Best Home CrossFit Equipment For Your Garage Gym (2024)

The rise of home gym training has led many CrossFit athletes to consider setting up their own workout spaces in their homes. 

A well-equipped home gym can offer the flexibility and convenience of maintaining your CrossFit training without needing a commercial gym membership.

However, selecting the right equipment for a home CrossFit setup requires careful consideration of space, budget, and workout goals. 

Over the last twelve years of coaching CrossFit and training it myself, I have come to learn which pieces of equipment are the “must haves” for any garage gym.

This article will explore the essential pieces of CrossFit equipment that you need to transform your garage or spare room into an effective training facility. 

We’ll examine the ten best home CrossFit equipment pieces that form the foundation for any CrossFit gym. So that you can start training in your garage ASAP.

What Is The Best Home CrossFit Equipment?

1. A Barbell

I’ve been doing CrossFit for over 12 years now, and I can’t stress enough how important a good barbell is for your strength training. When I first started, I thought any old bar would do, and I couldn’t have been more wrong.

I remember my first workout with a cheap barbell. I was doing clean and jerks, feeling pretty good about myself. Suddenly, I heard this weird creaking sound.

The sleeves were so loose they were practically falling off! Plus, the rust on the barbell made it impossible for it to rotate.

After multiple subpar performances, I learned that investing in a quality barbell can make a world of difference in how you perform in training.

Features to Look for in a CrossFit Barbell

So, what should you look for in a CrossFit barbell? First off, you want something versatile and durable. CrossFit workouts are all over the place, so you need a bar that can handle everything from heavy lifts to high-rep exercises.

Whip and Stiffness

Look for a bar with a good balance of whip and stiffness.

Too much whip, or how much the bar bends and recoils, and your heavy lifts will feel unstable. If it’s too stiff, and those Olympic lifts will be harder than needed.

Knurling

Knurling is another big factor. You want something that gives you a good grip without tearing up your hands.

You also don’t want a ton of knurling on the center of the barbell. Trust me, I’ve had my fair share of ripped calluses and chaffed necks from bars with aggressive knurling. It’s not fun.

Top Barbell Recommendations for Various Budgets

Advanced Option: Rogue Ohio Bar

If you’re serious about CrossFit and have the budget, the Rogue Ohio Bar is hard to beat and in my opinion, best barbell you can find for CrossFit.

It’s durable, performs well across different movements, and has a lifetime warranty.

Beginner Option: Again Faster Team Bar

For beginners, the Again Faster Team Bar is a solid choice. It’s more affordable but still gives you good performance.

Budget Option: CAP OB-86B Bar

And if you’re on a tight budget, check out the CAP OB-86B bar. It’s not the fanciest, but it’ll get the job done at a great price.

Remember, your barbell is the cornerstone of your CrossFit equipment. 

It’s worth spending a bit more to get something that’ll last and help you perform your best. Don’t make the same mistake I did – your future self (and your hands) will thank you.

 2. Bumper Plates

You probably tried to do a metcon or two with iron weight plates at some point in your CrossFit journey.

I definitely did, and not only did I nearly destroy my garage floor with iron plates, but I also got myself kicked out of several traditional gyms in the process.

Bumper plates are essential for CrossFit training, especially for Olympic lifts. They’re designed to be dropped from overhead without damaging your equipment or flooring. 

Thus, if you want to keep your garage gym long-term, you must purchase them as soon as possible. 

Different Weight Options to Consider for Your Home Gym

You don’t need to buy out the whole store when setting up your home gym. 

Start with a basic set that includes:

• A pair of 10 lb plates
• A pair of 25 lb plates
• A pair of 45 lb plates

This setup will give you enough variety for most WODs without breaking the bank.

As you progress, you might want to add:

• 15 lb and 35 lb plates for more precise weight jumps
• Additional 45 lb plates for those heavy-lifting days
• 5 lb technique plates for perfecting your form and small weight increases

Remember, it’s better to invest in quality over quantity. I learned this the hard way when my cheap plates started falling apart after just a few months of use.

