The Best Minimalist Home Gym Equipment for Apartment Dwellers in 2025

You live in an apartment. You've got neighbors left, right, top, and bottom. Through the walls, you hear someone rearranging furniture—again. But slip on your headphones, step into your home gym sanctuary, and suddenly you can decompress, build strength, and ease your mind.

If you thought a home gym was out of reach as an apartment dweller, trust us when we say it's just a matter of finding the right gear. As someone who has a home gym in her dining room, allow me to lead you through the best minimalist apartment home gym equipment to have you tackling your goals when space is spare.

Read More: How to Build an Amazing Compact Home Gym in a Small Space

The Best REP® Equipment for a Minimalist Apartment Gym

REP's Minimalist Home Gym Package rounds up our best space-efficient, multi-function equipment ideal for an apartment setup. Within this curated package, you have the freedom to add suggested equipment to your cart and leave whatever doesn't spark joy behind. Here's what's included:

• Best budget minimalist adjustable bench: REP® Nighthawk™ Adjustable Bench
• Best minimalist dumbbell: REP® x PÉPIN™ FAST Series™ Adjustable Dumbbell
• Best budget minimalist dumbbell: QuickDraw™ Adjustable Dumbbell
• Best minimalist adjustable dumbbell storage: Dumbbell Storage Cart
• Best budget minimalist adjustable dumbbell storage: REP® Adjustable Dumbbell Stand
• Best minimalist kettlebell: Adjustable Kettlebell

Shop the Minimalist Home Gym Package

Best Budget Minimalist Adjustable Bench: REP® Nighthawk™ Adjustable Bench

An adjustable bench is a versatile tool that'll allow you to tackle moves like Bulgarian split squats, rows, bench press, shoulder press, seated bicep curls, and more. The Nighthawk™ Adjustable Bench takes up about 9 square feet when flat, but can be stowed upright when not in use, taking up a modest 1.8 square feet — ideal for those with limited floor space.

Best Minimalist Dumbbell: REP® x PÉPIN™ FAST Series™ Adjustable Dumbbell

A wall of dumbbells in different sizes sounds like a dream setup, or a nightmare scenario for anyone in cramped living quarters. As an apartment dweller, the adjustable dumbbell is your best friend.

The REP® x PÉPIN™ FAST Series™ Adjustable Dumbbell is a premium product, with options to choose an 85, 105, and 125lb pair. Easily change the weight you're looking to lift in 10lb increments, with the option to add on weight and increase each adjustable dumbell's total weight.

Each component is incredibly durable, constructed from steel to withstand drops, bangs, and the other oopsies that come along with training — although, to keep your downstairs neighbors happy with you (and watering your plants when you're out of town) let's try to keep the dropped weights to a minimum.

Best Budget Minimalist Dumbbell: QuickDraw™ Adjustable Dumbbell

The QuickDraw™ is REP's more budget-friendly adjustable dumbbell, and comes in four different size options: a pair that ranges from 5-30lbs, 5-40lbs, 5-50lbs, or 5-60lbs. These adjustable dumbbells are also available in kilograms, with options ranging from 2.5-15kg, 2.5-20kgs, 2.5-25kgs, or 2.5-30kgs.

Adjustments to the weight can be made super fast with the Lock-N-Load steel switches — all you do is flip a switch to choose the amount of weight you want to lift and you're off to the races. While the Adjustable Dumbell size will change depending on the amount of weight you choose, the cradle comes in at a measly 1.2 square feet.

Best Minimalist Adjustable Dumbbell Storage: Dumbbell Storage Cart

This Dumbbell Storage Cart takes up 5.2 square feet of floor space and is compatible with the REP® x PÉPIN™ FAST Series™ and QuickDraw™ adjustable dumbbells. You can secure the cradles for added stability and use the integrated cutouts to store add-on weight plates.

