The Ultimate Guide to Flooring for Every Workout Space

When it comes to building a workout space that is perfect for your gym clientele, there are many factors you need to consider to get the job done right. Many gym owners and executives immediately begin thinking of equipment when they think of gym upgrades. But one of the most important aspects of a gym remodel that is often overlooked is the flooring.  

Gym floors see a lot of wear and tear, from athletes walking across them with heavy weights to intense maneuverability exercises. When choosing floors for your gym, you need to choose an option that is easy on your patrons' joints and one that is built to last.  

In this post, we will take a closer look at gym floors with various athletic applications in mind. We will go through a few gym floor options and give you some information to help you determine which is right for your gym.  

What are the Best Flooring Options for Gyms? 

Choosing the right flooring for your gym is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of your clients. Consider the type of workouts and equipment you will have in your gym and select the flooring option that best suits your needs. 

Rubber Flooring 

Rubber flooring is a popular choice for gym owners and fitness enthusiasts due to its excellent shock absorbency and joint-friendly properties. It is highly favored in areas where heavy weights and intense workouts take place, as it provides a protective layer for the floor and minimizes the impact on joints. 

One of the key advantages of rubber flooring is its ability to absorb force, reducing the risk of injuries during high-impact exercises or when heavy equipment is in use. It acts as a cushion, absorbing the impact and preventing it from reverberating back to the body. 

Rubber flooring is particularly well-suited for general gyms or home gyms that have a variety of exercise equipment. Its durability allows it to withstand the constant movement of equipment and the potential of weights being dropped, without causing any damage to the floor. 

Another benefit of rubber flooring is its versatility in terms of design and installation. It comes in a wide variety of colors and styles, allowing gym owners to choose a flooring option that matches their aesthetic preferences. Moreover, rubber rolls or tiles can be easily installed, making it a convenient choice for any workout space.

What are some must-have pieces of gym equipment? Learn more here!

Vinyl Floors 

Vinyl floors are an excellent choice for workout spaces due to their slip resistance, durability, and easy cleaning. They come in various thicknesses, providing a cushioned surface that offers comfort and support during workouts. 

One of the key advantages of vinyl flooring is its ability to provide a level of shock absorption, reducing the impact on joints and muscles during high-intensity exercises. It can help protect against injuries and provide a safer environment for intense workouts. 

Vinyl floors are particularly well-suited for commercial gyms that have weight machines. With their durability, they can withstand the constant movement and heavy use of equipment without sustaining damage. However, it's important to note that vinyl floors may not always be ideal for free weights or heavy exercise equipment, as they may not provide the same level of impact resistance as rubber flooring. 

Another benefit of vinyl flooring is its easy maintenance. It can be easily cleaned with a simple mop or damp cloth, making it convenient for busy gym spaces. 

Wood Floors 

Wood floors are a popular choice for workout spaces that prioritize aesthetics and a natural, inviting atmosphere. While they may not be the best option for conventional gyms with heavy weights and intense workouts, they are perfect for dance studios, yoga rooms, and gyms used for classes and cardio activities. 

Wood floors provide a warm and elegant look, creating a welcoming environment for fitness enthusiasts. They offer a natural feel underfoot and can enhance the overall ambiance of the space. Wood floors are particularly suitable for activities like dance and yoga, where shock absorption is not as critical as in high-impact workouts. 

With proper maintenance, wood floors can withstand the demands of low-impact exercises and provide a durable surface for activities like stretching, bodyweight exercises, and light cardio. Regular cleaning with a mop and gentle cleaning solutions will preserve the beauty and longevity of the wood. 

It's worth noting that wood floors may not be suitable for heavy exercise equipment or free weights. They are more prone to scratches and dents compared to other flooring options like rubber or vinyl. Extra caution should be taken to protect the wood surface from damage caused by dropped weights or heavy machinery. 

Discover the difference 1Source made for the Albion apartments. Check it out in this blog! 

Foam Flooring 

Foam flooring is an excellent choice for any workout space that requires shock absorption and comfort underfoot. Its cushioned surface helps protect joints and reduces the impact of high-intensity exercises. Whether you are practicing yoga or engaged in heavy weightlifting, foam flooring provides the support you need. 

One of the major advantages of foam flooring is its lightweight and easy installation process. The interlocking tiles can be quickly assembled and disassembled, allowing for easy customization of your workout area. This versatile feature is particularly useful if you plan on frequently reconfiguring your space or if you need to move your workout area to a different location. 

Foam flooring is particularly well-suited for activities like yoga or lifting free weights. The shock-absorbent surface helps protect your body during intense workouts and decreases the risk of injuries. Additionally, the textured surface of foam flooring provides excellent grip, ensuring stability during various exercises. 

Another benefit of foam flooring is its versatility in terms of design and color options. With a wide variety of colors and patterns available, you can easily customize the look of your workout space to match your style or branding. Furthermore, foam mats can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth or mild cleaning solution, making them low maintenance and durable.  

Cork Flooring 

Cork flooring is a highly underrated option for workout spaces that see a lot of foot traffic. Not only is it durable, but it also offers a range of benefits that make it an excellent choice for any fitness area. 

One of the standout features of cork flooring is its slip resistance. This makes it perfect for areas where people will walk or run, as it reduces the risk of accidents or injuries. This is especially important in workout spaces where safety is a top priority. 

Additionally, cork flooring is eco-friendly, making it a perfect choice for those who want to reduce their environmental impact. It is made from the bark of cork oak trees, which are not harmed during the harvesting process. This makes cork flooring a sustainable option that you can feel good about using. 

Another advantage of cork flooring is its ability to absorb impact. This is especially beneficial for high-impact workouts or activities that involve jumping or running. The natural cushioning of cork not only protects your joints from excessive strain but also reduces the risk of injuries during intense workouts. 

With its natural beauty and warm appearance, cork flooring adds a touch of elegance to any workout space. It comes in a variety of shades and patterns, allowing you to choose the perfect style to suit your taste or branding. 

What are the benefits of gym facilities at schools and colleges? Learn more here!

Gym Floors From 1Source Fitness 

Choosing the perfect flooring for your gym is never easy. That is true whether you operate a large commercial gym or have a private gym in your basement.  

The good news is that you don't need to be an expert. The trusted professionals at 1Source Fitness are here to help. We have worked with dozens of gym owners to identify the right flooring, equipment, and accessories for their gym. We can help you too! 

Click here to reach out to 1Source Fitness today about your fitness center needs! 

Follow 1Source Fitness on Instagram and LinkedIn for more fitness equipment tips! 

Happy with the 1Source Fitness difference? Leave us a five-star review here!