Cheap Crossfit Equipment

Getting into CrossFit doesn’t have to empty your wallet.

You can absolutely build a solid home gym setup for CrossFit-style workouts without breaking the bank, focusing on foundational pieces that deliver maximum versatility and bang for your buck.

Think smart, invest in multi-functional gear, and you’ll be hitting those WODs in no time.

The key is prioritizing equipment that enables a wide range of movements, from strength to conditioning, without needing every fancy gadget out there. Used For Rowing

Many of the core movements can be scaled or substituted with more affordable alternatives, proving that dedication and ingenuity often trump expensive gear.

0.0 0.0 out of 5 stars (based on 0 reviews) Excellent0% Very good0% Average0% Poor0% Terrible0% There are no reviews yet. Be the first one to write one. Your review Your overall rating Select a Rating5 Stars4 Stars3 Stars2 Stars1 Star Title of your review Your review Your name Your email This review is based on my own experience and is my genuine opinion. ​ Submit Review

Amazon.com: Check Amazon for Cheap Crossfit Equipment Latest Discussions & Reviews:

Here’s a quick comparison of some top-notch, budget-friendly CrossFit equipment that will get you started:

Product Name	Key Features	Average Price	Pros	Cons
Resistance Bands Set	Multiple resistance levels, door anchor, ankle strap	$25 – $40	Versatile for warm-ups, stretching, assistance for pull-ups, mobility, and strength training. highly portable.	May not provide enough heavy resistance for advanced strength. durability can vary between brands.
Jump Rope	Adjustable length, lightweight, durable handles	$10 – $20	Excellent for cardio, double-unders, and agility. very portable and space-efficient.	Requires practice to master advanced techniques. can be hard on joints if not used properly.
Kettlebell	Cast iron construction, wide handle, various weights	$30 – $70 per bell	Ideal for swings, snatches, cleans, and goblet squats. builds explosive strength and endurance.	Can be expensive to build a full set of weights. requires proper form to avoid injury.
Pull-Up Bar Doorway	No-screw installation, multi-grip options	$25 – $50	Essential for pull-ups, chin-ups, and can be used on the floor for push-ups/dips. very space-efficient.	Limited to doorway use. may not fit all doorways. can mark doorframes over time.
Plyometric Box	Wood or foam construction, multi-height options	$70 – $120	Great for box jumps, step-ups, and elevated push-ups. durable and stable.	Can be bulky to store. wood boxes can be unforgiving on shins if missed.
Gymnastics Rings	Wood or plastic, adjustable straps, easy setup	$40 – $80	Unparalleled for upper body strength, stability, and core work muscle-ups, dips, rows. highly portable.	Requires a sturdy anchor point beam, pull-up bar, tree branch. takes time to master movements.
Ab Mat	Contoured design, dense foam	$20 – $35	Provides full range of motion for sit-ups, supporting lower back. small and portable.	Limited to core exercises. not a high-impact piece of equipment.

You want to get into CrossFit, but the price tag on equipment is giving you pause? The good news is, you don’t need a fully loaded box to get started or even maintain a high level of fitness.

It’s about being smart with your purchases and focusing on versatility. Electricbikereview

Think about the movements you’ll be doing most often and how to replicate them affordably.

CrossFit is about functional fitness, and often, less is more when it comes to gear, especially when you’re just dipping your toes in.

Prioritizing Your Purchases: Where to Spend and Where to Save

When you’re building a home gym, especially on a budget, it’s crucial to distinguish between “nice to have” and “absolutely essential.” Your goal should be to cover the broadest range of CrossFit movements with the fewest, most versatile pieces of equipment. This approach not only saves money but also space.

Essential Foundational Pieces

These are the items that will give you the most bang for your buck and allow you to perform a vast majority of CrossFit workouts.

