I wouldn’t recommend it unless you have a dedicated gym space—this thing isn’t going anywhere once it’s set up. And if you want all the add-ons, the cost can get steep. But if you want a long-term powerlifting setup, this would be the rack to buy.
Best Adjustable Dumbbells: Bowflex SelectTech 552
I love how convenient adjustable dumbbells are, and this set is easily one of the best-designed models. Changing weights is as simple as turning the dial, and I can go from biceps curls to presses without wasting time fumbling with plates. The weight range—5 to 52.5 pounds—is enough for most exercises, and they’re way more compact than a full dumbbell rack.
My biggest complaint is that the plastic casing doesn’t feel as durable as traditional iron dumbbells—a.k.a. I wouldn’t drop them after heavy sets. But as a space-efficient, all-in-one dumbbell solution, however, these are at the top of my list.
Best Barbell and Plates: Rogue Ohio Bar + Competition Plates
A great barbell makes all the difference in strength training, and this setup is the best I’ve used. The Ohio Bar has the perfect balance of stiffness and whip, and the medium knurling gives me a solid grip without feeling overly aggressive. The competition plates feel just as good—low bounce, smooth loading, and a durable finish that holds up over time.
It’s definitely on the pricier side, and unless you’re serious about lifting, a budget-friendly barbell might be a better choice. For heavy training at home, though, this is the one I’d go with.
Best Kettlebell for Versatile Training: REP Fitness Kettlebells
Kettlebells are one of my favorite training tools because they work for everything—strength, conditioning, mobility. These stand out because of their build quality. The single-cast iron design means there are no weak points, and the grip gives me just the right amount of control without tearing up my hands.
I prefer traditional kettlebells over adjustable versions because they just feel better to move with, but the trade-off is space. Still, if I had to pick just one kettlebell to own, this would be the one.
Best Home Gym Add-On: Massenomics Drink Spotter XL
“Drink safety is a top priority when it comes to outfitting a home gym,” explains GQ’s senior commerce editor Ian Burke. The Drink Spotter XL is a top-tier home gym add-on, magnetically attaching to your rack and providing a secure spot to hold your water bottle, phone, wrist wraps, and pretty much anything else you’d rather not place on the floor in-between sets. “Plus,” Burke explains, “you can whack it onto any magnetic surface, so even if you don’t have a power rack at home, your beverages will still be squared away.”
The Best Cardio Machines
Best Interactive Cardio Machine: Peloton Bike+
I’ve used a lot of stationary bikes, but none have kept me as engaged as this one. The massive rotating touchscreen makes it easy to follow along with classes, and the instructors somehow always know how to push the right buttons to keep me from slacking. The resistance changes automatically based on the class instructor’s cues, which means I don’t have to think about when to crank it up—it just happens.
The biggest drawback is the price—not just for the bike itself but also for the ongoing membership. That said, for anyone who needs an extra push to stay consistent with cardio, it’s hard to beat.
Best Budget Air Bike: AssaultBike Classic
I can’t think of another machine that makes me question my life choices as quickly as this one. The harder I push, the more resistance I get, which means there’s no escape from an all-out effort. It’s brutally effective for interval training, forcing both my upper and lower body to work equally hard. Unlike traditional exercise bikes, there’s no momentum to help me along—if I slow down, the workout slows with me.
The biggest trade-off is that it doesn’t have a built-in screen or guided workouts, so motivation has to come from within. And while I don’t mind the fan noise, it can get loud at higher speeds. But for short, intense bursts of cardio that leave no room for coasting, nothing compares.
Best Rowing Machine: Concept2 Model D
I never used to enjoy rowing, but this machine changed my mind. The resistance feels completely natural, responding instantly to how hard I pull, and the seat glides smoothly without any sticking or lag. The performance monitor is refreshingly simple—it tracks everything I need (split times, stroke rate, power output) without unnecessary distractions. It’s also the same model that Olympic rowers and CrossFit athletes use, so there’s no questioning its durability.
What it lacks is built-in entertainment—there’s no touchscreen or guided classes like some newer rowers offer. That’s not a dealbreaker for me since I like to track my own progress, but for someone who prefers an interactive workout, pairing it with a separate app might be necessary.
Best Treadmill: NordicTrack Commercial 1750
A treadmill needs to do more than just give me a belt to run on—it has to feel smooth, support different types of workouts, and actually make me want to use it. This one checks all the boxes. The 4.25 CHP motor handles everything from easy jogs to full-speed sprints without hesitation, and the incline and decline features make training feel more dynamic. I like that I can simulate rolling hills or downhill sections, which keeps things from feeling too repetitive.
