10 Best Space-Saving Exercise Equipment for Tiny Apartments

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Did you know 54% of apartment dwellers say lack of space is the biggest obstacle to working out at home? I get it! When I first moved into my shoebox apartment, I thought my fitness dreams were over. But let me tell you, with the right space-saving exercise equipment, you can turn even the smallest corner into a home gym.

I’ve been there – trying to do burpees without knocking over my coffee table or attempting yoga with my face squished against the wall. Not pretty! But after tons of trial and error (and a few bruised shins), I’ve found some amazing space-saving exercise equipment that will turn your tiny living space into a lean, mean, muscle-building machine.

Here’s the top 10 space-saving exercise equipment options to help you achieve your fitness goals without sacrificing your living space. Whether you live in a studio or just want to carve out a workout nook in your bedroom, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get started and get pumped about making the most of your mini gym with these compact fitness solutions!

Resistance Bands: The Ultimate Space-Saver

Oh man, resistance bands are like the Swiss Army knife of fitness equipment! These stretchy little miracles have saved my workout routine more times than I can count. When I first got into resistance bands I was skeptical. How could these glorified rubber bands give me a decent workout? Boy, was I in for a surprise!

There are so many different types of resistance bands out there. You’ve got your basic loop bands, tube bands with handles, figure-8 bands and even thick, heavy-duty bands for the real muscle-heads. I started with a basic set of loop bands and was hooked.

The best part? When you’re done you can literally stuff them in a drawer or hang them on a hook. No need for a fancy storage solution or to rearrange your furniture. I once forgot I had them in my backpack and accidentally took them to work – talk about portable!

As for exercises, the sky’s the limit. I love doing squats with a band around my thighs for extra booty burn. Bicep curls, shoulder presses, chest flyes – you name it, you can probably do it with a resistance band. And don’t even get me started on the core workouts!

I once got a little too big for my britches and tried to do a super heavy chest press. The band slipped and I smacked myself in the face. Not my finest moment, but hey, you live and learn, right?

Foldable Treadmills: Cardio Without the Clutter

Okay, let’s get the elephant out of the room – or should I say, the treadmill that used to be in my room. When I first thought about getting a treadmill for my tiny apartment my roommate looked at me like I’d lost my mind. But then I found the magic of foldable treadmills and it was a total game-changer!

When you’re shopping for a foldable treadmill look for one with a solid folding mechanism. Trust me you don’t want that thing to collapse on you in the middle of your “Eye of the Tiger” sprint. Also check the dimensions when it’s folded up. Some of these can slide right under your bed or stand up in a closet.

I’ve tried a few different models and let me tell you, they’re not all created equal. The XWalk Pro 2000 has been my ride-or-die for the past year. It folds up like a dream and has enough power to handle my occasional bursts of motivation when I pretend I’m outrunning a T-Rex.

Here’s a pro tip: buy a good silicone spray lubricant. Regular maintenance will keep your treadmill purring like a kitten and your neighbors from thinking you’re operating heavy machinery at 6 AM.

And oh, one more thing: don’t fold it up while it’s still plugged in. Let’s just say I learned that the hard way and almost turned my living room into a silent film.

Adjustable Dumbbells: Multiple Weights, One Compact Set

Alright, let’s get physical and talk about adjustable dumbbells. These little gems are like the transformer robots of the weightlifting world. One minute you’re doing light bicep curls, the next you’re grunting through heavy squats – all with the same set of weights!

The idea is pretty cool. Instead of having a whole rack of dumbbells taking up space, you get one set that can change weight with a twist of a dial or a click of a pin. When I first got mine I spent an embarrassing amount of time just changing the weights back and forth, marveling at the engineering.

There are a few out there, like Bowflex and PowerBlock. I went with the Bowflex SelectTech 552s and let me tell you, they’ve been a game-changer. They go from 5 to 52.5 pounds each, which is perfect for my noodle arms on some days and my Hulk aspirations on others.

The space-saving aspect is no joke. Before I got these I had a sad little collection of mismatched dumbbells that I’d accumulated over the years. They were always in the way and I’m pretty sure I stubbed my toe on them at least once a week. Now I just tuck my adjustable set in the corner and boom – instant floor space!

As for workouts, the possibilities are endless with these. I like to do dumbbell rows, chest presses and shoulder raises. And when I’m feeling extra masochistic I’ll do some weighted lunges around my apartment. Nothing like a good quad burn while dodging furniture, right?

Door-Mounted Pull-Up Bars: Vertical Space Utilization

Let’s talk about defying gravity with door-mounted pull-up bars! When I first considered getting one, I was convinced I’d end up flat on my back with the door frame on top of me. But let me tell you, these things are sturdier than they look – when installed correctly, that is.

