We all know that Rogue Fitness is definitely worth the money, so let’s build a home gym using their best equipment overall.
This guide will be broken up into different sections focused on barbells, benches, power racks, and more!
I’ll guide you through the essentials first and give you the next steps to build the best Rogue garage gym possible.
With that being said, let’s get started!
Table Of Contents
What Is The Best Rogue Fitness Equipment?
- Barbells
- Power Bar – Ohio Power Bar
- Weightlifting Bar – Pyrros Bar
- Women’s Weightlifting Bar – 25MM IWF Olympic Weightlifting Bar
- Multipurpose Bar – Ohio Bar
- Women’s Multipurpose Bar – Bella Bar 2.0
- Weight Plates
- Iron Plates – Olympic Plates
- Calibrated Plates – Calibrated Steel Plates
- Change Plates – LB Change Plates
- Rubber Bumpers – Echo Bumper Plates V2
- Training Bumpers – Training 2.0 Plates
- Competition Bumpers – LB Competition Plates
- Squat Racks
- Folding/Wall-Mounted – RML-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack
- Half Rack – HR-2 Half Rack
- Squat Stand – SML-2 Rogue 90” Monster Lite Squat Stand
- Power Rack – RML-390F Monster Lite Rack
- Weight Benches
- Flat Bench – Flat Utility Bench 2.0
- Adjustable Bench – Adjustable Bench 3.0
- FID Bench – AB-3 Adjustable Bench
- Flooring
- Free Weights
- Dumbbells – Dumbbell Sets
- Kettlebells – Competition Kettlebells
- Specialty Bars
- Curl Bar – Curl Bar
- Safety Squat Bar – SB-1 Safety Squat Bar
- Trap Bar – TB-2 Trap Bar
- Multi-Grip Bars – MG-2 Multi-Grip Bar
- Cardio Equipment
Best Place For A Home Gym
When you’re planning your ultimate home gym, the first thing to figure out is where to set it up. In my experience, you’ve got to consider a couple of key things.
Space is crucial. You need room to move, right? Basements are usually a great pick. They’re spacious, out of the way, and the concrete floors are ideal for heavy equipment.
Plus, you won’t be bothering anyone with noise.
No basement? No problem. Your garage can be a great alternative. It’s perfect for heavy lifting.
Just make sure it’s got good ventilation and maybe some heating for when it gets chilly.
What Type Should I Build?
Choosing the right type of gym boils down to your training goals. Are you into strength training, cardio, or a mix of both?
For strength athletes, I’d say go for a sturdy power rack, a reliable barbell, a set of plates, and a weight bench.
Cardio fans should look at a quality treadmill or stationary bike. If space is tight, there are great foldable options as well.
Remember, your gym should grow with you. Start with the basics that align with your current goals and expand as you evolve.
Rogue Home Gym Essentials
Let’s start with the essentials for a Rogue Home Gym. If you’re like me, you want the best of the best in your home gym.
So, let’s go over what you need from Rogue to build a gym that’s not just functional, but also a joy to use.
Barbells
Barbells are the backbone of any serious home gym. Rogue has a stellar lineup, and I’ve got some favorites that I think you’ll love too.
Each barbell has its unique charm, so let’s break them down.
Power Bar
The Rogue Ohio Power Bar is designed to handle the toughest workouts with its impressive 200,000 PSI tensile strength. This barbell is built to last with a lifetime warranty and is made in the USA with high-quality materials. The 29mm diameter and bushing sleeves provide a smooth spin, making it perfect for powerlifting movements. The bar is available in various finishes, including stainless shaft/sleeves, stainless shaft/chrome sleeves, black e-coat/bright zinc, bare steel shaft/sleeves, and bright zinc shaft/sleeves.
The Ohio Power Bar is my go-to for powerlifting. It’s a beast! With its aggressive knurling and stiff shaft, this bar is perfect for heavy squats, deadlifts, and bench presses.
It’s built to handle serious weight, and believe me, it does not disappoint. If you’re into powerlifting, this bar is a no-brainer.
