A home gym can be a wonderful investment in your health and fitness. Home exercise equipment can provide a workout just as effective as those in a commercial gym at a fraction of the price. Additionally, your home gym is available anytime, day or night, in the privacy of your own home. While your initial investment in exercise equipment may constitute a major expense, the money you’ll save on gym fees will quickly cancel out the cost. Some of the best choices actually cost the least, so consider price and likely results before investing in high-end exercise equipment. Some of the best choices in every price range are listed below.

Stationary bikes

Also known as exercise bikes, these sturdy machines are excellent first choices for a home gym. While some models incorporate a rowing machine action, most simply provide a workout for the legs and hips. Because they provide a good workout without high impact, stationary bikes are a good choice for beginners. Prices start at around $250, and can range as high as $1,000 for a top-end model.

Elliptical trainers

Another low-impact choice, these are popular in gyms and health clubs due to their ease of use. They usually provide a "stair-stepper" or "skiing" workout, emphasizing a gliding motion rather than a sudden impact. One of the more complex workout machines, elliptical trainers range in price from around $400 for very basic models to well over $5,000 for top-of-the-line machines. Mini-elliptical trainers are also available for less than $200; these are not recommended due to their flimsy construction and too-compact design.

Jump ropes

It’s no accident that Rocky trained with a jump rope before the big fight; jumping rope provides an excellent cardiovascular workout. Not an exercise designed for beginners, the jump rope exercise regimen elevates heart rate and involves serious impact to feet, ankles, and knees. For those looking to push their workouts to the next level, however, jump ropes are an excellent addition to the home gym. Prices vary, but generally are under $20 for a regular jump rope, or about $50 for deluxe weighted models.

Treadmills

Offering a variety of walking and running speeds, treadmills are a staple of the local gym. They are popular in home gyms as well, providing a full cardiovascular workout without taking up a lot of space. The best treadmills are quiet and turn smoothly; most include incline settings for a more arduous workout. Manual models can be purchased for as little as $200; motorized treadmills provide a much better workout and range from $500 to around $2,000.

Exercise mats

Those with a thick pad underlying their carpeting can skip this particular home exercise item; others will find an exercise mat invaluable for sit-ups and other floor exercises. Look for a thick mat with a durable, waterproof surface. Exercise mats range in price from around $20 to over $200 for commercial-grade mats.

Resistance equipment

These multipurpose machines offer a full-body workout at a premium price. The amount of resistance varies depending on the setting chosen. In the case of resistance equipment, the adage "You get what you pay for" is more than usually true; resistance machines vary widely in price and quality generally corresponds accordingly. Expect to pay at least $500 for an acceptable quality level; the best models can cost $3,000 or more.

Free weights

Essential for building muscle and strength training, these range from one-pound hand weights to a full-sized weight bench set. Prices range accordingly, from under $5 to more than $2,000 for a full set of weights.

Full-length mirror

You’ll want to admire the results of your fitness program, so be sure to install one of these on a door or wall of your home gym. Prices vary depending on size, but the pride you’ll feel in your improved appearance will be priceless.