Maintaining a regular workout routine can be tricky, especially when life is busy and going to the gym involves extra time spent commuting. A great way to make this easier is by turning an unused space in your home, like a storeroom or spare area, into a home gym. The process isn’t as challenging as it sounds and can even add value to your home.
If you decide to create a home gym, it’s helpful to keep the workout area separate from the rest of the house. One smart way to do this is by using a mirror sliding door for the space. Not only does it section off the area, but it also gives you a built-in mirror to check your form during workouts.
For gym flooring, rubber is the most durable choice. It can handle heavy exercise equipment, absorb impact from dropped weights, and endure activities like jumping. Rubber flooring is available in rolls, mats, or interlocking tiles with various thicknesses and sizes to fit your needs. If you’re looking for something more budget-friendly, foam flooring is also a good option, though it’s better suited for lighter exercises as its shock absorption isn’t as strong as rubber.
Vinyl flooring is another solid choice, particularly for basement or garage gyms. It’s resistant to mold, mildew, and moisture, making it highly durable for gym settings. However, it lacks significant shock absorption, so it may not be ideal if you plan to drop heavy weights often. Cork flooring is another option worth considering. It provides excellent support, absorbs impact well, and is eco-friendly, resistant to fire, mold, and mildew.
Nobody wants to work out in a dark, uninspiring space, so lighting is crucial. If your gym is in a basement or a room without natural light, consider adding adequate lighting. One overhead light may not be enough. Recessed lighting is an ideal choice if your budget allows, as it brightens the space without taking up extra room. Indirect LED wall-mounted lights are a simpler alternative, offering efficient lighting without requiring electrical work. For extra brightness, lamps or LED strip lights can help illuminate those darker corners.
When it comes to the room’s ambiance, the right color scheme can boost your energy without making the space overwhelming. Soft whites or warm grays are excellent base colors, creating a clean and inviting feel. If you want to add a pop of color, an accent wall in vibrant blue, soothing purple, or sunny yellow can do the trick. Just remember to keep it balanced since overly bright or intense colors in small spaces can be distracting.
While designing your gym, consider adding simple decor to enhance the space without cluttering it. Items like low-maintenance plants, abstract art, or motivational quotes can make the room feel more personal and motivating. Keep the decorations minimal and choose pieces that make you feel energized and happy.
Building a home gym is a practical way to stay committed to your workouts without constantly worrying about gym trips. To make it a worthwhile investment, choose durable materials that can handle heavy equipment, sweat, and daily wear and tear. If you’re wondering how adding a home gym might impact your home’s value, it’s worth consulting a local real estate agent for guidance.