You'll also find a pegboard side and large bottom shelf which can hold your other apartment exercise equipment — like a foam roller, resistance bands, kettlebells, and more. Plus, with built-in transport wheels, you can cart your gym wherever you need it — from one side of the room to the other, or even into your bedroom when you're trying to throw a dinner party.

Best Budget Minimalist Adjustable Dumbbell Storage: REP® Adjustable Dumbbell Stand

The REP® Adjustable Stand is a simple solution to storing your adjustable dumbbells on the floor. This dumbbell stand moves the weights up to where you can reach them and allows you to roll them where you need them — in the way or out of the way.

The stand takes up 4.8 square feet, however there's room in the center for you to maneuver, or to store other equipment on the floor if space is tight.

Best Minimalist Kettlebell: Adjustable Kettlebell

"If I was building out a minimalist apartment gym, a kettlebell would be one of the first things on my list," says strength coach Dan Berman, CSCS, NSCA. "They're super versatile, and you can get a great total body workout in with this one piece of equipment." 

To up the ante of this already versatile equipment, the REP® adjustable kettlebell is basically five kettlebells in one — sizes ranging from 8-16kg, 16-24kg, to 20-40lbs. These bells feature a competition-style shape, an easy push and twist mechanism to select your weight, and a rubber bottom to protect your apartment's floors.

Best Minimalist Accessories

Basics covered, here are some worthwhile accessories to give your compact apartment gym even more versatility:

Short Loop Resistance Band

You don't need any space at all for these short loop bands — store them in your gym bag, on a book shelf, with your kitchen utensils (why not?), or anywhere at all in your home. Toss them on around your legs to add resistance to fire hydrants, standing hip extension, kickbacks, and more. 

I slip one of these into my carry on bag when flying to do bicep curls, shoulder raises, and even tricep extensions from my seat. A set comes with extra light, light, medium, heavy, and extra heavy resistance and you can choose a latex or latex-free option.

Competition Speed Rope

You ever see a boxers physique? Well, they do a ton of work with speed ropes so they must be onto something. 

While we wouldn't recommend tackling sets with a speed rope in your apartment, since the jumping may drive your down stairs neighbor insane, these are light weight and compact so you can easily toss one in your bag and head out onto the sidewalk for your session.

Yoga Mat

A yoga mat is a staple in a home gym — whether you're starting the day with a flow, doing core work, or tackling strength work from the floor. The Premium Yoga Mat comes in two options — a cork version which is breathable, velvety, durable, and disspiates heat, and a recyclable polyurethane and rubber version which is water-resistant, easy to clean, and resists scratches.

Both options measure 73-inches long and 27.5-inches wide, giving you more room for your routine, while still remaining compact. And when not in use, roll it up and stow it in a corner or hang it up in your closet with the Yoga Mat Carry Strap.

Benefits of a Minimalist Apartment Home Gym

A minimalist home gym in your apartment can help you tackle your goals without taking up every inch of available floor space. Here are some key benefits:

• Save Space: Choosing compact equipment, like an adjustable dumbbell over six pairs of dumbbells, will help you maximize your floor space so you have more room to dedicate to your living quarters. Just be sure to measure your space and plan out where you want everything to go.
• Limited Clutter: If you're in a small space, opting for compact and versatile pieces of equipment can help to keep you apartment looking sleek, organized, and mess-free.
• Cost Saving Investment: When you opt for more versatile equipment, rather than machines that are designed to do one thing (I'm looking at you, leg curl machine at my local gym) you'll get more bang for your buck. Plus, when you have the equipment you need in your apartment you can skip the gym membership.
• Simplicity: As someone who has accumulated a ton of home gym equipment over the years, it's wild to think that I really only regularly use a few pieces. Figure out the basics you'll use on repeat and avoid other trendy items that'll sit and collect dust. All you need are solid basics for a killer workout.

