Week Six: Design Your Garage Around Fitness

You don’t need a spare bedroom to create a workout space. For some homeowners, the garage makes a lot of sense.

There’s room for equipment, fewer concerns about making noise inside the house, and plenty of opportunities to design the space around your routine.

Start With Your Equipment

Are you thinking about free weights?

A squat rack?

A treadmill?

A stationary bike?

A boxing area?

The equipment you choose will determine how much open floor space you need.

Don’t Forget Ceiling Height

A garage gym can require more vertical clearance than you might expect.

If you’re doing overhead lifts, using a pull-up rack, or simply want an open feeling, ceiling height should be considered early.

Flooring Takes a Beating

Gym equipment isn’t particularly gentle on concrete.

Rubber flooring, mats, or another appropriate floor covering can help create a more comfortable workout environment.

Make It Comfortable

If you plan to use the garage year-round, think about insulation and heating or cooling.

An insulated garage door, insulated service door, and dual-pane windows can also give you more flexibility if you decide to finish the interior.

The beauty of a custom space is that the gym can share the garage with other uses.

Bike storage.

Workshop space.

Entertainment.

Vehicle parking.

The goal is to make the space work for you.