When you’re setting up a personal training studio, the right equipment makes a huge difference. You want tools that help your clients get stronger, fitter, and more confident – no matter their starting point.
In this post, we’ll walk through 15 must-have pieces of gear that cover cardio, strength, and functional training.
These tools will help you train clients of all fitness levels with workouts that are fun, engaging, and effective. We’ll also spell out which types of equipment are best suited to particular business needs and target markets. So you can ensure your kit matches your specific requirements and create the studio of your dreams.
Personal Training Studio Kit List
Here’s an overview of the essential pieces of equipment personal training studios need:
- Treadmill – Great for walking, jogging, and running at different speeds and inclines.
- Stationary Bike – Low-impact cardio option with adjustable resistance (upright, recumbent, or air bike based on clientele).
- Rowing Machine – Full-body cardio and strength training; low-impact and great for overall conditioning.
- Cable Machine – Versatile strength equipment for full-body workouts using adjustable pulleys.
- Free Weights (Dumbbells and Barbells) – Classic tools for strength training with a wide range of exercises.
- Adjustable Bench – Supports exercises like presses, step-ups, and seated movements.
- Resistance Bands – Lightweight, portable, and useful for strength, mobility, and rehab work.
- Medicine Balls – Ideal for power-based movements like throws, slams, and twists.
- Kettlebells – Excellent for swings, cleans, and full-body strength/cardio training.
- TRX Suspension Trainer – Uses bodyweight to build strength, balance, and core stability.
- Battle Ropes – High-intensity tool for improving power, endurance, and conditioning.
- Plyo Boxes – Great for developing explosive power and agility with jumps and step-ups.
- Stability Balls – Useful for core work, stretching, rehab, and improving balance.
- Foam Roller – Essential for recovery, mobility, and muscle tension relief.
- Heart Rate Monitor – Track exercise intensity and tailor client workouts on the go.
Let’s look at each item on this list and why it’s important in more detail…
Cardio Equipment
Treadmill
A classic for a reason! Use it with clients for walking, jogging, or sprinting. It’s perfect for warm-ups or full cardio sessions. Look for features like adjustable speed and incline, shock absorption for joint comfort, and built-in workout programs.
Stationary Bike
Bikes are easy on the joints, but big on cardio benefits. They’re low-impact and beginner-friendly – ideal for rehab, weight loss, or endurance work with clients.
Types to consider:
- Upright bike: Great for general fitness and all types of clients.
- Recumbent bike: Comfy and safe for older adults or beginners.
- Spin bike: Great for intense sessions, mimicking road cycling, and aesthetic design.
- Air bike (like an Assault Bike): Tougher, great for HIIT and athletic training.
Rowing Machine
Rowing machines provide a full-body workout combining the arms, legs, and core in one go.
They were always my go-to when training with clients, either as part of the warm-up or cardio portion of the programme.
FREE Client Workout Templates
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You might also like… Our detailed cardio product recommendations on treadmills and spin bikes.
Strength Training Equipment
Cable Machine
Every personal training studio needs an all-in-one strength station. You can hit just about every muscle with one machine. Plus, it’s perfect for beginners and pros alike, making it a versatile piece of kit for all client types. Look for adjustable cables, multiple attachments, and smooth resistance for safe, controlled movements.
Free Weights (Dumbbells + Barbells)
A training studio staple. Free weights are super versatile and great for building strength with compound lifts or isolation moves. Get a wide range of weights to suit every client.
Adjustable Bench
Not just for bench presses. An adjustable bench lets you train clients at different angles – seated presses, incline rows, step-ups, and more. Look for benches with a movable backrest, strong build, and that are easy to adjust.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands are affordable, portable, and great for strength work, mobility, or rehab. Get multiple resistance levels to suit a wide range of clients. These small but mighty tools are also ideal for mobile personal trainers who need kit that’s compact, lightweight, and easy to transport.
Medicine Balls
Train clients for power, coordination, and fun in one go! Use them for throws, slams, and core work. Clients love them for dynamic training. Purchase varying sizes and weights, ensuring you go for durable products suitable for intense use.
FREE Client Workout Templates
Enter your email address below to download professionally designed workout templates to impress personal training clients.
Functional Training Equipment
TRX Suspension Trainer
Bodyweight training with a twist. Suspension trainers like the TRX build core strength, balance, and stability. Plus, they’re super portable and easy to anchor to a wall, ceiling, or portable stand. You can also use them with playground equipment or sturdy tree branches if you’re training clients outdoors.
Battle Ropes
Turn up the intensity with a set of battle ropes in your training studio. They’re a killer full-body conditioning tool, great for strength, cardio, and endurance. Just make sure they’re securely anchored.
Plyo Boxes
Perfect for jump training, step-ups, or elevated push-ups, plyo boxes add variety and intensity to client training programs. They’re a must-have if you’re training athletes who use explosive movements like jumping in their sport. Look for a sturdy design, various height options, and non-slip surfaces.
Kettlebells
Kettlebells are incredibly versatile – swing, squat, press – this badger does it all. They’re fantastic for both strength and cardio in one tool, which makes them absolutely essential in our book. Go for different sizes and weights with a solid grip and durable design.
Stability Balls
Stability balls help improve balance, core strength, and flexibility. They can also be great for rehab exercises. Classic stability balls are great for ab work, stretching, and even bench exercises. Or go for a BOSU Ball (half circle) if you want to add instability to boost balance and control.
Bonus Gear That Enhances The Client Experience
Foam Roller
Recovery is just as important as training. Foam rollers help ease muscle soreness, improve flexibility, and prevent injury. They come in various densities, so it’s great to have a few options on hand.
Heart Rate Monitor
Having heart rate monitors in your studio helps you track your client’s workout intensity and tailor their training on the go. Opt for chest strap or wrist versions with Bluetooth and app sync options. Just remember to clean and dry them between client sessions.
Final Thoughts
Outfitting your personal training studio with the right equipment is a big step that can make a huge difference to the success of your business. The gear you choose helps you deliver better workouts, attract more clients, and create a space people love training in.
Stick with high-quality tools that suit your clients’ needs. Focus on variety, versatility, and durability. And don’t forget to keep everything clean, safe, and well-maintained so your space stays top-notch for years to come.
Want to save time setting up your studio (and your marketing)? Check out our Trainer Template Bundle – it includes plug-and-play tools like marketing plan templates, social media calendars, and client intake forms to help you grow faster, with less stress.
