At Home Gym experts we love a bargain. But we also HATE cheap, wobbly gym gear. Before thinking of heading to eBay, or hunting down some used gym equipment, you might want to take a look at some of the cheap multi-gyms you get new around the UK. This guide will take an in-depth look at some of the better low-cost all-in-one machines out there in the interwebs, weighing up their pros and cons.
In this guide, we’re also on the hunt for a multi-gym that will go easy on the wallet too. If you’re shopping for your new home gym on a shoe-string, this guide is for you.
Top Budget-Price Home Gym’s 2024
- Weight Stack: 180kg
- Space Required: 251cm(W) x 61cm(D) x 212cm(H)
- Number exercises: Versatile, enabling a wide range of exercises
- Weight Stack: 45kg
- Space Required: 108D x 180W x 200H cm
- Number exercises: Multiple exercise functions
- Weight Stack: 81.64 kg
- Space Required: 161D x 224W x 205H cm
- Number exercises: 50+
- Warranty: 1 year
- Weight Stack: 95 kg(unit type, lower case)
- Space Required: 210D x 79W x 206H centimetres(unit type, lower case)
- Number exercises: 25 plus exercises(unit type, lower case)
- Warranty: 1 year(unit type, lower case)
- Weight Stack: 100kg
- Space Required: 141D x 115W x 196H cm
- Number exercises: Versatile, offering a good range of exercises
- Warranty: 2 Years
- Space Required: 130D x 60W x 202H centimetres
- Number exercises: Offers a wide variety of exercises for comprehensive home workouts
- Weight Stack: Not applicable
- Space Required: 111.5D x 78.5W x 119.5H cm
- Number exercises: 6 in 1 multifunctional
What do we mean by multi-gym?
For the purposes of this training gear round-up, we’ll be looking for some home gym equipment that fits the categories below:
- Has it’s own adjustable weight stack
- Does an all-over body workout
- Works both upper body and legs
- Uses pulleys rather than having to apply ‘plate’ style weights
- Preferably doesn’t hog loads of room
So let’s get started!
Gym Master 180kg Cable Crossover Machine
This GYM MASTER multigym offers a cost-effective solution for home workouts, with a sturdy build and versatile exercise options. It's suitable for those looking to expand their home workout options with a single piece of equipment, making it worth buying for home gym enthusiasts.
Check Latest PriceUnboxing the Gym Master 180kg Cable Crossover Machine
Ever dreamt of a home gym that doesn't cost an arm and a leg? Enter the multi-gym. It's like the Swiss Army knife of workout gear - compact yet brimming with possibilities for those with more enthusiasm than square footage. This little gem’s smooth-operating pulleys and a plethora of attachments will give your muscles a run for their money.
The Upsides
Why splash the cash when you can get a full-body pump without breaking the bank? This machine is to your wallet what spinach is to Popeye – a savior. Its robust frame holds up like a champ under pressure, and the pulley system? As smooth as a politician's handshake. The best part: you can hit your biceps, triceps, pecs, and more, all with one mighty piece of kit.
The Gripes
But is it all sunshine and rainbows? Not quite. If you're as tall as a basketball player or flexible as a gymnast, the pulley heights might feel like they're cramping your style. And let's not get started on the assembly manual – it's like it was written in hieroglyphics. Plus, the weight labels might have you playing a guessing game.
Battle of the Multigyms
So, how does it stack up against the Goliaths of the gym world? Quite impressively! While it's not without its quirks, the versatility and solidity of this machine make it a heavyweight contender. It's like finding an extra chicken nugget in your fast-food meal – a delightful surprise.
The Final Rep: Worth the Weight?
Alright, let's get down to brass tacks. Is the all-in-one with Upgraded Swivel Pulleys and Pull Up Chinning Bar - Black going to be your next workout buddy? If you're after a space-friendly, all-in-one muscle sculptor, then yes – it's a resounding thumbs up. You might face a hurdle or two with setup, but once you're past that, it's smooth sailing (or lifting, should we say). Ready to get those gains?
- Affordable and Cost-effective: Provides a wide range of exercise options at a budget-friendly price.
- Sturdy Build: Offers a durable and stable structure, ensuring safety during workouts.
