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Avoid the Tariff Trap: Top Budget-Friendly Equipment Picks for 2025
Posted by Gym Direct,
11th April 2025
Train Smart, Spend Less: The Best Budget Gym Equipment for 2025
Staying fit shouldn't mean emptying your wallet. But with tariffs, inflation, and supply chain hiccups driving prices up, finding budget-friendly gym equipment in 2025 is trickier than ever. The good news? There’s still plenty of high-quality, affordable fitness gear that won’t break the bank.
In this guide, we’ll cover the best bang-for-your-buck gym equipment, categorised by price range, so you can keep crushing your workouts without crushing your budget.
Best Budget Gym Equipment for 2025
Building a home gym doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With rising costs in 2025, finding high-quality, budget-friendly fitness equipment is more important than ever. We’ve broken down the best gym equipment by price range—under $100, $300, $500, and $1000—so you can invest wisely without compromising on quality. Plus, with flexible finance options, you can train now and pay later.
Best Equipment Under $100
Looking to get fit without spending a fortune? You’d be surprised how much impact a few well-chosen budget-friendly items can have on your workouts. Whether you need tools to boost strength, improve recovery, or enhance cardio, these under-$100 options from Gym Direct deliver incredible value without cutting corners.
Muscle Motion Rubber Hex Dumbbells
Starting from $13.60, these durable dumbbells are perfect for strength training exercises.
Athleteus Soft PVC Kettlebells
Starting from $15, an option for beginners, providing a solid workout without breaking the bank. BONUS, these PVC kettlebells feature a soft shell that effectively prevents bruising while also protecting your floors from damage.
Muscle Motion Elite Ball Bearing Speed Rope
Priced at $15, this high-performance skipping rope features weighted ball bearings for a smoother, more consistent jump rope experience. It's an affordable cardio tool that enhances endurance and footwork.
High-Quality Exercise Mat
For $20, a durable mat is essential for core training and provides comfort during floor exercises.
Resistance Bands Set
Ideal for strength training and flexibility exercises, this set includes multiple resistance levels to accommodate various workouts.
Muscle Motion Ab Mat
Enhance your core workouts with this supportive ab mat, designed to provide comfort and stability during abdominal exercises.
Best Equipment Under $300
With a budget of up to $300, you can expand your home gym setup with more advanced strength and conditioning tools. This price range includes heavier-duty equipment that enhances performance, builds endurance and supports progressive overload training.
Muscle Motion 40kg Rubber Adjustable Standard Dumbbell Set
At $245, this set is ideal for full-body workouts and allows you to adjust the weight as needed.
Harison HR-309 Home Fitness Stepper
At $295, this compact stepper provides a full-body cardio workout, helping you burn calories, improve endurance, and tone muscles from the comfort of your home.
Muscle Motion AB1004 Folding Adjustable Flat Incline Decline Bench
Priced at $295, this bench offers multiple incline settings and a heavy-duty build, making it perfect for various strength training exercises.
Muscle Motion 20kg Olympic Barbell
Perfect for those looking to start barbell training, this Olympic barbell is durable and suitable for various lifting exercises.
Harison HR410 Boxing Bag
Ideal for boxing enthusiasts, this durable punching bag enhances strength, speed, and endurance training.
Rapid Motion 45 Degree Hyperextension
Designed to strengthen the lower back, glutes, and hamstrings, this equipment is essential for a comprehensive strength training routine.
Best Equipment Under $500
At this price point, you can invest in more substantial and multi-functional gym gear. Equipment in this range is perfect for those looking to take their training to the next level with more stability, versatility, and durability.
Plate Loaded Leg Curl Leg Extension Machine
At $449, this machine allows you to target your leg muscles effectively, offering both leg curl and extension exercises.
Muscle Motion AB1013 Incline Decline Bench
This bench provides multiple positions for various exercises and is priced under $500, making it a versatile addition to your home gym.
Harison Discover HR-610 Multifunctional Weight Bench Fitness Box
This versatile fitness box allows for a comprehensive full-body workout, targeting various muscle groups. It is equipped with moving wheels for easy mobility and storage.
Harison X15 Intelligent Magnetic Spinning Bike
Designed for both beginners and avid cyclists, the X15 offers a premium indoor cycling experience. It boasts advanced technology integration, including app connectivity for immersive training sessions.
Harison HR-609 Adjustable Bench with Leg and Arm Curl Attachments
This multifunctional bench provides versatility for various strength training exercises. It features leg and arm curl attachments with multiple adjustments for varied workouts.
Muscle Motion Half Rack
This is a compact and robust strength training solution, featuring an angled chin-up bar, 14-inch safety arms, and two weight storage horns compatible with Olympic and standard plates.
Best Equipment Under $1000
If you’re ready to invest in high-performance gear, this category delivers premium quality equipment at reasonable prices. Ideal for dedicated fitness enthusiasts or home gym owners looking for professional-grade gear without breaking the bank.
Muscle Motion 12 Pair 1kg-15kg Rubber Hex Dumbbell Set with 3-Tier Rack
This comprehensive set includes 12 pairs of rubber hex dumbbells ranging from 1kg to 15kg, accompanied by a sturdy 3-tier rack for organized storage.
Rapid Motion AB1011 Commercial Adjustable Bench
Designed for commercial use, this adjustable bench offers multiple incline and decline positions, providing versatility for various strength training exercises.
