Home Gym Ideas for Small Spaces and Garden Rooms

I’ve very (very) recently moved house and one of the first things I’ve started working on are home gym ideas for small spaces. Although we’ve upsized to a 3 bedroom house, the reality is there really isn’t space in the house for a decent gym.

So the alternative is to build something at the end of our generously sized garden which can be used as a home gym, a studio for my online classes and potentially an office. 

Having a space that you can use as a home gym is a great way to be able to work out in the comfort of your own home without needing a gym membership or a large space.

With me being a Personal Trainer, fitness is my work so it’s also imperative that I’m able to “shut the door” after work and be at home. Wherever you choose to set up – in a spare room, a corner of your living room, or even your home office – a small-space gym can be designed to fit your fitness goals. 

Exploring Home Gym Ideas For Small Spaces

With the right equipment and a little creativity, you can create a functional, budget-friendly home gym that meets your needs and allows you to stay consistent with your fitness routine.

Step One: Assess Your Space and Fitness Needs

The first and most important step has to be identifying the area where you’ll set up your home gym. A workout room, a section of a guest room, or an open area in your home office could all work well. 

Consider the floor space and natural light available, as these factors can impact your workout experience. Also consider what flooring options and equipment you’d be able to use. I know I wouldn’t be able to drop heavy weights if I was working out on the first floor of my house. Someone might get a kettlebell on their head downstairs! 

Next up, you’ll need to think about your fitness goals— and I’d think more long term here so whatever you create will work for you well into the future.

Choosing the best home gym equipment will be easier depending on your focus – whether it’s strength training, cardio, Pilates/ Yoga or flexibility, for examples.  And with small spaces, multifunctional equipment really is key.

Choosing Equipment for Your Small-Space Home Gym

The next piece of the jigsaw is choosing the exercise equipment you’d like in your space and figuring out how it’ll fit. I’ve already got the majority of the equipment I’ll be putting in my space but this is also an opportunity to add / upgrade and / or reduce. 

Here are some ideas for equipment you can use in your small space home gym. 

​Power Rack 

A power rack is a great piece of equipment for strength training, and there are loads of compact models designed for small areas. Look for one that’s the perfect size for your setup, providing space for exercises like squats and bench press without taking up too much room. 

Check out a range of power racks on Again Faster which can be heavily customised with things like a pull-up bar, to suit your style of strength training and workouts. With great options to suit all budgets, two standout models are the Again Faster® Competition Power Rack and the Again Faster® Rival Power Rack. 

I feel like the use cases for a power rack, even with little space, are endless to be honest. Hang a punching bag from it for boxing workouts or battle ropes for a good mix of cardio and strength, just for starters. 

Adjustable Dumbbells and Kettlebells 

These are budget-friendly solutions that replace multiple weights with one adjustable piece. This means they end up saving you load of floor space while allowing for a variety of exercises.

At the moment, I have just 1x 25kg adjustable dumbbell which has served me well. The plan is to buy a second one when my home gym space is ready. Currently, instead of adjustable kettlebells, I’ve got a handle which can be loaded with plates from my barbell. 

Resistance Bands

Resistance bands are lightweight, easy to store, and ideal for leg exercises, pull-up assistance, and strength training in a small area.

Compact Treadmill or Walking Pad

If cardio workouts like running or walking are a priority, consider a compact treadmill or walking pad that can be folded and stored when not in use. I’ve got a walking pad – which goes up to about 10kmph – that I also use to get my steps with my standing desk. 

TRX Suspension Trainer

A TRX suspension trainer is a great option for total-body workouts without needing much space. Just attach it to door frames or secure wall space. 

I’m on the fence about this one personally though as I’ve had a suspension trainer for so many years and barely used it. If you’ve got a high enough ceiling, I’d say go for it, otherwise, it might not be worth it. 

Stationary Bike or Indoor Trainer 

For a low-impact cardio workout, an exercise bike or spin bike takes up minimal space and provides an easy way to get your heart rate up amongst other benefits. You don’t really need anything as fancy as a Peloton unless you’re keen to follow the workouts and programs provided on the platform. 

Another option for cycling indoors is to set up a indoor trainer aka a turbo trainer using a regular outdoor bike. This is definitely a budget-friendly solution if you already own a bike and takes up less space as the bike can usually be stored vertically on a trainer, or vertically on a bike stand. 

Yoga Mats, Cork Blocks, and Foam Pads

These items are perfect for stretching and yoga and take up very little storage space. They can easily be hung on the wall or inside other equipment too, negating the use of additional floor space. 

Finally, here’s a list of the 10 best pieces of home exercise equipment you could choose to deck out your gym space. 

Storage Solutions for Your Home Gym Space

Storage is essential for a small gym setup. Wall-mounted racks or storage racks can keep items like dumbbells, resistance bands, and workout equipment organised and accessible. 

For items like jump ropes, yoga blocks, or foam pads, consider a storage unit with shelves or bins. I’ve actually got an adjustable bench which has storage in it for small pieces of equipment and it’s perfect to use with the power rack too! 

In smaller spaces, finding creative ways to store equipment ensures your gym area stays clutter-free.

Making Your Space Functional and Motivating

I just know that when I have my “dream” home gym, I’m gonna enjoy spending time in there which I hope, will help to keep me motivated and consistent. It’s super important that the space is functional too, to make it a pleasure to use and so that it supports your workouts. 

Adding touches like a large mirror on the wall are great for checking for proper form as well as making the space look bigger. I also love the use of wood tones for a really natural feel, and a smart TV to cast from your phone / iPad for live workouts. 

The right flooring for your home gym setup is also essential and can an enhance the space while being practical for a workout area. Good lighting and easy storage options make a big difference in both comfort and aesthetics, even if you don’t have much space.

Workouts To Try In Small-Space Gyms

Here are some different types of workouts from the ‘keep it simpElle’ archives which you can try in your home exercise room: 

Whether a small-space gym at home is all you’ll ever had, or there will be the opportunity to expand, you can always add equipment as budget allows and as you refine your workout routine. 

A little creativity and the right equipment is more than enough for function and versatility for your exercise routine. Investing in your home workout space is literally the most creative way to stay committed to your fitness goals!

Got any budget-friendly home gym ideas you want to share?! 

Elle