Installation is pretty straightforward, but for the love of all that is holy, follow the instructions! I may or may not have tried to wing it the first time and ended up with a nice hole in my drywall. Learn from my mistakes, folks. Make sure you choose a door frame that’s sturdy enough to support your weight, and always check that the bar is secure before you start your Tarzan impression.

Now, let’s talk safety. First rule of Pull-Up Bar Club: always check your grip. There’s nothing quite like the panic of feeling your hands slip mid-pull-up. Trust me, it’s not a fun ride down. Also, be mindful of your head – I’ve had a few close encounters with the top of the door frame that left me seeing stars.

The best part about these bars is the variety of exercises you can do. Pull-ups, chin-ups, hanging leg raises, and even some creative push-up variations if you’re feeling spicy. I like to mix it up with different grips to keep things interesting.

There are removable options that you can take down when you’re not using them, or permanent ones if you’re committed to the pull-up life. I went with a removable one because, well, I still need to use my door sometimes. Plus, it’s a great conversation starter when guests come over and wonder why there’s a metal bar above my door!

Folding Exercise Bikes: Pedal Your Way to Fitness

Okay, let’s switch gears and talk about folding exercise bikes. When I first heard about these I thought, “Great, another piece of equipment that’ll end up as an overpriced clothes hanger.” But boy, was I wrong! These little cardio machines are a game changer for us small space dwellers.

There are a few to choose from. You’ve got your upright bikes, which are like your standard gym bikes but foldable. Then there are recumbent bikes for those who want to pedal in comfort (or watch Netflix while pretending to work out – no judgment here). My personal favorite is the desk bike. I can pedal while answering emails, multitasking my way to fitness.

When shopping for a folding bike, pay attention to the folded dimensions. You want something that can fit in a closet or behind a door. Also, check the weight limit – you don’t want a bike that creaks and groans every time you pedal.

I’ve tried a few different models and I have to say, the FitDesk 3.0 has been my favorite. It’s sturdy, relatively quiet (my downstairs neighbor hasn’t complained… yet) and it folds up nice and small. Plus it has a little desk attachment where I can put my laptop or, let’s be honest, my snacks.

Fitting these into small spaces can be tough but get creative! I’ve seen people use theirs as a side table when folded up. Just throw a tablecloth over it and voila – hidden fitness equipment!

One word of warning: make sure you have a good grip when moving these around. I once tried to move mine after a particularly sweaty workout and it slipped right out of my hands. Cue a lot of noise, a minor heart attack and an awkward explanation to my neighbor.

As always, the best bike is the one you’ll use. So find one that fits your space, your wallet and your fitness goals.

Suspension Training Systems: Minimal Equipment, Maximum Results

Let’s talk about suspension training systems – or as I like to call them, “the jungle gym for grown-ups”. These deceptively simple-looking straps can turn any door, tree, or sturdy anchor point into a full-body workout station. When I first got mine, I felt like a kid with a new toy… until I actually tried using it and realized just how challenging it can be!

Setting up a suspension trainer is usually pretty straightforward. Most come with a door anchor, which you simply throw over the top of a closed door. Just make sure the door opens away from you – trust me on this one. I learned the hard way when I accidentally pulled the door open mid-exercise and ended up in an ungraceful heap on the floor.

The space requirements for these bad boys are minimal. When you’re done, you can just roll it up and stuff it in a drawer. I once packed mine for a vacation and managed to keep up my workout routine in a tiny hotel room. My travel buddy was impressed… until I started grunting through my exercises at 6 AM.

The versatility of exercises you can do with suspension trainers is mind-boggling. Push-ups, rows, squats, lunges – you name it, you can probably do a variation of it. My personal favorite (and by favorite, I mean the one that makes me question all my life choices) is the atomic push-up. Nothing quite like trying to bring your knees to your chest while holding a plank position to make you realize how out of shape you are!

As for popular brands, TRX is probably the most well-known, but there are plenty of other options out there. I went with a more budget-friendly option and it’s served me well. Just make sure whatever you choose can support your weight and has good reviews for durability.

One last piece of advice: start slow and focus on form. The first time I used my suspension trainer, I got a bit overconfident and tried to do a single-leg squat. Let’s just say my neighbors probably thought I was reenacting a slapstick comedy routine. Ease into it, and you’ll be a suspension training pro in no time!

Compact Kettlebells: Swinging to Success in Small Spaces

Ah, kettlebells – the cannonballs with handles that’ll make you question your life choices mid-workout. But let me tell you, these oddly shaped weights are a small-space dweller’s best friend. When I first got into kettlebells, I was skeptical. I mean, how much of a workout can you really get from swinging around a hunk of metal? Turns out, quite a lot!

The beauty of kettlebell training is that it combines strength training with cardio. It’s like getting two workouts for the price of one! And trust me, after a set of kettlebell swings, you’ll feel muscles you didn’t even know you had.

