Home gym products are important if you don't live near a local gym, or if you don't want to fork out for a monthly gym subscription. However - there are a few things you need to keep in mind before splurging out on individual equipment pieces.

Price, quality, longevity, warranty, construction, and value for money can all play a role in whether or not a particular product meets your needs - and these factors are exactly the things we looked at in this review.

Amber Sports 160-Pound Threaded Weight Set List Price: $399.99 Sale Price: $162.00 You save: $237.99 (59%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days   Eligible for free shipping! 3 new from $162.00

Amber Sports 160-Pound Threaded Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
With the Amber Sports 160-Pound Threaded Weight Set, you get a full weight range of 10lbs to 160lbs - with many available combinations in between. This is, as we said, perfect for the intermediate weight lifter.

What we love about this set is that Amber Sports have provided us with both a barbell bar and two dumbbell bars, so that we have flexibility to perform any weight focused exercise that we like - with ease.

Construction
The bars comprising the Amber Sports 160-Pound Threaded Weight Set are all made from solid steel, meaning that they are highly durable and certainly won't bend or buckle under the weight of the full 160lbs set. Individual weight plates are also constructed from steel - however we did notice something a bit annoying about these.

They are coated with some form of heavy duty paint, which has a tendency to peel off. During our testing, we found that a few flakes of paint did actually fall to the floor, and we can only imagine that after a few years of regular use, they will possibly have none of the coating left. If you can deal with this - that's fine. But if you don't like the idea - perhaps you should be aware before you buy.

Extras & Add-ons
Aside from the addition of the dumbbell bars to provide support for isolated weight lifting exercises, there are no other noteworthy add-ons with this product.

Our Rating of the Amber Sports 160-Pound Threaded Weight Set
Overall, there are both good and bad points relating to the Amber Sports 160-Pound Threaded Weight Set. On the plus side, a generous range of weight is available to satisfy both beginner and intermediate (probably more so the intermediate people) users, and the steel bars are strong and sturdy.

On the down side though, the paint issue is a bit of an annoyance, and Amber Sports should really have addressed this during manufacture.

Still, if you're looking for a diverse set and don't mind sweeping the floor every now and then - this is a great product. It receives 4 stars from us.

With the F0115 however, the company is clearly looking to grab on to a bit of the market share of popular professional competitors such as Body Solid - by providing us with a new maximum weight - 115lbs. But is it enough? Read on to find out our thoughts.

US Weight F0115 115-Pound Duracast Weight Set With Dumbbells List Price: $149.99

US Weight F0115 115-Pound Duracast Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
The US Weight F0115 115-Pound Duracast Weight Set comes standard with two 25 pound, four 10 pound, and four 5 pound weight plates. Also included is a standard bar (barbell) and also two short dumbbell bars - which conveniently extends the usability of the set.

Previously, US Weight have offered only the barbell, so it's clear where they are aiming to make their point of difference with the set. Overall, the weight range is satisfactory, but it still doesn't cater for mega professionals in the exercise field or career weightlifters. But then again, at under $100 - we don't really think it needs to!

Construction
The construction and materials employed in the US Weight F0115 115-Pound Duracast Weight Set are similar to the 100lbs and 55lbs sets that we reviewed previously from US Weight. The vinyl weight trend continues, which is good for your pocket and equally as good for your floor (minimizes dents, bumps, and scuff marks).

Additionally, one thing we forgot to mention in previous reviews is that this vinyl is totally rust resistant - allowing the lifetime of the product to be extended indefinitely.

Extras & Add-ons
As is traditional with US Weight (the manufacturer if you haven't worked it out by now), you'll get a limited 90 day warranty on all components of this product. Should you find that something doesn't meet your quality standards when it comes out of the box, you can simply send it back and have it replaced at no extra cost.

As far as the actual product itself goes though, there are no notable extras here. For a price of approximately $80 - we didn't expect any, and frankly, neither should you. $80 for a 115 pound set is clearly less than $1 per pound of weight, which is exceptional.

Our Rating of the US Weight F0115 115-Pound Duracast Weight Set
Overall, we were pleased by the US Weight F0115 115-Pound Duracast Weight Set in exactly the way that we wanted to be pleased. The quality maintained its consistency, and the trends used in previous releases from US Weight were visible in this model.

