When most gym-goers walk into a fitness center, they head straight for the treadmills, dumbbells, or leg press machines—familiar staples that feel safe and effective. But scattered around the gym floor, there are often overlooked, niche pieces of equipment that fly under the radar. These “hidden gems” might not have the same popularity, but they offer targeted, efficient workouts that can break plateaus, improve functional strength, and enhance muscle engagement far beyond what standard gear can achieve. Here are 5 underrated gym tools that deserve a spot in your next training routine.
First on the list is the landmine. This simple setup— a barbell anchored at one end to a floor plate or landmine attachment— is a powerhouse for full-body training. Unlike traditional barbell exercises that limit movement planes, the landmine allows for rotational, unilateral, and compound movements like landmine squats, rows, and shoulder presses. It’s ideal for targeting stabilizer muscles, improving core strength, and reducing joint strain, making it perfect for both beginners and advanced lifters looking to add variety.
Next is the cable column with a single handle— a often-overlooked attachment on the standard cable machine. Most people use the double handles for chest flies or lat pulldowns, but the single handle unlocks a world of unilateral exercises. Single-arm cable rows, tricep pushdowns, and lateral raises with a single handle force your body to stabilize itself, eliminating muscle imbalances and engaging smaller, supporting muscles that are often neglected. This tool is a game-changer for functional strength, especially for athletes who need unilateral power in their sport.
Third, the glute-ham developer (GHD) is a staple in crossfit boxes but remains underused in mainstream gyms. Designed primarily for hamstring and glute training, the GHD allows for eccentric hamstring curls, glute bridges, and even core work like sit-ups. Unlike leg curls that isolate the hamstrings, the GHD engages the entire posterior chain—hamstrings, glutes, and lower back— in a functional, movement-based pattern. It’s particularly effective for improving hip mobility and reducing the risk of hamstring injuries, making it essential for anyone looking to build a strong, balanced lower body.
Fourth, meet the hex bar (trap bar)— a tool that’s often mistaken for a specialty item but should be a staple in every lifter’s arsenal. Unlike a standard barbell, the hex bar allows you to stand inside it, changing the center of gravity for deadlifts. This reduces stress on the lower back, makes the movement more accessible for beginners, and still targets the glutes, hamstrings, and quads effectively. Hex bar deadlifts are also easier to learn than conventional deadlifts, making them a great option for those looking to build overall strength without the steep learning curve.
Last but not least, the resistance band station— a set of bands with varying tension levels that’s often tucked away in a corner. Resistance bands are not just for physical therapy; they’re a versatile tool for adding resistance to bodyweight exercises, performing assisted pull-ups, or doing high-rep, muscle-endurance work. They provide constant tension throughout the movement, unlike free weights which have a “sticking point,” and are perfect for warm-ups, accessory work, or even full-body workouts when combined with compound movements.
These 5 underrated gym tools prove that popularity doesn’t equal effectiveness. By incorporating the landmine, single-handle cable column, GHD, hex bar, and resistance band station into your routine, you’ll break through plateaus, improve muscle balance, and build functional strength that translates to real-life movement. Next time you’re at the gym, skip the crowded treadmill area and give these niche gems a try— your muscles will thank you.