• A good Jump Rope: This is non-negotiable. For under $20, you get endless cardio, double-unders practice, and a portable warm-up tool. It’s incredible how much sweat you can generate with just a rope.
  • Pro Tip: Invest in a speed rope with adjustable length. It makes a huge difference for double-unders.
• Kettlebell: If you can only buy one weight, make it a kettlebell. Swings, goblet squats, cleans, snatches, Turkish get-ups – the list goes on. A single kettlebell can provide a full-body workout.
  • Choosing the Right Weight: For men, starting with a 35lb 16kg or 53lb 24kg kettlebell is common. For women, 26lb 12kg or 35lb 16kg is a good starting point. Consider buying one that challenges you for swings but is manageable for goblet squats.
• Resistance Bands Set: These are incredibly versatile. Use them for warm-ups, stretching, assisted pull-ups, mobility drills, and even strength work for smaller muscle groups. They are lightweight, portable, and take up virtually no space.
  • Different Strengths: A set with varying resistance levels light, medium, heavy will serve you best for different exercises and progression.
• Pull-Up Bar Doorway: Pull-ups are a fundamental CrossFit movement. A doorway pull-up bar is cheap, easy to install, and allows for pull-ups, chin-ups, and even some core work.
  • Installation Matters: Make sure it fits your doorway securely and won’t damage the frame. Look for models with padded grips.

Smart Second-Tier Investments

Once you have the basics, these items can expand your workout possibilities significantly without breaking the bank. Side Hustles To Earn Money

• Gymnastics Rings: For the price, these are an incredible investment. They unlock dips, rows, muscle-up progressions, and a ton of core work. The instability of the rings forces greater muscle activation and builds incredible upper body and core strength.
  • Anchor Point: You’ll need a sturdy anchor point – a pull-up bar, a strong tree branch, or an exposed beam in your garage.
• Plyometric Box: A simple wooden or foam box opens up box jumps, step-ups, elevated push-ups, and even a surface for exercises like pistol squat progressions.
  • DIY Option: If you’re handy, you can build a sturdy wooden box yourself for even cheaper. Just ensure it’s stable and sanded smooth.
• Ab Mat: A small, inexpensive mat that supports your lower back during sit-ups, allowing for a fuller range of motion and preventing lower back strain.

Maximizing Value: Multi-Functional Equipment and DIY Hacks

The savvy CrossFit enthusiast knows that one piece of equipment can often serve multiple purposes.

This is where you really stretch your dollar and get creative. Don’t just see a kettlebell as a weight.

See it as a tool for cardio, strength, and mobility.

Beyond the Obvious

• Dumbbells: While a full set of dumbbells can be pricey, a single pair of adjustable dumbbells can replace an entire rack. They can be used for thrusters, snatches, presses, rows, and more. If you can only afford one pair, opt for a weight that allows for diverse movements but still challenges you.
• Sandbags or DIY Weighted Objects: A heavy-duty canvas bag filled with sand, gravel, or even old clothes can be an incredibly versatile and cheap alternative to a barbell. You can load it for squats, carries, cleans, and throws. The shifting weight provides a unique challenge.
  • Filling Material: Sand is common, but you can also use pea gravel for more density. Just make sure the bag is incredibly durable and sealed.
• Household Items as Equipment: Don’t underestimate what you might already have.
  • Chairs/Sturdy Furniture: Can be used for dips, elevated push-ups, or even step-ups. Just ensure they are stable and won’t tip.
  • Backpack with Books/Weights: Load a backpack with heavy items for weighted vests during squats, lunges, or even pull-ups.
  • Towels/Rags: Can be used for sliding exercises on smooth floors, mimicking movements like ab rollouts or lateral lunges.

The Power of Bodyweight and calisthenics

Before you buy anything, remember that CrossFit heavily incorporates bodyweight movements.

You can get an incredible workout with absolutely no equipment. Teeter Lx9 Reviews

• Core Movements: Air squats, lunges, push-ups, burpees, planks, sit-ups, handstands against a wall.
• Progressions: If a movement is too hard e.g., full push-ups, modify it e.g., knee push-ups or incline push-ups. If it’s too easy, add volume or increase intensity e.g., plyometric push-ups.
• Online Resources: There are countless free resources for bodyweight workouts and progressions. Leverage YouTube channels and fitness blogs that focus on calisthenics.

Sourcing Budget-Friendly Gear: Smart Shopping Strategies

Finding cheap CrossFit equipment isn’t just about buying new budget brands. it’s about smart shopping.

You can find quality gear if you know where to look and when to buy.

Secondhand Market Gold Mines

This is often where you’ll find the best deals on quality equipment.