Best Bumper Plate Sets for Durability and Performance

Advanced Option: Rogue Echo Bumper Plates V2

If you’re serious about your training and have some cash to spare, the Rogue Echo Bumper Plates V2 are hard to beat. They’re incredibly durable and have a dead bounce, which is perfect for Olympic lifts. 

I’ve had mine for years, and they still look almost new despite the abuse I’ve put them through.

Beginner Option: Rep Fitness Color Bumper Plates

The Rep Fitness Color Bumper Plates offer great value for those just starting out. 

They’re color-coded, which makes it easy to grab the right weight quickly during timed workouts. The quality is solid, and they can take a beating without breaking the bank.

Budget Option: CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Rubber Bumper Plates

The CAP Barbell Olympic 2-Inch Rubber Bumper Plates are a decent choice if you’re on a tight budget. 

They’re not as durable as the pricier options, but they’ll do the job for beginners. Just be prepared to replace them sooner than you would with higher-end plates.

When it comes to bumper plates, don’t skimp if you can help it. 

Good plates will last longer and perform better, saving you money (and frustration) in the long run.

And hey, if you do end up with a mismatched set like I did when I was starting out, its all good they weight the same.

3. A Pull-Up Bar

When it comes to setting up a pull-up bar for your garage gym workouts, you’ve got a few options to choose from. 

Each type has its pros and cons, so let’s break them down:

1. Doorway pull-up bars: These are great for small spaces but might not be sturdy enough for kipping pull-ups.
2. Wall-mounted bars: Offer more stability and can handle more intense workouts.
3. Ceiling-mounted bars: Ideal for garage gyms with high ceilings, providing maximum stability.
4. Free-standing pull-up stations: Perfect if you can’t drill into walls or ceilings, but they take up more floor space.

Versatile Pull-Up Bar Options for Multiple Exercises

Advanced Option: Rogue P-3 Pull-Up System

For serious athletes, the Rogue P-3 Pull-Up System is the best pull-up bar you can buy in my opinion. It’s wall-mounted, super stable, and can handle anything from strict pull-ups to muscle-ups. 

The multi-grip options allow for a variety of exercises, making it a versatile addition to any garage gym.

Beginner Option: Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull Up Bar

The Titan Fitness Wall Mounted Pull-Up Bar is a solid choice for beginners. 

It’s sturdy, easy to install, and offers multiple grip positions. While it might not have all the bells and whistles of pricier options, it’ll definitely get the job done.

Budget Option: Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar

The Iron Gym Total Upper Body Workout Bar is a good starting point if you’re on a tight budget. It’s a doorway pull-up bar that doesn’t require any drilling.

While it’s not ideal for kipping pull-ups, it’s great for building basic upper body strength.

Pull-up bars are essential for any CrossFit garage gym. They’re versatile, don’t take up much space, and are crucial for developing upper body strength. 

Whether you’re doing strict pull-ups, kipping pull-ups, or even using resistance bands for assisted pull-ups, having a sturdy bar is key. 

Just make sure you choose one that fits your space and workout style. 

4. Kettlebells

Kettlebells are like the Swiss Army knives of CrossFit equipment and are a great movement for home training. They’re incredibly versatile and can add a whole new dimension to your workouts. 

From swings to snatches, kettlebells are great tools for building strength, power, and endurance simultaneously.

They’re specifically great for functional fitness, helping you develop real-world strength that translates to everyday activities and fits nicely into metcons to train various movement patterns. 

Plus, they’re compact, making them perfect for garage gyms where space is at a premium.