Hence, you'll be able to understand our 4.5 star rating for this product.

Thankfully, you can now benefits from the design of the kettlebell with the Marcy VKBS50 50lbs Kettlebell Weight Set. We recently reviewed the product to see how it stacks up to other more traditional exercise equipment products, and the results are included below.

Marcy VKBS50 50-Pound Kettlebell Weight Set List Price: $199.99 Sale Price: $62.99 You save: $137.00 (69%) Availability: Usually ships in 6-10 business days   Eligible for free shipping! 6 new from $62.99

Marcy VKBS50 50lbs Kettlebell Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Design
Immediately, when you look at the Marcy VKBS50 50lbs Kettlebell Weight Set, you'll see that there are no weight plates anywhere to be installed. This is because you don't need any. Each individual kettlebell carries its own weight, which is set and not customizable.

Hence, to achieve a gradual increase in weights, you need to have a set which offers more than one kettlebell. The VKBS50 offers 4 - so that problem is immediately solved.

With this set, you'll get a 20lbs kettlebell (the maximum weight) and also a 5lbs, 10lbs, and 15lbs unit as well. Hence, you'll receive 4 kettlebells in total.

Construction
The four individual kettlebells included with this set are all coated with a rubber material - which is the cause of their shininess. Underneath this coating however is solid cast iron - which offers the mass weight of each unit.

You'll notice that the lower the weight of the kettlebell, the smaller it is - and this is a direct result of the solid cast iron design.

Extras & Add-ons
Kettlebells tend to be more expensive than other pieces of exercise equipment, but with the Marcy VKBS50 50lbs Kettlebell Weight Set - the pricing is relatively modest at just under $200. Hence, we weren't actually expecting any extras or add-ons to come with the pack.

We therefore got a pleasant surprise when we opened the box and found a full sized exercise chart with detailed information on how we could utilize the kettlebells to train different areas of the body. This chart is easy to see from a distance, and is not a total eyesore (hence can safely be put up on the wall!).

Our Rating of the Marcy VKBS50 50lbs Kettlebell Weight Set
It's great to see that a manufacturer such as Marcy has finally caught on to the fact that consumers also want the ability to buy and use kettlebells. It's not just the exercise pros who are interested in them.

And thankfully - they've done a great job with the Marcy VKBS50 50lbs Kettlebell Weight Set. Taking the construction, quality, materials, and pricing in to account, this set scores a high 5 stars and would definitely get a "buy" recommendation at the current RRP.

How is this possible you might ask? Well, you'll have to read on to find out.

Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set with SPT Workout DVD

Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
There are no weight plates with the Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set. Instead there are simply two individual hand weights, with a set amount of weight on each.

The most unique feature of this set is that you can use a single hand weight in one hand to achieve one weight, or swap this out for the other weight to bump up the total lift. However, if you want to take it to the top level, you can actually out the two weights together (notice how this is possible with the design of individual weights) - and therefore lift the combined weight.

The hand weights fit nicely together, and when lifting two at a time, you won't be able to feel any cracks and movement between the individual pieces. Genius!

Construction
It's difficult to put our finger on the exact material which has been used in the construction of the Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set. There is some flexibility in the handles (making it a comfortable experience) - however they still feel very strong and durable.

There are also a variety of colors available. You can choose between green, pink, and purple.

Extras & Add-ons
This is where the Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set really beats other weight sets. Firstly, you'll receive a training DVD created by the designer of the weights herself. She talks and walks you through a number of diverse exercises which tone and train various muscles in the body. The total DVD time is 15 minutes - which means that you can almost follow it on a daily basis.

A quick start guide is also available if your DVD player is temporarily malfunctioning or broken.

Our Rating of the Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set
The Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set is certainly "different" to say the least. Instead of weight being swapped in and out of handle bars, the individual weights are set and cannot be customized.

The 3 combinations are achieved by using different combinations of the hand weights themselves, as they fit together surprisingly well with no motion during the lift.

Unfortunately, the only drawback here is that once you reach the maximum weight by combining 2 individual weights, you will not be able to push yourself any further without buying another set. Hence, we recommend this product for people looking to tone muscle rather than build it.

