Passion Projects: The Home Gym

In the midst of the holiday season, people everywhere begin thinking about making lifestyle changes. One of the most popular resolutions is the decision to implement regular exercise routines. Unfortunately, the notion of braving the cold weather for crowded gyms inhibits many folks from pursuing new personal goals. Repurposing a spare room for a suitable home gym has proved to be an increasingly popular alternative for many local Indiana residents.

There are a few things to take note of before deciding to transform a room into a place for physical activity. The first and arguably most important is to assess the amount of space. Ensure that there is ample room for a full range of motion as to prevent injury or otherwise damage to the room itself.  Be sure to factor in space and location of equipment and avoid making the primary exercise space directly in front of the door (ouch!).

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of the new room is making sure that the walls can withstand the increased activity. For example, using the wall for stability during stretching or other exercises can take a toll on the interior colors over time and significantly shorten the lifespan of the paint job. Professional painters generally recommend using an eggshell or satin paint on walls. And for the potential runaway (aka roll away) dumbbell? Semi-gloss will protect doors and moldings from light damage while withstanding cleanings in the case of small markings.

Ever notice how popular gyms decorate with bold, energetic paints? Consider doing the same thing to replicate a stimulating environment; especially if the room is used specifically for exercise. Vibrant colors like orange and bold yellows are associated with high energy and positivity to help fuel energy. But homeowners should lean towards personal preference, choosing a color that makes them want to spend time in the room.

Matthews Painting has experience helping people achieve a wide variety of passion projects, and we’re always available to entertain questions and brainstorm creative improvements.