The Accessories That Matter
You have invested in a quality treadmill, rowing machine, or home gym system. Now it is time to optimize your training space with accessories that make a real difference. These five items are affordable, practical, and used by every serious home gym owner.
1. Rubber Flooring Mats
Why it matters: Rubber flooring protects your home flooring from damage, reduces noise (especially important for apartments), provides cushioning for standing exercises, and prevents equipment from sliding.
What to buy: Horse stall mats from farm supply stores are the go-to choice for home gyms. At approximately $40-50 per 4x6 foot mat, they are 3/4 inch thick, virtually indestructible, and will last decades. Interlocking rubber tiles are a cleaner alternative at slightly higher cost.
Budget: $150-400 depending on coverage area
2. Heart Rate Monitor
Why it matters: Most connected fitness equipment from Peloton to Hydrow can display your heart rate zones during workouts. A chest strap monitor is significantly more accurate than wrist-based sensors, especially during intense or arm-moving exercises.
What to buy: A Bluetooth/ANT+ chest strap heart rate monitor compatible with your equipment. The Polar H10 is widely considered the gold standard at around $80-90.
Budget: $50-100
3. Exercise Mat
Why it matters: Even with rubber flooring, a dedicated exercise mat provides extra cushioning for floor work — stretching, yoga, core exercises, and cooldowns. Many smart gym systems like Tempo Studio include a mat for this reason.
What to buy: A thick (1/2 inch+) exercise mat that is large enough for full-body stretching. Look for closed-cell foam that resists sweat absorption.
Budget: $30-60
4. Adjustable Dumbbells
Why it matters: Even if your primary equipment is cardio or a cable-based system, a set of adjustable dumbbells fills gaps in any training program. They enable hundreds of exercises that machines cannot replicate — from Turkish get-ups to farmer walks.
What to buy: Bowflex SelectTech or PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells replace an entire rack of weights in a compact form factor. Most adjust from 5-50 lbs per hand.
Budget: $300-500 per pair
5. Equipment Mat (for Machines)
Why it matters: A dedicated equipment mat placed under your treadmill, elliptical, or rowing machine reduces vibration transmission to the floor below. This is critical for apartment dwellers and anyone with equipment on upper floors.
What to buy: A dense rubber equipment mat sized for your specific machine. Most are 3x7 feet for treadmills or 3x8 feet for rowers.
Budget: $40-80
Honorable Mentions
- Resistance bands: $20-40 for a complete set, incredible versatility
- Foam roller: $20-30, essential for recovery and muscle maintenance
- Water bottle with holder: Stay hydrated during workouts
- Towel hooks: Keep towels accessible, not on the floor
- Bluetooth speaker or TV: Entertainment makes long cardio sessions bearable
Total Investment
For approximately $500-1,000 in accessories, you can significantly upgrade your home gym experience regardless of which major equipment you own. Start with flooring and a heart rate monitor, then add the rest over time.