- Quick Assembly: Easy to put together, with clear instructions for straightforward setup.
- Versatile: Enables a variety of exercises, targeting multiple muscle groups for comprehensive workouts.
- Compact Design: Takes up minimal space, making it suitable for home gyms with limited room.
- Limited Range of Motion: Some users find the range of motion and pulley height to be restrictive for certain exercises.
- Assembly Instructions: Some customers reported issues with missing or unclear assembly instructions, requiring extra time and attention during setup.
Homcom Multi Gym
This HOMCOM multigym offers a variety of exercises, suitable for strength training and a full-body workout. With its sturdy construction and comfortable design, it's a valuable addition to home gyms, providing a cost-effective solution for achieving fitness goals.
Prices checked: 18th November, 01:40:22
Why the HOMCOM Multi Gym with Weights Impressed Us
Let's dive straight into the muscle of the matter with the Homcom Multi Gym with Weights – it's like the trusty old tank of the home gym world. Solid as a rock, this beast won’t wobble during your workouts, giving you that gym-quality stability without the grunting stranger two feet away. Perfect for a full-body workout, this multigym is like a Swiss Army knife – you can work out a multitude of muscles without needing a whole arsenal of equipment. Got a cosy workout nook? No worries, its compact size is a space-saver's dream. Plus, you don't need a degree in engineering to set it up – it's relatively straightforward, sparing you from the usual DIY meltdown. And let's talk whisper-quiet workouts – this machine is so silent, you'll hear a pin drop (or the sound of your own panting). Crank up the resistance, and voila, you're on your way to Gainsville.
The Not-So-Heavy Lifting
Now, let's address the elephant in the room. If you're built like The Hulk, you might find the weight stack a tad light. It's perfect for beginners and intermediate users, but seasoned gym-goers may crave more iron. And sure, assembling this bad boy can be a bit like a puzzle – not everyone's cup of tea. Accessories? You'll need to shop for those separately, so bear that in mind. Space-wise, we're not talking a cupboard-under-the-stairs fit; you'll need a bit more room. And, keep an ear out for the cables – they might call out for some TLC after heavy use.
Stacking Up Against the Competition
When side-by-side with its gym buddies, the HOMCOM Multi Gym with Weights punches above its weight class in value and space-efficiency. It's the Robin Hood of home gyms – delivering a solid, all-round performance without robbing your wallet. Yes, it might not satisfy the Schwarzeneggers of this world with its weight limit, and it might play hard to get during assembly, but what it offers for its price point is a pretty sweet deal.
Verdict: To Flex or Not to Flex Your Wallet?
Here's the bottom line: the HOMCOM Multi Gym with Weights is your wallet-friendly workout warrior. It's versatile, space-conscious, and won't wake the baby or the neighbours. If you're eyeing a home gym that doesn't demand a second mortgage or an Olympic athlete's training space, this could be your fitness fairy tale ending. The cons? They’re there, but they don't outweigh the pros for most people aiming to buff up at home. So, is it a worthy investment? For a balanced blend of functionality and frugality, absolutely.
- Solid Construction: Users appreciate the multigym's sturdy and durable build, ensuring long-term usability.
- Versatile Workout Options: With a variety of exercise stations, users can target multiple muscle groups for a comprehensive workout.
- Space-Saving Design: Its compact size makes it suitable for home gyms with limited space.
- Easy Assembly: Customers find the multigym relatively easy to assemble, saving time and hassle.
- Smooth Operation: Users enjoy the smooth and quiet performance of the multigym during workouts.
- Limited Weight Stack: Some users report that the weight stack may not provide sufficient resistance for advanced lifters.
- Complex Assembly: A few customers find the assembly process to be time-consuming and challenging.
Fit4home Multi Gym Workout Station
This Fit4home Multigym is perfect for anyone looking for a complete home workout solution. With over 50 different exercises, sturdy construction, and a reasonable price, it's a worthwhile investment.
Check Latest PriceUnboxing the Fit4home Multi Gym Workout Station
Step into the world of home fitness with the multi-gym | Home Fitness Body Exercise Machine | Total-body Workout | Multifunctional Workout Station | TF-7005A – your new partner in crime for sweating it out in the living room. This beast of a machine boasts a solid build that could survive a stampede of enthusiastic workout newbies. It comes with a clear set of instructions so you won't be scratching your head wondering which bolt goes where.
