What do I actually need to start a home gym?

A mat, a set of resistance bands and one pair of dumbbells. That is enough for a complete full-body programme and costs under $150. Add a pull-up bar or suspension trainer once you are training consistently.

How thick should home gym flooring be?

10mm is enough for bodyweight and band work. 20mm or more if you use dumbbells, kettlebells, or train on an upper floor where impact noise carries.

Are suspension trainers worth it?

For bodyweight training in a small space, yes. One anchor point gives you rows, presses, lunges and core work, and the whole thing packs into a bag. They do not replace external load if your goal is maximum strength.

Will a folding exercise bike hold up to daily use?

Check the stated user weight limit and the flywheel weight. Light folding bikes are built for moderate, regular use rather than hard interval training. If you plan to sprint on it several times a week, buy up.

How do I keep a home gym quiet?

Thick mats, no dropped weights, and equipment with a belt drive rather than a chain. Most complaints from neighbours are impact noise through the floor, not the machine itself.