Final Verdict
When it comes to at-home gym subscriptions, Peloton offers the best value. Not only does it come with an extensive on-demand video library, featuring classes in a number of different disciplines, but it also boasts live classes with world-famous Peloton instructors. Moreover, it lets you access its content without forcing you to buy its equipment, which is really important for frugal households.
If you’ve decided you want to build your own home gym but cycling isn’t really your thing, you may want to take a look at CrossFit Linchpin, which offers a range of workout modifications to fit every fitness level and whatever equipment you have available. If you’re looking for the most inexpensive options that still deliver high-quality workouts, take a look at Nike Training Club and FitOn.
Guide to Choosing the Best At-Home Gym Subscriptions
Are At-Home Gym Subscriptions Worth It?
Absolutely. For starters, exercise is a necessary and vital component of every healthy lifestyle, so you should always strive to stay fit and active in your daily life. There are some at-home gym subscriptions that offer workouts that make you sweat and work harder than any other routine you might do at a regular gym. There are also a number of other benefits, including affordability, given that some at-home gym subscriptions are cheaper than regular gyms. Additionally, you don't have to leave your home to exercise, which may come in handy for parents or in situations where the weather is bad.
There is also a lot more flexibility with an at-home gym subscription, in terms of choosing when and where to fit in a workout. The best part is that you get the chance to work with talented certified trainers who can coach you on your fitness journey for a fraction of what a one-on-one session would cost.
What Should I Look for in an At-Home Gym Subscription?
Although it was already really popular, the at-home gym subscription market has exploded in recent years. That means you’ve probably been bombarded by tons of ads from programs out there with various promises and specials. Choosing the best subscription to fit your needs and your goals should be easy if you know what you’re looking for. Here are a few important factors to consider in your search.
- Pricing: Is it an all-inclusive monthly or yearly fee? Will you get unfettered access to all the app’s content by paying a fixed monthly or yearly price, or do you have to pay per session or course? The latter can add up, depending on your usage. Most importantly: make sure that the price meets your budget, and keep an eye out for discounts and promos.
- Content: Spend some time browsing to gauge how much content is available on the service you’re considering. You want to ensure it has at least a few hundred on-demand workout videos to choose from and that the company regularly updates its content. Another thing to look for is, does it offer live classes, and is that something you would pay a premium for?
- Platforms: Most services will have an Android and iOS app, but that is not always the case. Make sure you check which platforms are supported before you invest in a subscription. If you have a Roku or any other type of smart TV, you may also want to check if the service is supported on these devices.
- Equipment requirements: Do you own more equipment than dumbbells and a yoga mat? If not, you want to make sure the service you are considering has plenty of options for limited or no-equipment workouts. If you’re considering a niche subscription service, like one focused on boxing, then make sure you have (or can purchase) the equipment necessary to do the exercises before signing up.
- Free trials: Always go for the companies that offer free trials; seven days to two weeks is fairly typical, but the longer, the better. A free trial allows you to test the service and ensure you like it before spending your hard-earned dollars on something you will only use once.
- Variety of workouts: If you’re someone that gets bored easily doing the same type of workouts over and over again, then you need to make sure the service you’re eyeing has enough variety to keep you motivated and engaged.
- Coaches and trainers: Check the service to see how many different trainers they have on staff. You want to make sure you have options and experience different teaching styles. Most services have coaches’ bios on their websites, so you can see if there’s one or more you would prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Workouts Do At-Home Gym Subscriptions Offer?
The great thing about at-home gym subscriptions is that many of them offer very niche products. If you’re interested in taking CrossFit, barre, or yoga classes, chances are you can find a specific program that meets those needs. There are other broader at-home gym subscriptions that include a range of exercises from stretching and yoga to bodyweight workouts (think planks, burpees, and push-ups), and strength training.
Do You Need Equipment for At-Home Gym Subscriptions?
It depends on what you choose. Many at-home gym subscriptions offer zero-equipment programs and workouts, and in some cases, limited equipment, like a pair of dumbbells and a mat, is enough to get through a program. We recommend you take a look at the equipment requirements listed in the app or workout program you want to begin before making any financial commitments.
Can Home Workouts Replace the Gym?
With consistency and effort, home workouts can be just as effective as the gym. One way to get a great workout at home is to subscribe to an at-home gym subscription. Apps like Peloton and Aaptiv offer a large library of at-home workouts that can help you get all the cardio, resistance, and weight training exercise that you need from the comfort of home.
Methodology
We evaluated more than 40 companies offering at-home gym subscriptions. The program features we reviewed included price, diversity of workouts, user reviews, variety of instructors and availability, workout equipment needed, and ease of platform use. Companies offering free trials and consumer-friendly cancellation policies often came out on top. We also gave preference to those that promoted inclusivity and body positivity.