Maximising Your Workout
Why settle for one trick when you can have over 50? This multi-gym is the Swiss Army knife of workout equipment, allowing you to perform a smorgasbord of exercises that target every muscle you didn't know existed. It even comes with a pair of 1.5kg dumbbells – talk about a bonus! Now, who needs a gym membership when this powerhouse offers a full-body workout without stepping foot outside?
But Wait, There's a 'But'...
Before you jump on the gains train, let's address the elephant in the room. Some users have whispered about the occasional missing part and a customer service team that's seemingly on a coffee break. Frustrating? Absolutely. But it's not a deal-breaker, just a hiccup on your road to fitness glory. And about the seat material – let's just say it's more 'delicate' than a politician's promise. Treat it nicely, and you'll be fine. The weight stack, though, is a silent ninja with no labels – and if you're tipping the scales over 100kg, this might not be your heavyweight champion.
Is It Worth It?
So, is the all-in-one the answer to your home workout prayers? It's certainly up there, especially with its exercise variety and robust stature. But remember, knowledge is power – and now you're armed with the good, the bad, and the nitty-gritty. If your heart is set on turning your pad into a personal fitness oasis, and you don't mind a bit of seat cosseting, then this could be the match made in muscle heaven. Just keep those customer service expectations in check, and you're golden!
- The pros:
- Good instructions and sturdy build:
- Good value for the price:
- Adaptable for additional exercises:
- The cons:
- Delayed response for missing parts:
- Thin material and difficult assembly:
Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym
This Bowflex multigym offers 25 plus exercises, a compact design, and 95 kg of power rod resistance, making it ideal for moderate users looking for a comprehensive home workout solution. Its versatility and sturdy build make it worth buying.
Prices checked: 18th November, 01:40:22
Sizing Up the Bowflex PR1000 Home Gym
Ever played Tetris with your furniture to make space for gym equipment? Well, kiss those days goodbye! This multi-gym is the Swiss Army knife of the fitness world – compact enough to fit in your nan's spare room. Setup's a breeze with instructions clearer than a politician's promises during election season. And once you're up and pumping, the smoothness of the machine will have you feeling like you're gliding through your reps.
The Good, The Bad, and The Pump
Let's talk turkey. The design's so compact you'll wonder if it shrinks when you're not looking. It's as sturdy as a bulldog – won't budge an inch, and the exercise variety? Over 25 ways to flex, press, and curl your way to glory. But wait, is it all sunshine and deadlifts? Not quite. If you're built like a heavyweight champ, this might not be your ring. The weight limit could be a dealbreaker, and juggling cables might feel like a magic act gone wrong.
Throwdown: Bowflex vs The World
When the gloves come off, how does it measure up against the competition? In the red corner, our contender – with its svelte design and Jack-of-all-trades exercise roster, it's a tough competitor. But let's not forget, it's not the heaviest hitter in the category and won't suit the beefiest of fitness enthusiasts.
The Final Bell – Yay or Nay?
It's judgement time. Is this the one? If you're after a home gym that won't have you knocking down walls or selling a kidney for extra space, then yes! It's a solid choice for the average Joe and Jane looking to get ship-shape at home. Advanced muscle mavens might have to look elsewhere, but for the rest of us mere mortals, it's a contender that punches well above its weight class.
- Compact when folded: The multigym can be easily stored in smaller rooms when not in use.
- Clear assembly instructions: Users appreciate the easy-to-follow instructions for assembly.
- Smooth action: The machine provides a smooth and seamless workout experience.
- Versatile exercises: It allows for a variety of exercises targeting different muscle groups.
- Sturdy build: Users feel the machine is well-made and durable.
- Heavy: The multigym is heavy and may be difficult to move or relocate within a room.
- Limited transportability: It may not fit through standard doorways when assembled, making relocation challenging.
- Some cable swapping: Users find the need to swap cables for different exercises a bit inconvenient.
York Perform Multi Gym
This York Fitness multigym is perfect for users seeking a durable and versatile home workout solution. With a 100kg weight stack and a range of exercises, it offers excellent value for money.
