Multipurpose Fitness Gear: The Ultimate Guide for Busy Bodies
Streamline Productivity and Physical Wellness with These 27 Efficient Exercise Items
Tired of sacrificing your workout for other tasks? This article serves up the top 25 Must-Have Fitness Products designed to enable multitasking, turning your downtime into an opportunity to get fit!
By Hanna WilliamsBuzzFeed Contributor
Life is busy, and who has time to not multitask? With this curated list by our editors, you'll find the perfect tools to amp up your fitness game without compromising your entertainment or productivity. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may earn a commission on sales from the links in this article.
1. Weighted Fitness Hoop
Revamp your cardio routine with the Sports Hoop from a California-based small business. Perfect for bodyweight training, this multidimensional hoop strengthens your hips, abs, and legs as you go. Watch your favorite show or read a book while working out; after all, who said exercising had to be boring?
Available in 3 and 4 pounds, priced at $39.49 (2 sizes)
Promising Review: "I've been using this hoop for over two years now. It stays together, shows no signs of wear, and I still love using it! I bought this because I wanted to exercise my abs without doing crunches. Using this hoop, I saw noticeable results within the first month. It has improved my overall core strength. I started out at just a few minutes per day and did experience some bruising while I was getting used to it. I like to read or watch TV while using it." -
2. Powerful Under-the-Desk Elliptical
This under-the-desk elliptical makes an excellent low-impact companion for when you're at work or lounging on your couch with a book or movie. Featuring a digital display tracking time, speed, and distance, and eight levels of resistance customized to your needs, it provides a stress reliever and energy burner!
Promising Reviews:
- "Great quality for the price! For stressful times and boring meetings, it's wonderful. This elliptical has been fantastic for me while working from home. I was worried about it being hard to type or read while using it, but I usually walk at a speed of 2.4-2.6mph while actively working - emails, technical editing, plan review, phone calls - and have had no issues. I've been walking about 4 to 6 miles at a time. I also have had no issues moving it around myself when I need to, and it's not heavy at all, maybe just a little awkward maneuvering it when you've got a tight space." -
- "Already obsessed with this machine! It feels great, gets my blood flowing, and is a great energy release! I am already recommending it to friends. It comes assembled straight out of the box and is lightweight enough; no complaints at all. The screen is really clear and easy to read. **I know this will help me with stress! Thank you!!" -
Available in five colors, priced at $96.98
3. Colorful Beginner Dumbbells
Add some strength to your strength training! This multicolored dumbbell set accommodates every budding fitness enthusiast, even those with limited time and space. The addition of a buildable stand ensures effortless storage. Pair your dumbbells with your favorite podcast and start lifting!
Includes six dumbbells in three sizes: 2, 3, and 5 pounds.
Prices vary depending on weight range, starting at $25.99
Promising Review: "I give 5 stars. Very sturdy and love how they stack! I now do some arm workouts while watching TV." -
4. Two-in-One Electric Treadmill
Get a full body workout from the comfort of your desk chair with this 4-in-1 electric treadmill. Ideal for walking during those long work hours or running at your leisure, this compact treadmill supports up to 265 pounds.
Comes with a remote control, allowing you to adjust speed, time, and incline while typing away.
Promising Review: "I chose this treadmill because of the great customer service reviews and the fact that it was easily movable and compact and goes up to a speed to allow jogging/running. It's been fantastic to use while working from home. I was worried about it being hard to type or read while using it, but I usually walk at a speed of 2.4-2.6mph while actively working - emails, technical editing, plan review, phone calls (haven't tried higher than that) - and have had no issues. I've been walking about 4 to 6 miles at a time. I also have had no issues moving it around myself with the rollers when I need to, and it's not heavy at all, maybe just a little awkward maneuvering it if you're working with a tight space." - Available in two colors, priced at $289.99
5. Adjustable Portable Stair Slider
Put your legs, core, and back to work with this portable stair slider, while you tackle your daily to-do list or curling up with the latest podcast episode on Celebrity Memoir Bookclub. This device comes with adjustable tension and a monitor to track your progress - you can even pedal forward or backward to target different muscles!
Includes cords for arm exercises.
Promising Review: "Perfection. Whisper-quiet, good quality. I use it under my desk at work and at home in my TV chair. You can feel it in your thighs very quickly. A good way to keep the blood flowing if you have a lot of sitting time. I'm impressed with the construction. It was easy to put together." -
Available in two colors, priced at $125.99
6. Indoor Climber
With this lightweight indoor climber, you can get in an intense full-body workout that's gentle on your knees and ankles. Best part? You can park it right in front of your TV for those long battle sessions in Last of Us (or old-school gaming).
