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Get into great shape with Amazon’s top-rated dumbbells, wearable weights and more

Expend a lot of energy, but very little money, while getting fit this year.

dumbbells, ankle weights, kettlebells
Get a jump start on those 2024 resolutions with these budget picks. (Photo: Amazon)

With the new year comes a new opportunity to recommit to fitness. One way to do that is to get back to work in that home gym of yours that’s been collecting dust. You don’t have to spen a fortune getting all the gear in the world to accomplish a good sweat in the basement. In fact, we recommend a small handful of products that accomplish a range of effects. The best part? These are all highly rated and super affordable, which means following your fitness goals in 2024 should be easier than ever.

We took a look at weights, mats and other gadgets that reviewers loved and narrowed it down to the best of the best. If you shop now, you could have your home gym fully upgraded for the new year.

Weights strewn across your den, basement or garage floor are an accident waiting to happen — a stubbed toe, twisted ankle or worse. This little pyramid of dumbbells helps you stay safe, neat and organized. These 5-, 8- and 12-pound. 'bells come in blue, yellow and orange, respectively. (PS: This set is also available in a 2- /3- /5-pound ensemble, a 3-/ 5-/ 8-pound set or a full set featuring 3-, 5-, 8-, 10- and 12-pound weights.)

"I started a workout program and needed weights for some of the routines," reported one happy customer. "I found this product and read the reviews and was sold. I have never owned dumbbells before and didn't really know what to look for to buy them. I love the great feel of them. The stand was as easy as 1-2-3 to assemble!.... Love my dumbbells and stand!"

$129 at Amazon

With these wearable weights swaddling your ankles, you can get your calves and thighs toned just by going about your day — while running errands, on a shopping jaunt, meeting the kids at school. Each comes in at three pounds (six pounds per pair), which makes them light enough to use on your wrists and arms too. They also come in a number of other weight options, from one to ten pounds each. You can even tone up wearing them during a stretch session. Getting fit really doesn't get any easier than this.

"I am so happy I purchased these particular ankle weights," said one shopper. "They are so much better than the previous ones I owned, and more comfortable! The material is soft, and I love that it is squishy because it brings the comfort level up even more and doesn't hurt my ankles at all. The straps are very secure and they have just enough length for me to use the weights on other areas of my body, like above my knees when I do certain exercises. I highly recommend these for everyone that works out or exercises at home."

$16 at Amazon

At half an inch, this is a pretty thick mat, which means it can withstand your attempts at the most demanding of poses....and comfortably cushion you after a tumble. If you don't intend on using it for yoga, it can serve as a supportive mat for a big-ticket exercise item as well.

Wrote one five-star fan: "I have VERY tender knees and tender bones from osteoporosis. I find this mat to be very comfortable when I do my yoga routines, especially in any kneeling position. I do not find it too thick as to be unsteady in upright poses. It is WONDERFULLY soft. I will definitely buy again or even add another color before I need a new mat, as I am that pleased with it. It is an excellent product for the price. I have been doing yoga for decades now, and I am delighted with this find."

$20 at Amazon
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$20 at Walmart$22 at Wayfair

These classically handsome dumbbells have a rust-proof vinyl coating and, because they're adjustable to 5, 15 or 20 pounds apiece, are ideal for curls, chest presses and weighted squats and lunges. Contoured handles ensure a good grip, and screw locks keep your workout safe.

Said a five-star reviewer: "[I was] looking for reasonable free weights during the pandemic. Found these online and couldn't be happier. Solid, easy to hold and a good price."

Said another: "This item definitely was exactly what we were looking for. We didn't have money to buy expensive metal ones, but these give us a workout and do the same as the metal ones for a cheaper price. Would buy again...."

$90 at Amazon

The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.