When fitness fans think of an exercise bike these days, chances are the first brand that comes to mind is Peloton.
The exercise bike comes with a big touchscreen along with a huge selection of live and on-demand classes.
Peloton has its fans, and according to Consumer Reports the company is on to something.
“The Peloton bike was by far the best exercise bike we tested," said Bernie Deitrick, a Consumer Reports tester. "Getting excellent scores in categories like adjustability, noise and features,”
But with a price tag close to $1.500, it's a splurge that might force frugal fitness fanatics to take a timeout.
Consumer Reports says workout enthusiasts can still get a great cycling workout without the pricey Peloton bike.
“You can buy a regular exercise bike that’s a third of the cost of a Peloton and just sign up for a $12.99 per month Peloton membership and use your smartphone or tablet,” Deitrick said.
A more affordable exercise bike the magazine recommends is the Finer Form Indoor Exercise Bike for $500.
To get some strength training into your at-home workout, adjustable dumbbells are a good option.
“Adjustable dumbbells are very flexible," Deitrick said. "Using a lever, dial or pin you can quickly and easily change the amount of weight you using.”
But building muscle doesn’t come cheap: One of Consumer Report's best buy options is the Core Home Fitness Adjustable Dumbbell Set for $350.
And a key component of any home gym is a yoga mat, they are good for all kinds of floor exercises.
For an at-home workout setup that can cater to multiple needs, an exercise mat, like the ProsourceFit Tri-Fold Folding Exercise Mat, may be a good bet.
And whether it’s yoga, strength training or cardio, digital apps like Apple Fitness-PLUS, Peloton, and Equinox-PLUS can help you find that perfect workout on your mat.
If you don't want to spend a lot of money on dumbbells, Consumer Reports advises that fitness goals can be obtained by doing bodyweight exercises, and those don't cost a thing.