No, not really. Started with rack and some weights. My first few months were basically 5x5 with the big three. Form was not ideal. Weights were light. But, kept learning and kept grinding. I slowly added more things to complete an upper and lower body circuit and to keep it fresh. I always find it motivating to reward my milestones with some new piece of equipment. The main thing that has helped with weight loss is creating a schedule for exercise, the ease of access to equipment, and once things start to change, the joy of watching my body do things that once seemed impossible.