Overall though, for what it provides, the Savasa for Women Hand Weight Set gets 4.5 stars from us.

We ordered the Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set to investigate the answer to this question ourselves. We have included our findings below.

Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set with Threaded Bar (1-Inch/150 Pound) List Price: $249.99

Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
The first thing you should know about the Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set is that the total weight on the set (with all plates loaded) is 150lbs. This immediately puts it in to the upper range of usability. Beginners probably won't be able to customize low weights to the extent that they would like to - but for professional users, attaining the correct weight will be particularly easy.

This is because of the individual weight plate specifications. There are two 25lbs plates, six 10lbs weights, and four 5 lbs weights which can all be applied.

Construction
Probably the biggest difference between the Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set and other weight sets out there is that the bar is unique on this product. At each end of the bar, threaded collars allow for weights to be screwed on and then capped with a collar.

Interestingly, for beginners, this tends to be little more than an annoyance. However, as we progress further in the market, professionals tend to prefer this style of weight set over other weight plate attachment methods.

Extras & Add-ons
This set also comes with a specialty carry case, which fits the bar and all the weights, meaning that you can literally store it away when it is not in use, or cart it around if you do a lot of travelling.

With a price of just under $200 - we think that the combination of the unique twisted collar bar, the carry case, and the heavy duty three-hole weight plates do make it worth the expense.

Our Rating of the Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set
Overall, our experience with the Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set was a very positive one. Because we have people with a range of fitness levels in the office, it soon became apparent whilst we were putting it to the test that this product is more suited to some people than others.

As we have said many times in this review, the Cap Barbell Grip Plate Weight Set is far more suited to professional and experienced weight lifters that it is to absolute beginners. If you are an intermediate lifter - you might like to toss up whether or not the collar / twisted end weight plate mechanism will be a help or a hindrance before buying.

If you do decide to take the plunge and get your hands on this product - you can be reassured that our rating for the weight set is a full 5 stars! Happy exercising!

Firstly - it's adjustable. Multiple weight combinations allow for customized exercise. Secondly - it's flexible. You can do many different exercises with this single piece of equipment. Finally - it's an inexpensive way to add to your existing home gym, or even get started if you are thinking of switching from your local gym to a home based exercise regime.

US Weight 100-Pound Traditional Weight Set List Price: $64.99 Sale Price: $19.99 You save: $45.00 (69%) Availability: Usually ships in 2-3 business days   Eligible for free shipping! 6 new from $19.99

US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
The US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set comes with two 20lbs weights, four 10lbs weights, and two 8lbs weights - for a combined total weight of 100 pounds.

This should be satisfactory for a beginner / intermediate fitness individual - but it probably won't be satisfactory for someone who is used to lifting huge amounts in the gym. The weight bar itself is 4lbs - so take this in to consideration when applying weights.

Construction
The weight bar is made from heavy duty material (notably steel and a mix with another alloy). Rigorous testing by the manufacturer has apparently proven that the bar can hold 3 times the total weights on each end before it starts to buckle - clearly far more than you will ever submit it to.

The weights are made from heavy duty vinyl - which is not only environmentally friendly, but also friendly to your floor. If you drop the weights from a small height - there will be minimum damage due to the interior flexibility of the weights.

Extras & Add-ons
With the US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set, you'll receive a comprehensive user manual which will walk you through all of the possible exercises that this weight set is capable of. Additionally, you'll be guided through the changing of weights, and the use of the safety clips - to ensure the absolute safety of the user.

It is unclear whether there is a warranty on the US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set - however we are predicting that there will be a manufacturer's limited warranty - or an add-on warranty which can be purchased through the retailer.

Our Rating of the US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set
Overall, our testing showed that the US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set is definitely worthy of a recommendation for a beginner / intermediate fitness lover - especially if you are working your way up through the weights.

The construction is solid and durable, and we doubt you will have any issues requiring the product to be returned or repaired.

Hence - we give the US Weight 100 Pound Traditional Weight Set a 5 star rating - based on the factors above.

This is the reason why our recommendation is for beginners to start conservatively. Instead of going out and purchasing a mega weight set capable of applying 200lbs of weight, why not get the basics right to begin with by using a set such as the US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set.

We recently reviewed this product to see whether or not it would actually be suitable (on all levels) - to a beginner. Our findings follow.