Weightlifting Bar
The Pyrros Bar is now an official, IWF Certified barbell. The final design combines a stainless steel, 200,000 PSI tensile strength shaft with 10 quality needle bearings and a choice of chrome-plated or stainless steel sleeves (the all-stainless Pyrros Bar is the top-end 28mm barbell that Rogue now produces).
Now, for Olympic lifting, the Pyrros Bar is a game-changer.
Developed with input from Olympic legend Pyrros Dimas, this bar has an incredible spin and just the right amount of whip for those clean/jerks and snatches.
It’s a bit of an investment, but for serious Olympic lifters, it’s worth every penny.
Women’s Weightlifting Bar
The Rogue 25MM IWF Olympic Weightlifting Bar, designed specifically for women, is a high-performance barbell made in Columbus, OH. It features a 215,000 PSI tensile strength steel shaft, quality needle bearings for smooth rotation, and Olympic knurling for a secure grip. This 15KG bar comes in a bright zinc finish and includes a single-piece sleeve construction with official IWF branding. Perfect for competitive weightlifters seeking reliability and consistency in their lifts.
Ladies, this one’s for you. The 25MM
It’s got a slightly smaller diameter, making it easier to grip, and it’s designed to meet IWF standards.
Whether you’re competing or just training, this bar provides the perfect balance and feel.
Multipurpose Bar
Made in the USA, The Ohio Bar is a top-of-the-line, multipurpose barbell. It's constructed of the highest quality materials with a 200,000 PSI shaft and chrome sleeves for a consistent spin. The Ohio Bar has a firm, non-abrasive grip and is perfect for both Powerlifting and Olympic lifts. With its unique balance of whip and rigidity, this bar is ideal for any serious lifter.
The Ohio Bar is the jack-of-all-trades in the Rogue lineup. It’s fantastic for general fitness, whether you’re doing some Olympic lifts, powerlifting, or just mixing it up.
The 28.5mm shaft offers a great balance between rigidity and whip, and the dual knurl marks make it versatile for various lifts.
It’s my top recommendation for anyone building a home gym with flexibility in mind.
Women’s Multipurpose Bar
The Rogue Fitness Bella Bar 2.0 is a 15 kg barbell designed for female athletes. Made in the USA, it's optimized for Olympic weightlifting, powerlifting, and CrossFit. The bar has a 25MM diameter, no center knurl, and a hybrid knurling pattern for a comfortable yet firm grip. With a 190,000 PSI tensile strength, U.S. steel, and snap-ring bronze bushings, the Bella Bar is a staple in women's CrossFit competitions, including the CrossFit Games. It's built with the same attention to detail as any bar in the Rogue family, making it a must-have for female athletes of all levels.
For the versatile female athlete,
The quality is top-notch, and it’s designed to withstand rigorous workouts. Whether you’re into CrossFit, Olympic lifting, or general fitness, this bar has got you covered.
Weight Plates
The heart and soul of weightlifting is literally in the name, the weights! Rogue’s selection is top-notch, and I’ve got some insights on each type to help you make the best choice for your home gym.
Iron Plates
Nothing replicates the sound of old school steel plates being lifted in a gym. Rogue Black Olympic Plates are simple, classic, and tough enough for daily abuse. Sold in pairs, these time-tested cast iron weightlifting plates range from 1.25LB up to 100LB, with custom orders available to equip your affiliate or home gym as you see fit.
These are your classic, no-nonsense iron plates. The Olympic Plates from Rogue are durable, reliable, and perfect for a traditional lifting feel.
I recommend these for anyone who loves the clank of iron when they’re loading up the bar. They’re great for powerlifting and general strength training.
Calibrated Plates
The Rogue Calibrated LB Steel Plates offer exceptional precision, with each cast-iron plate machine calibrated to be accurate within 10 grams. Designed for heavy lifting, they feature a thin profile for maximum load capacity, exceeding 1500+LB. Color-coding allows for easy weight identification at a glance. Each plate includes calibration plugs (lead for smaller plates, brass for 5LB and up) for enhanced accuracy. The 50.4MM center hole ensures a snug fit on standard barbells, though they may not fit on some non-spec barbells.
