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If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that you can get an intense workout right in your own home. Thanks to technology-packed equipment, home fitness has evolved from basic cardio workouts and resistance bands to all-in-one home gyms and live personal training (via an HD touchscreen) on a schedule that suits you—without the need to leave your house.
The best smart home gym equipment makes life easier through varying levels of technology, from Bluetooth and WiFi integration to digital weights and full access to live classes with real-time data and feedback. We sorted through the smartest equipment out there to find eight options that are worth adding to your home gym.
Best Smart Home Gym Equipment - Our Top Picks
- Best Smart Home Gym Mirror: Echelon Reflect Touch
- Best for Weight Training: NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio
- Best Smart Rower: Aviron Strong
- Best Smart Exercise Bike: Echelon EX-8s
- Best Smart Treadmill: Sole ST90
- Best Fitness Tracker: Garmin Venu 2s
- Best Smart Elliptical: Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical
Why Trust Us?
ACTIVE.com’s editorial team relies on the knowledge and experience of fitness and wellness experts including competitive athletes, coaches, physical therapists, nutritionists, and certified trainers. This helps us ensure the products we feature are of the highest standard. Collectively, the team has spent countless hours researching equipment, gear, and recovery tools in order to create the most accurate, authentic content for our readers. Customer satisfaction is also a key part of our review process, which is why we only feature products that are highly rated.
Best Smart Home Gym Mirror - Echelon Reflect Touch
SPECS
- Key features: 50" class HD touchscreen and pairing app
- Technology: On-demand classes and live workouts, Bluetooth compatible
A "workout mirror" may seem like a strange idea at first, but the more you think about it, the more it makes a lot of sense. Here’s one big (or small) reason why: the Echelon Reflect Touch has zero footprint. None! It takes up less floor space than a single five-pound weight, and doubles as beautiful, high-end decor that you can use to spot-check your outfit before heading out the door. No one ever said that about a squat rack (although they are good for hanging clothes on).
Another big reason: Unlike a piece of equipment that has a single use, or even multiple uses, Echelon syncs with an app that allows you to cast more than 2,000 studio-quality fitness classes in multiple styles including kickboxing, Pilates, high-intensity interval training, yoga, core workouts, Zumba, and plenty more. Only have five minutes? Or maybe you have over an hour? You’ve always got multiple live and on-demand options to choose from–and yes, there are strength training classes with weights as well! And with Bluetooth audio compatibility, you might be able to get your sweat on without ever waking up someone in the same room. At just 52 pounds, it’s as easy to install as, well, a mirror.
What We Like
- 40+ live and 1,000+ on-demand classes available
- Large HD touchscreen
- Easy to install
- Zero footprint
- Can join Echelon community for extra motivation
What We Don't Like
- Some users report audio issues with workouts
- Touchscreen can be overly sensitive
Best for Weight Training - NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio
SPECS
- Key features: AutoAdjust technology, on-demand interactive training, silent magnetic resistance, 10" tablet, 20 digital power resistance levels
- Technology: iFIT app integration, Bluetooth
Being an all-on-one functional piece of smart home gym equipment is an incredible achievement on its own, but the NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio takes things up a notch. Resistance training is a key component of building lean muscle, increasing the metabolism, and improving mobility and posture. This state-of-the-art resistance training machine features 20 levels of digital resistance, six cable ends, interchangeable ergonomic handles, two squat pulleys, and two ankle straps. Just fire up the included 10i tablet and log into iFIT for access to thousands of on-demand classes and live workouts.
One roadblock is that the machine has a footprint of 73.5 inches high and 60.5 inches wide which may limit where you can place it in your home, and it's not the easiest thing to move. But if you have the room—and the budget—this is an excellent smart machine for your home gym.
What We Like
- Includes 6 handles and 2 ankle straps
- 10" Portal 10i tablet included with adjustable stand
- 20 digital power settings
- Silent magnetic resistance
- 10-year frame warranty
- 30-day iFIT trial
What We Don't Like
- Resistance is catered more to beginner and intermediate levels
- Expensive
- Machine may not be easy to move
BUY: NordicTrack Fusion CST Studio
Best Smart Rower - Aviron Strong
SPECS
- Weight: 114 lbs.
- Dimensions: 84”L x 27”W x 48”H; 35”L x 27”W x 83”H (upright storage)
- Features: Dual air and magnetic resistance, rotating handle bar, cloud seat accessory, lumbar support accessory, phone holder, cooling effect fan
- Display: 22” rotating HD touchscreen
The Aviron Strong’s name is particularly fitting when it comes to its suite of smart features. It has a beautiful 22-inch HD touchscreen that swivels for easy accessibility when you are streaming a workout from one of the eight different categories that are offered. Once your workout starts, you won’t have to worry about fumbling with changing the resistance because that is programmed for you. Additionally, you will get cues, feedback, and motivation that are all based on your performance. For the data and metric collectors, the Aviron Strong can display split times, distance, time, heart rate and calories amongst others.
