Balancing a fitness routine with a hectic schedule can be tough, especially when commuting to the gym eats up your time. One way to make your fitness goals more achievable is by turning an unused storage room into a home gym. Surprisingly, it’s not as complicated as it sounds and can even boost your home’s value.
To keep your workout zone distinct from the rest of your home, consider installing mirrored sliding closet doors. These not only define the space but also provide a reflective surface to monitor your form during exercises.
When it comes to flooring, rubber is the top choice. It’s durable, supports heavy equipment, and absorbs impact from weights and high-intensity movements. Rubber flooring is available in rolls, mats, or interlocking tiles in various sizes and thicknesses. Foam flooring is a more budget-friendly alternative, offering decent shock absorption for lighter workouts. It also comes in colorful tile options. Vinyl is ideal for basement or garage gyms due to its resistance to moisture, mold, and mildew, though it lacks shock absorption. Cork is another eco-friendly option, offering good support and resistance to fire and mold.
Lighting is crucial for motivation. If your gym is in a basement or windowless room, a single overhead light won’t suffice. Recessed lighting can brighten the space without taking up headroom. Alternatively, LED wall-mounted lights or strip lights can illuminate dark corners without the need for electrical work. Lamps are also a flexible option.
To energize the space, paint the walls in soft whites or warm grays. For a pop of color, consider an accent wall in vibrant blue, calming purple, or sunny yellow—just avoid overdoing it in a small space. Keep the decor simple but inspiring. Add low-maintenance plants, abstract art, or motivational quotes to personalize the room without cluttering it.
A well-designed home gym gives you a dedicated space to stay fit, even when life gets busy. Use sturdy, sweat-resistant materials that can handle the demands of your workouts. If you’re thinking about resale value, consult a local real estate expert to understand how a home gym might impact your property’s worth.
