6 tips to create a home gym space— that works for YOU

Whether you’re new to working out or you’re a long-time fitness fanatic, you’ve probably contemplated the pros and cons of a home gym. In this article I’ll explain how to determine if setting up a home gym is right for you, and I’ll share valuable tips on how to create the right space and what equipment to choose for your fitness goals.

Things to consider when planning a home gym:

1. What type of exercise do you plan to do, and how often?

PRO TIPS:
To stave off boredom you’ll want to keep variety in mind — make sure you include the type(s) of exercise you enjoy most.
A well-rounded workout plan should include cardio, strength, and mobility exercises.

2. What goals do you have?

Are you working out for overall general health? Or, are you wanting to train for a specific sport or an event (like a half marathon or backpacking trip)?

PRO TIP:
Look for specialized programs that can help eliminate confusion and are tailored to specific activities or sports. For example, if you’re a hiker, check out my training program HIKE-ABILITY if you want to be confidently prepare and fit for the trail!

Based on how you answered the above questions, will help determine the kind of physical space you’ll need and what equipment is required.

Physical space

1. Evaluate your options (spare bedroom, garage, backyard, driveway, etc).

If you’re able to make an existing room serve dual purpose that’s great, but it needs to be practical. If every time you need the space to workout you have to move a couch, bookshelf, dog bed, two floor lamps, and fish tank… this is probably going to create too much resistance and chances are you won’t be consistent with your workouts.

PRO TIP:
Make sure it’s a place that you would actually want to work out in!
Is the space too dark, cold, hot, cluttered? Adding a fresh, bright paint color, installing a heater or fan, and buying organization/storage furniture can be quick and easy fixes.
RELATED: Create mental space for exercise (click here)

The best part of a home gym is that it’s YOURS. And just like any other place in your home, you can design it to fit your personal needs and unique style. Make the space inviting and inspiring by adding items like pictures, wall art, or plants.

2. Don’t forget to consider noise and ventilation.
If you live in an apartment, your neighbors might not be as pumped as you are during a 5 a.m. HIIT workout in your living room.
For serious sweat sessions, it’s a good idea to have a window that can open and/or a fan to circulate air.

Equipment

1. Start with the BASICS and add as your needs or goals require. 

You may be tempted to outfit your home gym with as much as possible, but you want to make sure it’s equipment that you will actually use. Plus, clutter can result in overwhelm and interfere with your mental space for working out (more on that in my next blog).

PRO TIP:
Try before you buy. Most gyms and fitness studios offer a “drop-in” day or week pass. This is an excellent way to gauge whether or not you would actually use a particular piece of equipment (for example a row machine, bike trainer, or pilates reformer).

2. Research budget-friendly options.

PRO TIP:
Figure out what you’re willing to spend and set a budget. When shopping for equipment don’t forget to check online marketplaces and thrift stores for deals— I think you’ll be amazed at the items you can find second-hand (often for free), and a lot of them haven’t even been used!

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Create the mental space for working out

Whether you decide to designate a space for fitness at home, update your existing home gym, or prefer to work out in a public gym setting, be sure to check out my next post (click here) where I’ll be sharing ideas on how to create the right metal space for working out— I’ll share helpful tools to keep you motivated and consistent with your fitness.

Do you currently work out from home? What tips, solutions, or hacks have you found that make working out from home work for you? Let me know in the comments below.

Adventure awaits… get ready for it!

Kristen, CPT and creator of the HIKE-ABILITY Training Program

_{Disclaimer: All information, content, and material (including associated text, videos, and links) on this website is provided in good faith and is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to serve as a substitute for the consultation, diagnosis, and/or medical treatment of a qualified physician or healthcare provider. All exercise has inherent risks. Before beginning any type of exercise, please consult your health care provider.}