from the publishers of: Verywell, Real Simple, EatingWell, Shape, Parents, Health and Allrecipes
Working out is infinitely more doable when you can roll out of bed and just get it done. “Creating a gym at home also sets the tone that fitness is an important part of your family’s routine,” says fitness and lifestyle expert Lisa Tanker, CPT. Plus, it’s more cost-effective than paying for a club membership you never use. Just follow this advice from the pros to keep your equipment from collecting dust.
Obviously, a spare room is ideal, but you can even make a corner nook work. “Any 8 × 4-foot space where you can lie down comfortably with your arms over your head will do,” says Dan Mezheritsky, president of Fitness on the Go, which provides in-home personal trainers across the U.S. and Canada. A spot where noise won’t carry and disturb your family is probably best.
In many homes the gym is relegated to a drab, windowless basement. But it doesn’t have to feel that way. “Find inspiring artwork to hang up, paint the walls with colors that appeal to you, install good lighting and add mirrors,” suggests Tanker. If your gym is in the living room, toss loose gear in attractive storage (like covered baskets) so it’s not strewn about.
“Every piece of equipment should serve more than one purpose,” says Lalo Fuentes, CSCS, a Los Angeles–based personal trainer who helps clients design gyms in their homes. His top pick for versatility: a resistance band. “You can work your legs, shoulders, chest, back, abs, biceps and triceps with one of those,” he says. That doesn’t mean you should forgo specialized equipment—such as a rower, stationary bike, elliptical trainer or indoor ski machine—if you know you’ll use it. Just decide based on your actual track record, not your best-laid plans.
“One of the best places for a home gym is the living room,” Tanker says. “Your television, stereo and laptop are right there for you to stream workouts and play your favorite songs.”
