Treadmill is a popular piece of gym equipment that has become the primary choice of anyone who wants to maintain an exercise routine at home. It lets you walk, jog or run anytime of the day, any month of the year – regardless of season and weather condition. A good treadmill costs at about $1500 but it can go as much as $3500, depending on the brand and features. When selecting one, focus on the load capacity, wide belt, incline settings, safety shutoff, smooth action and solid construction.

Elliptical Trainer is a no-impact exercise machine that simulates running and walking without causing excessive pressure on the joints thus decreasing the risk of impact injuries. The machine can be set from low- to high-intensity work out that is suited for all fitness levels. Today, elliptical trainers are the most popular piece of gym equipment. Price ranges from $500 to as much as $4000. Try out different brands when buying one.

Rowing Machines are excellent for those who want a total body workout. Requires little space, the rowing machine simulates the body movement of watercraft rowing targeting both the upper and the lower body muscle groups. Proper posture is required to avoid back strain.

Cross Country Ski Machines provide a full body workout, targeting both the upper and the lower body muscle groups. However, this type of machine is hard to master. So before buying one, make sure that you try it out first and see if it is really for you. People who use a cross country are often the best experienced exercisers with sufficient skills, who want a challenging workout.

Step Machines or steppers are low impact exercise machines that improve cardiovascular fitness and build and strengthen lower body muscles. A good step machine can be very expensive. Choose the right one or consider other alternatives if your budget does not fit.

Stationary Bike is composed of pedals, a paddle and some kind of handle similar to a real bike but used as exercise equipment rather than a means of transportation. A stationary bike is good for new exercisers or for those who like to have a no-impact cardiovascular workout. A quality stationary bike costs between $500 and $1000.

Recumbent Machines are like stationary bikes but with the rider sitting in an inclined position. The main advantage of a recumbent machine over a stationary bike is it provides better lower back support, thus minimizing the stress on the knees. A recumbent machine has the same aerobic effect with that of a stationary bike and targeting the muscles of the quadriceps, hamstrings and gluteus.

Resistance equipment is often known as either free weights or multi-stations or home gyms. Both have pros and cons and purchasing either of the two requires major thinking. Free weights are reasonably priced and require less space but they also require greater supervision and instruction as they are more likely to cause injury. Multi-stations on the other hand are more convenient to use but takes up a lot of space and the price depends on the quality of the machine. Take your pick.

Money has always been a significant factor when building your own home gym. A good treadmill can cost up to $3000 and buying one can really put some pressure to your financial standing. So as outrageous as it may sound, you need know if you can afford it or not. (Do not forget to include all the added cost like shipping and installation.)

For some, buying expensive equipment will oblige them to use it. While the cost can be a motivating factor to stay fit, this doesn’t happen in real life. In fact, it is estimated that 80% of home fitness equipment is not used after the first year – and the majority of people who belong to this statistics are beginners. That said, if you are planning to jump start the interest in exercising at home, you are more likely to stop using the equipment you bought without even getting your money’s worth.

You have to identify what exactly is your goal. Are you going to build muscles? Improve cardiovascular fitness? Or increase flexibility? Your goal determines the type of equipment that you have to buy. Also, select between new and used exercise equipment. Both have advantages and disadvantages (the most notable is the price; used exercise equipment can save you as much as 70%, than brand new.)

Set a budget and limit your selection to the things you can afford. Home gym equipment doesn’t have to be so expensive. You can start with exercise ball and dumbbells. A good pair of walking shoes is a way to start.

Another factor that is always overlooked is the amount of space available for the equipment. Having a treadmill is cool, but do you know where are you going to put it? Will your spouse love to climb over your elliptical machine just to get into the bed? Or will you still be using your treadmill in your garage even if it is 10 degrees below? Such things matter so think before you buy.

Do not fall prey to people that offer different types of equipment that promise amazing results in a very short time. Just think about it, if you can get 6-pack abs by using a certain machine for 3 minutes a day, 3 times a week, then how much more if you do not use any machine at all? The rule of thumb is, if it sounds too good to be true, then it is.

Finally, you have to shop around. Do not feel obliged to buy on the first store you enter just because you like the way the sales person talks. The best buys are found when you look at different stores, compare prices and do thorough research. When at a store, test the machines. If you do not belong to a gym, let someone test it. Do not forget online stores and discount shops.