Even if you already have a gym membership, a home gym is a great addition to your workout regimen. Exercising at home is a great way to stay healthy. However, setting up a home gym can be quite tricky as there are many things to consider to create a place where you actually want to work out. That’s why we’ve gathered the most important facts you need to keep in mind when planning the home gym of your dreams.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASPECTS OF THE HOME GYM
ATMOSPHERE
The right atmosphere can motivate and inspire you. Wherever you place your equipment, try to create a space free from everyday distractions. In the gym you can exercise and recharge your energy.
LIGHTING
Lighting can completely change the impression of a space. Try bright or dimmed lighting to make the space feel more intense, or softer lighting to make the workout space feel calmer. Add colorful lights to create the workout atmosphere.
MUSIC AND ENTERTAINMENT
Music is a great motivational tool. You can always use headphones, but since you’re in your own home, you have many options for audio equipment. The TV you already own can be a great distraction during long cardio sessions.
COLOR
Whether it’s your favorite sports team logo, an inspirational photo, or something else entirely, adding elements that inspire you will help you improve and create an environment you actually want to be in. Be creative!
MIRRORS
Mirrors are a great way to improve the light in your gym and give it a larger space. They also help you monitor your fitness.
THE FLOOR
An important and often overlooked aspect that depends on your training style. If you do mostly cardio, you might just need a mat to protect the floor and a yoga mat for stretching. If you place dumbbells and weights on the floor, consider a sturdier option that offers extra protection and reduces noise.
USE OF ELECTRICITY
Before designing a home gym, consider where the electrical outlets are located in the room. This will help you choose the best location for equipment that requires electricity, such as treadmills and ellipticals.
CARDIO TRAINING EQUIPMENT
Cardio machines are the mainstay of most workouts. Even if you enjoy outdoor activities such as cycling or running, cardio machines are a great alternative if the weather is not suitable for outdoor exercise. It also includes specific workouts and data tracking so you can track your progress. There are several main types of cardio equipment: treadmills, ellipticals, rowing machines.
Measure: One of the most important factors that determine the choice of equipment is the area. Treadmills often take up the most space, followed by ellipticals. Bicycles and rowing machines tend to have a smaller footprint.
Mobility and storage: Another important factor is the ability to move and store fitness equipment. Some treadmills can be folded up when not in use, significantly reducing the amount of space required. Rowing machines are easy to move and can be stored upright in a corner or even in a tall cabinet. These features are great if you’re short on space.
Fun: Some cardio machines offer limited entertainment options, while others are like a smart TV with workout apps, apps, workout tracking, and more. Choose the specific educational entertainment option that suits your needs.
Comfort and convenience: Quality treadmills have features like cushioning that reduces the impact on your joints. If the equipment is used by multiple users it is important that it is equipped with automatic stops, side steps for getting on and off, handrails and noise reduction devices.
STRENGTH TRAINING EQUIPMENT
There are different types of strength training equipment available in your home gym, and each has its own advantages. Your fitness goals, preferred training style, and available space will all determine which options work best for you.
Cable systems
Universal Cable Movement: This is a great choice for your home gym. It uses two cables with attached weights, so the resistance can be changed easily. The cables allow you to choose the direction of movement, so you can perform various exercises and train the whole body. A universal rope trainer is usually larger than most other equipment on offer, so it requires a higher ceiling height.
FIXED MOVEMENT
Home gym systems: Home Fitness Systems: Home fitness systems offer a wide variety of exercises and are designed to save space. They have built-in resistance and are designed to train specific muscle groups.
Smith Coaches: provides versatility and allows for many exercises. The equipment includes a built-in barbell, but weight plates and a bench are needed to expand your workout options.
FREE WEIGHTS
Dumbbells: Free weights give you full control of your movements. Dumbbells are perfect for any home gym because they are small and relatively easy to hold.
Functional training stand: incredibly versatile and allows you to use them for functional occupation. They are great for those who want to train with free weights, but consider the additional option of purchasing a barbell and the weight plates needed for this option. A bench is also another component if you are building a home gym around a rack. You can also configure the training frames and add a variety of accessories for additional exercises and training exercises such as functional training or bodyweight exercises.
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