“I want to get fit, but I don’t have the time to go to the gym.”
Does this sound like you? This is a common struggle for many people, especially those with busy schedules and limited time. But there’s a solution that may be closer than you think—your own garage.
Most people use their garages for their cars, or as a dumping ground for items that don’t have a place in the house. But what if we told you garages can also make for great fitness rooms? It may sound unconventional, but with a bit of creativity and effort, you can turn your garage into a functional and fully equipped fitness room. Here’s how!
Treating the Floor and Walls
If your garage has cracked concrete floors and flat paint on the walls, as most do, you might want to consider some upgrades. Cracked floors can lead to accidents and injuries, while flat paint can soak up moisture (like sweat!) and stain.
One type of flooring worth considering is epoxy, which is durable and easy to clean. You can also pick from different colors for your garage epoxy; why not try a motivating shade to keep your energy up? For the walls, use a semi-gloss paint that’s easy to wipe down. Pick a color that complements your flooring.
Choosing the Right Equipment
You’ll also need to stock your gym with a few essential pieces of equipment. The type of equipment you should buy depends on your personal fitness needs. If you want to build muscle mass, consider free weights and a bench. If your goal is to shed a few pounds and improve your cardiovascular health, invest in a treadmill or stationary bike. You can also add resistance bands, jump ropes, and yoga mats for a variety of exercises.
Maximizing Space and Storage
You might have a lot of room in your garage, you might have a little. It depends on whether you plan to still use the space for your car or not. If you have limited space, it’s important to make the most out of what you have.
Consider using wall-mounted racks and shelves to store equipment and keep them off the floor. You can also invest in a foldable treadmill or bike that you can easily store away when not in use. Don’t forget about utilizing overhead space as well; install hooks or shelves to store items like resistance bands and jump ropes.
Creating the Right Atmosphere
One of the best things about working out at a gym is the motivation and energy that comes from being around other people with similar goals. To recreate this atmosphere in your garage fitness room, think about adding a stereo system or TV to play some energizing music or workout videos.
You can also spruce up the space with motivational posters and quotes. And don’t forget about proper lighting; natural light is best, but if your garage doesn’t have windows, invest in bright LED lights to keep the space well-lit.
With some creativity, effort, and the right equipment, you can turn your garage into a functional fitness room. Now, the next time you want to build up a sweat, you won’t have to hop in the car and drive to the gym. Just head to your garage and enjoy the convenience and privacy of your own personal fitness space.