What To Consider When Building A Home Gym In North Texas

Gyms and fitness centers can completely break the bank. Throw in the commute and the wait to use a machine, and gym visits become both time and money wasted. Some Dallas residents love the break from their homes to get out and get fit, while others have to adjust their schedules and make time for a good workout at their local gym. Search gyms in Dallas-Fort Worth and you are bound to find hundreds of independent and chain options, but none that offer the convenience or financial freedom of a home gym. Start with a little investment and expect huge gains with these simple tips for building your own gym.

First, pick a room that does not have high traffic. Consider using your existing storage space as a gym — it'll encourage you to clear out the clutter as well. These spaces should be well lit and spacious enough to fit your desired equipment.

"Simply put … your gym should be in an area that is free from distractions," said Sonja Brown, owner of Jolt Fitness. "You don't want to have a gym in an area where you will be distracted and unable to complete you workout session."

The following local businesses may be able to help you get started:

Apollo Fitness Equipment
1400 E. Interstate 30
Rockwall, TX 75087
(972) 722-2440
www.apollofit.com

Include floor space for floor exercises such as crunches and Pilates. To get an all-around workout, most athletes include floor exercises. These sessions often require a television and a DVD player, so snag the necessary electronics as well to add fun to your workout routine. For the right equipment for your gym, head on over to Apollo Fitness for a consultation, be sure to bring your room measurements.

Drew-Tronics
Fort Worth, TX
(817) 908-4318
www.drew-tronics.com

Consider surround sound for pumping music during your workout session. Try using a professional audio and visual installer, like Drew-Tronics, to create the perfect atmosphere for your gym.

The RockAway Company
4416 McLean Rd., Ste. A
Haltom City, TX 76117
(817) 485-9855
www.rockawayco.net

Select the equipment that you need not want. If you have a large home, then you may be able to install a full gym. However, many Dallas fitness enthusiasts prefer a smaller gym with equipment they know they'll use.

"Depending on what you are trying to work on, you need to get the equipment that works for that body part," said Nathan Jackson, personal trainer and owner of JackFit Fitness in Dallas. "On the other hand if you want a total body workout, then you should start with machines that work the entire body, sometimes those are floor equipment that are compact, while other times they are bulky and more for a gym."

Willieford Hardwood Floors 
8650 Diceman Dr.
Dallas, TX 75218
(214) 824-1166
www.willefordhardwoodfloors.com

The final thing to consider when you install a home gym is the flooring. Most homes have carpeting which may not be the most conducive to working out. With that you may have to upgrade your flooring to hardwood or another durable material that provides better traction. If you need flooring ideas for your new gym, visit Willieford Hardwood Floors, a 21-year veteran in area flooring needs.

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Your new gym and saving monthly fees is moments away. For more great tricks, tips and advice about your home, visit CBSDFW.com/YourHome.

Ivy N. Carter has been professionally writing since 1998 when she started writing for the Texas Southern University The Herald student newspaper. Since then Ivy has enjoyed writing for several magazines, newspapers, businesses and other publications throughout the country. She has a MBA is the owner of Written By INC a professional writing and editing company. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.