Building a home gym in Canada comes with challenges US buyers don't face—cold garage winters, freight delivery realities, and hidden costs that blow past initial budgets. At Fitness Avenue, we've helped thousands of Canadian customers since 2007 find the right fitness equipment for their space and goals. This guide covers our top 10 picks across cardio, strength, and accessories to help you achieve your fitness goals.
Key Takeaways
- Break-even timeline: A well-equipped home gym pays for itself in 2-3 years versus gym memberships—you save money every day after that.
- Minimum space needed: 100-150 sq ft for a functional strength and cardio setup.
- Ceiling clearance: 96+ inches (8 feet) recommended for overhead pressing and pull-ups; 9 feet is ideal for taller users.
- Hidden costs to budget: Flooring ($100-$800), assembly ($100-$500), and potential heating for garage gyms ($50-$400).
- Quality retention: Premium strength equipment retains 65-80% of its resale value after 5+ years of regular use
Top 10 Equipment for Home and Commercial Gyms in Canada
Our huge selection covers the full spectrum of home gym needs—from compact cardio to commercial-grade strength gear. Each piece was chosen for quality construction, Canadian availability, and long-term value. We're proud to offer fitness equipment designed to help customers achieve lasting results.
1. SpaceSmart Adjustable Stair Stepper
The SpaceSmart Adjustable Stair Stepper proves you don't need a massive footprint for effective cardio. This compact stepper fits in corners and closets while delivering intense workouts. Shop if you strive to maximize space.
Specifications:
- Adjustable resistance levels
- Digital display monitor tracking time, steps, and calories
- Resistance handles for upper body engagement.
- Non-slip pedals for safety
- Stores upright with transport wheels
Ideal for: Condo dwellers, apartment gyms, and anyone prioritizing space efficiency. The resistance handles turn a lower-body machine into full-body conditioning gear.
Standout feature: The upright storage design takes less floor space than most yoga mats when not in use.
2. AmStaff Fitness Water Rower
Water rowers combine full-body cardio with low-impact joint protection. The AmStaff Fitness Water Rower brings commercial gym quality home. Customer reviews consistently praise its smooth operation.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 80 inches (L) × 23 inches (W) × 40 inches (H)
- Max user weight: 350 lbs
- An active recoil system built for a smooth rowing motion
- Stores upright with transport wheels
- Water resistance mimics the natural rowing feel
- Ergonomic handlebar and padded seat
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 1-year parts
Ideal for: Full-body conditioning without stress on knees, hips, or shoulders. Water resistance naturally adjusts to your effort level—row harder, get more resistance.
Standout feature: The soothing water sound replaces mechanical whir. Many users report longer sessions because the experience feels enjoyable.
3. Virgin Rubber Dumbbell Set with 6-Pair Rack
Dumbbells remain the most versatile fitness equipment for home gyms. The Virgin Rubber Dumbbell Set (5-30lbs) from our dumbbell sets collection covers progressive training from beginners through intermediate lifters.
Specifications:
- 6 pairs included: 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 lbs
- Includes AmStaff TR040 vertical rack (44"H x 25"W x 21"D)
- 100% virgin rubber coating—no toxic smell
- Ergonomic handgrips reduce wrist fatigue
- The hex shape prevents rolling
Ideal for Home gyms that need a complete free-weight foundation. The graduated weight range supports hundreds of exercises with this built-for-home exercise equipment. Beginner lifters appreciate the wide selection of lighter weights to start.
Standout feature: Virgin rubber versus recycled rubber matters—no off-gassing smell that plagues cheaper sets. Your basement won't smell like a tire shop.
4. Virgin Rubber Hex Dumbbells (Individual)
For custom weight ranges or expanding sets, individual Virgin Rubber Hex Dumbbells offer flexibility. View our full collection of adjustable dumbbells for space-saving alternatives.
Specifications:
- Available weights: 2.5 to 120 lbs (sold individually)
- 100% virgin rubber coating
- The hex shape prevents rolling during floor exercises
- Ergonomic grip designed to reduce hand fatigue
- Protects flooring from damage
Ideal for: Experienced lifters needing heavier weights, or anyone filling gaps in existing collections. The 2.5 lb increments ensure you can add weight progressively.
Standout feature: The full range up to 120 lbs means serious lifters won't outgrow these dumbbells.
