{"id":11837,"date":"2026-01-23T06:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-01-23T07:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/?p=11837"},"modified":"2026-01-28T21:43:50","modified_gmt":"2026-01-28T21:43:50","slug":"the-smart-affordable-way-to-create-a-home-gym-youll-actually-use","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/2026\/01\/23\/the-smart-affordable-way-to-create-a-home-gym-youll-actually-use\/","title":{"rendered":"The smart, affordable way to create a home gym you\u2019ll actually use"},"content":{"rendered":"
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\n\t\t\"Items\t<\/div>
These items will help you achieve your fitness goals for 2026, with ease too. (Picture: Metro\/Getty)<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more<\/a><\/em><\/p>\n

Gym memberships aren\u2019t getting any cheaper, and with life feeling busier than ever, squeezing in a workout can be a challenge. But creating your own home setup doesn\u2019t have to drain your wallet or take up unnecessary space. <\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re just getting started<\/a> or want to elevate the space you already have, there are plenty of smart, affordable ways to build a workout area that fits your goals, routine, budget and removes any pressure you might feel whilst at the gym.<\/p>\n

The best part? You don\u2019t need a dedicated room, a massive equipment haul, or a Pinterest-perfect aesthetic to make it work. A few clever tweaks – think multi-use gear, lightweight equipment that stores away neatly, and simple organisational upgrades. Even small changes, like adding a mat that doesn\u2019t slide around or creating a designated spot for your dumbbells, can help you stay consistent and actually enjoy yourself.<\/p>\n

And if motivation starts to fade after January, a fresh yet functional setup can make all the difference. It removes the biggest barriers that can occasionally feel like climbing a mountain: travel time, overcrowded gyms, and the mental load of packing a bag or figuring out a schedule. From compact equipment to space-saving hacks<\/a>, here\u2019s how to create a home gym that feels motivating and doesn\u2019t break the bank.<\/p>\n

Shop the Best At-Home Gym Equipment:<\/h2>\n
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\n\t\t\t\tBest of Metro Deals\t\t\t<\/h2>\n
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Get exclusive\u00a0discounts\u00a0with\u00a0Metro Deals<\/a>\u00a0\u2013 save on getaways and spa days.\u00a0Powered by Wowcher<\/p>\n

Bannatyne Spa<\/strong>
Spa day for two with treatments, lunch & prosecco \u2014\u00a0save up to 57%\u00a0off.<\/p>\n

Get deal now<\/a><\/p>\n

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\n\t\t\"\"\t<\/div>
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Other deals<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Mystery Escape<\/strong>
Hotel stay with return flights from as low as \u00a392pp \u2014 save on worldwide holiday packages.<\/p>\n

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4* Radisson Blu Durham stay with breakfast, spa access & late checkout \u2014 save 60% off.<\/p>\n

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Drive Supercars<\/strong>
 3\u201312 lap supercar driving experiences from \u00a316.99 \u2014 save up to 65%. <\/p>\n

Get deal now<\/a><\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n

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\"Ropes\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Menkind Wireless Jumping Rope<\/h2>\n

Skipping is known to be one of the best exercises out there as it works multiple muscle groups simultaneously. <\/p>\n

However, skipping indoors is mostly a big no, as no one wants any breakages or accidents, but thankfully, wireless alternatives have become a new invention, so you don\u2019t have to panic about causing trouble, and can achieve a full workout. <\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a325<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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\"Dumbells\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Dunelm Set of 6 Core Balance Hex Dumbbells<\/h2>\n

Dumbbells are always a great addition to a workout. <\/p>\n

Whether you\u2019re doing something simple like toning or participating in boxing and need extra weight, these nifty additions are brilliant. <\/p>\n

Not only do you have the option to make it more challenging by opting for a heavier weight, but they can be neatly tucked away in a corner of the room or next to the sofa, so they aren\u2019t unsightly. <\/p>\n

Buy Now from \u00a340<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Yoga<\/a><\/p>\n

Kimjaly 4 mm Thick Ultra Grippy Dynamic Yoga Mat<\/h2>\n

Why not practice some mindfulness as you embark on your fitness journey with yoga? <\/p>\n

A transformative exercise that not only tones and stretches the body, but also helps train the mind. <\/p>\n

To have an effective session, you need a good base with an appropriate soft, non-slip mat to support you. <\/p>\n

This option comes with markings and guides to make sure you\u2019re aligned during the workout.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a349.99<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Black<\/a><\/p>\n

Phoenix Fitness Stair Climber<\/h2>\n

There is always a queue for this equipment in the gym, so jump ahead and do it in the comfort of your living room without the fuss or pressure of those around you. <\/p>\n

