Working out from home is becoming a more popular choice for many of us, instead of heading to the gym. Exercising in the comfort of your own home means you can work out whenever is convenient for you, with equipment that suits your goals. But choosing a room that’s suitable to work out from, that can fit everything you need, can be difficult – which is why it’s essential that you consider these 5 home gym installation tips, to get the most from your workouts.
1. Think about your goals
This is the first step you’ll have to take when it comes to installing your very own home gym. Thinking about what it is that you’d like to achieve means that you can choose home gym equipment most suited to you. Many of us only have a small space to work with, so keep in mind whether you’re hoping to improve your cardio or increase your strength so that you can choose the perfect equipment to reach your goals, and so that you’re not taking up space with other items of equipment that you don’t need. You should then look at the space you’re using and think about how much space you have to work with.
2. Start small
The next step is to start small. Gym equipment can be expensive, so starting with the most affordable, and space-saving equipment is advantageous. There are so many options to choose from that you could add to your space that won’t break the bank, like resistance bands – which can be used for bodyweight workouts, and in conjunction with weights. Skipping ropes can help with cardio workouts and allow you to have a bit of fun whilst doing it! And pull-up bars, which you can attach to any doorframe in any space to help you with upper body strength. You can build up your collection of low-cost gym equipment to help you get the workout you are looking for.
3. Install a mirror
You might be thinking, why is a mirror so essential when it comes to your home gym? It can actually have a few great benefits. When you install a mirror, it can make the space you have look bigger and brighter – which is helpful if you are installing larger pieces of gym equipment. When you’re working out alone, you won’t have the added benefit of having a trainer to tell you if your form is off. Working out in front of a mirror means you can keep an eye on your form, which reduces the chance of injury, and means you’re more likely to get the best from your workouts.
4. Think about storage
If you’re converting an empty space into a gym, storage may not be such an issue – but if you’re doubling up a spare room, or a garage as your workout space, being able to store your equipment out of sight when you’re not using it is advantageous. Thankfully, even larger gym machines like treadmills and rowing machines can be folded, and even have wheels so you can store them out of sight more easily. If you are working on your strength, adjustable dumbbells give you access to a huge range of weights in one single piece of equipment, which is great if you don’t have anywhere suitable to store them.
5. Flooring
The type of flooring you have in your home gym is essential – although it may just seem like a minor addition. If you live in a flat, or you have neighbours, installing rubber mats is essential – especially if you’re using weights – to help reduce noise. It can also be helpful to prevent your flooring from becoming scuffed when dropping your equipment. Check your flooring is non-slip so that you can perform your exercises and reps safely, and without issue. Flooring can add the final touch to your new home gym, whilst also creating the best environment for you to perform your workouts.
