Imagine zero commute time, no gym membership fees, and the freedom to work out whenever you want – no more waiting for machines or squeezing into crowded classes.

One of the greatest perks of a home gym is the complete ability to customize the space and equipment to suit your needs.

Even better than that? Building a home gym doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. The beauty of having your own workout space is you can outfit it however you need to fit you and your fitness goals.

Whether you’re a fitness beginner, a seasoned pro, or someone looking to enhance their existing setup, the right home gym can transform how you work out. Check out our tips for designing a space that’s perfect for your goals, your schedule, and your budget.

Residence 3 Floor Plan, Cira Collection, The Landing at Tustin Legacy Community, Tustin, California

Creating a Home Gym Space

Before you go out and buy a bunch of fitness equipment, you need to first figure out where you’ll be creating your home gym. Your basement, garage, or spare bedroom are all top contenders, but it can also be as simple as training in the living room!

If your floor plan has the space for a dedicated workout room, take advantage of it. If your rooms need to perform double (or triple) duty, store your workout items in a large bin that can be tucked away in the closet, or buy small pieces that don’t take up a ton of space.

Protect the surfaces

Rubber flooring is a great investment for your home gym as it will protect your flooring from damage and reduce the amount of noise. It can also be used under large equipment like a treadmill or smaller pieces like your free weights.

When selecting the equipment itself, look for equipment designed to minimize impact on your space. As an example, bumper plates offer a great alternative to iron plates as they are covered in a thick rubber coating that allows them to be dropped without damaging the floor or other equipment.

Use the vertical

Consider installing wall-mounted shelves to maximize your storage and keep your space looking tidy. You can use a rack for mats, medicine balls, towels, spare plates, and more of your equipment without taking up unnecessary room in your workout space. You can also invest in a wall-mounted workout bench or squat rack that can be folded up and out of the way when not in use.

Mind your neighbors

If you share walls or have neighbors below you, keep your noise levels in mind. Using a noise-reducing mat or investing in quieter equipment, like a stationary bike or rowing machine with magnetic resistance, can help keep your neighbors happy.

Columbia 26 Floor Plan, Front Garage Conventional Collection, Livingston Community, Calgary, Alberta

Shopping for Your Home Gym

Do your research on equipment pricing (both brand new and resale) and estimate how much your total gym setup will cost. You’ll likely find a great deal in the secondhand market, so check out places like Facebook Marketplace or your local sporting goods store for used equipment.

Keep an eye out for gyms that are closing or moving – they often sell off equipment at significantly reduced prices to recoup some costs. Be sure to thoroughly inspect anything secondhand for damage before you buy it. This extra step can save you from costly repairs or replacements in the future.

Remember, you don’t need to break the bank to get fit and healthy. Prioritize the essential equipment, look for multi-functional items, and keep an eye out for sales. With a bit of strategic shopping, you can create a well-equipped gym without spending a fortune.

Lily Floor Plan, Mariposa Collection, Blossom Rock Community, Apache Junction, Arizona

How to Choose Your Home Gym Equipment

You don’t need fancy or expensive equipment for a great workout. All you need is a plan, comfortable shoes, and the motivation to make it happen.

Get what you’ll use

It’s important that your fitness goals and budget align. Think about the activities you enjoy and are likely to stick with. If you love cycling but dread running, investing in a quality spin bike makes more sense than splurging on a treadmill you’ll hardly use. Prioritize the equipment you’ll actually use so it doesn’t end up collecting dust or doubling as a coat rack.

Invest in multi-tasking tools

If you’re a beginner or space is tight, find versatile equipment that you can use for multiple workouts. Dumbbells are incredibly adaptable and can be used in various workout programs, including HIIT sessions, strength training, or even cardio routines.

Palermo Floor Plan, Estate Collection, Rockland Park Community, Calgary, Alberta

Home Gym Essentials

Every home gym is going to look different and that’s because your home gym should have the equipment that is best suited for your goals, your space, and your budget. If you’re unsure where to begin, resistance bands, yoga mats, and adjustable dumbbells are great starting pieces for a great workout.

Must-Haves

Every gym has mirrors for a reason. Most importantly, a large mirror allows you to see your form and adjust if needed as you work out, reducing your risk of injury and ensuring you’re maximizing your workout. Secondly, mirrors make any space feel bigger and brighter by enhancing your natural light. For a chic and professional aesthetic, create an entire wall of mirrors.

Having a mounted wall clock is incredibly beneficial in your home gym. You can keep track of the time so you don’t get lost in your workout (or count down the minutes until it’s finally over!), and it offers a hands-free reference when you take a rest in between sets or if you’re doing timed exercises, such as planks.

Unless you’re trying to do hot yoga, adding a fan prevents your gym from turning into a sauna. A wall-mounted or ceiling fan can be a great addition, but a simple, portable, plug-in one that you only use while you work out is just as effective. The good news is basements are typically colder all year, but a fan might be necessary if you’re working out in the garage or a spare bedroom.

Prescott Floor Plan, Townhome Collection, Dowden's Station Community, Clarksburg, Maryland

Strength Training

If you’re unsure where to start, dumbbells provide the best value and versatility. You can find them in various weights ranging from light to heavy, or you can purchase adjustable dumbbells if you don’t want to take up a ton of space.

Resistance bands are a great alternative to dumbbells, especially if you’re a beginner. They’re compact and easy to store, which makes them ideal for smaller spaces or traveling. If you want to build muscle, consider adding a barbell, weight plates, and a bench.

Cardio

Cardio can be challenging, but the right equipment can make it bearable. Classic machines like a treadmill, bike, elliptical, or rowing machine provide a great workout. If you’re working with limited space, a jump rope is a highly effective alternative that can deliver a serious cardio workout in a small footprint.

Recovery

Taking the time to cool down your body is just as important as warming up and doing the actual workout. At the minimum, you’ll need a mat for stretching, but if you want to take your recovery to the next level, use a foam roller or a massage gun.

Just for Fun

Music is a huge motivating factor for people in the gym. If you don’t have to worry about noise levels, Bluetooth speakers allow you to blast whatever kind of music gets you in the zone. Whether you choose portable speakers or mount them on your wall, the right playlist can take your motivation and workout to the next level.

A TV can be great for streaming your favorite show while you’re walking on the treadmill or casting your workout program from your favorite app. Be strategic about where you place it so it’s visible from where you’ll be working out, or get a moveable stand for flexibility.

Sometimes you just need an extra nudge in the middle of a tough workout, and including motivational posters or artwork can inspire you to push through. Whether it’s a quote that resonates with you or an image that energizes you.

Look for Inspiration

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or having trouble visualizing what your home gym could look like, look to others for inspiration. TikTok, Instagram, or even a quick Google search can yield hundreds of images. Check out what kind of equipment people are using, unique storage solutions, and anything interesting you may not have considered yourself.

Residence 6 Floor Plan, Villas Collection, Los Coyotes Country Club Community, Buena Park, California

Creating a home gym is a personalized journey that should reflect your unique fitness goals, available space, and budget. By thoughtfully designing your home gym, you’re setting yourself up for success, making it a place where you’re excited to work out and achieve your fitness goals.

Let us help you find your new home! Explore where we build and connect with our sales team when you’re ready to learn more. We’ll be expecting you!