However, if there are days when you want to zone out and row, this smart rower offers easy accessibility to streaming services such as Hulu, Netflix, YouTube, and Amazon Prime, as well as Bluetooth connectivity. Therefore, pop in your earbuds, put on a good movie, and row until your heart's content.
What We Like
- 8 different categories of workouts
- Easily stores upright
- Cooling fan
What We Don’t Like
- Hefty price tag
- Doesn’t fold for storage
Best Smart Exercise Bike - Echelon EX-8s
SPECS
- Key features: 24" curved HD touchscreen, dual ring LED lights, Bluetooth Resistance Controller, 32 levels of resistance, dual bottle holders
- Technology: Echelon Fit app integration, Bluetooth
No indoor cycling bike can mimic the feel of a powerful in-person spin class or an outdoor ride through the foothills, but thanks to the interactive interface in the massive touchscreen, the Echelon EX-8s is about as close as you’ll get. When you log into the Echelon Fit app, you’ll gain access to thousands of on-demand global workouts and over 40 live classes with personal trainers. Even without the subscription you’ll still have access to the Freestyle ride option.
The Echelon EX-8s exercise bike is also equipped with e-Shock low-impact support to help you mitigate the pressure placed on your joints while you train. Additionally, the bike has LED lights in the flywheel that sync to your workout metrics and can be adjusted to match your mood.
What We Like
- 24" curved HD touchscreen
- Screen rotates 180 degrees for cross-training
- 32 levels of adjustable resistance
- Hybrid pedals: cleat clips on one side, adjustable pedals on the other
- LED light syncing with 15 colors
What We Don't Like
- Expensive
- Have to purchase extended warranty plans for additional 1-2 years
Best Smart Treadmill - Sole Fitness ST90
SPECS
- Key features: 15 levels of incline, 10.1" touchscreen, 2.0 horsepower AC motor, 20" x 60" running surface, integrated tablet holder
- Technology: Studio App, Bluetooth
The Sole ST90 is an excellent home treadmill for those looking for smart capabilities and a slat belt design that enhances comfort and lowers the amount of wear and tear. As you work out, you can adjust the speed up to 12.5 miles per hour and the incline up to 15 levels. This machine also features 10 standard, 12 custom, and 7 heart rate programs, but you can also take advantage of the Studio app for access to dozens of programs and real-time data.
When not using the ST90's 10.1-inch touchscreen for workouts, you can easily stream movies or tv while running. You can also take advantage of "free mode" which turns off the motor and allows you to operate the treadmill in a manual mode. Lastly, this smart treadmill also has a larger weight capacity of up to 330 pounds, making it much more accessible than other treadmills on the market.
What We Like
- 10.1" touchscreen and an integrated tablet holder
- Higher weight capacity than other treadmills
- Built-in programming; 10 standard, 12 custom, 7 heart rate
- Bluetooth compatible
- 5-year frame and motor warranty
What We Don't Like
- Heavy
- Can't be folded
- Chest strap and cooling fans not included
Best Fitness Tracker - Garmin Venu 2s
SPECS
- Key features: Touchscreen, color display, 5 ATM water rating, music storage
- Technology: Built-in GPS, Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi, health monitoring, Garmin Connect app
While some workout equipment tracks your stats via a heart rate monitor and/or personal info that you input when setting it up, a fitness tracker is usually more accurate. The Garmin Venu 2s is an excellent all-around option that tells you everything you need to know. It uses built-in sensors to provide data on heart rate, sleep, and hydration, and also gives feedback on your stress levels. If you like to take your workouts outdoors, you can use the built-in GPS to track time, pace, and distance without being tied to your phone.
The battery lasts up to 10 days on a single charge in Smartwatch mode, although the exact battery life will depend on how much you’re using it. Also, 10 minutes of charging can add up to one day of smartwatch mode battery life or one hour of GPS with music battery life. You can sync with the Garmin Venu 2s and access all your health data on your phone as well as interact with the Garmin online community. There are too many features to list here, but keep in mind that utilizing these additional features will significantly diminish battery life.
What We Like
- Smartphone compatible for calls and texts
- Animated on-screen workouts
- Tracking features for several sports and activities included
- 5 ATM water rating
What We Don't Like
- GPS Mode with music only has 7 hours of battery life
- No voice functionality
Best Smart Elliptical - Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical
SPECS
- Key features: 20 resistance levels, 23 lb. flywheel, 8 built-in programs, 7" LCD screen
- Technology: Advanced Bluetooth, fitness app integration, can connect to AFG Pro Horizon Fitness app
The Horizon Fitness 7.0 AE is a smart elliptical fully equipped with Bluetooth and a device holder that allows you to connect to whatever fitness app you prefer or stream your favorite shows while you train. Whether you're connected to a class or using one of the eight built-in programs, you can work your way through up to 20 levels of resistance. Also, the 20-inch stride is above the average for the majority of home ellipticals.