From targeting your legs, glutes and core, it is fitted with a handle-bar for support and even engages your arms. <\/p>\n

You can track your progress with the built-in LCD screen that records time, steps and RPM. <\/p>\n

The best thing is that it easily folds down, so it doesn\u2019t become a permanent fixture in the room.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a379.99 (was \u00a399.99)<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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\"Weights<\/a><\/p>\n

Opti Vinyl Dumbbell and Barbell Set<\/h2>\n

This adjustable dumbbell and barbell set gives you everything you need for a full-body strength workout. <\/p>\n

With a spin-lock system, you can quickly change weights to match your strength level. <\/p>\n

Its vinyl-coated plates offer a comfortable grip while you tone arms, shoulders, chest, back and legs. <\/p>\n

Ideal for home gyms, beginners and seasoned lifters alike that need that extra training time.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a360<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Fitness<\/a><\/p>\n

Davina Fitness 65cm Swiss Ball with Pump<\/h2>\n

An exercise ball is a brilliant addition to any workout. <\/p>\n

It\u2019s easy to inflate, lightweight and can perfectly accommodate a range of exercises from crunches, planks, bridges and seated weight sets, a simple way to add core strength and flexibility to your routines.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a36 (was \u00a37)<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Black<\/a><\/p>\n

Huawei FreeClip 2<\/h2>\n

The Huawei FreeClip 2 are the brand\u2019s latest open\u2011ear, clip\u2011style wireless earphones, designed for all\u2011day comfort and awareness. <\/p>\n

Refining the original FreeClip design, they\u2019re smaller and lighter, using a soft C\u2011Bridge that sits outside the ear canal, allowing you to hear your surroundings while listening. <\/p>\n

Upgrades include improved sound from dual\u2011diaphragm drivers, longer battery life (up to nine hours on a single charge), IP57 water resistance, and adaptive audio features powered by AI, making them a strong option for commuting, workouts and wearing from morning to night.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a3179.99<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Male<\/a><\/p>\n

Power Tower Dip Station Pull Up Bar<\/h2>\n

This versatile all-in-one station lets you train your upper body using your own bodyweight. <\/p>\n

The adjustable tower supports all kinds of workouts from pull-ups, dips, leg raises and even push-ups, making it ideal for building strength at home. Its sturdy frame offers stability while still fitting neatly into most spaces, giving you a multifunctional setup without the need for multiple machines.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a384.99<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Home<\/a><\/p>\n

WonderCore 2 Home Multi Gym<\/h2>\n

Another brilliant multi-gym that has been tried and tested by one of our very own writers who claims 'it\u2019s game-changing for beginners,' is the WonderCore2. <\/p>\n

Compact, and taking up hardly any space this machine targets your core whilst offering a range of full-body exercises with its pull cables. <\/p>\n

It also comes with adjustable resistance and a built-in twisted seat to maximise its offerings. <\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a3120<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Female<\/a><\/p>\n

Folding Treadmill Walking Pad<\/h2>\n

You may have seen numerous walking pads circulating around social media, and we can confirm they\u2019re worth the hype and investment. <\/p>\n

Perfect for getting your daily steps in when the weather isn\u2019t the nicest, using it for a session, or whilst you work from home. <\/p>\n

It is fitted with an LED screen to track your progress, offers three speed modes from 1-6 km\/h, and can be easily folded down and put away under the sofa or bed. <\/p>\n

Walking has never been easier.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a394.99<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"White<\/a><\/p>\n

DomYos Smart Cross Trainer Initial Elliptical 100<\/h2>\n

A smooth, low-impact cardio machine ideal for anyone wanting a joint-friendly workout. <\/p>\n

This smart cross trainer offers full-body movement while syncing with fitness apps to track progress and guide sessions. <\/p>\n

Compact but sturdy, it provides effective home cardio training – helping boost stamina and tone muscles with adjustable resistance. <\/p>\n

At only \u00a3199.99, it\u2019s a bargain.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a3199.99<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Black<\/a><\/p>\n

Home Fitness Code Stationary Exercise Bike<\/h2>\n

Another excellent equipment addition to add to your baskets is this sturdy indoor bike that offers adjustable resistance, a smooth ride and an LCD display to track time, distance, speed and calories. <\/p>\n

With customisable seat height and handlebars, it\u2019s built for comfort during longer sessions. <\/p>\n

Whether you're doing steady-state cardio or interval training, it\u2019s an accessible, budget-friendly way to boost your fitness from home.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a3129.99 (was \u00a3179.99)<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Massage<\/a><\/p>\n

THERABODY Theragun Relief Handheld Smart Percussive Therapy Device<\/h2>\n

An integral part to exercising is recovery. Invest in a gadget that will aid muscle relaxation and provide gentle yet effective post-workout recovery. <\/p>\n

