CrossFit has exploded in popularity over the past decade, and for good reason. Its high-intensity, varied workouts deliver impressive results—improved strength, endurance, flexibility, and overall fitness. But for many newcomers, the perceived cost of getting started can be a major barrier. Walk into a CrossFit gym, and you’ll see racks of expensive barbells, premium kettlebells, and specialized machines that look like they belong in a professional training facility. It’s easy to assume you need to drop thousands of dollars to join the movement.
The truth? You don’t. CrossFit’s core philosophy revolves around functional movements and adaptability, not fancy gear. With a little creativity and strategic shopping, you can build a fully functional home setup that lets you tackle most CrossFit workouts without emptying your wallet. In this guide, we’ll break down the essential affordable CrossFit equipment, share budget-friendly alternatives to pricey gear, and offer tips for stretching your dollar further. Whether you’re working with a $100 budget or can splurge a bit more, there’s a path to starting your CrossFit journey without financial stress.
Why You Don’t Need a Gym Membership (or $1,000 Worth of Gear)
Before diving into equipment lists, let’s address a common misconception: CrossFit requires a gym full of specialized tools. In reality, some of the most effective CrossFit workouts rely on bodyweight movements—burpees, push-ups, air squats, pull-ups, and box jumps, to name a few. These require zero equipment. However, as you progress, adding a few key pieces can expand your workout options, increase intensity, and target specific muscle groups more effectively.
The goal here is to prioritize essential, versatile equipment that won’t drain your savings. We’ll skip the luxury items (looking at you, $500 weighted vests) and focus on gear that delivers maximum value for minimum cost. Let’s start with the basics.
Essential Affordable CrossFit Equipment: The Starter Kit
These are the foundational tools that will let you perform 80% of CrossFit workouts. Think of them as your “must-haves” before adding anything else.
1. Resistance Bands: Versatility in a Small Package
Resistance bands are the unsung heroes of budget fitness equipment. They’re compact, portable, and incredibly versatile—perfect for CrossFit’s dynamic movements. A set of 3–5 bands with varying resistance levels (light, medium, heavy, extra-heavy) will cost between 20–40, and they can replace dumbbells, assist with pull-ups, add resistance to squats or lunges, and even mimic rowing movements.
Pro tip: Look for bands made from natural latex (they’re more durable than synthetic versions) and check for reinforced handles if you’re using them for upper-body exercises. Avoid the cheapest options (under $10 for a set) as they tend to snap easily, especially under heavy tension.
2. Adjustable Dumbbells: One Tool, Hundreds of Exercises
Dumbbells are a CrossFit staple, used in everything from thrusters to snatches to renegade rows. While a full set of fixed-weight dumbbells can cost a fortune, adjustable models let you dial in the exact weight you need without cluttering your space. A quality pair of adjustable dumbbells that go up to 50–60 pounds will run you 80–150—far less than buying individual weights.
Budget hack: If even 80 is too steep, start with a single dumbbell (around 30–$50) and work on unilateral exercises (one arm/leg at a time). You can always add a second later.
3. Gymnastics Rings: Bodyweight Training Elevated
Gymnastics rings are a CrossFit classic, ideal for building upper-body and core strength through movements like ring dips, muscle-ups (once you’re advanced), and ring rows. They’re also incredibly affordable: a set of sturdy, adjustable rings with straps costs just 30–50. Hang them from a sturdy doorframe, ceiling beam, or even a tree branch, and you’ve got a portable gym.
What to look for: Metal or wooden rings (plastic ones can get slippery with sweat) and straps with secure buckles. Avoid rings with thin straps—they’ll dig into your hands during long sets.
4. Jump Rope: Cardio on a Budget
A good jump rope is essential for CrossFit’s high-intensity cardio segments, and you don’t need to spend much to get a quality one. A speed rope with adjustable length (to fit your height) will cost 10–20 and can be used for double-unders, single-unders, and even agility drills.
Avoid: Cheap plastic ropes that kink or break after a few uses. Look for ones with coated steel cables (they’re fast and durable) and ergonomic handles.
5. Yoga Mat: Protection and Grip
While not “equipment” in the traditional sense, a yoga mat is non-negotiable for exercises like planks, burpees, or stretching. It protects your joints from hard floors and prevents slipping during sweaty workouts. A basic but durable yoga mat costs 15–30—look for one that’s at least 1/4-inch thick for cushioning.
Creative Alternatives: Household Items That Work as CrossFit Gear
If you’re really tight on cash, you don’t need to buy anything new. Many common household items can double as CrossFit equipment. Here are some clever substitutions:
• Kettlebell alternative: Fill a 5-gallon bucket with sand, rocks, or water, and use it for swings, goblet squats, or Turkish get-ups. Seal the lid tightly with duct tape to avoid spills. Cost: $5 (bucket) + free (sand/rocks).
