Keeping your garage gym or basement gym warm during winter doesn’t have to be complicated. We all know the feeling of dread when you wake up and it’s below freezing outside, which. means its just a few degrees warmer in your gym. But don’t worry, here at Griffin we’re here to help you figure out the best ways to warm up your garage gym. With the right preparation, working out will be so much more comfortable and it can actually happen. In this post we’ll be exploring effective ways to keep your garage or basement gym warm through the winter months, ensuring that nothing stands between you and getting a workout on.
- Insulate your garage: One of the easiest and most crucial steps in winter-proofing your garage gym is proper insulation. Insulation helps regulate the temperature inside and keep the heat inside. Start by insulating the walls and ceiling. A lot of people also miss this step: insulating the garage door. Some common materials you can use include fiberglass, foam board, and reflective insulation. If you have all of this done, check for any gaps or cracks in any doors, garage doors, and windows and be sure to seal those off. The most common gap is between the door and garage door. We recommend used a garage door rubber seal to solve this issue.
- Get a space heater: Having a reliable space heater can make a world of difference in maintaining a workable temperature. Choose a heater that suits the size of your gym and can be easily adjusted. Make sure to position it so it can distribute heat evenly and is not next to anything that cannot withstand heat. Common space heaters include electric space heaters because they are energy-efficient and convenient. Other space heaters include propane, but be sure you have a carbon monoxide detector installed.
- Install built-in floor heating: For those that are building their gyms from the ground up, installing radiant floor heating a splurge worth considering if you live somewhere cold. The system works by heating the floor, and as a result the heat radiates upward to the gym. This is the most expensive option, but worth considering.
- Double check seals on everything: Aside from garage doors being significant sources of heat loss, other things like windows and doors can be big culprits. You can add or replace the weatherstripping to your doors. For windows, make sure they’re double-paned and there’s no drafts making their way in.
- Add more layers to the floor: Because most garage gyms and basement gyms have bare concrete, the temperature drops even more. To combat this, invest in durable rubber gym flooring. You ideally want at least 3/4″ thickness (if not more) for insulation and floor protection. Not only do you get a comfortable surface to workout on, you also get an insulating layer.
- Wear the right gear: Wear the Right Gear: Even with all these heating solutions, it’s essential to dress appropriately for your workouts. Layer your clothing to trap heat close to your body, and invest in moisture-wicking fabrics to keep sweat away.
Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you’re not able to get a workout in and hit your fitness goals. By implementing these tips to winter-proof your garage or basement gym, you can create a warm(er) space that motivates you to stay active through the colder months. With the right insulation, heating solutions, a bit of creativity, you’ll be better off beating the winter chill.
Looking to start or upgrade your gym setup? Griffin Fitness makes innovative gym equipment for the community, by the community. Our product lineup includes power racks, benches, barbells, bumper plates, kettlebells, and more.