Now, when it comes to space-saving kettlebell designs, there are a few options. You’ve got your standard cast iron kettlebells, which are great but can take up a bit of space if you need multiple weights. Then there are adjustable kettlebells, which are like the transformers of the kettlebell world. You can change the weight without changing the bell – pretty nifty, right?

For beginners, I’d recommend starting with a lighter weight – maybe 8kg (18lbs) for women or 12kg (26lbs) for men. But hey, no judgment here – I started with a 4kg bell and still felt like my arms were going to fall off after the first workout!

Some basic kettlebell exercises to get you started include the kettlebell swing (the grand-daddy of all kettlebell moves), goblet squats, and Russian twists. Fair warning: the first time you try a kettlebell swing, you might feel a bit like a poorly coordinated gorilla. But stick with it! Once you get the form down, you’ll feel like a kettlebell ninja.

Oh, and a word to the wise: clear some space before you start swinging. I may or may not have knocked over a lamp during an overly enthusiastic kettlebell session. RIP, my favorite IKEA lamp – you will be missed.

Foldable Yoga Mats: Zen in Minimal Space

Let’s get bendy and talk about foldable yoga mats! Now I know what you’re thinking – “Isn’t every yoga mat foldable if you try hard enough?” Well, yes, but trust me, there’s a big difference between forcing your standard yoga mat into submission and a mat that folds neatly without throwing a tantrum.

First things first – why is a good yoga mat important? Well, unless you enjoy face-planting during downward dog or sliding around like a newborn giraffe during warrior pose, a decent mat is pretty essential. It cushions your joints and grips your hands and feet. And it creates a “zen zone” in your tiny apartment, even if that zone is right next to your overflowing laundry basket.

Now the magic of foldable mats is in their storage solutions. Unlike traditional roll-up mats that awkwardly lean in corners or play trip-hazard in your closet, foldable mats can, well, fold! They can slide into drawers, onto bookshelves or even into your work bag for those lunchtime yoga sessions.

I’ve tried a few different foldable mats and my current favorite is the Manduka eKO Superlite Travel Mat. It folds up to about the size of a large book, which is perfect for my tiny apartment. And it doesn’t have that funky new-mat smell that makes you wonder if you’re doing more harm than good to your body during your “healthy” yoga session.

One time I decided to try hot yoga in my apartment during a heatwave (not my brightest idea). Let’s just say my regular mat didn’t stand a chance against the sweat tsunami. But my foldable travel mat? It held up like a champ, even when I was basically a human slip ‘n slide.

A word of warning though – while foldable mats are super convenient, they’re often thinner than standard mats. If you’ve got sensitive knees or you’re planning a hardcore session, you might want to double up or put a blanket underneath for extra cushioning. Your joints will thank you!

Wall-Mounted Weight Racks: Vertical Storage Solutions

Alright, let’s get vertical with your fitness gear! Wall mounted weight racks are like the cool, sophisticated cousins of those big, clunky floor standing monstrosities. When I first thought about mounting weights on my wall I had visions of my landlord’s face when I moved out and him kissing my security deposit goodbye. But let me tell you, with the right approach these vertical storage solutions can be a game changer for your small space gym.

There are a few different types of wall mounted racks out there. You’ve got your basic pegs for hanging dumbbells, sleek shelves for kettlebells and even full on power rack systems for the serious lifters among us. I started with a three tier dumbbell rack and it felt like I levelled up my adulting.

Now, installation is where things get a bit tricky. If you’re like me, the phrase “find a stud” sounds more like dating advice than DIY instructions. But trust me, when it comes to hanging heavy weights on your wall you want to make sure you’re drilling into something solid. I learned this the hard way when I tried to take a shortcut and used drywall anchors. Let’s just say it’s a miracle my downstairs neighbor didn’t end up with a dumbbell chandelier.

Weight capacity and durability are key. You don’t want to skimp on something that’s going to be holding your precious (and potentially injury causing) weights. I went for a rack rated for twice the weight I actually needed, just to be on the safe side. Better safe than sorry especially when it comes to heavy objects above your head!

When it comes to design options there’s something for every style. I went with a black metal rack that looks pretty sweet against my white walls. It’s like functional wall art! Some racks even come with built-in mirrors which is great for checking your form (or let’s be honest, admiring your pump).

One unexpected benefit of wall mounted racks? They force you to put your weights away. No more tripping over dumbbells on the floor – unless you enjoy the thrill of toe injuries, of course.

A tip: measure twice, drill once. I got a little too excited during installation and ended up with a few extra holes in the wall. Nothing a little spackle and a strategically placed poster couldn’t fix but still, not my proudest DIY moment.

Overall wall mounted weight racks are a great solution for keeping your gear organized and your floor space clear. Just remember to check with your landlord if you’re renting. And maybe invest in a stud finder – trust me, it’s worth it!