• Facebook Marketplace/Local Buy & Sell Groups: People often sell barely used home gym equipment when they move, lose interest, or upgrade. Set up alerts for keywords like “kettlebell,” “dumbbell,” “gymnastics rings,” or “plyo box.”
• Craigslist: Similar to Facebook Marketplace, but sometimes has even more serious sellers.
• Garage Sales/Estate Sales: You might be surprised what you find. Sometimes older, incredibly durable cast iron weights or sturdy benches pop up.
• Used Sporting Goods Stores: Stores like Play It Again Sports specialize in used sporting equipment. While their CrossFit selection might be limited, you can often find good deals on dumbbells, kettlebells, and even barbells.

Sales and Discounts

Timing your purchases can save you significant money.

• Holiday Sales: Black Friday, Cyber Monday, Memorial Day, and Fourth of July sales are prime times to snag discounts from major retailers and fitness equipment websites.
• End-of-Season Sales: While less common for year-round fitness equipment, sometimes new models are released, and older versions go on sale.
• Open Box/Refurbished Deals: Some online retailers offer “open box” or “refurbished” items at a discount. These are often returns that are in perfect working order but can’t be sold as “new.” Always check the return policy.
• Direct from Manufacturer: Sometimes buying directly from a less-known, but reputable, manufacturer can cut out the middleman costs. Look for brands that specialize in one or two types of equipment.

Quality vs. Cost: Finding the Sweet Spot

While the goal is cheap, “cheap” shouldn’t mean “unsafe” or “breaks after three uses.” First Treadmill

• Durability: For items like kettlebells or pull-up bars, durability is key. Cast iron kettlebells will last a lifetime. A sturdy pull-up bar is crucial for safety.
• Safety: Never compromise on safety. If a piece of equipment feels flimsy or unstable, it’s not worth the risk, no matter how cheap.
• Reviews: Always read reviews before buying, especially from lesser-known brands. Look for consistent positive feedback regarding durability and functionality.

Building Your CrossFit Home Gym Space Even if it’s Small

You don’t need a massive garage to have an effective home CrossFit gym.

Even a corner of a living room or a small patio can be transformed into a functional workout space.

The key is efficient use of space and smart organization.

Space Optimization Hacks

• Vertical Storage: Wall-mounted shelves, pegboards, or simple hooks can get equipment off the floor and save precious space. Hang resistance bands, jump ropes, and even your gymnastics rings when not in use.
• Stackable/Nestable Equipment: Plyometric boxes that can be stacked, or kettlebells that fit snugly together, are great for smaller areas.
• Foldable/Collapsible Gear: While a full squat rack might be too much, foldable racks exist. For budget setups, look for foldable ab mats or even portable resistance bands.
• Dual-Purpose Areas: Can your living room double as your gym for an hour? Can you use your patio for burpees and box jumps? Think outside the dedicated gym room.

Flooring and Protection

• Rubber Matting: While not strictly equipment, good flooring protects both your floors and your equipment. Interlocking rubber mats like those found in garage gyms are relatively inexpensive and easy to install. They absorb impact and provide a non-slip surface.
  • Alternatives: If rubber mats are out of budget, thick outdoor rugs or even old carpets can offer some protection, though less ideal.
• Drop Zones: Designate a small area where you can safely drop weights if necessary e.g., a thick mat or a patch of grass outside. For CrossFit, dropping is often part of the movement, so plan accordingly to protect your floor and foundation.

Lighting and Ventilation

• Good Lighting: Essential for safety and motivation. Natural light is best, but if working in a garage, invest in bright LED lights.
• Ventilation: Especially important for intense CrossFit workouts. Open windows, use a fan, or consider a portable air conditioner if in a very hot climate. Proper airflow prevents overheating and makes your workouts more comfortable.

Essential CrossFit Movements and How to Do Them Cheaply

Understanding the core CrossFit movements allows you to identify which pieces of equipment are truly essential for replicating them.

