Complete Your Home Workout Setup
Essential fitness gear recommended by an app developer who's helped 250,000+ people get stronger
Hi, I'm Bo. I've built fitness apps used by over 250,000 people – including Plank Challenge (127K downloads), Kettlebell Exercises, Push Ups Now, and Plank for Watch. People constantly ask me: "What equipment do I actually need?"
Here's my honest answer: the essential gear that makes home workouts effective, without the clutter or expense of a full gym.
My Fitness Apps
💪 Plank Challenge
127,000+ downloads
Build core strength in just 4 minutes a day over 5 weeks
View on App Store →Affiliate Disclosure: The product links below are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate and Partner-Ads affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. I only recommend equipment I would use (or do use) myself.
💪 Core Training Essentials
Yoga Mat / Exercise Mat
What to look for:
- 6mm thickness minimum (comfort without instability)
- Non-slip surface on both sides
- Easy to clean (you will sweat on this)
- Long enough (180cm+) for full body exercises
My recommendation: A basic 6mm yoga mat works perfectly. Don't overspend on fancy brands – a $20-30 mat is all you need.
$20-40 / 150-300 krFoam Roller
What to look for:
- Medium firmness (not too soft, not rock-hard)
- 30-40cm length for portability
- Smooth or lightly textured surface
🏋️ Strength Training Equipment
Kettlebell (12kg / 16kg / 24kg)
Which weight to start with:
- Beginners: 12kg (women) / 16kg (men)
- Intermediate: 16kg (women) / 20-24kg (men)
- Advanced: 20kg+ (women) / 28-32kg (men)
Adjustable Dumbbells (Optional but Great)
What to look for:
- Adjustable weight range (5-25kg per dumbbell)
- Quick adjustment mechanism
- Comfortable grip
Resistance Bands Set
What to look for:
- Set with multiple resistance levels
- Durable latex or fabric material
- Handles and door anchor included
🏃 Cardio & Conditioning
Jump Rope / Skipping Rope
What to look for:
- Adjustable length
- Comfortable handles with bearings (smooth rotation)
- Durable cable (won't tangle or break)
- Weighted handles optional for extra intensity
⌚ Tracking & Motivation
Apple Watch (for Plank for Watch App)
Which model:
- Apple Watch SE: Best value for fitness tracking
- Apple Watch Series 9/10: More features, better screen
- Any model from Series 6 onwards works great
Fitness Tracker / Heart Rate Monitor (Alternative)
Good options:
- Fitbit Charge series
- Garmin fitness trackers
- Chest strap heart rate monitors (most accurate)
💧 Hydration & Recovery
Insulated Water Bottle (750ml - 1L)
What to look for:
- Vacuum insulated (keeps water cold for hours)
- 750ml to 1L capacity
- Wide mouth (easy to fill and clean)
- Leak-proof lid
🎯 What You Actually Need to Start
The Minimalist Setup ($60-120 / 400-900 kr)
If you're just getting started, this is all you need:
- Yoga mat ($20-40) - For comfortable floor exercises
- One kettlebell (16kg/12kg) ($25-50) - Full body strength
- Jump rope ($10-20) - Cardio and conditioning
- Water bottle ($15-30) - Stay hydrated
That's it. Everything else can be added later as you progress and your needs evolve.
When to Upgrade & Expand
Add foam roller when you're training 4+ times per week and need better recovery
Get resistance bands when bodyweight push-ups become too easy
Buy adjustable dumbbells when you want more exercise variety
Get an Apple Watch when tracking becomes important for your motivation
Add heavier kettlebells when your current weight feels light for 10+ reps
💭 My Philosophy on Fitness Equipment
After helping 250,000+ people through my fitness apps, I've learned that equipment doesn't make you fit – consistency does.
The best equipment is the equipment you'll actually use. Start minimal, build the habit, then add gear as needed. A $30 kettlebell used 4 times a week beats a $2,000 home gym that collects dust.
That said, the right tools make training more enjoyable and effective. A good yoga mat makes planks more comfortable. A quality kettlebell feels better in your hands. Cold water from an insulated bottle is more refreshing mid-workout.
Invest in the basics, use them consistently, and upgrade strategically.
📱 Ready to Start Training?
Download my fitness apps and begin your journey:
Get the gear. Download the apps. Start training.