By Anthony Michael
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April 2, 2025
Designing a home gym is all about flexibility. You want to create a space that’s functional and allows you to pursue that active lifestyle long overdue on your to-do list. You don’t have to settle for a dull, uninspiring setup. Whether you go full-blown with a home gym or just have a piece of trusty equipment and weights in the corner, you’ll still want to match it with your home’s aesthetics. Here are ways to achieve just that. Why Style Your Home Gym? You might think it’s over the top to decorate your exercise area, but it actually matters more than you think. When you intentionally design a space with your needs in mind, you’re more likely to want to be in it and may feel more motivated to work out. 1. Choose the Right Location To create the best spot for your setup, designate an area or room that’s solely for active workouts. Prioritize spaces that have room for one or two machines and space for aerobics to get the most out of your home gym. If you have limited space, consider a multifunctional area, like a nook in your family room. If your equipment is right across from the television, you can make your workout more enjoyable by watching your favorite show. 2. Incorporate Stylish Flooring While rubber mats work best for a home gym, they often feel boring and too rubbery for your home’s aesthetic. Instead, go for something stylish yet practical. Engineered wood, interlocking foam tiles, or even sleek vinyl planks can provide durability while enhancing the gym’s overall look. 3. Use a Bold Color Palette Color can influence your mood and energy levels, which can be extremely helpful when you don’t feel like working out. Orange might get you going when you need a little energy boost. Green and blue can be ideal if you prioritize relaxing yoga sessions. If you want a modern interior, monochromatic tones can help you achieve that—just add a pop of color through accessories. How fun would it be to work with a bright pink or neon green dumbbell? 4. Hang Large Mirrors Mirrors make a small space feel larger, but they are also a safety measure. Your reflection lets you self-spot and adjust your position and posture to eliminate unnecessary strain, especially when lifting weights. Instead of opting for standard gym mirrors, consider framed mirrors or floor-to-ceiling mirror panels for a more intentional look. 5. Maximize Natural Light You’re going to sweat and stretch, so you might as well make your home gym feel light and airy. Open your windows to let in natural brightness instead of relying on stark-white overhead lighting. Natural light has a positive effect on mental health, which is an added bonus. It’s even better if your windows overlook some greenery, allowing you to maintain a relaxed mind even when your body is working hard. 6. Add Personalized Wall Art Turn empty wall space into an inspiring backdrop, a humorous gallery wall, or even a dedicated area for before-and-after photos from your fitness journey. A gallery wall featuring a mix of fitness-related prints and motivational quotes can make your gym feel more curated. 7. Integrate Hidden Storage A stylish gym should also be clutter-free. You don’t want to stumble over unused equipment lying around. Use woven baskets, sleek storage cabinets, or floating shelves to keep weights, yoga mats, and accessories organized. A stylish wooden bench with hidden compartments can double as seating and storage for when you take a break. Sweat in Style in Your Home Gym Your active space should be a place that you enjoy being in, motivating you to work out. There’s always a benefit to making exercise more fun—your mind and body will thank you for it.