Fitness coach Jacob Zemer identifies bulky equipment as top home gym waste

New York-based fitness coach Jacob Zemer identifies bulky, difficult-to-set-up equipment as the most common financial mistake in home gyms, arguing that convenience drives consistent use. This assessment comes as consumer spending on wellness rises, with a YouGov poll from September 2026 finding that 31% of Americans spend more on health and wellness than the previous year, while 20% expect to increase spending in the coming year. A separate 2026 poll by the online community Garage Gym Experiment revealed that 44% of respondents planned to spend at least $1,000 on home gyms this year.

Zemer advises against the assumption that effective training requires elaborate setups, noting that three affordable items can cover all muscle groups. He recommends starting with exercise bands due to their low cost, versatility for strength training, and portability for travel. For weight training, he suggests adjustable dumbbells to minimize floor space usage in multi-purpose rooms, while cautioning that some models are more costly and fragile than fixed-weight alternatives.

The core of Zemer's strategy is progressive overload through form and repetition rather than immediate weight increases. He explains that pushing oneself may mean completing one additional repetition instead of adding 20 pounds, as the body adapts to specific stimuli. When high repetitions become easy, increasing weight is appropriate. To support varied exercises without lying on the floor or standing for all movements, he recommends an affordable bench that can decline, incline, and sit upright.

The primary criterion for purchasing any equipment should be ease of consistent use. Zemer states that the more setup a device requires, the less likely it is to be used. He learned this lesson after purchasing lever arms for a power rack, which proved cumbersome to move and were eventually sold secondhand. He warns that the resale market for gym equipment offers little value if items are not used regularly.

Instead of single-function devices, Zemer prioritizes equipment that serves multiple purposes. He notes that dedicated cardio machines are not essential for everyone, particularly those who are mobile, as walking, running, or faster-paced strength training can elevate heart rates. For those who prefer machines, he suggests options like stationary bikes or ski ergs that offer versatility while reducing strain on knees and back.