Are you tired of the daily 20-minute drive to the gym? Consider the unique option of building a gym shed on your property! This personal gym at home, tailored to your needs, eliminates your commute and lets you stay focused on your fitness goals without the distractions of a public gym. Discover how you can join this trend that’s been booming over the past five years.
How Can I Make a Home Gym Without Much Space?
Creating a home gym can be challenging if you’re short on space, but it’s possible! Use foldable equipment, resistance bands, and door anchors, or try dumbbells and kettlebells, which don’t take up much room. Our favorite solution, though, is a gym shed. With a gym shed, you don’t have to find space inside your home for equipment or workouts. You can keep all your gear in one place, ready and waiting for you whenever you exercise.
Can you make a gym in a shed?
Yes! Sheds are perfect for creating your gym. They’re no longer just for garden tools; a good shed can have many uses, and a gym is one of the best options.
Can you put a treadmill in a shed?
Yes, you can! A treadmill only needs about 30 square feet to fit well in a shed. Ensure your shed has electricity and is temperature-controlled to protect the treadmill from extreme heat or cold.
Can treadmills be kept in a cold shed?
Extreme temperatures can damage treadmills, so it’s best to avoid placing one in a shed that drops below 50°F, as this can affect the motor—covering it with a blanket or tarp when not in use can offer some protection. Also, avoid using the treadmill in temperatures above 105°F. Learn more about keeping your shed cool here.
Can you put a stationary bike in a shed?
Yes, the shed is temperature-controlled as long as you have enough space. A stationary bike typically needs around 10 square feet and works best in temperatures between 32°F and 104°F. Anything outside this range could lead to mechanical or electrical issues.
Can you put a bench press in a shed?
Yes, as long as there’s enough space. You’ll need a bench press area about 6-8 feet wide and 8-10 feet long.
Can you put a weight rack in a shed?
Yes, as long as there’s enough room. A smaller weight rack needs a space at least 12 feet wide, 7 feet deep, and 7 feet high. For an enormous rack, you’ll need a space of at least 12 feet wide, 13 feet deep, and 8 feet high.
Is it safe to work out in a shed?
Exercising in a shed is generally safe, but you should take precautions to create a secure environment. Here are a few tips to help make your space safer:
- Use Good Flooring: Consider installing rubber, vinyl, cork, or other shock-absorbing flooring.
- Ensure Proper Ventilation: Keep your shed well-ventilated to maintain comfortable temperature and oxygen levels.
- Keep the Space Clutter-Free: Avoid leaving equipment around to reduce the risk of injury.
- Position Electronics Wisely: Place treadmills and electric stationary bikes near electrical outlets to avoid tripping over extension cords.
- Maintain Your Equipment: Regularly check and care for your equipment to keep it in good condition.
Planning Your Gym Shed
It’s essential to plan the interior of your gym shed, including how you want it to look and what workout equipment you’ll include.
What Size Shed Do I Need for a Gym?
A 10x16 shed is an excellent medium size for a multi-station gym shed. If you’re only using free weights, you can get by with an 8x8 shed, but that’s the minimum size you should consider.
How Many Square Feet Do I Need for a Home Gym?
A home gym should ideally be around 150 square feet, but you can manage with a smaller space. The minimum size for a gym shed is 40 square feet, which would only allow for training without equipment. A space of 150+ square feet gives you room to add more equipment. If you have 250+ square feet, the area will feel more open, allowing you to move around comfortably and making it possible for more than one person to work out simultaneously if you want to exercise with a family member or friend.
How High Should a Gym Shed Be?
A ceiling height of 9 feet is generally sufficient for someone about 5 feet 9 inches tall. However, having a higher ceiling is best, especially if you plan to include full-weight racks or do jumping exercises.
How Do You Design a Gym Shed Layout?
When planning the layout of your gym shed, many online tools can help you visualize the design. One helpful resource is RoomSketcher, a website that offers pre-made floor plans and the option to create your layout.
What Type of Floor Should a Gym Shed Have?
Choosing the right flooring for your gym shed is an important decision. You want a durable surface that can withstand regular use. Here are some options:
Standard Wooden Floor: This flooring suits stationary equipment like exercise bikes, treadmills, and low-impact workouts.
Heavy-Duty Wooden Floor: A heavy-duty wooden floor is better suited for heavyweight benches if you plan to use heavier equipment.
Concrete Floor: Concrete is the best option for full-weight racks, as it can handle heavy weights being dropped without damage.
What Kind Of Walls Are Best For a Gym Shed?
High walls are ideal as they provide more interior space.
What Kind of Roof Is Best For a Gym Shed?
A durable roof is essential for your gym shed’s longevity. Proper insulation is also vital to keep the shed cooler in summer. If you plan to hang equipment, like TRX straps, consider using reinforced trusses for extra support.
What Else Should a Gym Shed Have?
We've covered the basics, but here are a few additional features to consider when designing your gym shed:
Electricity: While optional, electricity can add convenience by allowing lighting, temperature control, and electric equipment like treadmills.
Insulation: Insulation helps keep the shed comfortable year-round, helping keep the temperature steady.
Extra Windows: Adding more windows allows for natural light and improves airflow.
Additional Ventilation: Good ventilation keeps oxygen levels up and helps moderate the temperature inside your gym shed.
Choosing a Gym Shed
Are Metal Sheds Good for Gyms?
Metal sheds can work as gym sheds, but be cautious. Many metal-framed sheds aren’t very durable, and metal siding can get hot in the summer without insulation.
Are Wooden Sheds Good for Gyms?
Wooden sheds are ideal for gyms. They’re more accessible to temperature control, customizable, and often more durable than metal sheds. Plus, they have a more attractive look.
How to Turn Your Shed into a Home Gym
Step 1: Check Floor Strength: Make sure your shed’s floor can support all your gym equipment.
Step 2: Plan the Layout: Use the American Council on Exercise’s guidelines to estimate space needs for each piece of equipment:
- Treadmill: 30 sq. ft.
- Elliptical Trainer: 30 sq. ft.
- Single-Station Gym: 35 sq. ft.
- Free Weights: 20–50 sq. ft.
- Stationary Bike: 10 sq. ft.
- Rowing Machine: 20 sq. ft.
- Stair Climber: 10–20 sq. ft.
- Ski Machine: 25 sq. ft.
- Multi-Station Gym: 50–200 sq. ft.
Step 3: Add Electricity: Adding power to your shed can increase convenience by allowing for treadmills, bikes, and TVs.
Step 4: Add Ventilation: Good ventilation helps control humidity and temperature. Options include:
- Adding extra doors or windows.
- Using fans.
- Installing an AC unit.
- Adding a roof vent.
Step 5: Install Floor Mats: Place durable, non-slip floor mats to protect the floor and provide comfort during workouts.
Step 6: Add Equipment: Now, bring in your workout gear and start setting up!
Gym Shed Ideas
One of the best parts of a home gym is the freedom to customize it however you like. Here are some ideas:
Install Lighting: Good lighting can enhance the atmosphere. Choose recessed lighting for a sleek look or even a chandelier if the ceiling is high enough.
- Add Wall Paneling: Interior wall panels can give your gym shed a modern, polished look.
- Paint the Interior: Paint the shed walls in any color you like. Consider using eggshell paint for easy cleaning.
- Set Up a Sound System: Play your favorite workout music with a built-in sound system for added motivation.
- Add Mirrors: Mirrors can make the space feel bigger and help you monitor your form.
- Incorporate Motivational Decor: Add posters, wall decals, or other motivational items to inspire you during workouts.