All-in-One Home Gym Systems: Compact Powerhouses

And finally, let’s get into all-in-one home gym systems. These little powerhouses are like the Swiss Army knives of fitness equipment – they do everything and don’t take up all your living space.

When I first started looking into these I was overwhelmed. From cable machines to leverage systems, there’s a lot to choose from. But after some research (and a few YouTube rabbit holes) I settled on a compact cable machine and it’s been a total game changer for my workouts.

Now let’s talk about some of the top models. The Bowflex Blaze is a popular one, over 60 exercises in a small footprint. TRX has some great options if you’re into suspension training. I went with the Fusion Motion Portable Gym. It’s not as fancy as some others but it gets the job done and folds up into a bag I can stash in my closet.

Of course these systems aren’t without their pros and cons. On the plus side you get a full body workout with one piece of equipment. It’s like having a whole gym’s worth of machines in a corner of your bedroom. The downside? They can be a bit pricey and some require a bit of a learning curve to use effectively.

Setup and storage are key for small spaces. Look for systems that fold up or can be easily disassembled. I once bought a bulky machine that was a pain to move. Trying to vacuum around it was like playing a very unfun game of Twister.

Here’s a pro tip: before you buy, map out where you’ll put the system when it’s in use and where you’ll store it when it’s not. I used painter’s tape to mark out the dimensions on my floor and realized I needed to go with a smaller model than I initially planned. Better to figure that out before you’ve lugged a heavy box up three flights of stairs!

Remember the best all-in-one system is the one you’ll actually use. Don’t be swayed by fancy features you’ll never use. Think about your fitness goals and choose a system that aligns with them. And hey, if all else fails you can always use it as a very expensive clothes rack, right? (Just kidding – please don’t do that!)

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Conclusion

Phew! We’ve covered a lot, right? From bands that fit in your sock drawer to all-in-one gyms that turn your space into a mini gym, there’s no shortage of options for working out in small spaces.

Remember, the key to success with space saving equipment is finding what works for you and your situation. Maybe you’ll fall in love with the versatility of bands, or maybe you’ll become a folding treadmill convert. The beauty is in the variety – mix and match to your perfect tiny apartment gym!

As you start your small space fitness journey, don’t forget about form and safety. It’s easy to get caught up in your new equipment and push too hard, too fast. Trust me, I’ve been there, done that and got the sore muscles to prove it. Start slow, focus on form and increase intensity gradually.

And hey, don’t be afraid to get creative! That folding chair can be a workout bench. Your coffee table might be a great platform for step-ups. Just, you know, make sure it’s sturdy first. I may or may not have misjudged the strength of an IKEA table once… let’s just say it didn’t end well for the table or my dignity.

So, what’s your favorite space saving equipment? Have you had any funny mishaps or unexpected successes with your small space workouts? Comment below and share! Maybe your story will inspire someone else to start their own fitness journey, no matter how small their space is.

A small space doesn’t mean small results. With the right equipment and a little creativity you can crush your fitness goals without crushing your living space. Now go (or stay) and get sweaty!

FAQs

What’s the best exercise equipment for a tiny apartment?
If I had to choose just one, I’d say resistance bands. They’re super versatile, take up almost no space and can give you a full body workout. Plus they’re budget friendly! But remember the “best” equipment is what you’ll use consistently.

How much should I expect to spend on space saving exercise equipment?
It really depends on what you’re looking for. You can start with a set of resistance bands for under $20, while an all in one home gym system can cost $500 or more. My advice? Start small and upgrade as you get more committed to your fitness routine.

I live in a 2nd floor apartment. Can I use a treadmill without annoying my downstairs neighbors?
Ah the eternal struggle of apartment dwellers! Yes you can, but you’ll need to take some precautions. Look for a treadmill with good shock absorption, use a thick exercise mat underneath and maybe avoid running at 5 AM. Also a quick chat with your neighbors can go a long way!

Are folding treadmills as good as regular ones?
Most modern folding treadmills are pretty good. They might not have all the bells and whistles of gym grade machines but for home use they’re generally quite reliable. Just make sure to check weight limits and read reviews before buying.

How do I maintain my equipment in a small, possibly humid apartment?
Great question! Cleaning is key. Wipe down equipment after use, especially in humid conditions. For things like weight plates or kettlebells a light coating of oil can prevent rust. And don’t forget to lubricate moving parts on machines like treadmills or exercise bikes.

Can I really get a good workout with just bodyweight exercises?
Yes! Bodyweight exercises can be super effective. Push-ups, squats, lunges, planks – you can get a full body workout with no equipment at all. Plus there are tons of variations to keep it challenging as you get stronger.

So there you have it! 😉 Happy exercising! 🏋️‍♀️