Now, if you’re into precision, the Calibrated Steel Plates are where it’s at. These plates are used in competition for a reason – they’re extremely accurate.
If you’re training for a meet or just obsessed with accuracy, these plates are a must-have. Plus, they look incredibly sleek.
Change Plates
Rogue LB Change Plates are available in pairs or full sets, with weight increments of 1.25lb, 2.5 lb, 5 lb, and 10 lb. Made with a quality matte finish and a tolerance of +/- 10g, these change plates are color-coded green, blue, and white, with an exterior rubber coating for a non-slip grip.
The LB Change Plates are essential for those incremental gains. They’re perfect for when you’re pushing your limits and need to add just a little more weight.
I find them super handy for fine-tuning my lifts, especially when I’m working towards a new personal best.
Rubber Bumpers
Rogue's Echo Bumper Plates are made to the IWF standard diameter of 450mm and are within 1% of their target weight. The plates feature quality virgin rubber and stainless steel inserts, which give them a dead bounce and durability that is unmatched in the market. You can purchase full sets or individual pairs of Echo Bumper Plates from 10lb to 55lb weights.
The Echo Bumper Plates V2 are a fantastic choice for a home gym. They’re quieter than iron plates, which is great if you’re trying to keep the peace at home.
Plus, they’re super durable and can take a beating. I recommend these for anyone doing Olympic lifts or CrossFit-style workouts.
Training Bumpers
Updated with new artwork and a gloss-matte-gloss finish, Rogue Color LB Training 2.0 Plates are an IWF standard 450MM in diameter, with a narrow width that allows for more weight to be loaded on the bar. A 50.40MM collar opening and steel disc insert keep the plates firmly in place even during intense, high-rep training.
Training 2.0 Plates are what I use for my daily grind. They’re a bit more refined than the Echo plates, with a sleek design and excellent durability.
These are great for both Olympic lifting and general strength training. They’re a bit of an investment, but totally worth it for the quality.
Competition Bumpers
Rogue LB Competition Plates are designed for Olympic weightlifting. These plates feature a chrome-plated steel disc insert with a minimal bounce so you spend much less time chasing the bar around. With a gloss-matte-gloss textured finish and raised lettering, these plates look as good as they perform. Plus, the raised flanges prevent direct contact with the center discs to reduce scuffing. The color-coding also allows for easy weight identification. With a +/- 15 grams tolerance, Rogue LB Competition Plates are some of the most accurate in the industry.
For the serious lifters, the LB Competition Plates are the real deal. They meet all the competition standards, and they’re as accurate as it gets.
If you’re training for a competition or just want the best of the best, these are the plates to go for.
Squat Racks
Let’s shift gears to squat racks – a crucial element in any home gym. Rogue’s got a variety of racks to suit different needs and spaces.
I’ve spent a fair amount of time with each of these, so let me give you the lowdown on what makes each one stand out.
Folding/Wall-Mounted Rack
The Rogue RML-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack is the most versatile and compact fold-back wall mount rack on the market. It features 11-gauge steel uprights with westside hole spacing, a quick attach pullup bar, locking pin and hinge system, and folds to 5" away from the wall for easy storage. It's a great choice for anyone with limited space or who wants the option to fold their rack out of the way when not in use.
The RML-3W Fold Back Wall Mount Rack is a game-changer for space-saving. It’s perfect if you’re tight on space but don’t want to compromise on quality.
You can easily fold it away when not in use, making it ideal for garage gyms or multipurpose rooms.
Despite its compact design, it’s incredibly sturdy – a hallmark of Rogue’s engineering.