Check Latest PriceExpert Take on the York Perform Multi Gym
Roll up your sleeves, folks – let's get into the nitty-gritty of the multi-gym. This isn't your average run-of-the-mill home workout station; it's a beast with a backbone, ready to endure your fitness rage for years on end. With 100kg of weight stack at your disposal, it's like having a mini professional gym squished into the corner of your room.
What Tickled Our Fitness Fancy
First off, the all-in-one doesn't mess around with quality. Its robust frame is like a silent promise of countless sweat sessions. The variety of exercises you can churn out? It's like a fitness buffet – you're spoilt for choice! And let's talk turkey; the value for money is a no-brainer. You're getting a whole lot of muscle for your moolah.
But wait, does putting it together make you want to throw a dumbbell out the window? Not really. Sure, the assembly is a solo mission that could steal away a good part of your day (or even a weekend if you're taking it easy), but the instructions are clearer than a bodybuilder's protein shake. Just be patient, and your muscle mansion will be standing tall.
What Grinded Our Gears
Now, it's not all sunshine and protein bars. The York Perform Multi Gym isn't perfect – some users have grumbled about feeling a bit cramped during certain moves, and if you're setting this up on a plush carpet, you may find it wobbling like a novice on leg day. Plus, if you're a tall drink of water, you might find the fit as snug as a yoga pants on a sumo wrestler.
Stacking It Up Against the Competition
How does this multigym throw down against its peers? Well, it's got the moxie, but you've got to weigh up the pros and cons. If you're a stickler for a smooth setup and a spacious design, you might want to shop around. But if you're after a reliable muscle-making machine that won't break the bank, you could be onto a winner.
Verdict: Should You Invest Your Hard-Earned Cash?
So, is the York Perform Multi Gym a golden ticket to Gainsville? If you're looking for a home gym that's solid as a rock, offers a smorgasbord of workouts, and comes from a brand that knows a thing or two about getting buff, then yes – it's a worthy investment for the price. Just make sure you've got the space, patience for assembly, and don't mind getting up close and personal with your equipment.
- Sturdy and Durable Build: The multigym is built to last, ensuring long-term use.
- Good Brand Reputation: York Fitness is a trusted brand known for reliability.
- Versatile: Offers a wide range of exercises and a 100kg weight stack.
- Value for Money: Provides excellent value, considering its features.
- Easy to Assemble: Despite some challenges, it can be assembled alone with clear instructions.
- Challenging Assembly: The assembly process can be time-consuming and complex.
- Limited Range of Movement: The 100kg weight stack may restrict movement for certain exercises.
- Stability Issues: Some users report stability concerns, especially on carpet.
- Design Limitations: Certain exercises may not be comfortable due to design constraints.
- Misleading Instructions: Assembly and exercise guide could be clearer.
Gym Master Stationary Machine
This GYM MASTER Stationary Lat Pulldown Machine is ideal for users looking for comprehensive home workouts. With a sturdy build, versatile exercise options, and excellent customer service, it's worth buying for those seeking a reliable multigym.
Check Latest PriceExpert Review: GYM MASTER Stationary Lat Pulldown Machine
Ever felt like your home workouts lack that gym-quality feel? Enter the GYM MASTER Stationary Lat Pulldown Machine, a robust beast that laughs in the face of wear and tear. It's the kind of machine that won't wobble even if you’re pulling weights like a superhero in training.
Why limit yourself to one workout when you can have the whole fitness fiesta? This machine is like the Swiss Army knife of home gyms, giving your muscles the VIP treatment they deserve. It's not just about lats; it's about saying hello to a full-body workout without stepping out the door!
Smooth as butter – that's how your reps will feel. And isn't that what we all crave? No jerky movements to throw you off your game, just pure, unadulterated smooth sailing through each set.
Ever tried to do a lat pulldown and felt like a giant in a dollhouse? This machine’s got enough room for you to stretch out like a pro, making sure you get the most out of every pull and curl.
But hey, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. A few gym buffs have grumbled about a seat that's about as comfy as a park bench and some cable motion that's less smooth than expected. Still, when it comes to a solid home gym setup, this machine's got the muscle to back it up.
