Guides•9 min read•1/7/2025

Complete Guide: How to Set Up the Perfect Home Gym?

Setting up a home gym is one of the best investments you can make in your health, fitness and well-being. No more travel time to the gym, no waiting for equipment, and complete freedom to train whenever you want. But where do you start? In this complete guide, we'll take you step by step through the entire process: from space selection and budget planning to equipment selection and the finishing touches.

1. Space Planning: The Perfect Location For Your Home Gym

The location of your home gym largely determines its success. The garage is a popular choice and usually offers ample space (15-30m²). The attic is ideal if you have sufficient ceiling height (minimum 2.20m). A spare bedroom (10-15m²) is perfect for a compact but complete setup.

2. Budget Planning: What Does A Home Gym Really Cost?

Realistic budget planning is crucial. Minimal Budget Setup (€800-1,500) includes adjustable dumbbells, resistance bands, yoga mat, foldable bench, and basic rubber mats. Standard Setup (€2,500-5,000) adds squat rack, barbell set, premium flooring, and mirrors. Our recommendation: start with at least €2,500-3,000 for a setup you'll enjoy for years.

3. Essential Equipment: What Do You Really Need?

Absolute must-haves: Adjustable Dumbbells (€200-600), Adjustable Bench (€150-400), Resistance Bands Set (€30-80), Yoga/Fitness Mat (€30-80), and Pull-up Bar (€25-200). Our recommendation: start with dumbbells, bench, bands, and mat (€400-700). Train with this for 3 months then expand.

4. Flooring and Protection: The Foundation Of Your Gym

Rubber sports floors are the gold standard for home gyms (€35-65/m²). For home gyms we recommend 15-20mm thickness. A 15m² home gym flooring costs: Budget €525, Standard €675, Premium €900. Acoustic underlay (€8-15/m²) is essential for apartments.

5. Finishing Touches: From Gym To Dream Gym

Mirrors (€150-600) are essential for form checking. Lighting (€150-500) should combine LED panels with dimmable accent lighting. Ventilation (€50-2,000) is non-negotiable. Our recommendation: invest €800-1,200 in finishing for mirrors, lighting, speakers, ventilation, and storage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much space do you minimally need for a home gym?

For a functional home gym, 6-10m² is the absolute minimum for basic strength training. With 10-15m² you can comfortably train with free weights and a bench. For a complete setup with cardio equipment we recommend 15-25m². Limited space? Focus on multifunctional equipment and foldable benches.

What are the essential devices for a beginner home gym?

Start with: adjustable dumbbells (2-24kg), a stable bench, resistance bands, and a yoga mat. This already gives you enormous training possibilities for €300-600. Want to expand? Add a squat rack, barbell with weights and a pull-up bar. Complete starter set: €1,000-1,500.

How much does it cost to set up a good home gym?

Budget setup: €800-1,500 (dumbbells, bench, mat, resistance bands). Mid-range: €2,500-5,000 (squat rack, barbell set, flooring, mirrors). Premium: €8,000-15,000+ (fully equipped with cardio, professional flooring, custom mirrors). Our tip: start small and expand based on your training routine.

Can I set up a home gym on the second floor?

Yes, but watch the weight and noise pollution. Concrete floors can carry 200-400kg per m², wooden floors 150-200kg per m². Use at least 15-20mm thick sports floor with acoustic underlay. Distribute heavy equipment over multiple floor beams. In doubt: have a structural engineer check the load capacity.

How do I prevent noise disturbance to neighbors with my home gym?

Sound insulation is crucial in apartments. Use 20mm rubber floor + acoustic underlay (60% less noise), place extra mats under squat racks, don't train during quiet hours, and use rubber bumper plates you can put down instead of drop. Consider wall insulation for extra dampening.

What lighting is best for a home gym?

Combine daylight with LED lighting (4000-5000K 'cool white') for energy and focus. Avoid warm light that makes you sleepy. Install dimmable spots for different atmospheres. Budget: €150-300 for good LED strips and spots. Pro tip: place lighting in front of the mirror, not behind it.

Do you need air conditioning in a home gym?

Not necessarily, but ventilation is essential. At least a window that can open + a good fan (€50-150). For optimal comfort: mobile air conditioning (€300-600) or split unit (€800-1,500). Ideal training temperature: 15-20°C. Too warm = less performance and more injury risk.

Are mirrors really necessary in a home gym?

Not necessary but highly recommended! Mirrors help you control your form (prevents injuries), make the space larger, and increase motivation. At least one large mirror (180x60cm, €150-250) for form checks. For full wall covering: count on €80-150 per m². Investment that pays for itself in safety.