offers scenic waterways and athletic instructors, the Ergatta's visual display focuses purely on your performance metrics, providing a more minimalist and metric-oriented workout environment.
In summary, the Ergatta rower is the best choice for metric-conscious exercisers who enjoy rowing and prefer a data-driven workout style. With its elegant design, interactive programming, and game-based approach, Ergatta offers a unique and engaging fitness experience that caters specifically to individuals who value tracking their metrics during rowing workouts. If you appreciate the challenge of racing against others and enjoy a more gamified rowing experience, the Ergatta rower is the perfect option for you.
For cyclists seeking a comprehensive and community-driven at-home workout experience, the Peloton bike is the ultimate choice. Peloton has become the industry standard for at-home cycling and offers an extensive range of workouts and features specifically designed for cyclists.
The original Peloton bike, priced at $39 per month for the subscription, provides access to new live workouts streamed daily and thousands of on-demand options, including not only cycling but also yoga, stretching, and more. It offers a large HD display and a bike identical to the ones found in Peloton studios, giving users the closest experience to an in-person workout.
Peloton's Bike+ (starting at $2,495) introduced new features to enhance the workout experience further. These features include a larger screen that rotates 360 degrees, enabling users to follow along with workouts off the bike, automatic resistance adjustments that mirror the instructor's program, and full integration with the Apple Watch.
One of the standout aspects of Peloton's cycling experience is the community aspect. Users can compete with others based on their cadence and resistance level, earning a power-output score and seeing where they rank on the leaderboard. The addition of live DJs and themed playlists keeps the workouts fresh and engaging, ensuring there's always a variety of rides to choose from.
While the competitive nature of the Peloton leaderboard might be a little discouraging for some, many users find it motivating and inspiring. Peloton instructors often give shout-outs to riders who hit milestones during live rides, creating a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie among the community.
For cyclists who enjoy the group workout atmosphere but prefer the convenience of working out at home, the Peloton bike offers the perfect solution. With its comprehensive workout options, interactive features, and strong sense of community, Peloton stands as the top choice for cyclists seeking an unparalleled at-home workout experience.
8- Best for weight training
For individuals seeking an exceptional weight training experience at home, the Tonal system is the top choice. Tonal's wall-mounted screen, featuring built-in electromagnetic motors, offers up to 200 pounds of resistance, making it an ideal option for both beginners and experienced weightlifters who desire personalized guidance and the convenience of at-home workouts.
The accessory package, priced at $495, includes smart handles, a smart bar, an attachable rope, a bench, a workout mat, and a foam roller. The smart handles and smart bar attach to the resistance arms, enabling users to change the weight with a simple touch of a button. This feature provides efficient and seamless transitions between exercises, ensuring smooth and effective workouts.
Before starting your first Tonal workout, you'll complete a fitness assessment and choose your fitness goals, such as building muscle or toning up. Based on this information, Tonal recommends a customized workout program tailored to your objectives. The machine also determines the appropriate weight for each exercise, eliminating the guesswork and providing precise weight recommendations.
For those who find traditional weight rooms intimidating, Tonal offers the perfect alternative with its guided workouts led by expert coaches. Detailed instructions and weight recommendations for each exercise make it easy for users to follow along and progress effectively in their strength training journey.
Tonal places a strong emphasis on metrics, keeping track of the weight used and automatically increasing it as you get stronger. This data-driven approach ensures that your workouts remain challenging and effective, promoting continuous improvement in strength and performance.
With its wide range of accessories, Tonal allows users to perform a vast array of exercises typically done in a gym setting. From arm and leg workouts to core-toning moves, Tonal provides comprehensive strength training options that cater to all major muscle groups.
Users like Stephen Pennington, an at-home fitness enthusiast who has been using Tonal since 2020, appreciate the system's analytics and personalized approach. Tonal's curated experience focuses on individual needs and goals, making each workout session meaningful and effective.