5. AmStaff Fitness 370 Commercial Power Rack
Commercial-grade rack cages at home prices used to require compromise. The AmStaff Fitness 370 Commercial Power Rack delivers genuine commercial specifications. Read reviews to understand why this trusted fitness equipment earns top ratings.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 48"W x 58"D x 87"H (rack only)
- With lat pulldown option: 48"W x 66"D x 90"H
- 3" x 3" steel tubing (2.5mm thick, 11 gauge)
- Weight capacity: 1,200 lbs
- Multi-grip chin-up bar
- 12-band pegs for resistance training
- Laser-cut numbered holes for precise adjustments
- Commercial-grade hardware throughout
- Optional lat pulldown attachment with 6 pulleys
Ideal for: Serious lifters pushing heavy weights, garage gym owners wanting fitness equipment that outlasts them, and small business owners planning commercial facilities.
Standout feature: The 1,200 lb capacity handles anything you'll realistically lift. The 3x3 tubing matches what you'd find in commercial gyms charging $50+ monthly.
6. AmStaff Fitness PR100 Power Rack
The AmStaff Fitness PR100 Power Rack delivers professional features at home prices. Trusted by customers.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 58"W x 48"D x 85.5"H
- 2" x 2" steel tubing (11 gauge)
- Weight capacity: 700 lbs
- Multi-grip pull-up bar (invertible for low ceilings)
- 38 adjustment levels with numbered uprights
- Plastic-lined J-cups protect barbell knurling
- Chrome safety bars
- Available colours: Black, Blue, Red, Green
Ideal for: Home gym owners who want quality without paying for commercial capacity they'll never use. The 700 lb capacity exceeds what 95% of lifters will ever load.
Standout feature: The invertible pull-up bar accommodates basement ceilings under 8 feet—just flip it down instead of searching for a shorter rack.
7. AmStaff Fitness SD-3000 All-In-One Smith Machine
Multi-station machines consolidate fitness equipment into a single footprint. The AmStaff Fitness SD-3000 All-In-One Smith Machine combines five training systems in one unit—perfect for our home gym collection. Shop this all-in-one if you want a large selection of exercise options.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 77"W x 67"D x 87"H
- Product weight: 800 lbs
- 5-in-1 system: Smith machine, functional trainer, crossover pulley, dip station, squat rack
- Dual 160 lbs weight stacks
- 1:1 pulley ratio for true-to-weight resistance
- 32 pulleys with 64" cable travel
- Smith machine capacity: 750 lbs static
- J-hooks/safety bars: 1,000 lbs static
- Max user weight: 350 lbs
- Multi-grip pull-up bar
- Footplate for seated low rows
- Band pegs for added resistance
- Integrated weight plate storage
Ideal for: Home gyms where space limits how much you purchase. One footprint replaces a power rack, a cable crossover, a dip station, and a functional trainer. You'll find this fitness equipment in many world-class home gyms.
Standout feature: The 1:1 pulley ratio matters—many machines use 2:1 ratios, making 100 lbs feel like 50. True 1:1 ratios ensure honest resistance.
8. AmStaff Fitness SD-5000 All-In-One Smith Machine
The AmStaff Fitness SD-5000 All-In-One Smith Machine represents the pinnacle of home gym innovation. This fitness equipment is designed for individuals who demand the best.
Specifications:
- Dual 90kg (198 lbs) weight stacks
- 2:1 pulley ratio for precision progression
- 600 lbs rackable capacity on J-hooks and safety catches
- Integrated systems: Smith machine, functional trainer, low row, multi-grip chin-up station, squat rack, leg press, dip station
- Premium aluminum pulleys for frictionless operation
- Six integrated weight plate storage pegs
- Rust-proof stainless steel uprights
- Includes: tricep rope, double D handle, dual hook bar, straight bar, EZ curl bar, and leg strap
Ideal for: Serious home gym builders wanting commercial gym functionality in residential space. The comprehensive accessory package eliminates the need to purchase separate cable attachments—you receive everything you need.
Standout feature: The cable system connects the barbell directly to weight stacks, eliminating plate loading.
9. XFORM Fitness BK70 Spin Bike
Indoor cycling remains among the most effective forms of cardio. The XFORM Fitness BK70 Spin Bike delivers a road bike feel at home. Customer reviews highlight its commercial-grade build.