General Guidelines For Kettlebell Weights

For Beginners

• Women: Start with 8-12 kg (18-26 lbs)
• Men: Begin with 12-16 kg (26-35 lbs)

For Intermediate Users

• Women: Progress to 16-20 kg (35-44 lbs)
• Men: Move up to 20-24 kg (44-53 lbs)

For Advanced Athletes

• Women: 24 kg (53 lbs) and up
• Men: 32 kg (70 lbs) and up

Top Kettlebell Brands for Quality and Durability

Advanced Option: Rogue Fitness Competition Kettlebells

Rogue Fitness Competition Kettlebells are top-notch if you’re serious about your kettlebell training. Rogue kettlebells are made from single-piece cast steel and have a consistent size regardless of weight. 

This makes transitions between weights smoother and helps with technique consistency.

I remember when I first used these in a competition. The difference in balance and grip compared to my old kettlebells was night and day. 

It’s like switching from a clunky old flip phone to a smartphone—you don’t know what you’re missing until you try it.

Beginner Option: REP Fitness Kettlebells

For those just starting out, REP Fitness Kettlebells offer great value. They’re well-made, have a comfortable grip, and come in a wide range of weights. The color coding makes it easy to grab the right weight quickly during workouts.

Budget Option: Yes4All Cast Iron Kettlebells

If you’re on a tight budget, Yes4All Vinyl Coated Kettlebells are a decent choice. They’re not as durable as the pricier options, but they’ll do the job for beginners. 

When I first started with kettlebells, I bought the cheapest set I could find. Big mistake. The handles were rough, the weight distribution was off, and one of them actually cracked after a few months of use.

Lesson learned: when it comes to kettlebells, investing in quality pays off in the long run.

5. Plyo Boxes

Plyo boxes are incredibly versatile pieces of equipment in CrossFit. They’re not just for box jumps, although that’s probably what they’re best known for. Here are some common uses:

1. Box jumps 
2. Step-ups
3. Depth jumps
4. Box squats
5. Elevated push-ups
6. Bulgarian split squats

These exercises help develop explosive power, improve coordination, and build lower body strength. Plus, they’re great for adding variety to your workouts.

Wooden vs. Foam Plyo Boxes: Pros and Cons

Wooden Plyo Boxes

Pros:

• More stable
• Longer-lasting
• Often have multiple jump heights

Cons:

• Can be intimidating for beginners
• Potential for shin scrapes on missed jumps

Foam Plyo Boxes

Pros:

• Softer landing, less intimidating
• Safer for beginners
• Often lighter and easier to move

Cons:

• May not be as stable
• Can wear down faster with heavy use

Best Plyo Boxes

Advanced Option: Rogue Games Box

For serious CrossFitters, the Rogue Games Box is hard to beat.

It’s made of the same high-quality plywood, has a stackable design, and offers three different jump heights that were used in CrossFit games. The reinforced construction means it can take a beating and keep on going.

Beginner Option: Rep 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box

If you’re just starting out, the Rep 3-in-1 Soft Plyo Box is a great choice. It’s made of high-density foam with a vinyl cover, offering a softer landing for those still building confidence with box jumps. 

The 3-in-1 design gives you multiple height options without taking up extra space.

Budget Option: Yes4All Wooden Plyo Box

The Yes4All Wooden Plyo Box offers good value for those on a tight budget. It’s sturdy, has three jump heights, and does the job without breaking the bank, so if you’re price sensitive, then it will be a great option for you.

Whether you choose wood or foam, ensure you’re comfortable with your plyo box. Start at a height that challenges you but doesn’t terrify you. With practice, you’ll be bounding onto that box like a gazelle in no time!

6. Squat Racks

If you are training, including any sort of heavy squatting or pressing overhead, then you will definitely need a squat rack.

Squat racks or squat stands minimize the need for you to clean every set up to your shoulders prior to starting, which will ultimately cap your how much weight can be used and blunt your strength progress. 

Here are some other key benefits:

1. Safety: Allows you to lift heavy without a spotter if there are catches attached
2. Versatility: Supports a wide range of exercises, such as pull-ups 
3. Space efficiency: Compact design fits well in most garages.

