Select the Right Space

Choose a suitable location in your home, whether it's a spare room, garage, or even a corner of a room. Ensure it has enough space for your equipment and provides good ventilation and lighting.

TIP: As a rough guide, you will need from 20 to 50 sq ft of space for exercising with free weights; add a treadmill, and you will need an extra 30 sq ft; a multi-gym will require between 50 to 200 sq ft.

How to Layout your Gym

‘Functionality is key, spaces should be zoned to ensure all exercises can be undertaken with adequate space. Size is very important – you need to have enough space to achieve your goals while feeling relaxed and not cramped. I find, especially in the current climate, that the equipment itself isn’t what’s vital; it’s having a space you like being in, is critical,’ advises Anita.

Equip with Essentials

Start with the basics, such as a sturdy workout mat, dumbbells, resistance bands, and a stability ball. Add equipment that aligns with your fitness goals, like a treadmill, stationary bike, or weight bench.

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Organize and Declutter

Keep your gym organized and clutter-free. Install shelves or storage solutions to store your equipment neatly. A tidy space can motivate you to work out.

Lighting it Up

Depending upon your workout, the best idea would be to plan a combination of lighting. Diffused LED strip lighting hidden in ceiling coffers and joinery will give a soft uplifting wash of light. Overhead down lights will allow for bright task lighting. Anita advises, adding some aesthetic lighting like sculptural contemporary crystal and bronze wall lights can add a little elegance, function, and beauty to your space. 

Best Colour to Paint

The best colour for a home gym should really be one that you love, that will inspire you to be in the room, and that you will feel motivated by. If you're looking for the best colour for a home gym, think pale blues, greys, cool whites or a warm or cool neutral. You can always add color accents for pops of motivating color.
Finally.....

Create a Motivating Atmosphere: ‘people often assume a home gym is all about equipment first, but colors, décor and acoustics – are all fundamental to how you design your space”, Anita says. So, decorate your home gym with motivational messages, beautiful artwork, captivating photography, mirrors, TV, and good music.  It can make you feel energized while inspiring you to exercise regularly.

Set Up a Routine: establish a workout schedule and stick to it. Consistency is key in achieving your fitness goals, and having a designated space at home makes it easier to maintain a routine.

At the OLVE, we independently select and write about stuff we love and think you'll like too. This site offers health, fitness tips and is designed for educational purposes only. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about your health, you should always consult with a physician or other health-care professional. Do not start this fitness program if your physician or health care provider advises against it. If you experience faintness, dizziness, pain or shortness of breath at any time while exercising you should stop immediately. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have read on this site. The use of any information provided on this site is solely at your own risk. For more information please see our terms and conditions.
Photo credit: Techno Gym Design, Michelle Berwick Designs​