Promising Reviews: "This is one of the hardest workout machines I've used. It looks so simple, and fits the space in my apartment perfectly. I thought I could spend 20 minutes a day on it, no problem; however, I'm working on going a minute straight. It kills my legs, but in a good way!_Andrea White""One of the most excellent exercising machines I have ever used. You do have to try out different levels and paces of pedaling to suit your needs. I highly recommend it; it takes up so little space. I keep it in front of my TV so I can always use the time to do both things: enjoy my favorite show and stay fit. A great creation, indeed!_Chelsea Trivett_*
Prices vary depending on model. Guess what? You don't even have to splurge if you don't want to, but your gains will be seriously limited.
7. Fun Fitness Trampoline
Burn calories and have a blast! This ergonomic exercise ball chair strengthens your core and aligns your spine while you're just doing your daily work. Pro tip: Lower the ball to your waist level when you're tired of standing and take things to the next level!
Includes a taller chair option through these leg extenders*.
Promising Reviews:
- "This chair is so much more than a punchline on Portlandia. I have used it for over a year in my office job. Funny looks? Sure. But it's not for them; it's about my health and lower lumbar strength. For the first few weeks, I had a 'regular' chair close by to ease the transition. Now, I wish I could take my chair with me to client locations. I used to 'sit' with my chair rolled all the way under the desk, leaned back, so that my butt and shoulders were the only thing supported. This balance chair forces you to sit up straight and support yourself. It will force you to strengthen your legs, back, and shoulders.* You will find yourself sitting more upright even when you are not using the chair." -
- "This ball is best in its field! It's super easy to assemble! I put it together by myself in about 40 minutes. The tool included makes attaching the bungees quick and easy. The bounce is so much better than the inexpensive, spring rebounder I had before and is perfect for jogging. I watched TV while jumping.*" -Online Shopper
Available in four colors, priced at $69.98
8. Bike Trainer Stand
Transform your road bike into an efficient stationary one with this lightweight bike trainer stand. Perfect for spinning while you binge-watch your favorite series, like The Last of Us!
Made by BalanceFrom, a Canadian small business
Promising Review: "This thing is awesome! I ride my bike a lot; this is going to make it so I can train all winter. Plus, I've always wanted an exercise bike in my apartment, but I don't have the space. This foldable trainer fits perfectly in my closet; then I take my bike back to the bike room. Not to mention, now I am spinning and watching TV and playing video games! VIDEO GAMES!!" -
Priced at $81.82
9. Home Barre Booty Kicker
Give your rear end a bootylicious boost with this portable barre workout station. Designed to be sturdy and versatile, this barre doubles as a storage solution when packed away.
Folds up flat and includes a dumbbell rack
Promising Review: "I'll be honest... I bought this on a whim and then didn't put it together for months. I almost returned it because I hadn't used it, but I'm so glad I didn't. I LOVE THIS BARRE. I've been doing barre for years, and I swear this one is the BEST! I can actually participate in the full workout without hauling a whole bunch of equipment all over my house. I look forward to using it every day (and I really don't care to work out generally). It's even portable -how cool is that? It's also super easy to fold up and store, and for me, that's super important because I live in a tiny space." -
Available in one color, priced at $129.99
10. Squat Machine
Strengthen three main glute muscles and target those squad goals with this popular squat machine. With adjustable resistance levels, this squat machine provides optimal support for users with varying fitness levels.
Created by women-owned small business, The DB Method
Promising Review: "The DB Method is fantastic!! It's super easy to inflate, and then it's totally ready to use. This ball makes working out fun - even just balancing while watching TV helps improve stability and doesn't seem like any work at all!" -
Priced at $259.99 (originally $329)
11. Adjustable Rowing Machine
Experience the ocean from the comfort of your living room with this minimalist rowing machine. Boasting 12 levels of adjustable resistance, you can work up a sweat while keeping up with the latest news or Netflix originals!
Comes with a wide cushioned seat, pedals with adjustable straps, and a digital monitor.
