Finishing a Basement: Planning a Basement Gym

A basement gym is something that many people are looking into as the cost of a gym membership continues to steadily rise. Many people like the idea of having their own fitness center in their basement as they can go whenever they find the time, do not have to pay large fees, and can play any music they like as loud as they like. Creating a basement gym does mean some initial planning before you start hauling down heavy weight equipment.

Size of Basement

Before you can think about doing any kind of finishing off of the basement area, you must know how much room you have to work with. A basement gym that is cramped does not allow for a full compliment of equipment, and hinders the type of exercises you can do, is not going to be something you use a lot. A basement gym should have at least 400 square feet for several pieces of equipment and room to use it. Ceiling height is also important for taller equipment or jumping exercises.

Materials to Be Used

When finishing a basement, especially when creating a basement gym, there are certain materials you should use. You want a clean environment that is clean, does not hold moisture, and is easily wiped off and kept looking new. You should plan for what type of materials to be used on the ceiling, the walls, as a vapor barrier, and for use on the floor. Also, egress windows should be planned, as well as a door if you want access from outside. Drop ceilings, waterproof concrete sealant, drywall, and an industrial rug, with hard rubber mats are some materials to look into.

Lighting for Basement Gym

A basement that is dark is not going to be a place where you will want to spend considerable amount of time. As part of the planning, you must locate several lights for a brighter basement gym. Track lights, fluorescent lights, and recessed lighting are great options for a basement gym.

Electrical Outlets

A basement gym is going to need several electrical outlets around the room. Make sure to plan for these as you are thinking about a lighting system.

Ventilation

A basement gym without ventilation is going to be hot, humid, and uncomfortable. Plan for a system to remove the stagnant air and deliver fresh, cool air.

Determine Equipment to Be Used

A basement gym is a great alternative to a large gym membership. However, to ensure the same quality of workouts you should have some complimentary workout equipment. Determine whether you will use free weights, dumbbells or machines. There are also plenty of self contained workout machines to choose from. Depending on how much room you have, and your available budget, choose equipment that will enable you to have a quality workout.

Determine Location of Equipment

After choosing the equipment you need to figure out where it will be positioned in the basement gym. Graph paper and a pencil are instrumental in this process. For large pieces you want plenty of room around the apparatus. Free weights also need plenty of room for efficient use. Draw out different scenarios with your equipment until you find something that you like.