Many movements can be modified or performed with minimal gear. Stihl 441C Review

Strength and Weightlifting

• Squats Air Squats, Goblet Squats:
  • Cheap Method: Pure bodyweight air squats is the foundation. Add a single Kettlebell for goblet squats. A weighted backpack can also add resistance.
• Deadlifts Kettlebell Deadlifts, Sandbag Deadlifts:
  • Cheap Method: A heavy Kettlebell or a DIY sandbag can replicate the deadlift motion effectively, focusing on hip hinge.
• Presses Push-Ups, Kettlebell Press, Dumbbell Press:
  • Cheap Method: Push-ups are free. A single Kettlebell or Dumbbell can be used for shoulder presses strict press, push press, jerk.
• Cleans & Snatches Kettlebell Cleans/Snatches, Dumbbell Cleans/Snatches:
  • Cheap Method: These explosive movements are perfectly suited for a single Kettlebell or Dumbbell. They teach proper hip drive and coordination.

Gymnastics and Bodyweight

• Pull-Ups/Chin-Ups:
  • Cheap Method: A Pull-Up Bar Doorway is ideal. Resistance Bands Set can be used for assistance.
• Dips:
  • Cheap Method: Gymnastics Rings are superb. You can also use two sturdy chairs or parallettes.
• Toes-to-Bar/Knees-to-Elbows:
  • Cheap Method: Performed on a Pull-Up Bar Doorway.
• Push-Ups:
  • Cheap Method: Free! Modify as needed on knees, incline, decline, deficit.
• Sit-Ups:
  • Cheap Method: Free, but an Ab Mat greatly improves comfort and range of motion.

Cardio and Metabolic Conditioning

• Running/Sprinting:
  • Cheap Method: Free! Outdoor space is your best bet.
• Jumping Box Jumps, Double-Unders:
  • Cheap Method: A Plyometric Box or a sturdy, elevated surface e.g., a park bench, concrete block for box jumps. A Jump Rope is perfect for double-unders.
• Rowing/Cycling simulated:
  • Cheap Method: Burpees are an excellent full-body cardio substitute that requires no equipment. Sprinting, jumping jacks, or mountain climbers can also serve as effective cardio fillers.

Maintaining Your Cheap CrossFit Equipment for Longevity

Even cheap equipment needs care to last.

A little maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your gear stays functional and safe, preventing the need for costly replacements.

Cleaning and Storage

• Wipe Down After Use: Sweat is corrosive. Wipe down metal equipment kettlebells, pull-up bar after each use with a damp cloth and then dry thoroughly.
• Proper Storage: Keep equipment clean and dry. Store resistance bands away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, which can degrade the rubber.
• Inspect Regularly: Before each workout, quickly inspect your equipment. Check jump ropes for fraying, resistance bands for nicks or tears, and pull-up bars for loose fittings.

Minor Repairs and Adjustments

• Tighten Bolts: For items like pull-up bars or plyo boxes, periodically check and tighten any bolts or screws. This prevents wobbles and ensures safety.
• Adjust Rope Length: Keep your jump rope adjusted to your height for optimal performance and less wear.
• Lubricate: If your jump rope has a bearing system that squeaks, a tiny drop of silicone-based lubricant can fix it.
• Replace Worn Parts: If a resistance band starts to show significant wear or small tears, replace it immediately. It’s a safety hazard.

Getting Started with Cheap CrossFit Workouts: Sample WODs

You’ve got your gear.

Now what? The beauty of CrossFit is the endless variety of workouts WODs. Here are a few examples you can do with minimal, cheap equipment.

“Cindy” Bodyweight Classic

• Equipment: None or a Pull-Up Bar Doorway if you have one.
• Workout:
  • As Many Rounds As Possible AMRAP in 20 minutes of:
    • 5 Pull-ups or 10 Ring Rows if you have Gymnastics Rings, or 15 Band-Assisted Pull-ups with Resistance Bands Set
    • 10 Push-ups
    • 15 Air Squats
• Why it’s great: Tests muscular endurance and is incredibly scalable.

“Kettlebell Conditioning”

• Equipment: One Kettlebell.
  • Every Minute On the Minute EMOM for 10-15 minutes:
    • Minute 1: 10-15 Kettlebell Swings
    • Minute 2: 8-12 Goblet Squats
    • Rest for the remainder of the minute.
• Why it’s great: Builds explosive power and metabolic conditioning with a single piece of equipment.

