So you have a treadmill, but you currently get more of a workout schlepping it from one end of the room to the other so you can vacuum under it than you do actually walking on it. And you have a weight bench, but you’ve found that it is put to much better use as an extension of your closet, giving you extra space to hang and stack clothes. Admit it, it’s not hard to avoid exercising. But have you ever stopped to think that maybe it’s your exercise space, and not your motivation, that could use a makeover?

A well-designed home workout space can inspire you to dust off those free-weights and fire up the elliptical. And with the holiday season and New Year’s resolutions right around the corner, why not get a jump start on all your well-intentioned goals by spending some time creating a workout space you actually want to workout in?

If you like to do high intensity workouts, try painting your room a bold color like red or yellow, which stimulate movement and increase adrenalin. If you are more into meditative workouts like yoga or Pilates, go with soothing colors like light green or blue.

Mirrors are another important design element. Not only can mirrors make your space appear larger, but they also allow you to examine your form while you workout.

And with winter just around the corner, adding some plants or other natural elements can help you feel like you’re running outside instead of cooped up in the house.

To limit the amount of distractions, separate your workout space as much as you can from the rest of the house; if you live in a loft or small apartment, use a partition screen to give you as much privacy as possible.

 

So hit the gym, but before you do stop into your local Hirshfield’s and let their knowledgeable experts help you design your prefect workout space.