In conclusion, the Tonal system excels as the best option for weight training at home, offering a comprehensive and personalized workout experience. With its guided workouts, detailed instructions, and automatic weight adjustments, Tonal provides an ideal solution for both beginners and seasoned weightlifters seeking a challenging and rewarding strength training regimen. Whether you aim to build muscle, tone up, or enhance your overall strength, Tonal's versatility and data-driven approach make it a standout choice for weight training enthusiasts.
9- Best for beginner weight training
For beginners looking to start weight training at home, the Tempo Studio and Tempo Move are top choices that offer guidance and interactive workouts to ensure proper form and technique.
The Tempo Studio resembles a small armoire with a mirror at first glance, but it opens up to reveal a 42-inch HD touchscreen and a series of weight plates. It also includes two dumbbells, providing a solid foundation for a weight-training setup. Tempo offers upgrade packages with add-ons like barbells, a folding bench, a heart rate monitor, and more, allowing users to customize their setup based on their preferences and needs.
What sets Tempo apart is its motion sensors and camera, which track your form during workouts and provide real-time feedback on how to improve. This emphasis on correct form ensures that beginners learn and execute exercises properly, reducing the risk of injuries and maximizing the effectiveness of their workouts.
Tempo's approach to weight training is unique as it prioritizes doing exercises correctly rather than focusing on a specific number of reps. The machine suggests appropriate weights and rep targets based on your initial strength test, but the emphasis is on performing exercises correctly within the allocated 30- to 60-second time period per exercise.
For those seeking a more compact option, Tempo introduced the Tempo Move, which costs $495 along with a $39 monthly subscription. The Tempo Move includes two dumbbells and a series of weight plates that neatly tuck inside a storage unit, resembling a speaker rather than a weight rack. Instead of a sensor on a large screen, the Tempo Move uses your iPhone camera to track your form and provide feedback. It requires a TV or screen with an HDMI display and an iPhone XS/XR or higher.
Tempo's beginner-friendly setup, along with its guidance and focus on proper form, makes it an excellent choice for those new to weightlifting. Whether you prefer a more comprehensive setup with the Tempo Studio or a compact option like the Tempo Move, both options offer interactive workouts and personalized feedback to support beginners in their weight training journey. With Tempo, beginners can confidently embark on their weight training experience, knowing they have a reliable and supportive home-gym device to guide them toward their fitness goals.
The Tempo Studio resembles a small armoire with a mirror at first glance, but it opens up to reveal a 42-inch HD touchscreen and a series of weight plates. It also includes two dumbbells, providing a solid foundation for a weight-training setup. Tempo offers upgrade packages with add-ons like barbells, a folding bench, a heart rate monitor, and more, allowing users to customize their setup based on their preferences and needs.
What sets Tempo apart is its motion sensors and camera, which track your form during workouts and provide real-time feedback on how to improve. This emphasis on correct form ensures that beginners learn and execute exercises properly, reducing the risk of injuries and maximizing the effectiveness of their workouts.
Tempo's approach to weight training is unique as it prioritizes doing exercises correctly rather than focusing on a specific number of reps. The machine suggests appropriate weights and rep targets based on your initial strength test, but the emphasis is on performing exercises correctly within the allocated 30- to 60-second time period per exercise.
For those seeking a more compact option, Tempo introduced the Tempo Move, which costs $495 along with a $39 monthly subscription. The Tempo Move includes two dumbbells and a series of weight plates that neatly tuck inside a storage unit, resembling a speaker rather than a weight rack. Instead of a sensor on a large screen, the Tempo Move uses your iPhone camera to track your form and provide feedback. It requires a TV or screen with an HDMI display and an iPhone XS/XR or higher.
Tempo's beginner-friendly setup, along with its guidance and focus on proper form, makes it an excellent choice for those new to weightlifting. Whether you prefer a more comprehensive setup with the Tempo Studio or a compact option like the Tempo Move, both options offer interactive workouts and personalized feedback to support beginners in their weight training journey. With Tempo, beginners can confidently embark on their weight training experience, knowing they have a reliable and supportive home-gym device to guide them toward their fitness goals.
With these 9 best smart home-gym machines, you can take your fitness journey to the next level. Embrace the convenience, motivation, and efficiency they bring, and enjoy the freedom of working out whenever and however you desire, all within the comfort of your home