“Jump Rope Burner”

• Equipment: Jump Rope.
  • 3-5 Rounds for Time:
    • 100 Single-Unders or 50 Double-Unders if proficient
    • 20 Walking Lunges
    • 10 Burpees
• Why it’s great: High-intensity cardio combined with bodyweight strength.

“Ring & Box Combo”

• Equipment: Gymnastics Rings, Plyometric Box.
  • For Time 3 rounds:
    • 15 Ring Rows
    • 10 Box Jumps
    • 15 Ring Dips or scaled ring dips with feet on ground
• Why it’s great: Develops upper body strength, stability, and explosive leg power.

You absolutely can crush CrossFit workouts on a budget. It’s not about having the most expensive gear. Mattress In Pregnancy

It’s about being resourceful, smart with your purchases, and dedicated to the work.

Focus on foundational movements, leverage multi-functional and DIY equipment, and remember that consistency trumps fancy equipment any day. Go get after it!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most essential piece of cheap CrossFit equipment for beginners?

A: For beginners on a tight budget, a Jump Rope is arguably the most essential and cheapest item. It allows for endless cardio and conditioning, which is a huge component of CrossFit.

Can I do CrossFit at home without a barbell?

A: Yes, absolutely. Many CrossFit workouts can be done without a barbell by substituting movements with Kettlebell work, Dumbbell exercises, or bodyweight movements.

Are resistance bands good for CrossFit?

A: Yes, Resistance Bands Set are excellent for CrossFit. They are versatile for warm-ups, mobility, stretching, pull-up assistance, and even adding resistance to bodyweight movements. E Bike Means

How much should I expect to spend on cheap CrossFit equipment?

A: You can build a very functional home gym for CrossFit with cheap equipment for anywhere from $100 to $300, focusing on the core items like a jump rope, kettlebell, pull-up bar, and resistance bands.

Where can I find used CrossFit equipment?

A: You can find used CrossFit equipment on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, local buy and sell groups, garage sales, estate sales, and used sporting goods stores like Play It Again Sports.

What’s a good alternative to a plyo box if I’m on a budget?

A: A sturdy, elevated surface like a park bench, a concrete step, or even a stack of old tires safely secured can serve as a cheap alternative to a dedicated Plyometric Box for box jumps and step-ups.

Can I do CrossFit effectively with only bodyweight exercises?

A: Yes, many CrossFit workouts are entirely bodyweight-based.

You can achieve high levels of fitness focusing on squats, push-ups, burpees, pull-ups with a bar, and core exercises. Sole E25 2025 Elliptical

Are cheap kettlebells safe?

A: Yes, cheap Kettlebells can be safe if they are solid cast iron with a smooth finish and a comfortable handle. Avoid those with visible defects or poor construction.

What’s the difference between a speed rope and a regular jump rope for CrossFit?

A: A speed rope typically has thinner cables and a faster, more fluid rotation due to ball bearings in the handles, making it ideal for advanced movements like double-unders. A regular jump rope is thicker and slower.

How can I make pull-ups easier if I don’t have a resistance band?

A: You can make pull-ups easier by doing negative pull-ups jumping to the top and slowly lowering yourself, chair-assisted pull-ups, or Australian pull-ups/ring rows using rings or a low bar.

Do I need a full squat rack for home CrossFit?

A: No, a full squat rack is not necessary for cheap home CrossFit. You can perform squats with Kettlebells goblet squats, Dumbbells, or simply bodyweight air squats.

What is an “Ab Mat” and do I really need one?

A: An Ab Mat is a contoured foam pad that supports your lower back during sit-ups, allowing for a fuller range of motion and reducing strain. While not strictly essential, it significantly improves comfort and effectiveness of sit-ups. Nordictrack Spacesaver Se7I Reviews

Are gymnastics rings worth the investment for a cheap home gym?

A: Yes, Gymnastics Rings are an excellent investment. They are relatively cheap and incredibly versatile for developing upper body strength, stability, and core control through movements like dips, rows, and muscle-up progressions.

How can I protect my floor when doing CrossFit at home?

A: You can protect your floor by using interlocking rubber gym mats, which absorb impact and prevent damage. Old carpets or thick outdoor rugs can offer some basic protection as well.

