Hello. I am going to move into a top-floor apartment in a four-story, mix-use building. Here's what it looks like from the outside:



I asked if I could bring exercise equipment in. I asked specifically about an elliptical machine or exercise bike. I also mentioned that I like to do calisthenics in the morning (e.g., jumping jacks and push-ups). I asked her if the floor was strong enough for the equipment/exercise. I also asked whether the people below me would be able to hear. Here's what she had to say: "[O]ur ceiling / floors are wood with concrete over lay and wood laminate so elliptical would not be a problem."

How do you guys feel about it. In addition to the above, I wouldn't mind bringing in a weight bench and some dumbbells up to 75 pounds. I would put carpeting and mats down, and I wouldn't slam them.

But what do you guys think from a stability and noise standpoint. I am a considerate neighbor.

 

Elliptical or exercise bike would not be any issue. No problems with weights as long as they are not dropped. Activity like jumping jacks that subject the floor to shock might transmit noise.

 

Thanks. That's kind of what I figured. It almost sounds like she's describing glorified wood. I was hoping there would be concrete slabs, but beggars can't be choosers I suppose.

 

By looking at the picture I would say this is a very nice building.
I doubt if there will be any flex in the floor or noticeable noise.

The person you asked might not have been knowledgeable in building construction.

If you want to be considerate, I would try to purposely jump on the floor and make as much noise as possible and have the downstairs neighbors judge.

 

Good info here.

I think they're onto something. The property manager works on the second or third floor. She said they were tearing out the carpet in a unit above her office and she could hear a lot of banging. Had a concrete slab been between the floors, she would not have heard that much noise.

It turns out that the lower floor of the apartment that I'm interested in is above an office and the people don't go to work until 9. That gives me more confidence that I can jump around w/o disturbing them.

If I bring in some exercise equipment, I'll at least put down an area rug to reduce the transmission of noise between the floors (as well as to protect the hardwood flooring).

Thanks again for the info.