Compact and easy to hold, it also helps improve mobility and reduce tightness -perfect for anyone looking to enhance their recovery routine, or to even de-stress after a long day.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a3129<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Black<\/a><\/p>\n

Homcom 8KG Weighted Vest<\/h2>\n

If you\u2019re needing an extra challenge then a weighted vest is a great addition. <\/p>\n

This adjustable weighted vest adds extra intensity to walks, strength training and bodyweight workouts. <\/p>\n

Designed with secure straps and reflective detailing, it stays in place while boosting resistance to help build strength and endurance. <\/p>\n

The compact 8kg load is evenly distributed for comfort, making it a simple way to elevate everyday training.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a328.99 (was \u00a382.99)<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Black<\/a><\/p>\n

Fitbit Inspire 3<\/h2>\n

When in the motion of exercising we can often forget to track our progress. <\/p>\n

A classic gadget that has been a much-loved tool to help with this is Fitbit. <\/p>\n

An easy-to-wear fitness tracker that records your daily movement, heart rate, sleep and even stress. <\/p>\n

It\u2019s a great investment for anyone wanting motivation, gentle nudges and simple health insights to support long-term wellness goals.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a384.99<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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\"Waterbottle\"<\/a><\/p>\n

Lululemon Back to Life Sport Bottle 24oz<\/h2>\n

Get yourself a durable, double-wall insulated bottle designed to keep drinks cold during workouts and throughout the day so you\u2019re kept hydrated and refreshed. <\/p>\n

The leak-resistant straw lid makes it easy to sip on the move, while the finish offers a comfortable grip. <\/p>\n

Stylish and practical, it\u2019s a gym-bag or home workout staple.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a338<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\"Silver<\/a><\/p>\n

Luna Ring Gen 2 with Surge Charger<\/h2>\n

Add a bit of style to your workout with a smart ring designed to track sleep, recovery, heart rate, activity and stress – all from your finger. <\/p>\n

Using tiny sensors, it provides detailed insights without the bulk of a smartwatch. <\/p>\n

Perfect for anyone wanting deeper wellness data in a minimalist, stylish design that blends seamlessly into daily wear.<\/p>\n

Buy Now for \u00a3299<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Follow Metro across our social channels, on Facebook<\/a>, Twitter <\/a>and Instagram<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

Share your views in the comments below<\/strong><\/p>\n

Arrow<\/title><span class=\"mor-link\" data-track-module=\"mor-link_article\">MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/metro.co.uk\/2026\/01\/05\/h-amp-m-moves-new-wellness-edit-affordable-activewear-want-workout-25903171\/?ico=more_text_links\" class=\"\">H&M Move\u2019s new Wellness Edit is the affordable activewear you\u2019ll want to workout in<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"metro-more-link\"><title>Arrow<\/title><span class=\"mor-link\" data-track-module=\"mor-link_article\">MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/metro.co.uk\/2026\/01\/07\/new-year-new-m-amp-s-goodmove-activewear-will-inspire-2026-workout-26003730\/?ico=more_text_links\" class=\"\">M&S extend Goodmove activewear range that will help you look the part in 2026 workouts<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p class=\"metro-more-link\"><title>Arrow<\/title><span class=\"mor-link\" data-track-module=\"mor-link_article\">MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/metro.co.uk\/2026\/01\/17\/best-purchase-ever-amazon-walking-pad-now-sale-making-fitness-goals-achievable-26287516\/?ico=more_text_links\" class=\"\">\u2018Best purchase ever\u2019 Amazon walking pad now on sale – making fitness goals more achievable<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<section id=\"share-buttons-bottom\" class=\"share-buttons share-buttons-bottom\"><a class=\"metro-button share-bar-comments\" data-vars-position=\"bottom\" href=\"#metro-comments-container\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t<span><title>Comment now<\/title><\/span><br \/>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"share-bar-comments__label\">Comments<\/span><br \/>\n\t\t<\/a><a class=\"metro-button share-bar-preferred-source\" data-vars-position=\"bottom\" href=\"https:\/\/google.com\/preferences\/source?q=https:\/\/metro.co.uk\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<span><title>Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google<\/title><\/span><br \/>\n\t\t\t\t<span class=\"share-bar-preferred-source__label\">Add as preferred source<\/span><br \/>\n\t\t\t<\/a><\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>These items will help you achieve your fitness goals for 2026, with ease too. (Picture: Metro\/Getty) Metro journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission – learn more Gym memberships aren\u2019t getting any cheaper, and with life feeling […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":11839,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[11],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11837"}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=11837"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11837\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11857,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/11837\/revisions\/11857"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/11839"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=11837"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=11837"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/curiousdrive.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=11837"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}