What tickled our fitness fancy
Sturdiness that could survive a toddler tantrum, versatility that's off the charts, and a smoothness that would make a dolphin jealous—not to mention the stretch space to make sure you're not selling your gains short.
The niggles and twinges
A few niggles here and there with quality quirks, a seat that might have you shifting more than a fidgety first dater, and the occasional cable with a mind of its own. But let's be real, no machine is perfect.
Head-to-Head with the Gym Crowd
Stacked against the gym rack competition, our GYM MASTER flexes some serious muscle with its versatility and sturdiness. But it's worth keeping an eye out for those few quirks that might leave you less than pumped.
Verdict: Flex-worthy or a skip?
Should you swipe right on the GYM MASTER Stationary Lat Pulldown Machine? If you're after a home gym hero that can take a beating and come back for more, then absolutely. While it might have a few minor mood swings, the gains you'll rack up make it a solid match for your fitness journey.
- Sturdy and Durable Build: Users appreciate the machine's solid construction for long-lasting use.
- Excellent Customer Service: Quick and professional responses from customer service for issue resolution.
- Versatile Exercise Options: Offers a wide variety of exercises for comprehensive home workouts.
- Smooth Operation: Users find the machine's operation to be smooth and efficient.
- Good Height for Full Stretch: Suitable height for full range of motion during exercises.
- Minor Quality Issues: Some users experienced scratches and indentations on the machine parts.
- Uncomfortable Seat Length: The seat length for lat pull downs is too short, causing discomfort for some users.
- Inconsistent Motion: Some users found the motion of the cables to be less smooth than expected.
Winnow Adjustable Weight Bench
This WINNOW multigym offers a 6-in-1 design for a full-body workout, featuring multiple position adjustments, heavy-duty construction, and a portable design. It's best for individuals looking for a cost-effective and space-saving home gym solution.
Check Latest PriceProfessional Peek at the WINNOW Adjustable Weight Bench
Let's cut to the chase – the Winnow Adjustable Weight Bench with Leg Extension and Preacher Curl is the Swiss Army knife of home gym equipment without the Swiss price tag. It's like having a personal fitness butler, minus the tuxedo and silver platter. Quick to set up? Check. Comfort that hugs your body like a lazy Sunday morning? Double-check. But here's the kicker – you can actually afford it without selling a kidney.
Is It Tall-People-Friendly?
Now, if you're reaching the heights of Big Ben, you might find the incline press clearance a bit of a squeeze. And let's talk turkey – if you're lifting weights heavier than a small car, the 200kg limit might cramp your style. It's robust, but it's not Hercules.
Design Quirks: Deal-Breakers or Just Hiccups?
Yes, there are a few design quirks. The bench's width feels a bit like a London flat – snug. Fixed barbell supports? Not everyone's cup of tea. And the packaging could do with a beef-up; it's not quite ready for a rugby scrum. Some assembly hiccups? Perhaps, but nothing a YouTube tutorial can't fix.
Value for Money: The Verdict
When it comes down to brass tacks, this bench offers a home-gym solution that won't require a second mortgage. It's versatile enough to let you pivot between exercises like a political candidate, and it's cosy enough to make you want to workout. Just don't expect it to spot you.
Final Thoughts
In the grand scheme of home workout gear, this bench is a contender. It's the people's champ of the budget-friendly multigym world, ready to turn your home into a temple of gains. But for the weightlifting goliaths out there, it might feel like bringing a knife to a gunfight. It's about knowing your needs and matching them with the right tools. Ready for a workout that doesn't require a bank loan? This might just be your match.
- The sturdy and durable build: Users appreciate the bench's solid construction and longevity.
- Easy assembly: Majority of the bench comes pre-assembled, making setup hassle-free.
- Good value for money: Customers find the bench to be cost-effective for its quality and features.
- Thick and comfortable padding: The bench's upholstered pads offer ample cushioning and support.
- Adequate exercise options: Users find the bench versatile for various workout routines.
- Limited clearance for incline bench presses: Some users, especially taller individuals, find it challenging to perform this exercise due to insufficient space.
- Restrictions for heavy lifters: The bench's weight limit of 200kg, including the user's weight, may not accommodate serious weightlifters.