Features to Look for in a Garage-Friendly Squat Rack

When choosing a squat rack for your garage gym, consider these features:

• Adjustable safety bars or spotter arms
• Pull-up bar attachment
• Plate storage pegs
• Compact footprint
• Sturdy construction (look for 11-gauge steel or thicker)
• Weight capacity that exceeds your current max lifts
• J-cups with UHMW lining to protect your barbell

Versatile Exercises You Can Perform with a Squat Rack

A squat rack isn’t just for squats. Here’s a list of exercises you can do:

1. Back squats
2. Front squats
3. Overhead presses
4. Bench presses (with a weight bench)
5. Pull-ups
6. Rack pulls
7. Barbell rows
8. Inverted rows

Advanced Option: Rogue RML-390F Flat Foot Monster Lite Rack

For serious lifters, the Rogue RML-390F is a beast. It’s incredibly stable, has a high weight capacity, and comes with Westside hole spacing for precise bar placement. 

The flat foot design means you don’t need to bolt it to the floor, making it perfect for garage gyms.

Beginner Option: REP PR-1100 Home Gym Power Rack

The REP PR-1100 is a great choice for beginners. It’s affordable, compact, and comes with a pull-up bar and dip attachments. 

While not as heavy-duty as the Rogue, it’s more than capable of handling the needs of most CrossFit enthusiasts.

Budget Option: Fitness Reality 810XLT Super Max Power Cage

If you’re on a tight budget, the Fitness Reality 810XLT offers great value. It’s surprisingly sturdy for its price point and includes a pull-up bar.

While it may not have all the features and durability of more expensive racks, it’ll do the job for really any garage session.

7. Rowing Machine

Rowing is a powerhouse of a workout, and it’s no wonder it’s a staple in CrossFit. 

Here’s why it’s such a great addition to your conditioning routine:

1. Full-body workout: Engages about 86% of your muscles
2. Low-impact: Easy on your joints compared to running
3. Cardiovascular endurance: Excellent for improving heart health
4. Strength building: Develops both upper and lower body strength
5. Versatility: Can be used for both steady-state and HIIT workouts

Plus, rowing is a skill that translates well to other CrossFit movements and is always found in the yearly CrossFit Open.

Features to Look for in a Home Rowing Machine

When shopping for a rower, keep these features in mind:

• Resistance type: Air, magnetic, water, or hydraulic
• Monitor: Look for clear displays with useful metrics
• Build quality: Sturdy frame and smooth sliding seat
• Noise level: Consider if you need a quiet machine
• Storage: Foldability or upright storage options
• Weight capacity: Ensure it can support you comfortably
• Foot straps: Secure and adjustable for different foot sizes

Top Rowing Machine Picks for Different Budgets

Advanced Option: Concept2 Model D Indoor Rowing Machine

The Concept2 Model D is the gold standard in rowing machines. It’s the same model used in CrossFit competitions and many boxes worldwide.

Its air resistance system provides a smooth, realistic rowing feel, and the PM5 monitor is top-notch for tracking your performance.

I remember my first time using a Concept2 in a CrossFit class. I thought I was in decent shape until I tried a 500m sprint. Let’s just say I gained a whole new respect for rowers that day! 

But that humbling experience also showed me how effective rowing could be for improving my overall fitness.

Beginner Option: Assault Rower Pro

For those just starting their rowing journey but wanting a high-quality machine, the Assault Rower Pro is an excellent choice.

This air-resistance rower offers a smooth, natural rowing experience that’s great for building proper technique.

The Assault Rower Pro is built to last and can grow with you as your skills improve.

Its dual resistance system allows for a wider range of workout intensities, making it suitable for both beginners and more advanced users. 

While it’s pricier than other budget options, it is still considerably less than the Concept 2 Rower, allowing you to get into rowing as soon as you can.

Budget Option: Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine

If you’re looking to add rowing to your home gym without breaking the bank, the Sunny Health & Fitness SF-RW5515 Magnetic Rowing Machine is a solid choice. Despite its affordable price point, this rower offers a smooth rowing experience suitable for beginners.

