What You Need to Know Before Making the Best Garage Gym

The most common New Year’s resolution is to go to the gym. You ever wonder why so many people stop going around February? It’s because the gym is extremely inconvenient with the all the driving and fees. However, if you had a garage gym, you’d be more inclined to work out regularly.

There are so many benefits to having a gym in your garage: you can workout whenever you want, there are no monthly fees and you don’t have to deal with other sweaty people. It’s a more comfortable experience overall.

It’s settled, you’re going to have your very own gym in your garage. Now where do you start? We’ll show you everything you need to keep in mind as you construct your garage gym. Let’s get started.

Space is the Biggest Commodity When Building a Gym

The biggest struggle you’re going to have with your new gym is finding the space for everything. You’re somewhat limited in what you can do with the space, but don’t let that deter you. There are so many ways you can enjoy your garage gym.

There are a few things you need to consider when it comes to space in your garage for a gym. We’ll go over them here so you don’t get blindsided as you’re building your gym.

What Are You Doing in Your Garage Gym?

The first thing you need to know is how you’re going to use your gym. No two gyms are built the same and yours is no exception. There are a few directions you can go with this.

If your sole focus is going to be lifting weights and body building, a treadmill may be a waste of space. Having dumbbells, benches and various machines are a much better use of your space. You can even hang a pull up bar from the ceiling.

Perhaps yoga is more your speed. Then ditch those free weights and get some mats, bosus and medicine balls. You won’t be using up as much space so it will allow you to move freely without the worry of bumping into something.

If you’re a running junkie, then you’ll want a lot more aerobic equipment. Treadmills, bikes, elliptical and StairMasters are the way to go. You may think you only need one but it’s important to note that each one of these works a different part of your legs while still being a great aerobic workout.

You may not know what you want to do with your gym. All you know is you’re tired of the driving and fees. Don’t sweat (actually sweat, but because you’re working out in your new gym). You can have a jack-of-all-trades garage gym and simply have dumbbells, a treadmill and some yoga equipment. You’ll be ready for just about anything.

Build a Separate Detached Garage

You may want to use your garage for parking your cars and if that’s the case, it may be hard to have a garage gym. You still can if you plan on taking your cars out and setting up every time you work out. However, the point of a gym in your garage is convenience and that doesn’t sound convenient.

You may want to consider getting a separate detached garage for your personal gym. Danley’s is here to help as our garage builders are factory trained and insured to guarantee your garage is built properly.

Make Use of the Space You Have

If you don’t have a large garage you’re going to have to make the most of your space. Lay out your gym so everything fits well but there’s still walking space. All large machines should be against the wall and dumbbells and yoga (check out the article on garage yoga studio) equipment should always be stored properly when not in use.

Speaking of storage, you should be using your walls and ceiling for storage. This opens up a lot more space on the floor for equipment or walking space. Ceiling and wall racks can be found at any department store and are perfect for storing items that would otherwise be laying on the floor.

We also recommend weight racks for your dumbbells and medicine balls. This prevents your floor space from getting too cluttered and organizes everything nicely. You won’t have to worry about tripping or stubbing your toe on a heavy weight.

Remove Any Clutter From Your Garage

Since garages are often used for storage, there might be a lot of clutter. Anything from yard equipment to old heirlooms can be found in the average garage.

If you’re going to be using your garage as a gym, the last thing you want is clutter. It’ll get in the way and make it difficult to move around. Plus, you won’t be able to have as many machines and weights as you’d like.

You’ll Need Electricity in Your Garage

If you’re going to have a garage gym, you’re going to need electricity. If your garage is attached, this shouldn’t be a problem. However, you’ll need to hire an electrician to route the electricity to your detached garage. It will be worth it in the end.

Most treadmill and cardio machines run on electricity. Without it, you might as well just run in place because that’s all you’ll be able to do. With these machines, you can track your pace, heart rate and distance while creating custom workouts.

If you’re not a fan of working out, it may still be a drag for you to get to your personal gym. You know it’s the right thing to do, but you’d rather be doing something a little more fun. By having electricity in your garage gym, you’ll be able to binge your favorite shows during your work out. Just hang a TV on the wall and watch as you lift weights or run.

A Garage Gym Eliminates the Drive to the Gym

Why go out and fight the crowd at the gym when you can have a personal one of your very own? Having a garage gym will make working out much easier and you won’t have to worry about fees, people and waiting for your favorite machines.

If you park your cars and store your lawn equipment in the garage, this may be a problem. That’s where Danley’s comes in to help. We’ll get you a custom detached garage for your own personal gym. Not only will you benefit from having your own personal space, but you’ll also improve the value of your home (read all about garage curb appeal here).

Get a free quote now and see why Chicago homeowners have trusted us with their custom garages since 1959.