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List of Equipment You Need to Start a Gym [Cost Included]

If you are planning to open a gym, and you are not sure of the equipment you would need to start the gym business, you need not worry anymore because you are reading the right article.

In this article, we will look at some of the essential equipment you would need to open your gym facility, what the equipment is used for, and of course, the amount it will cost you to purchase the equipment.

List of Equipment You Need to Start a Gym

  1. Cardio Machines

If you are planning to start a gym, then you should have a robust budget for cardio machines. Different types of gym equipment are classified under gym cardio machines and they include; stationary bikes (recumbent and upright), elliptical trainers, and rowing machines.

These cardio machines are designed to improve cardiovascular health, meaning they increase your heart and respiratory rate to strengthen your heart muscle and build endurance. Some cardio machines also help in building strength and capacity.

Cost:

  • Stationary Bikes: $189.99 – $999.00
  • Elliptical Trainers: $209.99 – $279.97
  • Rowing Machines: Starting from $235.99
  1. Strength Training Equipment

Strength training equipment is yet another set of equipment you must make sure to have if you want to start a gym. Strength training equipment includes; dumbbells (various weights), barbells and weight plates, benches (adjustable and flat), power racks or smith machines, leg press machines, cable machines, and kettlebells.

Dumbbells allow the user to focus on one arm or leg at a time, which is one way to initiate strength gains by using a heavy overload.

Cost:

  • Dumbbells: $13.05 – $349.99
  • Leg Press Machine: $129.99 – $239.95
  • Cable Machines: $27.99 – $65.99
  1. Resistance Machines

Another major piece of equipment you should budget for if you want to start a gym is resistance machines. Resistance machines are machines such as Chest Press, Leg Curl/Extension, Lat Pulldown, Seated Row, Leg Press, and Multi-Gym Stations.

Resistance machines help you to target specific muscles. This can be helpful for building up strength in muscles that otherwise may get overlooked and can really help with muscular balance.

Cost: The price varies based on the type of machine

  1. Functional Training Equipment

Functional Training Equipment is yet another important piece of equipment you should have if you want to open a gym. Functional training equipment allows you to work harder and longer, training flexibility, helping reduce the likelihood of injury and improving your day-to-day performance.

Examples of functioning training equipment are TRX suspension trainers, medicine balls, resistance bands, plyo boxes, battle ropes, and stability balls.

Cost:

  • TRX Suspension Trainer: $49.80 – $94.99
  • Stability Balls: $19.99 – $39.99
  • Plyo Boxes: $44.99 – $287.38
  1. Stretching and Core Equipment

Another important piece of equipment that you must budget for if you plan to open a gym is stretching and core equipment. When we talk about stretching and core equipment, we are talking of equipment such as Yoga Mats, Foam Rollers, Abdominal crunch Machines, and Roman Chairs.

Cost: The price varies and it is dependent on the type of machines

  1. Cardiovascular Monitors

A cardiovascular monitor is yet another important piece of equipment that every gym should have. Examples of cardiovascular monitors are heart rate monitors, treadmill displays, and exercise bikes with monitors.

Basically, cardiovascular monitors are used for tracking heart rate during exercise. A cardiovascular monitor or device is about the size of a pager. It records your heart rate and rhythm.

Cost: The price varies and it is dependent on the type of machines

  1. Sound System

Another important piece of equipment you will need if you want to open a gym is a sound system. You will definitely need quality speakers and audio equipment for music during your fitness classes.

Please note that a gym sound system plays a vital role in creating a positive atmosphere and motivational energy. For fitness classes, music is important and contributes to the enjoyment of the class.

Cost: The price varies and it is dependent on the type of sound system

  1. Mirrors

There is hardly any gym where you will not find mirrors. In essence, if you are planning to start a gym, then you should budget for full-length mirrors that can be placed at strategic points in the gym. In gyms, mirrors provide an external focal point to help clients get through their workout sessions.

Seeing yourself in motion can also inspire you to work harder and give it your all. Also, mirrors in the gym assist with spatial awareness and choreography.

Cost: The price varies and it is dependent on the type and size of the mirror.

  1. Water Fountain or Dispenser

The fact that people exert energy and sweat out during exercise sessions in a gym means that they will regularly need to quench their thirst. In essence, if you are planning to start a gym, then you must make sure you have a water fountain or water dispenser.

Please note that water dispensers or water fountains might not be a piece of exercise equipment, but they are equipment that cannot be found missing in a gym.

Cost: $13.99 – $159.99

  1. Locker Rooms and Amenities

Lastly, if you are planning to start a gym, then you must make sure you have locker rooms, and other related amenities in place. You will need Showers, Lockers, a Reception Desk, and perhaps other furniture in place.

Cost: The price varies based on the type and size.

In conclusion,

It is important to note that there are different niche ideas when it comes to gym, hence the major equipment you will need to start the type of gym niche you want might be different from the type of equipment you need to start the regular gym.

For example, the type of equipment needed to start a traditional fitness gym is different from the type of equipment needed to start a specialty gym like a CrossFit box, or a boutique fitness studio. So it is advisable to do your groundwork before settling for the gym equipment to buy.