Assembling an in-house gym is an investment in your home as well as a healthy future. Outfit this room with equipment you’ll use regularly and reap the benefits - body, mind and spirit. In addition to the time you’ll save driving to and from the gym, you’ll also eliminate the cost of a monthly membership. Need more incentive? Savor peace of mind by avoiding the potential germs that go hand-in-hand with sharing machines and weight stations.  

Depending on your home, you may be able to repurpose a room to create your ideal workout spot. For example, some homeowners transform the garage or convert an adult child’s room into a fitness area. If that’s not an option, you may want to add on a separate space dedicated to exercise. 

Before you begin, let’s take a look at some of the factors you’ll want to weigh if you resolve to build a home gym.

Consider which equipment you’ll use most

When it comes to exercise, it’s easy to have good intentions, but the real heavy lifting comes by way of commitment. Resist the temptation to fill a room with equipment you’re unlikely to use. Not only will it shrink the space, but seeing it sit there unused will hamper your motivation. Instead, outline your health and fitness goals and then plan accordingly. Are you looking to boost your cardio capabilities or gain muscle? Your desired outcome will help you determine which equipment you’ll need.

If you’d like to take a spin class in the privacy of your own home, Peleton’s high tech cycle may be just what you need. If you don’t have a big budget, consider purchasing used fitness equipment, such as bikes, treadmills, or stair machines, through online platforms like Craigslist or eBay. If you’re tight on space, a weighted cordless jump rope provides an inexpensive way to get your blood pumping. Hoping to build up your strength? A set of adjustable dumbbells won’t require a ton of square footage while allowing you to increase your weight-lifting abilities incrementally. They can be stored easily too. Stability balls and balance discs help support core strength while bolstering your balance. 

Protect your home and equipment with the proper flooring

While you’re working out, you want to know that your home and your knees are protected. Proper gym flooring accomplishes this at the same time it absorbs sound so you’re not disturbing family members while you’re exercising. 

Wondering which materials provide the right layer of protection? Rubber gym flooring is a popular pick because it's relatively affordable, shock absorbent, easy to clean, and versatile. Non-skid foam, interlocking tiles are also a top choice for home gyms. Both of these options will last for years. You can also remove them easily should you decide to move or use the room for another purpose.

Maintain momentum with motivating amenities 

Even with the most attractive setup, when you’re working out on your own rather than in a group setting, it can be easy to shorten your routine or skip it entirely. Once you’ve gotten the basic equipment in place, add a few other features that make your workout something you look forward to each day.

Music is the perfect way to boost your energy. Install wall-mounted speakers so you can enjoy your favorite songs while you exercise. A television, too, can help pass the time as you log those miles on your cycle or treadmill. If your home gym doesn’t offer much natural light, add a source simple that won’t give off too much heat or get in the way. Wireless mini touch stick-on lights mimic recessed lighting for a fraction of the cost of installing new high hats. A few well-placed plants not only increase oxygen levels but also give the room a clean feel and a nice pop of color. Mirrors make the space look larger while providing positive reinforcement as you see yourself getting in shape and reaching your fitness goals.

Be smart before you start

If you’re beginning a new fitness regime and will be working out alone, you may want to invest in a personal trainer to show you exactly where and how to get started.  

Though we often hear the phrase “no pain, no gain” tossed around the gym, if you injure yourself, you’re more likely to be sidelined and your new room will go unused. Again, if you’re looking to keep costs to a minimum, purchase a trusted workout DVD or streaming service that allows you to exercise safely by following along when you’re solo. 

If you’re ready to make fitness a priority but also prize convenience and privacy, building a home gym may be the perfect resolution for your home and your health in the new year.