Best Strength Training Equipment for Beginners 2025

Updated January 2026

Starting your strength training journey can be both exciting and daunting. With the right equipment, beginners can build a solid foundation for their fitness goals. Here’s a curated list of the best strength training equipment for beginners in 2025 that won't break the bank.

1. Dumbbells

Dumbbells are versatile and essential for strength training. They allow for a wide range of exercises targeting various muscle groups.

• Equipment Needed: Set of adjustable dumbbells (5-25 lbs recommended for beginners)
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Calories Burned: Approximately 300-400 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |-------------------|------|------| | Dumbbell Bench Press | 3 | 10-12 | | Dumbbell Squats | 3 | 10-12 | | Dumbbell Rows | 3 | 10-12 |

2. Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are affordable, portable, and perfect for beginners. They provide varying resistance levels and can be used anywhere.

• Equipment Needed: Set of resistance bands with handles
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Calories Burned: Approximately 200-300 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |----------------------|------|------| | Band Pull Apart | 3 | 15 | | Banded Squats | 3 | 12 | | Banded Deadlifts | 3 | 12 |

3. Kettlebells

Kettlebells are great for dynamic movements that improve strength and flexibility. They’re perfect for full-body workouts.

• Equipment Needed: One or two kettlebells (light to moderate weight)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Calories Burned: Approximately 400-600 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |-----------------------|------|------| | Kettlebell Swings | 3 | 12 | | Goblet Squats | 3 | 10 | | Kettlebell Deadlifts | 3 | 10 |

4. Medicine Balls

Medicine balls are excellent for core workouts and can enhance strength through dynamic movements.

• Equipment Needed: 6-10 lb medicine ball
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Calories Burned: Approximately 350-450 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |---------------------|------|------| | Medicine Ball Slams | 3 | 10 | | Russian Twists | 3 | 15 | | Wall Ball Throws | 3 | 10 |

5. Bodyweight Training

Using your own body weight is one of the most accessible ways to start strength training.

• Equipment Needed: None
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Calories Burned: Approximately 200-300 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |---------------------|------|------| | Push-Ups | 3 | 8-10 | | Bodyweight Squats | 3 | 12 | | Plank | 3 | 30 sec |

6. Adjustable Weight Bench

An adjustable weight bench allows for a variety of exercises, from bench presses to step-ups.

• Equipment Needed: Adjustable weight bench
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Calories Burned: Approximately 300-400 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |---------------------|------|------| | Bench Press | 3 | 10 | | Step-Ups | 3 | 10 | | Incline Dumbbell Press | 3 | 10 |

7. Stability Ball

A stability ball can enhance core strength and stability while adding challenge to traditional exercises.

• Equipment Needed: 55-65 cm stability ball
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Calories Burned: Approximately 200-300 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |---------------------|------|------| | Ball Pass | 3 | 10 | | Ball Squats | 3 | 12 | | Stability Ball Plank | 3 | 30 sec |

8. Foam Roller

While primarily used for recovery, foam rollers can help in building muscle awareness and flexibility.

• Equipment Needed: Standard foam roller
• Difficulty Level: Easy
• Calories Burned: Minimal, focuses on recovery
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Duration | |---------------------|------|----------| | Foam Roll Quads | 1 | 1 min | | Foam Roll Back | 1 | 1 min | | Foam Roll Hamstrings| 1 | 1 min |

9. Pull-Up Bar

A pull-up bar is great for upper body strength and can be installed in your home easily.

• Equipment Needed: Doorway pull-up bar
• Difficulty Level: Moderate
• Calories Burned: Approximately 300-400 calories/hour
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |---------------------|------|------| | Assisted Pull-Ups | 3 | 5-8 | | Hanging Leg Raises | 3 | 10 |

10. Ankle Weights

Ankle weights can add resistance to lower body exercises, making your workouts more challenging.

• Equipment Needed: Adjustable ankle weights (1-5 lbs)
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
• Calories Burned: Varies based on exercise
• Workout Example: | Exercise | Sets | Reps | |---------------------|------|------| | Weighted Leg Lifts | 3 | 12 | | Side Leg Raises | 3 | 10 | | Weighted Squats | 3 | 10 |

---

Conclusion

Investing in some of these beginner-friendly strength training tools can help you establish a solid fitness routine. Remember that consistency is key, and don't hesitate to seek guidance from professionals. At HipTrain, we offer affordable live 1-on-1 personal training sessions tailored to your needs, making it easier to get started on your strength training journey. Plus, our services are HSA/FSA approved for eligible expenses.