6 Basement Gym Floor Options

With so much emphasis on keeping fit and in maintaining good health, some people are opting to build a basement gym in their home. Whether working out on equipment like rowing machines and treadmills, or toning with Yoga and Tai Chi, the convenience of having your own gym at home provides an easy fit for your schedule and removes other needs, like the need for a babysitter while you work out. In your own home basement gym the entire family can work out together.

One very important item you need to consider for your basement gym is the flooring you will use. Many options are available, and the flooring you choose depends on your specific needs. Here is a look at some of the more popular types of flooring.

1. Carpet

For light floor exercises, carpet with a good thick mat underneath may suit your needs. The many colors and designs offer something that will match the décor of your room, and many carpets are treated for easy cleanup of spilled juice or power drinks. Carpet can also be one of the less expensive floorings for your basement gym.

2. Rolled Vinyl Flooring

Home improvement stores sell rolled vinyl flooring that can be fitted and trimmed to the size of your room. It is relatively easy to install, has the look of real wood without the expense, offers decent shock absorbency, and is easy to clean. Unlike carpet, the vinyl flooring does not collect dust, sweat smells, and germs. Note, however, that there will be some difference in the cushioning effect.

3. Laminate Flooring

Good quality (12 mil. thickness) laminate flooring is stylish and is installed with pads underneath that offer some resiliency. Most laminates are water resistant and easily maintained. While the flooring is water resistant, it can also be badly damaged by excessive water, such as in flooding, and the seams will be readily noticeable as the wood swells and contracts.

4. Interlocking Rubber Mats

The mats are non-skid and can be cut to fit any size room. If one piece is spot-damaged, it is easily replaced without having to redo the entire room. The rubber mats can be placed directly over the concrete floor at a lower cost than some other types of flooring.

5. Hardwood Flooring

For the sturdier flooring that supports heavy exercise equipment, homeowners are installing hardwood flooring. This is the type of flooring that you will see on basketball courts or other flooring used by professional athletes. The ruggedness and durability of hardwood flooring assures years of dependable service and exquisite display.

6. Rubber Mats

Rubber mats can be placed under heavy equipment, such as weight lifting equipment, to absorb the constant shock. The mats come in varying thicknesses and can be used instead of—or in addition to—other flooring. Unlike the interlocking rubber mat flooring, these mats are placed only where you need them most to fit your needs.

For the homeowner who wants the perfect basement gym but is also ecologically aware, some companies (for example, Signature Sport Flooring) make rubber flooring from recycled tires. These floors are easy to clean and dent resistant.

Building or improving your home gym? Compare equipment brands, types and prices with our Home Gyms Buyer's Guide.