Specifications:
- Dimensions: 46" L × 24" W × 49" H
- 40 lb high-density flywheel for smooth momentum
- Dual felt pad braking system
- Heavy-duty commercial drive belt
- Infinite tension handle for resistance range
- LCD screen: RPM, calories, heart rate, distance, time, odometer, interval training
- Pedals with toe cages and straps
- Max user weight: 350 lbs
- 4-way adjustable handlebars and seat
- Transport wheels for storage
- Warranty: 5-year frame, 2-year parts
Ideal for: Cyclists wanting off-season training, high-intensity interval sessions, or low-impact cardio that protects joints. This fitness equipment helps you achieve your goal of better cardiovascular health.
Standout feature: The 40 lb flywheel outweighs most home spin bikes by 10-15 lbs, creating smoother pedal strokes and a more realistic road feel.
10. AmStaff Fitness AF-2800 NO-GAP Adjustable Bench
Every home gym needs a quality adjustable bench. The AmStaff Fitness AF-2800 NO-GAP Adjustable Bench from our adjustable benches collection eliminates the common gap between the seat and backrest.
- 12 backrest positions (-8 to 85 degrees): full decline through near-vertical
- 5 seat pad angles (-15 to 45 degrees)
- 8 NO-GAP adjustment settings for perfect alignment
- 11-gauge steel frame construction
- Parallel handle frame for easy mobility
- Transport wheels
- Thick high-density padding
- Tapered backrest for shoulder blade freedom during presses
Ideal for: Any home gym prioritizing pressing exercises. The NO-GAP design provides support for your lower back in every position—flat, incline, and decline.
Standout feature: Traditional benches leave gaps in incline positions. NO-GAP technology eliminates this.
Side-by-Side Gym Equipment Comparison Table
|
Equipment |
Footprint |
Max Capacity |
Best For |
Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
SpaceSmart Stair Stepper |
Ultra-compact |
Standard |
Small spaces |
Upright storage |
|
AmStaff Water Rower |
80"L x 23"W |
350 lbs |
Full-body cardio |
Water resistance |
|
Dumbbell Set (5-30lbs) |
25"W x 21"D |
N/A |
Foundational strength |
Complete graduated range |
|
Individual Hex Dumbbells |
Varies |
N/A |
Custom building |
Up to 120 lbs available |
|
AmStaff 370 Power Rack |
48"W x 58"D |
1,200 lbs |
Heavy lifters |
Commercial-grade construction |
|
AmStaff PR100 Power Rack |
58"W x 48"D |
700 lbs |
Home gyms |
Invertible pull-up bar |
|
AmStaff SD-3000 Smith |
77"W x 67"D |
750 lbs (Smith) |
Space efficiency |
5-in-1 system, 1:1 pulleys |
|
AmStaff SD-5000 Smith |
Similar |
600 lbs (rack) |
Maximum versatility |
Cable-connected Smith bar |
|
XFORM BK70 Spin Bike |
46"L x 24"W |
350 lbs |
Indoor cycling |
40 lb flywheel |
|
AmStaff AF-2800 Bench |
Compact |
1,000+ lbs |
Pressing exercises |
NO-GAP technology |
What Exercise Equipment Is Best for Every Fitness Level?
Your ideal fitness equipment depends on training style and goal:
Beginners (0-12 months training)
Focus on building movement patterns before chasing heavy weights:
- Adjustable bench for supported exercises
- Dumbbell set (5-30 lbs) covering progressive learning
- Bodyweight foundation: pull-up bar, dip station
- Cardio option: spin bike or rower for conditioning
Beginners benefit from fitness equipment, which helps reduce injury risk. The SD-3000 provides guided bar paths. Contact our team for guidance on training style.
Intermediate (1-3 years training)
Expand accessories to support progressive overload:
- Power rack for barbell training
- Heavier dumbbells beyond 30 lbs
- Cable machine or functional trainer for isolation work
- Specialty bars (curl bar, trap bar) for variety
- Weight plates to add resistance progressively
The PR100's 700 lb capacity handles intermediate progressive overload. This commitment to long-term growth pays off.
Advanced (3+ years training)
Fitness equipment quality matters more than quantity:
- Commercial-grade rack, like the 370 (1,200 lb capacity)
- Complete dumbbell range through 100+ lbs
- Multiple barbells for different training styles
- Olympic plates for serious lifting
Advanced lifters understand that buying quality once beats repeatedly replacing cheap gear.
