If your ideal workout involves staying at home – with the bath just seconds away to soothe those aching muscles – then you’ve come to the right place…
There are many reasons people put off going to the gym. Some of us are gym-timidated and despise working out in public. Others avoid going as they hate fellow gym goers leaving equipment dirty and sweaty. Or, they just hate fellow gym goers. Others still don’t go as they have a phobia of lycra (true fact).
Here at IDEAL, one of the main things that put us off going to the gym is actually getting there – if it’s raining, consider the gym visit skipped for the day.
There is, of course, another way (you’ve already read the title, haven’t you?). A place where there’s no need to worry about looking presentable or finding matching socks. Somewhere you can groan, grunt, sweat and sigh in peace, all without judgmental glances. Somewhere there’s no waiting for equipment or awkwardly avoiding eye contact with that fella who’s hogging the machine you need. A place where you can experience the joy of blasting your favourite tunes without headphones in. Enter the home gym.
Yep, the home gym has many positive attributes. And perhaps the best is that you save money in the long run. No more monthly fees or that off putting commute. Sure, the upfront cost might make your wallet weep a little, but think of it as an investment in your health and sanity. If you’ve been convinced to leave the hustle and bustle of a public gym for the comfort and convenience of a home gym, here are our top tips on how to create the ideal gym at home.
Building A Purpose-Built Space
While of course you can set up your home gym in the spare bedroom, we’re talking about the ideal home gym today, so that means a dedicated space. A purpose built garden room or a metal steel structure is ideal here. These structures provide a separate and private space, allowing you to focus on your workouts without distractions..
When it comes to planning permission, if your gym is single storey, less than 2.5 metres in height and occupies less than 50% of your garden area, then you’re likely in the clear. However, if you’d like a larger home gym, you’ll need to seek planning permission. Do be aware that the 25×30 metal building cost is probably a little prohibitive, clocking in at over £15’000, on average.
Be sure to add traditional gym flooring which usually consists of squares of strong rubber flooring made from shock absorbent foam with a layer of rubber on top.
Proper lighting is also essential for creating an inviting and motivating atmosphere in your home gym. Install bright, adjustable LED lights to ensure optimal visibility during workouts. Additionally, consider adding task lighting near mirrors or specific workout stations for focused illumination. Oh, and you’ll want your gym to be insulated for year round use.
Introducing A Wall Of Mirrors
A well-designed home gym can greatly enhance your fitness journey and help you achieve your health and wellness goals.
Mirrors are crucial to the setup of your ideal home gym as they serve multiple purposes. Firstly, they enhance the visual appeal of the space, making it feel more open and spacious. Secondly, they allow you to monitor and correct your form during exercises, reducing the risk of injuries.
Install mirrors strategically to cover the walls or specific workout zones. Choosing an acrylic mirror or plastic mirror is sufficient, however in the ideal gym you’ll want a thick sheet of mirror glass installed by a professional. As you may have noticed, gym mirrors are often designed to tilt forward slightly at the top, enhancing the impression of the post-workout ‘pump’. You might want to do the same!
A Hydration & Fuelling Station
Ever thought you were going to turn into a human raisin during an intense workout session? Or have you ever felt faint as you’ve forgotten to fuel your workout with a nutritional boost.
We don’t need to tell you that staying hydrated and fueling your body is vital for a successful workout. As such, it’s pretty much obligatory to create a hydration and fueling station in your home gym. Not only does it eliminate the need to leave the gym area frequently, it will help you maintain focus and intensity during your sessions.
In your ideal home gym, you’ll want to incorporate a water cooler or dispenser to ensure easy access to H20. You may also want to add a fridge so you can store bottles of Pocari Sweat, Upbeat protein drinks, NOCCO (aka the ‘Red Bull of sports drinks’) or whatever your chosen sports drink of choice is. Better yet, consider adding a vending machine with a variety of your favourite thirst quenching sports drinks on display, ready to replenish and energise at the press of a button.
Oh, and don’t forget the snacks and so you can fuel your workouts, from a pot of peanut butter to protein bars and to bananas , pre and post workout snacks are important as they can help you perform better and recover faster.
Ventilation & A View
Proper ventilation is essential to maintain a comfortable and fresh environment in your home gym. Consider installing big windows or sliding doors to allow natural light and fresh air to circulate. Adequate ventilation not only enhances the overall ambiance but also helps regulate temperature and minimise odours.
On top of that, you’ll want a decent view of the garden. Think floor-to-ceiling windows installed with panoramic vista of your garden in mind. Oh, the luxury!
The Equipment
Cardio, and that all important heart rate raising is hugely, undeniably, demonstrably beneficial to both our physical and mental health. You’ll therefore want a mix of cardio machines and strength-building equipment.
Here’s a list of 7 essential items you need in your home gym and better still, here’s 5 pieces of equipment to take your home gym to the next level. Two articles for the price of one? We really do spoil you.
Organising Gym Equipment With Shelves
The last thing you want is for your home gym to look cluttered and messy. Efficient organisation of gym equipment is crucial for maximising space and ensuring safety. Install shelves or racks to store and display your weights, dumbbells, resistance bands, and other accessories. This not only keeps the area clutter-free but also makes it easier to locate and access the equipment during workouts.
Read: 10 Ideal Tips For Turning Your Garage Into A Home Gym
Meditation & Yoga Corner
To achieve a well-rounded fitness routine, dedicate a corner of your home gym to meditation and yoga practices. This serene space can be adorned with calming decor, yoga mats, bolsters, and meditation cushions. Incorporating mindfulness exercises into your workout routine promotes mental well-being and complements physical fitness.
Sound System & TV Screens
It’s no secret that music can greatly enhance your workout experience by providing motivation and energy. But let’s be honest here; the music that they blare out at the gym isn’t really to anyone’s taste.
Luckily, in your own home gym, you can play the type of music that you truly want to listen to. To do so, you’ll need to install a sound system or portable speakers within your home gym to enjoy your favourite playlists or upbeat workout music. Oh, and at least one TV screen is essential so you can play your YouTube workouts or catch up on the latest episode of your favourite Netflix show.
A Cosy Seating Area
Creating a cosy seating area within your home gym isn’t essential – but it’s a very nice thing to have. Firstly it provides a space for relaxation and recovery between exercises or after a particularly intense session. But perhaps more importantly, it provides a spot to hide in when the family and inlaws are round. You can excuse yourself that you’re going to workout, even if you don’t have any intention of doing so.
Personalise & Motivate
Finally, personalise your home gym to reflect your personality and fitness goals. Hang motivational posters, display inspiring quotes, or incorporate artwork that resonates with you. Creating a space that inspires and motivates you will significantly contribute to your overall enjoyment and dedication to regular workouts.
The Bottom Line
Having a home gym offers the convenience and flexibility to stay fit and healthy without stepping out of your comfort zone. For some, there can be no better way to work out!