Design: Home gyms

TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES

For those who prefer not to exercise outdoors or in a public fitness center where they must share equipment, a home gym makes a lot of sense. Whether you work out in a corner or devote an entire room to exercise, you can create the perfect setting to keep you motivated to succeed.

1. OUTFITTING YOUR SPACE

It's important to find a spot that will support your workout and your interests. If you're on a treadmill or using a machine such as an elliptical, take a cue from an actual gym and set up a TV to curb boredom on those long rides or walks. Or, if you have a window, position your machine so you have a view. If neither option is possible, add a basket of magazines and an MP3 player to help you tick off the miles.

For those who prefer not to exercise outdoors or in a public fitness center where they must share equipment, a home gym makes a lot of sense. Whether you work out in a corner or devote an entire room to exercise, you can create the perfect setting to keep you motivated to succeed.

2. CUSHIONING UNDERFOOT

To keep your footing sure and steady, add snap-together rubber or carpet squares. In addition to giving your feet some cushion, they'll provide a sound barrier and help delineate your workout space. The squares come in a variety of styles and colors, ranging from wood tone to simple gray and black, matching any decor.

3. HOLD THE INTEREST

Consider adding a large standing fan if your workouts are intense. Good air flow will help keep you cool and your equipment dry. If you're easily bored, stock a variety of exercise equipment, such as a treadmill, weightlifting bench, exercise DVDs and a few light dumbbells. Select some DVDs on yoga or tai chi, for when your energy is low, plus others with more intense aerobic workouts for days when you have energy to burn. If you run out of workout options, buy some wall posters showing various exercises to vary your routine.

4. LITTLE TOUCHES

If you have a dedicated workout room, a small refrigerator might be a smart purchase to keep protein drinks and water handy. A shelf tower that fits in a corner can hold towels. Working on a beach body? Hang beautiful beach posters to keep you motivated. Lastly, a single standing mirror is a nice touch and less expensive and permanent than wall mirrors.

-- Tribune Media Services

The ProForm ZT3 Treadmill ($399 at Target.com) indicates a user's speed, calories burned, time elapsed and distance traveled, and comes with a bottle holder.

The Winsome Wood Hailey 5-Tier Shelf Tower ($99.99 at Amazon.com), which must be assembled, is 15 inches square by 60 inches high.

The quarter-inch Terra Lock Virgin Rubber Tiles ($8.59 a square foot at Rubberflooring inc.com) is available in six colors.