Promising Review: "Right out of the box, this exercise rower impressed. High quality, four simple unboxing steps, lightweight but sturdy. I was rowing in minutes. Very quickly, I realized I could move the unit anywhere with ease. While primarily it will be used in my exercise room, either my wife or I can pick it up and take it to the TV room to watch and row. In a complicated world, this rower is peacefully simple and enjoyable!!!" -*
Priced at $99.36
12. Lightweight Kettlebell Set
Up your lifting game with this set of lightweight kettlebells. With one, two, three, or four bells in three sizes within this set, you're sure to find the perfect weight for any move you have in mind.
Promising Review:
- "These kettlebells snapped together perfectly. Such a great purchase! It is very easy to change your weight. I use it every night while watching TV, doing a simple bodyweight workout. This set is great; I highly recommend it." -
Available at varying price points, depending on the weight range of the set
13. Adjustable Exercise Bench
Fitness meets function with this versatile exercise bench. Fold it up and stow it away when not in use, or keep it out for daily exercise. This bench is perfect for dumbbell crushing, negatives, and other exercises you'd usually leave to the gym.
Available on Amazon
Promising Review:
- "I love this bench. Super easy to set up and take apart. It's very sturdy and adjustable from 45 degrees to 90 degrees. It's much cheaper than a personal trainer yet provides the same results as they do. I definitely recommend adding it to your home workout accessories." -
Priced at $69.99
14. Fitness Mat
Get flexible and improve your balance with this fitness mat. You can use it as a foundation for flow-heavy yoga sequences or as a comfortable surface for stretching during long work days.
Available at varying price points on Amazon
15. Office Fitness Chair
Work your core while working your job with this ergonomic exercise ball chair. Its unique design forces users to maintain proper posture during virtually every position - even while seated.
Promising Review:
- "This chair is the perfect addition to my office. It encourages me to maintain proper posture, and it's way more comfortable to sit on instead of a normal chair. My core is getting stronger because I'm constantly engaging my muscles to stay balanced. I love it!" -
Available at varying price points on Amazon
16. Rowing Machine with Digital Screen
Row your way to a fitter you on this compact rowing machine. Featuring built-in apps, this machine delivers the same *oceanic* experience of a real water row, all while tracking workouts and enabling seamless device connectivity.
Promising Review:
- "I was skeptical at first, but I love this rowing machine. I've been using it every day for a month now, and I'm starting to see results. It's user-friendly, and the built-in apps are super cool. The machine is also stable and easy to adjust. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable rowing machine." -
Priced at $179.99
17. Exercise Resistance Bands
Want to take your office workouts to the next level? Add resistance with this six-piece exercise band set. Change up your routine and challenge your muscles in ways you never thought possible.
Available at varying price points on Amazon
Promising Review:
- "These bands are super useful and come with a great storage bag. I love that they're easy to use, and I can take them anywhere. I've been using them during my lunch breaks, and I've already noticed an improvement in my upper body strength. I highly recommend these for anyone looking for a effective and affordable way to get in shape." -
Priced at $9.98
18. Bosu Balance Trainer
Work on your stability, balance, and coordination with this Bosu Ball. Featuring a brushed exterior and a bouncy interior, this versatile ball allows for countless strength and mobility exercises - no sled or rocks required.
Available in a variety of colors on Amazon
Promising Review:
- "I bought this Bosu ball, and it's one of the best purchases I've ever made! I've been using it for months now, and it's never let me down. It's sturdy and well-made, and it provides an effective and fun workout. I can't recommend it highly enough!" -
Priced at $134.99
19. Ab Carver
Target your abs with this unique ab roller. With adjustable tension and an easy-to-grip handle, this device provides a simple yet effective method for building core muscles.
Promising Review:
- "I bought this ab carver a few weeks ago, and I love it. The tension is perfect, and it's easy to use. I've noticed a definite improvement in my core strength, and it only takes a few minutes a day. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to tone their abs." -
Priced at $39.99
20. Handheld Exercise Weight
Get your hands on these handheld exercise weights. Ideal for toning your arms, back, and shoulders, this set includes weights of varying weights for customizable exercise intensity.
Available at varying price points on Amazon
21. Foam Roller
Relieve muscle tension with this textured foam roller. Use it for self-massage, myofascial release, and muscle recovery - all without ever leaving the house.
Promising Review:
- "I've been using this foam roller for a few months now, and I can't recommend it enough. It's perfect for rolling out those tight knots, and it helps with muscle recovery after a tough workout. It's also easy to use, and it comes with a handy storage cover. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a way to take care of their muscles at home." -
Available at varying price points on Amazon
22. Compact Exercise Bike
Elevate your indoor cycling game with this compact exercise bike. With a built-in desk, this bike allows you to work, watch TV, or read while getting a workout in.