While it may not have all the advanced features of pricier models, the SF-RW5515 provides a quiet, effective workout.

The magnetic resistance system allows for easy adjustment of workout intensity, though it doesn’t provide the progressive resistance of air rowers.

Remember, as a budget option, it may not be as durable as more expensive machines, and the monitor is fairly basic.

However, for beginners or those on a tight budget, it’s a great way to incorporate rowing into your CrossFit training right away.

8. Medicine Balls

Medicine balls are another CrossFit staple, and for good reason.

They are great tools for developing explosive power, core strength, and coordination while providing a powerful metabolic punch on workouts like Karen. 

What makes medicine balls so valuable is their ability to add resistance to dynamic, functional movements.

They’re great for improving your ability to generate force quickly – a key component in many CrossFit workouts.

They’re used in a variety of exercises, including:

1. Wall balls
2. Ball slams
3. Russian twists
4. Overhead throws
5. Squat throws

Choosing the Right Weight and Material

Selecting the right medicine ball is crucial for effective workouts. Here are some factors to consider:

Weight

• Beginners: Start with 6-8 lbs (women) or 10-14 lbs (men)
• Intermediate: 10-14 lbs (women) or 16-20 lbs (men)
• Advanced: 14-20 lbs (women) or 20-30 lbs (men)

Material

• Soft-shell: Great for wall balls and catching exercises
• Rubber: Durable and bouncy, good for slams
• Leather: Traditional look, good grip

Best Medicine Balls for Wall Balls and Slams

Advanced Option: Rogue Medicine Balls

For serious CrossFitters, Rogue Medicine Balls are top-of-the-line. They’re incredibly durable, maintain their shape well, and have a consistent weight distribution. 

The textured surface provides an excellent grip, even when you’re sweaty.

Beginner Option: Rep Fitness Medicine Balls

Rep Fitness Medicine Balls offer great value for beginners. They’re well-constructed, have a good grip, and are soft enough for wall balls without being too bouncy for slams.

Budget Option: Yes4All Medicine Ball

If you’re looking for an affordable medicine ball to add to your home CrossFit setup, the Yes4All Medicine Ball is a solid choice.

This budget-friendly option offers good value without compromising too much on quality.

While it may not have the premium feel of more expensive medicine balls, the Yes4All ball holds up well to regular use.

It’s suitable for various exercises, including wall balls, slams (on appropriate surfaces), and core work.

9. Jump Rope

Jump ropes are a great tool for garage gym training because they are simple, portable, and incredibly effective for conditioning. 

Here’s why they’re a must-have in any CrossFit setup:

1. Cardiovascular fitness: Jumping rope is an excellent cardio workout
2. Coordination: Improves your hand-eye-foot coordination
3. Agility: Enhances your footwork and reflexes
4. Portability: Easy to take anywhere for a quick workout
5. Versatility: Can be used for warm-ups, cooldowns, or intense HIIT sessions

Plus, mastering double unders is a rite of passage in CrossFit. It’s a skill that takes practice but pays off in improved fitness and workout performance.

Choosing Between Speed Ropes and Weighted Ropes

Speed Ropes

• Pros: Lighter, faster rotation, great for double unders
• Cons: Less resistance, may be harder for beginners

Weighted Ropes

• Pros: Provides more resistance, better for building arm strength
• Cons: Slower rotation, more challenging for advanced moves

For most CrossFit athletes, you’ll want to go with a speed rope.

But if you are at a higher level and compete in workouts that use weighted ropes, then by all means, add it to your garage gym toolbox. 

Top Jump Rope Recommendations

Advanced Option: RPM Session 4.0

The RPM Session 4.0 is a favorite among serious CrossFitters. 

It’s incredibly fast and durable and comes with a patented multi-directional swivel bearing system. This rope is perfect for mastering double unders and other advanced jumping techniques.

