How do I Design a Workout Room?
The layout and design of your workout room should revolve around your fitness goals and priorities. The three types of activities this room should accommodate include cardiovascular exercise, strength training and stretching. Before beginning this project, you should recognize that different methods of strength training require different amounts of space. Using free weights involves static repetitions, lifting dumbbells or barbells in place. Conversely, circuit-training consists of sequentially rotating through a series of numbered exercise stations, performed as speed intervals. Circuit-training calls for an array of equipment such as pull-up bars, aerobic step platforms, medicine balls and aerobic sliding mats. Circuit-training generally requires more space to move around, as the numbered exercise stations are pre-arranged (in order), one next to the other. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Metal weight rack
- Stretching mat
- Storage cabinet
- Rubber floor mats
- Fluorescent lights
- Television set
Instructions
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Organization
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Arrange cardiovascular training machines (such as treadmills or stair climbers) either under a ceiling fan or near a window or door without much sun. Cardiovascular exercise requires a high volume of oxygen, and ventilation systems should be utilized where possible.
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2
Arrange multiple weight machines in a logical order (by muscle group). If utilizing an all-in-one universal gym machine, place it far enough away from a wall to allow for a full range of motion.
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Decide between either the free-weight or circuit-training format (unless you have room for both). Create a free weight area by arranging dumbbells and stackable weights against a wall using metal racks. Create a circuit training area by establishing a space for each numbered station, either situated in different corners or aligned in a series along the periphery of the walls.
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4
Designate a stretching area, such as the center of the room, to be used for warm-up and cool-down sessions. You can use something as simple as a beach towel or yoga mat. If you prefer thicker support, sporting goods stores also sell padded stretching mats that fold or roll up for easy storage.
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Place a shelved storage cabinet in a corner or along a wall. This can efficiently hide workout accessories like small towels, jump ropes, hand weights or spare pair of athletic shoes.
Floors and Lighting
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Purchase rubber floor mats. Rubber floor mats are available at do-it-yourself shopping centers or from local farming supply stores (ask for "stall mats").
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Install the rubber floor mats. These will protect carpets from body sweat or from the accidental dropping of dumbbell weights on hardwood floors.
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Replace halogen lights with fluorescent lights. Halogen lighting generates more heat, which is not ideal for keeping body temperatures low during exercise.
Inspiration
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Hang a TV from the ceiling to save space and provide entertainment. A pleasant distraction can help a long, painful cardio session pass a little more quickly.
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Thumb through sports magazines. Cut out photos of athletes who are well known for their unwavering work ethic or who you admire. Decorate your workout walls with a collage of magazine pictures or autographed paraphernalia.
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Hang your goals on the wall next to motivational posters. This can make your workout room meaningful and inviting.
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Tips & Warnings
Since weight machines require extensive set-up, establish them strategically within the room to avoid moving multiple times.
Plants are excellent sources of oxygen. Placing several plants throughout a workout room can optimize the availability and circulation of oxygen.
Rubber floor mats may leave a black residue on carpets. Consider laying down permanent protective sheets beneath any rubber matting placed on top of carpet.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit hand weights 2 image by Neelrad from Fotolia.com
