The best multi-gyms for a streamlined all-in-one home setup

The multi-gym, while sounding like something that Michael B. Jordan juggles during his Creed fitness regime, is actually a workout hack that's easily within reach for everyone. An all-in-one machine of sorts, this is a contraption that packs some of your most-used commercial gym weights into one compact machine. No need to stock up on dumbbells, kettlebells and resistance bands if you're more of a weight machine guy: the multi-gym streamlines all of that for you.

If you're looking, consider which muscles you usually like to train, and if there might be any you soon want to add into your routine. Most multi-gyms should come equipped with the pads, weights and wires to let you work on your biceps, triceps, shoulders and back, with some also offering additions like leg curling capabilities. If you're the type to forget your gym bag or water bottle every time you head to the gym, or you're just the type to struggle with the sweatiness of these communal machines, this truly might be your new route to gains. Before you get to adding one to cart, some more things you might want to consider…

How much space do I need for a multi-gym?

With a wide range of possibility for size and scope, there's no one right answer to this. The best piece of advice we have is to whip out the measuring tape. Whether you're thinking of slotting it in the corner of your living room, in the spare room or in your dedicated home gym, you'll want to think about the full extensions you'll be performing: how far will that leg curl or machine fly go? Think about the floor it's going on, too. Flat and stable is what you should be aiming for.

What accessories do multi-gyms come with?

Most multi-gyms will arrive with a number of accessories in the form of attachments, allowing you to transform this one piece of equipment into a centre for various exercises across multiple muscle groups. When shopping for yours, pay close attention to what comes included, with a particular focus on the exercises that such attachments will allow. Things you should expect include tricep ropes and ankle and wrist straps.

What kind of pulleys do multi-gyms have?

High pulleys and low pulleys are included in most multi-gyms we've used, meaning that exercises as diverse as high pull-downs (for the back and shoulders) and leg curls (for the hamstrings) can be completed on your new home gym toy. These pulleys can come in different guises: for a smoother action, seek out those with linear ball bearings, while if you're thinking of getting in heavy and regular use, consider those with sealed bearings instead.

Are multi-gyms adjustable?

The multi-gym is a successful piece of compact equipment by virtue of its adjustability. Moving the position of your seat will allow for you to sit comfortably and complete reps at the safe extension of your muscles. The main thing to think about is where you're resting your head or back during sessions: the only strain you should be feeling is in the muscle you're targeting.

How heavy should a multi-gym weight stack be?

The weight stack is the neat pile of labelled metal that you'll be lifting: while commercial gyms often come with higher peak weights, multi-gyms still usually offer between a maximum of 50 and 100kg. As with any exercise, start lower if you're new to it, and keep a focus on perfecting your form before you move up to higher weights. Of course, if you're used to pumping major iron in the gym, you can get started on those big gains straight away.

Can you lose weight using a multi-gym?

You'll certainly burn calories and power up your metabolism while lifting weights, though it's a practice more conducive to building muscle, and therefore technically gaining weight. Of course, combined with a largely healthy diet, this kind of weight gain will change the makeup of your body, converting fat into muscle. Combine weight lifting with some form of cardio — perhaps on a treadmill, rowing machine or exercise bike in your home gym — and you should melt off the fat in no time.

For more fitness, fashion and technology releases delivered straight to your inbox, sign up for our GQ Recommends newsletter.

Shop GQ’s pick of the best multi-gyms you can buy in 2024…