Started with some free weights, a used treadmill, a jump rope, and the rower I had sitting in my house collecting dust. Then I slowly bought more stuff when I saw it on sale. Now I have a solid bench unit, some plyo boxes. And I may add more over time.
I'll also add that I felt the same way you did, but I set a goal this year to work out 3-4 times a week, and so far I've done it every week except my week of vacation, which I hiked a lot. I feel so much better, seeing results in my physique. It's worth it to do it. You just have to make it happen.