Half Rack
The Rogue HR-2 Half Rack is perfect for smaller spaces and home gyms. This compact rack has all the features of a full-sized rack, including two 3x3" 11-gauge steel uprights, a 2x3" 11-gauge steel base, and monster lite j-cups. The HR-2 also includes an additional storage area for weight plates or other equipment.
The HR-2 Half Rack is a solid middle ground between a full rack and a squat stand.
It’s great for home gyms where space is a bit more generous but you’re not looking to fill the whole room with equipment.
It’s got ample storage for plates, and its stability is top-notch. Many have loaded it up pretty heavy and it doesn’t even flinch.
Squat Stand
The SML-2 Rogue 90" Monster Lite Squat Stand is everything you need in a squat stand. With 11-gauge vertical uprights, a 5/8" hole spacing, and a 1,000 lb weight capacity, this squat stand can handle any weight you can throw at it. And with Westside hole spacing, you can place your j-cups and spotter arms wherever you need them.
The SML-2 Rogue 90” Monster Lite Squat Stand is incredibly versatile and doesn’t take up a ton of room.
It’s perfect for squats, obviously, but also for bench presses, pull-ups, and more.
It’s a great all-rounder, especially if you’re looking to do a variety of exercises but aren’t ready to commit to a full rack.
Power Rack
Introducing the RML-390F Flat Foot Monster Lite Rack, the ultimate addition to your home gym. With dimensions of 92.375”x48”x49” and constructed from sturdy 3x3” 11-gauge steel uprights and 2x3” 11-gauge steel bases, this rack is built to last. The Westside Hole Spacing provides versatile positioning for your workouts. Its flat feet design ensures optimal stabilization, making it perfect for home use. Complete with Monster Lite J-Cups and Pin Pipe Safeties, as well as the option for a Single or Fat/Skinny Pull-Up Bar, this rack is the epitome of strength and versatility.
And then there’s the RML-390F Monster Lite Rack. This is for those who are serious about their lifting.
It’s a beast – super sturdy and can handle just about anything you throw at it.
If you’ve got the space and are looking for a rack that can support a wide range of exercises and heavy lifts, this is the one.
It’s an investment, but one that’s well worth it for the serious lifter.
Weight Benches
A good bench is like a trusty sidekick in your home gym – it’s there to support you, literally, through thick and thin.
Rogue’s lineup has some solid options, and I’ve got a few thoughts on each to help you pick the right one for your space.
Flat Bench
No nonsense. No limitations. No assembly required. The redesigned Rogue Flat Utility Bench takes the weight bench back to basics, featuring 2x3” 11-gauge steel construction, a high-density Neoprene pad, and a pair of angled, wide-set legs for maximized stability.
The
It’s incredibly sturdy, which gives you that extra confidence when you’re lifting heavy. Plus, it’s got a comfortable pad that’s not too hard or too soft.
If you’re looking for a reliable, no-nonsense bench for your heavy lifts, this is the one.
Adjustable Bench
Version 3.0 of the Rogue Adjustable Bench features an upgraded 3x3” 11-gauge steel frame, an expanded range of incline and seat positions, and an efficient bolt-together design.
Now, if you’re looking for versatility, the Adjustable Bench 3.0 is the one for you.
It’s super easy to adjust, so you can switch between incline, flat, and decline positions without any hassle.
This bench is perfect for a wide range of exercises, from dumbbell workouts to bench presses. It’s a bit of an investment, but for the functionality it offers, it’s totally worth it.
FID Bench
The Rogue AB-3 Adjustable Bench, made in the USA, offers versatile training with over 50 seat and back-pad positions, including incline and decline options. Constructed from durable 11-gauge steel, it features a telescoping foot catch for decline exercises. Weighing 117 LB, it includes a 12-inch back pad, rubber feet for stability, and cordura edges for durability. Its compact design has a handle and wheels for easy mobility, making it suitable for dynamic workouts and multi-user gyms.
The AB-3 Adjustable Bench is like the Swiss Army knife of workout benches. It’s a FID (Flat, Incline, Decline) bench, so you’ve got all the angles covered.