What Accessories Complete a Gym?
Beyond the ten featured pieces, several accessories maximize training effectiveness:
Flooring ($100-$800)
Proper gym flooring protects fitness equipment and joints:
- Rubber tiles: Most common, easy installation, moderate price
- Horse stall mats: Budget-friendly option
- Interlocking foam: Temporary or apartment-friendly
Cold Canadian garages require consideration of the effects of temperature on rubber. Our service team can help you choose the right solution.
Resistance Bands ($30-$100)
Resistance elastic bands add variety without space requirements:
- Attach the power rack band pegs to accommodate resistance
- Provide warm-up and mobility work
- Enable exercises without loading the spine
Lower Body Equipment
Dedicated lower body and leg equipment expands options beyond squats. Shop this category to view our large selection of accessories.
Cable Attachments
Maximize cable machines and functional trainer versatility with accessories:
- Straight bar for lat pulldowns and rows
- Rope for tricep extensions and face pulls
- D-handles for single-arm work
The SD-5000 includes comprehensive attachments, so you save on separate purchases.
Equipment Packages
Our equipment packages bundle items at a better value. You save with curated selections—everything covered.
Boxing Gear
Boxing accessories add variety to any high-intensity cardio routine.
How Do You Choose the Right Gym Equipment for Your Goals?
Match fitness equipment to your training style and objectives:
Muscle Building
Prioritize:
- Heavy-capacity power rack or Smith machine
- Full dumbbell range for isolation work
- Adjustable bench for pressing angles
- Cable system for constant tension exercises
- Weight plates for progressive loading
The SD-3000 covers all muscle-building requirements in one footprint. Reviews confirm its value.
Fat Loss and Conditioning
Prioritize:
- High-intensity cardio (spin bike, rower, stepper)
- Circuit-friendly gear (dumbbells, kettlebells)
- Functional trainers for metabolic resistance training
The BK70's interval programs support HIIT, proven effective for fat loss. You save hours compared to driving to a gym day after day.
Athletic Performance
Prioritize:
- Power rack for compound movements
- Olympic lifting capability with bumper plates
- Plyometric accessories
- Conditioning tools (rower, assault bike)
The 370 Commercial Power Rack's band pegs support accommodating resistance training used by competitive athletes.
General Fitness and Health
Prioritize:
- Versatile fitness equipment covering multiple training styles
- Moderate capacity is sufficient for recreational lifting
- Cardio options you'll actually use consistently
The PR100 Power Rack, paired with a dumbbell set and spin bike, covers most goal requirements without overbuying.
What Mistakes Do First-Time Buyers Commonly Make?
Community feedback and customer reviews reveal consistent regrets:
Not Measuring Ceiling Height
Many buyers discover their 92+ inch ceiling requirement for overhead pressing only after fitness equipment arrives. The PR100's invertible pull-up bar solves this—but verify before placing your order.
Underestimating Assembly Time
Complex fitness equipment like the SD-3000 requires hours and two people. Contact us about service assistance.
Buying Equipment That Doesn't Match Goals
Be honest about your training style before committing to a major purchase.
Ignoring Future Moves
Survey feedback confirms that portable fitness equipment maintains its value when life changes. Transport wheels make relocation easier.
Choosing Low Quality to Save Money
The phrase "buy nice or buy twice" appears repeatedly in discussions in the home gym community. A bench that cracks under 315 lbs or a rack that wobbles creates injury risk.
Premium strength equipment retains 65-80% of its resale value after 5+ years of regular use. Cheap alternatives can't be given away. Price reflects quality.
What Makes Gym Equipment Worth Buying
Break-Even Calculation
The average gym membership in Canada ranges from $37-$72 for mid-range facilities, with a national average of around $52 per month (Fitness Avenue, 2025). At a typical mid-range membership:
- $1,500 home gym = approximately 25-30 months to break even
- $3,000 home gym = approximately 50-60 months to break even
- Family of four at $50 each = $2,400 annual savings immediately
Over 10 years, you save $3,000-$20,000+ compared to family gym memberships. This calculation alone justifies the purchase for many customers.