The Horizon 7.0 AE has a seven-inch LCD screen that can track your calories, distance, heart rate, incline percent, speed and time metrics. This elliptical machine is sturdy, durable, and—at less than $1,000—relatively affordable for a connected elliptical machine. Just be aware that great durability can often equal heavier overall machine weight and footprint, so make sure you have the necessary room for this equipment.
What We Like
- Lifetime frame and brake warranty
- Touchscreen display tracks calories, distance, heart rate, incline, speed, and time
- Flywheel is 23 lbs. and uses magnetic resistance
- Can connect to fitness apps via Bluetooth
- 8 built-in programs
What We Don't Like
- Can be difficult to assemble
- Large and heavy machine
BUY: Horizon 7.0 AE Elliptical
How to Choose the Best Smart Home Gym Equipment
Smart home gym equipment can run the gamut when it comes to things such as price, features, and technology. So how do you choose the best smart gym equipment for your home and training needs? Here are a few items to consider before committing to this purchase.
Space
When choosing home workout equipment, one of the biggest considerations is the amount of space you have, especially when it comes to some of the larger cardio machines. If you have a dedicated home gym, space may not be a concern, but if you can only spare a small space in the corner of your living room, you may have to be a little more discerning and opt for equipment like a workout mirror.
The bulkier fitness equipment, like folding treadmills, are often free-standing and need a decent amount of floor space, while other options get mounted to the wall or are light and portable. Before committing to a piece of equipment, measure your area and make sure you have the right amount of space.
Price
In addition to space, you’ll also want to consider the price. Decide on your budget beforehand, either for a single piece of equipment or for your entire home gym, and then go from there. Keep in mind that to access smart features, you’ll probably need a per-month membership which will add an additional cost—usually around $25 to $40 (similar to a premium gym membership) depending on the machine. When deciding on your budget, it’s important to factor this into the total cost. Also, shop around for membership deals. A few of these retailers will offer at least one free month of membership to their programs with purchase.
Technology Features
The biggest draw to smart home exercise equipment is, of course, the technology. Most have the standard Bluetooth connectivity, and many take it up a notch by adding WiFi capabilities for faster speeds, which is especially important for streaming Netflix or live fitness classes. Many have HD touchscreens that connect to apps that track workout metrics or allow you to watch your favorite TV shows while you exercise.
Other possible technology features include live and/or on-demand classes, leaderboards that allow you to compete with others, and, in the case of iFIT, the ability for trainers to remotely control your machine. There’s no right or wrong answer to what technology is best; you just have to determine what your goals are and what you’re hoping to get out of your equipment.
Type of Activity
Some pieces of exercise equipment are multifunctional. For example, workout mirrors offer upper-body workouts, full-body workouts, weight lifting classes and both live and on-demand workouts, ranging from Pilates to HIIT. Cardio machines might focus mainly on their area (like treadmills are for running), but many offer interactive programming so you can set up a workout mat next to it and follow along with other types of workout classes. Decide what your fitness goals are and what kind of equipment you need to achieve them, and then use that to narrow down your options.
Warranty
Lastly, it’s especially important to consider the type of warranty your smart gym equipment comes with. Because smart home gym equipment can be more pricey and relies on artificial intelligence and technology, it’s vital that your equipment is protected under a warranty. So in the event that your smart workout mirror or cardio machine stops working—or the technology never works upon arrival—you can get a replacement or a refund.
Benefits of a Smart Home Gym
There are several benefits to having smart gym equipment in your home. Having access to live and on-demand classes on your own time, within your own space is a game-changer for those who want to maintain a level of fitness but don't have regular gym access or a busy schedule. Smart home gym equipment is also versatile in that most of these options can work for any home set-up and give you more options than traditional home fitness equipment. You're not restricted to just cardio with a lot of these machines, the integrated apps often allow for additional strength training or yoga to shake up your routine and stay freshly motivated. Simply put, smart home gym equipment can give you everything you need to stay engaged with your workouts and eliminate excuses, which is often worth the investment.
FAQs About Smart Home Gym Equipment
What is smart home gym equipment?
When we talk about smart home gym equipment, we’re referring to anything that uses artificial intelligence to provide workouts. This type of equipment usually records and stores your workout data and offers more opportunities for personalization.
Can you get a good workout with a smart home gym?
You can get a good workout with just about anything—smart gym equipment or not. So when it comes to a smart home gym, you can definitely get an effective workout as long as you put forth your best effort.
How much should you spend on smart fitness equipment?
We recommend going over your budget before browsing smart fitness equipment. This type of equipment is typically more expensive since it uses smart technology. Typically, a high-quality piece of smart fitness equipment will cost anywhere from a couple hundred to over $1,000. You may be able to find less expensive smart fitness equipment but be aware that when it comes to this type of equipment, you get what you pay for.
Are smart home gyms worth it?
A smart home gym is worth it if you plan on getting regular use out of it. If you only see yourself using a smart home gym a few times a month, it may not be worth it. But, if you’re already regularly active then you may benefit from the convenience of a smart home gym.