Harison Discover 115Plus Multifunction Fitness Station
This multifunctional fitness station combines multiple workout stations in one compact design, allowing for a variety of exercises to target different muscle groups.
Muscle Motion SM1002P Smith Machine with Plate-Loaded High/Low Pulley
This Smith machine features a plate-loaded high/low pulley system, offering a range of motion for diverse strength training workouts.
Harison Discover B3600 Light Commercial Exercise Upright Bike
This upright bike features a robust steel construction with a premium baking paint finish, ensuring a safe and comfortable riding experience.
Harison Discover Light Commercial HR-G3004 Olympic Flat Bench Press
At $595 and designed for both seasoned athletes and beginners, this bench press offers a stable and reliable platform to enhance strength training. Its precision-crafted design ensures stability and safety, allowing users to focus on maximising their performance.
Best Budget-Friendly Gym Packages
Looking to build your home gym quickly and cost-effectively? Gym equipment bundles are an excellent way to save money while getting all the essentials in one go. These packages offer significant savings compared to purchasing individual items separately.
Muscle Motion Rubber Olympic Barbell Set
Stating from $460, this package features the popular 20kg OB01 Olympic Barbell, complemented by rubber weight plates and spinlock collars, providing a comprehensive solution for weightlifting enthusiasts.
Muscle Motion Home Gym Package- Dumbbell & Flat Benches Package 2
This package for $695 offers a selection of dumbbells and flat benches, providing essential equipment for a versatile and effective home workout setup.
Muscle Motion PR1012 Package - Power Rack + Bench + Bar + 77.5kg Olympic weights
This comprehensive package includes the PR1012 Modular Power Rack with high/low pulley system, a bench, a barbell, and 77.5kg of Olympic weights, designed to enhance your strength training regimen. Only $1,595.
How to Choose Budget-Friendly Gym Equipment
1. Focus on Versatility
When building a budget-friendly home gym, prioritise multi-functional equipment that maximises value and efficiency. Adjustable dumbbells, kettlebells, and resistance bands allow for a wide range of exercises, from strength training to endurance workouts, making them ideal for any fitness level.
2. Prioritise Durability
Saving money upfront on low-quality equipment can cost you more in the long run. Invest in well-constructed, durable gear from trusted brands to ensure longevity and safety. Look for materials like heavy-duty steel, reinforced stitching, and strong grip handles to withstand regular use.
3. Consider Storage Space
If you’re working with limited space, opt for compact or foldable gym equipment that offers maximum functionality without taking up too much room. Adjustable benches, wall-mounted racks, and suspension trainers are great choices for small home gyms, allowing for easy storage when not in use.
4. Look for Sales and Discounts
Smart shopping can save you a significant amount on gym equipment. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions, clearance sales, and discount codes—especially around major shopping events like Black Friday and EOFY sales. Gym Direct frequently offers special deals on high-quality fitness gear, making premium equipment more accessible. Explore our sales & promotions page.
5. Read Reviews and Compare Prices
Before making a purchase, take the time to research customer reviews and compare similar products. Reviews provide real insights into durability, ease of use, and overall value, helping you make an informed decision. Checking multiple retailers ensures you get the best deal without compromising on quality.
Train Now, Pay Later: Flexible Payment Options
At Gym Direct, we believe that getting the right equipment for your fitness journey should be hassle-free, regardless of your budget. That’s why we offer flexible payment options to help you train now and pay later, making your dream gym a reality today!
We’ve partnered with trusted providers like Blue Rock, Afterpay, Humm, Grenke Finance, Zip Money, and Procuret to give you a variety of plans to suit your needs. Whether you prefer to spread your payments over weeks or months, you can enjoy your new gym gear right away and pay at your own pace.
No interest and easy repayment plans allow you to focus on your fitness goals, not your finances. Choose the option that works best for you and get started on your fitness journey without delay!
Train Smart, Spend Smarter
Avoiding the tariff trap doesn’t mean settling for cheap, low-quality gear. By choosing versatile, durable, and cost-effective equipment, you can build a powerful home gym without overspending. Whether you’re lifting, jumping, or recovering, these budget-friendly picks will keep your workouts strong—and your wallet happy.
FAQs
What is the best piece of budget-friendly gym equipment?
Adjustable dumbbells are one of the best investments because they replace multiple weights and offer endless exercise variations.
How can I save money when buying gym equipment?
Look for discounts and bundle deals. Also, consider versatile equipment like resistance bands and kettlebells.
Is budget gym equipment durable?
Yes, if you buy from reputable brands. High-quality budget options exist—just check materials, weight capacity, and customer reviews before purchasing.
What cardio machine is best for small spaces?
A compact treadmill like the Tempo TP108 T or a foldable rowing machine is ideal for small spaces.
Can I get a full-body workout with just a few budget items?
Absolutely! Resistance bands, kettlebells, and suspension trainers offer full-body workouts without requiring expensive machines.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general guidance and informational purposes only. It should not be considered a substitute for professional advice or consultation. Always consult with a qualified fitness trainer or healthcare provider before starting any new exercise regimen or making significant changes to your fitness routine, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or health concerns. The authors and publishers of this article do not assume any responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of the content and shall not be held liable for any direct, indirect, or consequential damages arising from the use of information contained herein. You are solely responsible for your health and fitness decisions, and any actions you take based on the information presented in this article are at your own risk.
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