Is it safe to drop cheap kettlebells on my floor?

A: It is generally not safe to drop heavy Kettlebells on unprotected floors, especially in living spaces, as it can damage the floor or foundation. Use rubber mats or perform movements where dropping is not required.

What’s a good cheap alternative to a rower or air bike?

A: For cardio and metabolic conditioning without expensive machines, burpees, sprinting, jump rope intervals, and shadow boxing are excellent cheap alternatives that require minimal to no equipment.

Can I get strong doing CrossFit with cheap equipment?

A: Yes, you can absolutely get strong. Focusing on compound movements with Kettlebells, Dumbbells, and bodyweight exercises with progressive overload will build significant strength. Benefits Of Massage Gun

How often should I clean my CrossFit equipment?

A: You should wipe down metal equipment after every use to remove sweat and prevent corrosion. Other equipment, like resistance bands and mats, can be cleaned less frequently but still regularly to maintain hygiene and longevity.

What is the cheapest way to add weight for strength exercises?

A: The cheapest way to add weight is often with a DIY sandbag, which you can fill with sand, gravel, or even old clothes. A single heavy Kettlebell is also a very cost-effective option.

Are adjustable dumbbells a good cheap CrossFit option?

A: Adjustable dumbbells can be a great option for a home gym on a budget as they replace an entire set of fixed dumbbells, saving space and money in the long run, though their initial cost might be higher than a single fixed dumbbell.

How do I know what weight kettlebell to buy as a beginner?

A: For men, a common starting Kettlebell weight is 35lb 16kg or 53lb 24kg. For women, 26lb 12kg or 35lb 16kg is often a good starting point. Choose a weight that challenges you for swings but is manageable for goblet squats.

Can I use a towel for some CrossFit exercises?

A: Yes, a sturdy towel can be used for various exercises. For example, you can use it for towel pull-ups over a sturdy bar though be cautious, or for sliding exercises on a smooth floor e.g., ab rollouts, lunges. Nordictrack C 990 Treadmill Price

What’s the most important thing when buying cheap CrossFit equipment?

A: The most important thing is safety and durability. Prioritize equipment that is well-constructed and stable, even if it’s budget-friendly, to prevent injuries and ensure it lasts.

How can I make my home CrossFit workouts more challenging with limited equipment?

A: Increase intensity by reducing rest times, increasing repetitions/rounds, adding weighted vests a loaded backpack works!, performing eccentric movements slowly, or focusing on single-limb variations e.g., pistol squats, single-arm presses.

Should I buy cheap CrossFit shoes?

A: For shoes, prioritize stability and support over absolute cheapness. While you don’t need top-of-the-line CrossFit specific shoes, a good pair of flat-soled training shoes is a wise investment to protect your feet and provide a stable base for lifts.

What is the most overlooked cheap CrossFit accessory?

A: An Ab Mat is often overlooked but provides significant comfort and improves the range of motion for sit-ups, making a common CrossFit movement much more effective and safer for your lower back.

Can I do CrossFit with just a pull-up bar and a jump rope?

A: Yes, you can do a surprising number of CrossFit workouts with just a Pull-Up Bar Doorway and a Jump Rope. These two items unlock pull-ups, chin-ups, various jumps, and plenty of cardio. Ways To Make You Sleep

How do I store cheap CrossFit equipment in a small apartment?

A: Use vertical storage solutions like wall-mounted hooks or shelves for bands, jump ropes, and rings. Stackable items like kettlebells or nestable plyo boxes save floor space. Look for equipment that can be easily tucked away under furniture or in closets.

Are there any DIY CrossFit equipment ideas that are actually safe?

A: Yes, safe DIY options include filling heavy-duty bags with sand for sandbags, using sturdy chairs for dips, or making PVC parallettes for push-ups and L-sits. Always ensure your DIY creations are stable and can support your weight safely.

Is it better to buy one good piece of equipment or several cheap ones?

A: Generally, it’s better to buy one or two high-quality, versatile pieces that cover many movements e.g., a good Kettlebell or Gymnastics Rings than many flimsy, less versatile cheap ones that might break quickly or be unsafe. Focus on foundational pieces first.

Fitness Treadmill Manual