• Plyometric box alternative: Use a sturdy chair, coffee table, or stack of thick books (secured with tape) for box jumps. Just make sure it’s stable enough to support your weight. Cost: $0.
• Pull-up bar alternative: A sturdy doorframe (for assisted pull-ups using resistance bands) or a tree branch (if you’re training outdoors) works in a pinch. For a more permanent solution, a doorway pull-up bar that fits most standard doors costs 20–30.
• Weighted vest alternative: Fill a backpack with textbooks, canned goods, or water bottles for added resistance during bodyweight exercises like lunges or push-ups. Cost: $0 (if you already have a backpack).
The key here is to prioritize functionality over aesthetics. A bucket of sand won’t look as sleek as a $150 kettlebell, but it will let you perform the same movements—at a fraction of the cost.
Mid-Range Additions: When You’re Ready to Upgrade
Once you’ve mastered the basics and want to expand your workout options, these pieces are worth investing in. They’ll cost a bit more but still fit into a modest budget.
1. Adjustable Kettlebell (or a Single Fixed Weight)
Kettlebells are iconic in CrossFit for their ability to combine strength and cardio in movements like swings, cleans, and snatches. A single fixed-weight kettlebell (20–35 pounds for most beginners) costs 40–70, while an adjustable model (which lets you change weights by adding/removing plates) ranges from 80–120. If you’re choosing one weight, opt for a 35-pound kettlebell—it’s heavy enough to challenge you but manageable for most foundational movements.
2. Ab Mat: Targeting Core Strength
Ab mats are simple, low-cost tools that enhance core exercises like sit-ups, Russian twists, and leg raises by supporting your lower back and allowing a greater range of motion. A good ab mat costs 15–25 and is far more effective than crunches on a hard floor.
3. Foam Roller: Recovery on a Budget
Recovery is a crucial part of CrossFit, and a foam roller helps relieve muscle tightness, improve flexibility, and reduce soreness. A basic 12–18 inch foam roller costs 10–20. It’s not “equipment” for workouts, but it’s essential for keeping your body in shape to train consistently.
Smart Shopping: How to Find the Best Deals
Even essential gear can add up, so here are some strategies to save money without sacrificing quality:
• Buy used: Check Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or local garage sales for secondhand equipment. Many people buy gym gear with good intentions, only to let it collect dust. You can often find like-new dumbbells, kettlebells, or resistance bands for 50% off retail prices. Just inspect items for cracks, rust, or wear (especially on resistance bands, which can degrade over time).
• Shop seasonal sales: Retailers like Amazon, Dick’s Sporting Goods, and Academy Sports run major sales around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and back-to-school season. Stock up on equipment during these times to save 20–40%.
• Stick to budget-friendly brands: Brands like Rep Fitness, Yes4All, and Prosource offer quality gear at lower prices than premium names like Rogue or NordicTrack. For example, a Yes4All adjustable dumbbell set costs 100–150, compared to $300+ for a similar set from a high-end brand.
• Prioritize multi-use items: Avoid single-purpose tools (like a dedicated “squat wedge” or “pull-up assist machine”). Instead, choose gear that can be used in dozens of exercises—like resistance bands or adjustable dumbbells.
Avoid These Common Mistakes
When shopping for affordable CrossFit equipment, it’s easy to cut corners in the wrong places. Here are three pitfalls to avoid:
• Buying the cheapest option without checking reviews: A $5 resistance band might seem like a steal, but if it snaps mid-workout, it could injure you or force you to buy a replacement. Spend a little extra for gear with positive reviews mentioning durability.
• Overbuying “trendy” equipment: Those $100 “core sliders” or “balance boards” might look cool, but they’re rarely essential for CrossFit. Stick to the basics until you’re sure you need more specialized gear.
• Ignoring space constraints: A full set of dumbbells or a bulky plyometric box might be affordable, but if you live in a small apartment, they’ll just take up space and collect dust. Opt for compact, stackable, or portable gear (like resistance bands or foldable gymnastics rings) if space is limited.
Final Thoughts: It’s About Progress, Not Gear
At the end of the day, CrossFit is about pushing your limits, not showcasing expensive equipment. Some of the most intense, effective workouts can be done with nothing but your bodyweight—and a few affordable tools will only enhance that. By prioritizing versatility, shopping smart, and getting creative with alternatives, you can build a functional CrossFit setup for under $200.
Remember, consistency beats equipment every time. A 50 resistance band and a commitment to training 3x/week will get you farther than a 2,000 home gym that you use once. Start small, focus on mastering the movements, and upgrade your gear as you go. Your body (and your wallet) will thank you.
Now, grab that resistance band, find a sturdy chair, and get to work. Your first CrossFit workout awaits—and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.