Space saving gym equipment - a gym designer’s top tips
Lacertosus folding squat rack, with folding bench storage
Designing a home gym or hotel gym in a small training space can be a challenging task, but it is not impossible...
As we'll show in this article, with the right fitness equipment cherry-picked to fit a specific gym floor plan and a client's unique set of training preferences, ideally aided by 3D gym design software, we can create a functional and efficient workout area, delivered on time and on budget.
For our tips on luxury home gym design see here.
Why does the world need small home gyms & small hotel gyms?
In recent years, there has been a surge in demand for exercise equipment made specifically for a small gym space, as more and more people are looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle without the need for a large, dedicated gym training space themselves.
In the case of hotels and resorts, often there simply isn't a justifiable commercial reason to dedicate more floor space to a gym that is strictly necessary to 'check the box' meaning a lower-ground room of 25m2-50m2 is remarkably common for hotel gyms.
Gym planning process
Creating a home gym or hotel gym in a small space requires careful planning and consideration of one's fitness goals, available space, and budget. The key to maximizing the workout area is to choose the best workout equipment for small spaces that can efficiently utilize the available space without compromising on functionality.
In this article, we will discuss ideas about the importance of space-saving exercise equipment, factors to consider when choosing such equipment, and top gym designer tips and ideas for maximizing your gym floor workout area.
ERYX adjustable kettlebells, a French brand to keep an eye on
The Importance of Space-Saving Exercise Equipment in the Gym Design Process
Space-saving equipment can help individuals or hotel owners to create and maintain a healthy and active lifestyle without the need for an expansive gym plan with multiple zones of cardio equipment, strength equipment, yoga or mobility space, perhaps a functional fitness area, and so on. Occasionally, compromises have to be made.
It's all about detailed gym floor plans
Such equipment is designed to be easily stored away when not in use, freeing up valuable living space for other purposes. Furthermore, space-saving workout equipment is often more affordable than its larger counterparts, making it an attractive option for future gym and for those on a budget.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Exercise Equipment for a Small Gym Layout
When choosing gym equipment for small spaces, several factors should be considered to ensure that the selected equipment meets one's fitness goals, available space, and budget.
These factors include:
Functionality in gym design
The selected exercise equipment should provide a comprehensive workout that targets all major muscle groups and aligns with one's fitness goals.
Space efficiency in gym design
The best workout equipment for small spaces should have a compact design that maximizes the available workout area. This may include foldable or collapsible equipment, wall-mounted solutions, or equipment that can be easily stored away when the gym is not in use.
Ease of use in gym design
The chosen exercise equipment should be easy to use and require minimal setup or assembly. This is particularly important for small spaces, where complicated equipment can be cumbersome and time-consuming to set up.
Versatility in gym design
To make the most of the limited space, multi-functional equipment that can be used for multiple exercises or muscle groups is ideal.
This can help to reduce the number of individual pieces of equipment required and create a more streamlined workout area
Budget management in gym design process
Finally, the cost of the equipment should be taken into account, as gym equipment can vary greatly in price.
Top Gym Designer Tips for Maximizing Your Workout Area
Opt for Vertical Storage:
Utilize vertical space by installing wall-mounted storage solutions, such as hooks, shelves, or racks, to store equipment when the gym designs not in use. This can help to keep the floor area clear and create a more organized workout space.
Choose Multi-Functional Equipment:
Invest in versatile exercise equipment that can be used for multiple exercises, targeting different muscle groups.
Consider Foldable or Collapsible Equipment:
Opt for foldable or collapsible equipment that can be easily stored away when not in use, freeing up valuable floor space. Examples include foldable treadmills, collapsible weight benches, or wall-mounted pull-up bars.
Use Mirrors to Create the Illusion of Space:
Installing mirrors on one or more walls of the workout area can create the illusion of a larger space, making the room feel more open and inviting.
Three Examples of Workout Equipment for Small Spaces
Climbr step machine with virtual trainer software
Climbr step machine
The Climbr step machine is an innovative addition to the world of gym equipment, offering a fresh and engaging approach to cardiovascular exercise for fitness enthusiasts.
Unlike traditional cardio machines such as treadmills or ellipticals, the Climbr step machine engages the entire body, including the arms, legs, and core muscles, resulting in a comprehensive and calorie-burning workout.
Why is so climbing effective?
It's designed to simulate the natural motion of climbing, which is known to be one of the most physically demanding and rewarding forms of exercise.
With its compact footprint and visually appealing aesthetics, this piece of gym equipment can easily be incorporated into any gym layout without sacrificing valuable floor space or disrupting the overall flow of your gym design.
BeaverFit Shred Shed at Sani Resort, Greece design by BIOFIT
A review of the Beaverfit gym shed
The BeaverFit Gym Shed has emerged as a revolutionary all-in-one outdoor gym equipment installation solution, catering to the diverse fitness needs of hotels, resorts, and residential communities.
The shed is crafted from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and resistance to harsh weather conditions.
This makes it an ideal choice for outdoor installations in hotels, resorts, and residential communities where space constraints may be an issue.
Greyman Gear accessory package
Moreover, the gym equipment housed within the shed fitness center and facility is thoughtfully designed to cater to a variety of fitness levels and workout preferences, ensuring that users can enjoy a comprehensive and satisfying workout experience.
Additionally, the functional fitness accessories, including kettlebells, medicine balls, and resistance bands, provide users with ample opportunities to incorporate variety into their workout routines.
Technogym folding elliptical cross-trainer for home gyms
The Technogym folding elliptical cross-trainer is an innovative and efficient gym equipment solution that has garnered significant attention in recent years.
It is specifically designed to meet the needs of home gyms and hotel gyms, where space is often limited and the need for versatile, high-quality equipment is paramount.
How much space is actually required?
The elliptical has a unique folding mechanism that allows it to be easily stored when not in use, significantly reducing its footprint without sacrificing performance - however we still advise to allow more space than the Technogym footprint suggests on their website as this product somehow appears larger in real life than its measurements suggest, we learnt that the hard way!
The elliptical cross-trainer also offers various resistance levels and workout programs, allowing users to customize their exercise routines and achieve their fitness goals more efficiently.