Drawbacks of a Minimalist Apartment Home Gym

Here are some considerations for why a minimalist apartment home gym may not be right for you:

• Limited Variety: If variety is the spice of life, a minimalist apartment home gym may start to feel boring. If you like being able to use a ton of different types of pieces of equipment, you may want to opt for a gym membership or consider finding a larger apartment/home where you can build out your dream home gym.
• Initial Investment: While a minimalist home gym can be cost-saving in the long run, the upfront cost of compact, space saving, and versatile equipment can be larger than a simpler (less versatile) piece. For example, adjustable dumbbells will cost more than a single pair of dumbbells. So, be sure to check your finances to see how much you're willing and able to spend before you start building out your minimalist home gym.

What to Consider Before Building a Minimalist Home Gym in Your Apartment

If you're on the fence about whether to setup a minimalist home gym in your apartment, or are interested in a home gym package, here are some key considerations to mull over before you get started.

Noise

We've all had, "those neighbors." You know, the ones who are loud, annoying, constantly dropping things when you live right below them as if they're intentionally trying to disrupt your sleep. Don't be that person. 

To avoid making a ton of noise in your apartment home gym, and thus ruining your relationship with your neighbors, consider the type of equipment that won't cause too much noise. You don't want anything that you'll be dropping if you live above someone —like slam balls or iron plates on a barbell that can be heard down the street. Consider equipment that won't wake your neighbor when you decide you want to get in a quick late-night session.

Protect the Floors and Walls

If you own your apartment, congrats! Do as you please. However, many of us apartment dwellers are renters, and thus, we must try our best to return the apartment to the owner with the floors and walls in good condition. 

This means, laying down protective flooring on the floor to avoid any dents, bumps, or scratches from your training. And also, limiting the amount of holes you drill in the wall for wall-mounted racks and shelves.

Space

You've stumbled upon this article, which means you're already weary about your space constraints. Fear not! There's much you can do in a limited amount of space. However, before you start adding products to your cart, be sure to measure your avilable space to make sure the equipment you want will fit. If you have the luxury of utilizing an extra bedroom as your home gym, consider the REP® Small Home Gym Space Saver Package. And if you've got room in your garage, peruse the REP® Garage Gym Starter Package.

Type of Workout

The type of workout you choose to do is just as important as the equipment you use. You'll want to pick a style of training that's easy on your apartment and doesn't cause too much noise. This means, no plyometrics if you live above someone and big-heavy Olympic lifts (where you'll be dropping the barbell onto the ground after reps) may be out of the question.

[Read More: Step 2 in Build a Home Gym: Consider Your Individual Needs]

Budget

Regardless or the equipment you're eyeing, be sure to have a guage of the amount you'd be willing to spend. Remember, durable equipment is an investment, so while it may cost more on the front end, it'll save you more money in the long run since you'll be less likely to need to replace it. You can also check out the REP® $1,200 Cost Saver Home Gym Package to see a solid, basic setup that keeps costs low.

Takeaway

Armed with the most compact and versatile tools to build out a minimalist apartment home gym, all you have to do is nail down the area you're working with, the type of training you're looking to do, and your budget. When that's all squared away, use this guide to help you get setup and and start tackling your goals. 

FAQs

Can you have a home gym in an apartment?

Yes! Pick a space, a spare room, maybe just the corner of your office, then pull out a measuring tape to figure out what you're working with. Once you've done that, use our guide to help you pick compact equipment that'll help you get set up.

What's the best exercise machine for apartment?

Picking the best equipment for a compact space depends on the type of training you're looking to do. However, the REP® x PÉPIN™ FAST Series™ Adjustable Dumbbell provides a huge range of weight resistance — allowing you to tackle a 10lb lateral raise up to a 125lb single leg RDL or 250lb RDL. These weights come in pairs, utilize a durable cradle, and add-ons are available if you want even more resistance on your dumbbells.

Rosie Borchert is NASM-CPT, former Nike Volleyball coach, and fitness writer whose work has appeared on BarBend and Tonal. If anyone would like to hire her to play beach volleyball, snowboard, binge watch TV, or go climbing, please get in touch.

This article was reviewed by Ashley Boyer, ACE-CPT, for accuracy.