Building Your Gym Shed: Factors and Equipment to Consider

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A gym shed offers a convenient and cost-effective solution for exercising in private. However, building and designing your own isn’t as easy as it may seem. But we’re here to provide you with some helpful tips and explore equipment ideas!

How to Pick the Right Garden Shed?

The first thing you’ll need for a gym shed is the structure itself. Here are some recommended features and models to bring this concept to life:

1. Space and headroom

An indoor home gym in a large shed — Image Credit

Choose a shed unit with enough space and headroom. Adequate floor space allows you to fit all your equipment, perform exercises, and move around comfortably. The same goes for the headroom, ideally with a high roof such as an apex design. An apex roof provides more headroom compared to a pent, which slopes and limits vertical space.

The BillyOh Keeper Overlap Apex Shed is an excellent choice. Its high apex roof ensures increased headroom and mobility. Plus, it features wide-opening double doors for easy access to bulky equipment.

You might also consider the comfort and style offered by a log cabin or a summerhouse.

2. Safety and strength

Tongue and Groove wooden shed cladding — Image Credit

The tongue and groove (T&G) construction is the feature you need to keep an eye on. T&G panels not only provide a clean look but also enhance the structural integrity of the building. The interlocking makes the structure more durable and secure from the elements. These panels can also be used for flooring, providing a stable surface for your gym equipment.

Consider Insulation and Ventilation

If you plan to use your gym shed year-round, insulation is crucial. Insulating keeps the space warmer in cold weather and prevents water ingress, which helps avoid wood rot. Insulation also reduces noise, allowing you to play music or use noisy equipment without disturbing your neighbours or family.

In summer, insulation combined with proper ventilation helps keep the interior cooler. Speaking of ventilation, it encourages good airflow and prevents odour. You can achieve this by installing air vents, a ceiling fan, or even a small window.

Together, these features keep moisture and mould at bay, protecting your equipment like treadmills and weights from rust and damage.

To remove the hassle of insulating the building yourself, you could buy an insulated garden room where this is already taken care of.

Additional Flooring and Security

A stack of rubber mat flooring — Image Credit

For a sturdy gym shed floor, consider adding an extra layer of flooring. This protects the wood underneath and provides a better base for your equipment. Opt for traditional rubber gym flooring for durability and excellent traction, minimising the risk of slips and falls during workouts.

To keep your investment and equipment safe, invest in reliable and robust shed door locks. With a secure lock, you can have peace of mind knowing that your gym shed and its contents are protected from unauthorised access.

Gym Equipment for a Garden Cabin

A man running on a running machine — Image Credit

Now, let’s dive into equipping your workout space with the necessary equipment! Aside from basics like a mat, there are plenty of options for workout machines and more. Your choices should align with the type of exercise you prefer. We have some suggestions to help you decide below:

1. Running machine or treadmill

A treadmill is a classic exercise equipment in almost every gym. If you want cardio in your gym, this is a good choice. It’s suitable for all fitness levels, with adaptable settings.

2. Exercise bike

A cheaper alternative to a treadmill that still allows varied cardio exercise! An exercise bike is accessible with adjustable settings and is easy to use but at a lower price point. It’s worthwhile cardio equipment for your humble gym shed.

3. Squat and bench rack

Two squat and bench racks lined up next to each other — Image Credit

For muscle-building enthusiasts, a rack with accompanying bars and weights is essential. With one, you can train numerous muscle groups through various exercises. Consider squats for your quadriceps, hamstrings, glutes, and lower back muscles. Bench press for your chest, shoulders, and triceps; barbell rows for upper back, lats, and biceps.

4. Rowing machine

A rowing machine offers a balanced mix of muscle training and cardiovascular exercise. This dual functionality makes it a valuable addition to your shed gym. Even better, it’s compact and easy to store, perfect for small units.

Round-up

If getting fit is your goal, a gym shed could be the answer. Equip it with the gear that fits your needs, and with dedication, you’ll find yourself there every day of the week!

If you’re searching for the perfect unit, go for a pressure-treated garden shed for year-round use.