US Weight 55 lb. Duracast Weight Set List Price: $54.99 Sale Price: $40.01 You save: $14.98 (27%) Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days   Eligible for free shipping! 6 new from $40.01

US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
The US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set comes with four 10lbs weight plates and 2x5lbs weight plates. Whilst this only adds to 50lbs of adjustable weight - the bar itself weighs in at 5lbs - which is the reason for the total of 55lbs.

As a quick side note - don't assume that this is misleading - as it is a practice which many manufactures participate in. After all - giving a total of 55lbs is actually more correct than saying 50lbs, because the last thing you want to do is to overload your weights.

Construction
This weight set bar is made from solid steel, with the individual weight plates being constructed from vinyl. Vinyl is much more flexible than materials such as steel - and therefore it is far less likely to cause damage to the floor when you put it down. Additionally, the weight plates actually look slightly shiny, which is a nice aesthetic change from the more common steel weight plate design.

Extras & Add-ons
Coming standard with the US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set is a 90 day limited warranty, which covers any unforeseen degradation of the product.

It should be noted that accidents which result in the breakage of the product are not covered by this limited warranty (we checked). This is fairly standard for a weight set, and we were quite happy knowing that the first 3 months were risk-free.

Our Rating of the US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set
The US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set is extremely easy to use - with the weight swapping mechanism being an absolute breeze (it's manual of course, but you won't struggle to get weight plates on and off).

The vinyl weight plates are a nice feature - however as one past reviewer pointed out, be careful not to crack the coating, because they are filled with sand-like material which will spill out and go everywhere.

Assuming that you can avoid this problem, and also assuming that you are buying this as a beginner set (the weight allowance won't satisfy professional weight lifters) - we highly recommend the US Weight 55 lb Duracast Weight Set and give it 5 stars.

We recently got our hands on this product, and whilst only a few people in the office dared to go close to it, and even fewer dared to actually pick it up and lift a weight with it - we did manage to piece together our opinions on the product to give you an overview before you look to buy.

Body Solid Series 7 Smith Machine w/ 300 lb. Rubber Grip Olympic Weight Set GS348Q, OSR300S Sale Price: $2,575.00 Availability: Usually ships in 1-2 business days   Eligible for free shipping! 2 new from $2,575.00

Body Solid OSR300S Olympic Weight Set Specifications & Features

Weight Plates
In total, the Body Solid OSR300S Olympic Weight Set allows you to lift up to 300lbs of solid steel mass. It should be stated here that this product is not for beginners, although we hope that that point will already be clear just by taking a look at the picture.

So, what does it offer to professionals? Well, there are 2x45lbs plates, 2x35lbs plates, and then an array of lower weight plates all the way down to 2x2.5lbs.

Construction
The "Olympic" in Body Solid OSR300S Olympic Weight Set isn't just there for effect. This weight set is actually built to Olympic standards, meaning that the bar is exactly the right length as per the guidelines for Olympic weight lifting, and the hand grips are equally fitting of the criteria.

As far as materials are concerned, the set is built from a range of products which results in absolute durability. Cracking, peeling, chipping and rusting will be present absolutely no problems to the user, and the weight plates are equally as high a quality - with no chance of them being smashed or broken.

Extras & Add-ons
The Body Solid OSR300S doesn't provide us with any add-ons or extras, except for the limited warranty which can be customized from between 1 year to 5 years. To be honest, 5 years is probably not necessary, because if there is no problem with the product out of the box, it is highly unlikely that it will develop an issue down the track (as the result of the incredible manufacturing process).

Our Rating of the Body Solid OSR300S Olympic Weight Set
If you are looking for a comparable weight set to those which are used in the Olympic Games - the Body Solid OSR300S Olympic Weight Set is probably the ultimate bet. This product is the epitome of quality - and at every junction, there is something to be happy with.

From the construction of the bar (which can withstand far more load than 300lbs) to the individual construction of the weight plates, the manufacturers have not left anything to chance. Hence, if you can afford the product (and that's a big "if") - you will likely be satisfied with the equipment for years to come.

Overall - the Body Solid OSR300S Olympic Weight Set gets 5 stars from us - with price and quality combining to create a near perfect product.