Getting a home gym, what should I buy?

[newdude17]

Hi guys I am planning on buying equipment for a home gym this Christmas. What do you guys recommend I get?, and what would you guys consider necessary for a home gym?

[gbrs5]

You should read the stickies.

But to summarize quickly for you, you'll want the following:
- Power rack
- Olympic weights + bar
- Bench

That will give you a basic set-up where you can work every part of your body effectively and safely.

If you are buying new, it will probably cost you at least $700-$1000. So the best way to get all of that and more cheaper is to buy used locally (usually off Craigslist). If you find potentially good deals, post them up in the Craigslist thread so others can tell you whether it's a good deal or not.

If you don't find a power rack right away, don't get discouraged too quickly. Sometimes, it will takes weeks and even months before a deal pops up. Meanwhile, if you've got nothing, you can do bodyweight exercises.

[Wildtim]

If you wan the slightly less summarized version you should read the FAQ stickie at the top of the forum.

[J.X]

Buy off Craigs List & go to a used equipment store, After Christmas. You can/will get stuff super cheap!

Look for the Sticky for this otherwise.

Happy Shopping!

[TomMutaffis]

All that you need to get started:
- Power Rack ($400)
- Adjustable Bench ($100-250)
- 300 lbs Olympic Weight Set ($100-$150)

I recommend BodySolid equipment for home gyms, and CAP Barbell makes good quality inexpensive bars and plates.

Remember that prices on gym equipment are negotiable and you may be able to arrange free shipping or get a local store to price match internet prices.

Keep an eye on Craigslist as sometimes you can find deals there. Play-it-again Sports also has decent deals sometimes but some of their stuff is overpriced.