Canadian Market Considerations
Cold Weather Challenges
Garage gyms face unique Canadian realities:
- Rubber flooring contracts in cold
- Barbells feel brutal below freezing (warm them indoors before use)
- Heating costs add $50-$400 annually
- Insulation ($100-$300) makes winter training bearable day after day
Shipping Realities
Heavy fitness equipment delivery involves:
- Curbside-only freight delivery for items over a certain weight
- 60-foot trucks requiring street access
- Remote area surcharges
Fitness Avenue's locations in Toronto, Barrie, Longueuil, and London enable try-before-you-buy and local pickup. Shop in-store or order online.
Quality Indicators
Look for:
- Steel gauge: 11-gauge or thicker for racks (lower gauge = thicker steel)
- Weight capacity: Higher than you'll ever need
- Warranty length: Reflects manufacturer commitment
- User weight limits: Applies to moving fitness equipment like rowers and bikes
- Customer reviews: Read what real customers say
FAQs
Is It Better to Buy Gym Equipment Online or In-Store?
Online shopping offers a broader selection, easier price comparison, and delivery convenience. In-store shopping lets you test fitness equipment before committing—important for benches, bikes, and other items where fit matters.
Fitness Avenue offers both with locations in Toronto, Barrie, Longueuil, and London. Test in-store, then order online. In-store pickup is usually ready in 24 hours—check our site for availability.
How Much Should I Spend on a Home Gym Setup?
The budget depends on fitness goals and available space. A starter gym with a bench, dumbbell set, and cardio runs $1,000-$2,000. Setups with power rack or Smith machine range $3,000-$7,000. Commercial-grade home gyms can cost over $10,000.
Consider the break-even calculation: at a $50/month gym membership, a $3,000 home gym pays for itself in 5 years. Families save significantly more. Contact our team for guidance on matching your budget.
What Gym Equipment Is Best for Weight Loss?
High-intensity fitness equipment drives weight loss. Cardio, like spin bikes, rowers, and stair steppers, burns significant calories. The XFORM BK70 Spin Bike's interval programs support HIIT protocols proven effective for fat loss.
Strength fitness equipment matters too. Muscle tissue burns approximately 6 calories per pound per day at rest, compared to fat tissue, which burns only about 2 calories per pound per day. While the effect is modest, building lean muscle through strength training contributes to a higher basal metabolic rate over time. Dumbbells and functional trainers support metabolic resistance training, combining strength and cardio benefits. Customers who strive for weight loss achieve results with consistent use.
What Gym Equipment Is Best for Building Muscle?
Progressive overload builds muscle—fitness equipment must support adding resistance. Power racks enable heavy barbell training for compound movements (squats, bench press, deadlifts). Adjustable benches provide pressing angles that target different muscle groups.
The SD-3000 and SD-5000 combine free weight capability with cable systems. Cable exercises provide constant tension, stimulating muscle growth in ways free weights do not. Add weight plates progressively to continue growing.
How Much Space Do I Really Need for a Home Gym?
The minimum functional space is 100-150 square feet. This accommodates a power rack, bench, and floor space for dumbbell work. Ceiling height matters as much as floor space—92 inches minimum is required for overhead pressing.
All-in-one systems like the SD-3000 and SD-5000 maximize fitness equipment per square foot in footprints roughly 6 x 7 feet. View our huge selection of space-efficient options.
How Do I Maintain Gym Equipment in Canada?
Canadian climate demands specific maintenance:
- Wipe metal surfaces after sweaty sessions to prevent rust
- Lubricate cables annually on Smith machines and functional trainers
- Check bolts quarterly on assembled items
- Clean vinyl pads with gentle cleaners to prevent cracking
- Store dumbbells on racks rather than on the floor to protect the rubber coating
Budget $100-$200 annually for lubricants, replacement parts, and cleaning supplies.
In Summary
Building the right home gym requires matching fitness equipment to your goals, space, and budget. The ten pieces featured here cover cardio, strength, and versatility needs for most Canadian home gym builders. Whether you're starting with a single bench and dumbbell set or building a comprehensive training facility with the SD-5000, trusted fitness equipment purchased once outlasts cheap alternatives that require repeated replacement.
Visit our Toronto, Barrie, Longueuil, or London locations to test items before purchasing, shop our full home gym equipment selection online, or contact our service team for assistance.
Citations:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29127602/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11224660/
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0022732
- https://www.livescience.com/health/anatomy/how-many-more-calories-does-muscle-burn-than-fat