Promising Review:
- "I bought this exercise bike a few months ago, and I've been using it every day since. It's perfect for my small apartment, and it's super easy to use. The desk is a really useful feature, and it means I can get work done while getting in a great workout. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for an effective way to exercise at home." -
Priced at $399.99
23. Yoga Mat
Find your zen with this high-density foam yoga mat. Designed for support and stability, this mat is perfect for practicing yoga, Pilates, or simply stretching during your daily routine.
Promising Review:
- "I love this yoga mat! It's thick and comfortable, and it provides great grip. I've been using it for months now, and it's never once let me down. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable yoga mat." -
Available at varying price points on Amazon
24. Core Trainer
Take your plank routine to the next level with this core trainer. Featuring a built-in app, this device encourages you to build your core strength while having fun.
Promising Review:
- "I bought this core trainer as a stocking stuffer for my mom, and she loves it! She's been using it every day for months now, and she's definitely seen improvements in her core strength. The app is fun and engaging, and it sometimes feels like you're playing a game. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a way to improve their core strength." -
Priced at $129 (available in several colors and versions)
25. Exercise Dice
Spice up your routine with these exercise dice. Perfect for building strength and improving flexibility, this set includes a variety of exercises for users of all fitness levels.
Available at varying price points on Amazon
Promising Review:
- "I bought these dice a few weeks ago, and I've been using them every day since. They're a fun and easy way to mix up my workout routine. I love the randomness of the exercises, and it keeps me motivated to keep going. I highly recommend these to anyone looking for a quick, effective, and affordable way to get in a great workout." -
- The 'Sports Hoop' is a multidimensional fitness hoop designed for bodyweight training, perfect for busy individuals who want to work out while engaging in other activities like watching shows or reading books.
- An under-the-desk elliptical, available in five colors, is a low-impact exercise companion suitable for both work and leisure. It offers digital tracking of time, speed, and distance, along with eight levels of resistance adjustable to individual needs.
- Add some strength to your fitness routine with a multicolored dumbbell set suitable for limited time and space, including a buildable stand for easy storage and six dumbbells in three sizes.
- The two-in-one electric treadmill allows for full-body workouts from the comfort of your chair while at work or home, accommodating up to 265 pounds and featuring remote controls for speed, time, and incline adjustments.
- Adjustable portable stair sliders, available in two colors, offer both arm and leg exercises while working on tasks such as daily to-do lists or podcasts. They come with cords for arm exercises and a monitor to track progress.
- An indoor climber, perfect for tiny apartments, provides an intense full-body workout that is gentle on the knees and ankles, making it ideal for engaging in long gaming sessions like 'Last of Us'.
- The ergonomic exercise ball chair, also known as a fit ball, strengthens the core and improves spinal alignment while promoting proper sitting posture during work or relaxation.
- The Canadian small business BalanceFrom bike trainer stand transforms your road bike into an efficient stationary one, perfect for bike riders who enjoy spinning while watching their favorite TV shows or series, like 'The Last of Us'.
- The Home Barre Booty Kicker, a portable barre workout station, offers a sturdy and versatile platform for barre workouts, doubling as a storage solution.
- The 'squat machine' from women-owned small business The DB Method strengthens the main glute muscles, catering to individuals with varying fitness levels with adjustable resistance levels.
- The adjustable rowing machine provides a minimalist oceanic rowing experience, with 12 levels of adjustable resistance suitable for exercising while keeping up with news or Netflix originals.
- A lightweight kettlebell set, with one, two, three, or four kettlebells available in three sizes, offers flexibility for users looking to upgrade their lifting game.
- An adjustable exercise bench is versatile for various exercises, foldable for easy storage, and suitable for strength training routines, including dumbbell crushing and negatives.
- A fitness mat serves as a foundation for flow-focused yoga sequences or a comfortable surface for stretching during long workdays.
- The ergonomic exercise ball chair, with its unique design promoting proper posture, allowsusers to work their core muscles while performing standard office tasks.
- A rowing machine with a digital screen offers an oceanic exercise experience, complete with built-in apps for seamless device connectivity and workout tracking.
- Exercise resistance bands, available in various price points, provide versatility and enable users to challenge their muscles with a six-piece set that includes a storage bag.