The padding and build quality are top-notch, and it’s incredibly stable, which is crucial when you’re working with heavy weights.
If you’re the kind of person who loves to mix up their workouts and needs a bench that can keep up, this is the one for you.
Flooring
Rogue Rubber Tiles weigh 28 lbs and are made from 100% recycled SBR rubber, which is perfect for gym flooring. It's versatile for lifting platforms or landing pads, offers a non-slip waffled base, and effectively absorbs impact and noise. Available in smooth or crumb finishes and various pack sizes.
Flooring is crucial for a home gym, and while Rogue’s Rubber Tiles are good, they’re not the only option, especially given their price.
Sure, these tiles are durable and great for shock absorption, but they can add up cost-wise for a larger space.
I’ve found horse stall mats to be a solid alternative. They’re tough, affordable, and you can usually find them at local farm supply stores, saving on shipping.
They cover more area and are perfect for heavy lifting, plus they’re easy to clean.
So, while Rogue’s tiles are quality, for value and coverage, horse stall mats are a great budget-friendly choice for your gym.
Rogue Gym Add-Ons
After you get the essentials, it’s time to start looking into some little extras that can take your home gym from good to great.
I’ve spent a fair bit of time tinkering with various add-ons, and I’ve got to say, Rogue offers some pretty neat stuff to enhance your workout experience.
Free Weights
Free weights other than just weight plates are a nice option to add some variety for any home gym.
I’ve had my fair share of experiences with different types, and when it comes to Rogue’s offerings, there are a couple of options to consider.
Dumbbells
Rogue Dumbbells are sold in pairs and available in weights ranging from 2.5LB to 125LB. This standard rubber hex design is a great, budget-priced option that still delivers on quality, performance, and longevity. The heavy-duty, rubber-encased heads minimize noise and limit wear and tear (to both the bells and your flooring), while the chrome-plated handle is ergonomically designed for a firm but comfortable feel in any grip style.
Rogue’s Dumbbell Sets are superbly crafted, offering great balance and grip, making any workout, from arm curls to functional movements, enjoyable.
Available in various weights, they’re perfect for progressing as you get stronger. They’re a bit more expensive, but the long-lasting quality justifies the cost.
I’ve been using mine for a long time, and they’re still in top shape, showing no wear and tear.
Kettlebells
Rogue’s Competition Kettlebells rank with the best in the industry when it comes to performance, durability, stability, and feel. Ranging from 8KG to 48KG in weight, every increment of the Competition Kettlebell retains the same 5.5" base diameter, 11.1" height (282MM), and 33MM handle width, allowing for easier transitions as you move up in weight. Each bell also includes a smooth, blemish-free surface with a matte black powdercoat finish and four specially contoured flats—reducing friction and discomfort during overhead presses, cleans, and snatches.
Rogue’s Competition Kettlebells are seriously impressive.
What I really appreciate is the uniformity in size across various weights, which means switching between different loads doesn’t throw off your grip or technique.
They also have a smooth, flat bottom that’s perfect for maintaining stability during diverse exercises.
The texture is just right, offering a solid grip without being abrasive. Making these ideal for those longer training sessions.
Specialty Bars
Rogue has a lineup that’s pretty hard to beat, and I’ve had the pleasure of trying out a few of their best.
Each of these bars brings something unique to the table, so let’s break them down.
Curl Bar
Introducing the ultimate curl bar from Rogue, the industry leader in strength and conditioning equipment. This bad boy is fully machined and assembled right here in the USA, so you know it's built to last. They've taken all the best features from their flagship Ohio Bar and packed them into this curl bar. You'll love the bronze bushings, snap ring design, and their signature Ohio knurl pattern that provides a secure grip.
The Curl Bar is a classic, and Rogue’s version is top-tier. It’s perfect for isolating those biceps and triceps.
What I love about this bar is the ergonomic grip. It’s designed to reduce the strain on your wrists, which is a game-changer if you’re hitting arms hard.