- Design flaws: The bottom frame's width and height may obstruct certain exercises, and some users find the fixed barbell supports inconvenient.
Hunting The Perfect Cheap Multi-gym
Some handy stuff to know about owing a multigym for home
Measure up – There’s really no standard size when it comes to multi-gymsÂ
Some tips on assembling your new gym
So, you’ve picked the perfect multi-gym and now it’s time to get this baby set up. Here are a few quick tips on assembling your equipment that might save you a bit of time and frustration.
Set aside enough time – you might need it – I’m not going to sugar coat it; multi-gyms are one of the more intricate bits of home gym gear you can put together yourself.
Depending on which all-in-one you go for, you can expect to spend from 3 hours to 6 hours putting your new gym together before you can hop on and do a few sets of any exercise.
Standard assembly SOP – lay everything out – It’s always tempting to get stuck in, especially with a job as daunting as knocking together a home gym. But it can really pay off to get everything out of the box and lay the bits out on the floor. The parts will normally be labelled A-to-F (or a similar system) and there will be a LOT of them. Multi-gyms have a lot of cables, pulleys, massive metal tubes and cushions. It’s easy to get them mixed up.
Open your screws and keep them safe – Another little sanity saver when it comes to assembling your new home gym is toÂ
Bring along a friend – It can definitely help to have someone with you to help figure out how to put your new gym together. (Especially if they’re one of those people who love DIY and can save you some time).
Bribing a friend or family member to help assemble your gym with cups of tea and promises of a free workout once it’s built is a good way to save some time valuable time building it.
Look for an assembly video – Some multi-gyms have handy assembly videos on youtube (often available via a code you can scan on your phone). These step-by-step guides can make life a bit easier and show you what goes where, far easier than one of those diagrams, or a manual with a zillion steps in it.
Search Youtube for your gym’s model name, or drop a quick message to their support to see if they’ve got one.
Recommended exercise stations
The range of home gyms you can buy is pretty staggering. Everything from company all-in-ones to whopping multi-station gyms that would give any commercial gym a run for its money. Some have punch bags, come work your legs, others don’t. There’s really no standard set of equipment that each has.
Many home gyms can have many variations of exercises you can perform but here are our recommendations for the core ones you should aim for in your new gear. What are the main exercise stations you should look for? After all, the idea here is to own one bit of kit that works your entire body.
#1 – Biceps & Preacher curl
Your upper arm muscles don’t need anything fancy to do the job. It is after all a simple hinge joint that can be trained with one exercise station. In multi-gyms, biceps are usually taken care of with a sit-down preacher bar, where you lean over, grab a bar connected to the stack via a cable and perform curls. Most will have this but double-check as it’s a great way to work your ‘guns’.
#2 – Lateral pull down
This is another staple you’ll normally find in any multi-gym worth its salt. Look for a horizontal bar that you grab with both hands and pull down behind your back. This massive exercise works everything from your upper back to lower back, arm muscles, core and even abs. It’s a little like doing a pull-up but has the advantage that you can start light on your weight stack and build up. A fantastic exercise that will make a big difference to your body.
#3 – Chest – pec fly
This is another important exercise that you should be able to do on any budget multi-gym. It’s a seated exercise where you’ll grab two handles and curl the weight inwards so that your forearms come close to each other. It’s a chest (or pec) isolation exercise that’s hard to mimic if you don’t own a home gym. It will also work your core. You can often change direction on the seat and reverse the exercise so that it works your back muscles more too.
#4 – Leg extension
This exercise station isn’t present on every multi-gym, especially the smaller, company and cheaper ones but it’s good if you can find it, and they’ve implemented it well. It’s basically a seated exercise where you tuck your feet under a bar and extend your legs out. It works the backs and front of your legs and is really good at building up those quad muscles and giving some thickness to your upper legs.
#5 – Bench press
One of the main things a decent cheap multi-gym should have is a proper bench press. A lot of people think of the bench press as chest only, but you’ll be working out your core, all arm muscles, upper and lower back as well as your chest. It’s a seated exercise where you grab two handles and then extend your arms forwards. This is an incredible exercise that will increase your upper body strength and size gradually as you move up the weight stack.
If you’ve got any more questions, or there’s anything we can help on, please get in touch, or post in the comments.
