Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, we have all realized how important some places are to us. Many of us have felt the impact of gym closures throughout the various lockdowns, and we have been forced to adapt. From Zoom workout classes to exercising while maintaining social-distancing outdoors, we have all shown our resilience during times of change.
While some are anxious to get back into the gyms, others have realized that they prefer exercising in the comfort of their own home. From not having to pay for a gym membership to avoiding dealing with people hogging the exercise machine you want to use, it makes sense why people are choosing to workout at home.
In fact, eBay Canada’s treadmill sales are up a staggering 280%. Yet, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out where to begin your home gym journey. Before splurging on the newest fitness equipment, read these 5 tips to maximize your home gym’s space:
Location, location, location
The location of your home gym is really important. After all, you are more likely to workout in a space that is both comfortable and visually appealing. While it could be tempting to create a home gym in your unfinished basement or garage, on a cold February morning it could feel extra hard to crawl out of bed for a workout in your chilly, dark garage.
Fitness experts suggest that if you have the room, creating your gym on the upper levels of your home is a smart choice. It is best to have your home gym away from distractions, so you can focus solely on your workout. Plus, the spot you choose in your home should get plenty of natural light — a room with south-facing windows is ideal.
Protect your floors
When creating your home gym, don’t forget about your floors. Exercising can be very hard on your flooring. From the likelihood of sweat dripping onto your floors, to the weight of workout equipment leaving permanent marks or dents. However, no matter if you have carpeting or hardwood, there are options to keep your floors looking beautiful for years to come.
The most popular material to put on top of your flooring is something which is rubber or foam-based. It is easy to wipe down this material after a sweaty workout session, and they provide cushioning support for your body. Plus, this flooring solution doesn’t have to break your bank and can be installed yourself. Simply click the connecting rubber tiles together to fit perfectly into your space.
Mirror, mirror on the wall
Something which many people overlook when creating their home gym are mirrors. When you go to a fitness studio, there are always mirrors built into the walls. This is important as when you are working out, being able to check out your form can help in avoiding injuries. This should be no different for your home gym.
If you have limited wall space, it is possible to purchase mirrors that can be hung. Plus, if space doesn’t allow for it, placing a small mirror in one area of your home gym will be sufficient. For example, if you have one area set out for weight lifting and squatting, this would be an excellent spot for a mirror, as both of these exercises benefit from seeing one’s form.
Organization
Talking about organization and storage solutions isn’t always what you think of for a home gym, but it is imperative to the success. After all, it would be almost impossible to workout in a space that is too cluttered with gym equipment strewn across the floor. Plus, if your home gym’s space is limited, then every inch counts.
Luckily, there are many storage options. From clear storage containers that can be tucked away when not in use, to a hanging organizer where you can neatly keep your equipment from getting tangled; home gym storage can be fun.
Make it yours
While this may seem obvious, it is worth noting regardless. After investing time and money in creating your home gym, you want it to be a space that you enjoy being in.
It is encouraged to add personal touches that spark joy and inspire you. This can be anything from posters of your favourite workout guru, to candles that set the mood for your next workout. Plus, if you’d like to do something more permanent, you can paint your walls in a colour that gives you energy. The possibilities are endless, and can help get you excited about working out.
We can help create your home gym
At Amsted, we specialize in design-build services to create a unique space that is unmistakably yours. Our professional design and construction experts will work together to create the home gym of your dreams. We encourage you not to delay. Due to supply chain issues and maintaining proper health measures, it is a good idea to contact us sooner rather than later to ensure your next home project is done in a timely manner. Book an in-home consultation.