Beginner Option: WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope

The WOD Nation Speed Jump Rope is a great choice for those just starting out. It’s adjustable, comes with a spare cable, and is durable enough to withstand outdoor use. 

The comfortable handles make it easy to grip during longer sessions.

Budget Option: DEGOL Skipping Rope

If you’re on a tight budget, the DEGOL Skipping Rope offers excellent value. It’s lightweight, adjustable, and has comfortable foam handles.

While it may not have all the features of more expensive ropes, it’s more than capable of giving you a great workout.

I remember when I first attempted double unders. it was the same story as every CrossFit I chatted with when they first began. 

I was whipping myself with the rope more often than actually jumping over it. It was frustrating, but I kept at it.

Eventually, I found my rhythm, and now double unders are one of my favorite parts of CrossFit workouts. 

The key is patience and consistent practice.

When choosing a jump rope, consider your skill level and goals. If you’re just starting out, don’t worry too much about getting the fanciest rope.

Focus on developing your technique with a basic, durable rope. 

As you progress, you can invest in a more advanced rope to help you nail those double unders. 

10. Gymnastics Ring

Gymnastics rings are the last essential pieces of equipment I would include in your garage gym. They are commonly associated with ring muscle ups, which are an advanced movement for a CrossFit athlete. 

But they are also excellent at building upper body strength via accessory work like ring rows, dips, and much more. 

They offer unique benefits, including:

1. Instability: Forces your stabilizer muscles to work harder
2. Versatility: Allows for a wide range of exercises
3. Scalability: Easily adjust difficulty by changing body position
4. Full range of motion: Enables exercises through greater angles than fixed bars
5. Core engagement: Almost all ring exercises require significant core activation

Installation Options for Garage Gyms

Installing rings in your garage gym is easier than you might think. 

Here are some options:

1. Ceiling mount: Directly attach to ceiling joists for a permanent setup
2. Power rack mount: Hang from the top of your power rack
3. Portable setup: Use a tree branch or playground equipment outdoors
4. Free-standing rig: Purchase a separate rig if you can’t drill into your ceiling

Best Gymnastics Rings for Durability and Grip

Advanced Option: Rogue Wood Gymnastics Rings

For serious athletes, Rogue Wood Gymnastics Rings are top-notch. They’re made from high-quality Baltic birch, providing excellent grip even when your hands get sweaty. 

The wood also reduces hand irritation during long workouts.

Beginner Option: Rep Fitness Wood Gymnastics Rings

Rep Fitness Wood Gymnastics Rings offer great value for beginners. They’re well-made, provide good grip, and come with long straps for versatile mounting options. 

They’re a solid choice for those just starting their ring training.

Budget Option: Nayoya Plastic Gymnastics Rings

If you’re on a tight budget, Nayoya Plastic Gymnastics Rings are a decent starting point. While not as grippy as wood rings, they’re durable and get the job done.

They’re also easy to clean and suitable for outdoor use.

Final Thoughts On The Best Home Crossfit Equipment

Establishing a CrossFit home gym is a significant step for any CrossFit athlete. Once your garage is fully outfitted with the best CrossFit equipment, you’ll save time and money and optimize your training consistency.

The equipment discussed in this guide represents a comprehensive set of tools that can accommodate a wide range of CrossFit workouts and exercises. 

While it’s not necessary to acquire all these items at once, gradually building your collection will expand your workout options and help you progress in your fitness journey. 

Over time, I built my garage gym by purchasing a single piece of equipment and amassed everything I needed to never step foot inside a CrossFit box again if I didn’t want to.

With the right setup, your home gym can provide the challenge and variety needed to keep your CrossFit training engaging and productive. 

Whether you’re just starting out or looking to supplement your existing routine, investing in home CrossFit equipment can be a valuable commitment to your health and fitness.

If you are getting ready to build your at-home training facility, consider checking out the options mentioned and start collecting equipment ASAP!