When we first set out to build a home gym in our last house, the goal was simple, create a space that was functional, compact, and motivating enough that we’d actually use it. That little 9×8.5 foot gym did exactly that. We built it from the ground up (literally), added mirrors to make it feel bright and open, and stocked it with the essentials — a squat rack, dumbbells, a bench, and a rower.
Since we sold our previous home with all of the gym equipment, we had to start from scratch moving into this home. One thing we kept dreaming about was a cable machine. If you’ve ever trained in a full gym, you know how versatile cables are — from lat pulldowns to triceps pushdowns to chest flys, they do it all. So we finally made the investment and brought home the Force USA G12 All-In-One Trainer — and let me tell you, it’s been a total game changer.
Other blog posts: Small Home Gym
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Jump to Your Favorite Gear:
The Floor
In our last house we opted for the foam tiles, but they were a little soft and not very grippy so this time around we went for the Nike rubber tiles and we like them a lot, but there definitely are some flaws. Since they use recycled Nike shoe soles to make the tiles the color variations are WILD. We ended up buying 20 extra boxes just to sort through and find the right colors, and returning what didn’t work and we didn’t use. They are also thin, only about 1/4″ so we added cork underlayment for a little extra cushion, temperature regulation, and thickness.
👉 Shop Nike Floor Tiles
Mirrors
The cost to have professional mirrors is insane to me! I found these slim silver framed mirrors on amazon and they have been great! They are tall enough to fit your whole body and line up very well next to one another.
Force USA G12 All-In-One Trainer
We’d been dreaming about a cable machine for years, and the G12 gave us exactly what we wanted: versatility in a single footprint.
Why we added it: We wanted more exercise variety and cable-based movements that free weights can’t offer.
What we love:
- Combines cable system, Smith machine, and half rack
- Dual 220 lb weight stacks for smooth resistance
- Compact design that fits in our new space
Hydrow Rower
8 years ago I tore my meniscus and since then, cardio has alway been the hardest thing for me to git in. I love both our rower & bike because they are low impact, but a full body workout.
What we love:
- Smooth, on-water rowing feel through Italy and other amazing places.
- Guided workouts with interactive screens
- Even has Yoga, HITT, and weight classes that tie into the rowing!
Shop the Hydrow Rower
Code: HONEY gives you an extra $50 off sale prices.
Nike Strength Weights
Sometimes, when your equipment is pretty, you are just happier, or at least that’s our motto. These Nike weights, both dumbbells and plates, are legit! They are so pretty, have great grip, and I love that they have so many in between sizes like 17.5 and 22.5 pounds.
What we love:
- Rubber coating made from recycled Nike Grind material
- Comfortable grip and balanced design
- Compact rack keeps the space uncluttered
Shop Nike Dumbells
Shop Nike Plates
Shop Nike Dumbell Rack
Other Blog Posts You May Like:
Our Small Space Home Gym
Installing Basketball Court Flooring
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