Plus, the spin and the feel of the bar are just smooth, making those curl sessions a bit more enjoyable.
Safety Squat Bar
The weight distribution is unique to this bar. Training with the Rogue Safety Squat bar is known to tax your anterior chain; the weight distribution falls between the front squat and the high-bar back squat to vary your power output training.
The SB-1 Safety Squat Bar from Rogue is a back saver, literally. If you’ve got any issues with your shoulders or you just want to switch up your squat routine, this bar is a must-try.
It sits comfortably on your shoulders, and the padding is just right – not too bulky, but enough to cushion the load.
It’s great for targeting your quads and lower back, and it adds a nice variety to leg day.
Trap Bar
Introducing the Rogue TB-2 Trap Bar - a versatile and efficient upgrade from the original Rogue Trap Bar. With dual handles, knurled grips, and SCH 80 pipe Olympic sleeves, this USA-manufactured bar is built to last. Its 25% weight reduction makes it perfect for beginners or those recovering from an injury. Whether you want to strengthen your lockout or limit shoulder stress, the TB-2 Trap Bar is the perfect addition to any strength training routine.
Now, the TB-2 Trap Bar is one of those bars that I think every gym should have. It’s incredibly versatile – perfect for deadlifts, shrugs, and even farmer’s walks.
The design allows for a more neutral grip, which is easier on the lower back.
It’s a solid piece of equipment for sure, especially if you’re looking to build strength without putting too much strain on your back.
Multi-Grip Bars
Rogue's MG-2 Multi-Grip Bars offer unique two-way neutral grip options for versatile lifting. Choose from the hexagonal MG-23 with three distinct grips or the rectangular MG-24 with additional handles. These fully welded bars reduce wrist and shoulder stress during lifts and fit most power racks and Olympic plates. Finished in Rogue's durable black powder coat, they provide enhanced lifting versatility.
Lastly, the MG-2 Multi-Grip Bars. These bars are fantastic for pressing movements.
Both types offer various grip options, which is great for hitting different angles and muscle groups.
You’ll find it particularly useful for reducing shoulder strain during the bench press. Plus, you can get creative with it for rows and even some arm exercises.
Cardio Equipment
Let’s switch gears and talk about cardio. Now, I’m more of a weights guy, but I’ve learned not to neglect my cardio.
One of the best low impact cardio solutions is an air bike. And there isn’t another better option out there than the Echo Bike!
Air Bike
The Echo Bike by Rogue is a heavy-duty steel stationary bike that can be customized for the user's needs. With a weight limit of 350 lbs, this bike can accommodate almost anyone. The easy portability and 1" polyurethane front wheels also make it easy to move around when needed. The belt-driven steel fan blade ensures a smoother ride, while the high-contrast, battery-powered LCD console tracks intervals, distance, calories burned, heart rate, and more.
The Rogue Echo Bike is far from your typical stationary bike; it’s a durable powerhouse.
Built to endure, it uses air resistance, making your workout increasingly challenging as you pedal harder – ideal for HIIT or intense cardio sessions.
Its solid build ensures stability no matter the intensity, and with easy seat adjustments, it suits various body types.
The LCD console efficiently tracks key metrics like distance, calories, and heart rate.
This bike isn’t for a light ride; it’s designed for rigorous workouts, proving to be excellent for warm-ups, cool-downs, and intense cardio.
Overall, the Echo Bike is a great addition to any home gym for those seeking a challenging and effective cardio tool.
Pros & Cons Of A Complete Rogue Gym
PROS
CONS
Conclusion
Going for a Rogue home gym is a significant investment in top-quality, durable equipment.
While it’s pricey, you’re getting gear that’s built to last, with excellent customer service and a solid warranty.
It’s perfect for those who are serious about their fitness and want equipment that can handle intense, daily use.
However, keep in mind your budget. There are more affordable alternatives for certain items, like flooring.
Ultimately, if Rogue fits your needs and budget, it’s a worthwhile investment for a long-lasting, high-performing home gym.
Until next time,
-Dante