JOIN USGetting up for a jog or a run is the best way to start the morning. However, sometimes, the weather does not always permit a long run or a walk. India experiences so many seasonal changes that there are times when going out for a workout is not possible.
And then there are a set of people whose schedule does not permit them to squeeze in time for exercising. Expensive gyms and beautiful parks too are not every person’s luxury. But that should not make you skip exercise. How about having your own exercise space right at our home, which saves the effort of going out in odd weathers and subscribing to expensive gym packages?
My own workout space
So, you’re one of those who wants to hit the gym but just never gets the time or are just not able to make it – blame it on the morning rush. Or perhaps you return too late in the evening to visit the gym. It’s time you create a workout nook for yourself. The first step is to understand how intense your workout is and what kind of equipment would you like to have. Then scout for the right kind of space in your house that can house the necessary equipment.
You may want to imagine a whole room spotted with gym equipment, mirrors and workout accessories. Alternatively, you may perhaps find a small space in the home for a yoga mat or some weights. Match your fitness style with the kind of space your home allows and the extent to which you can change the face of a room. Big or small, the space is yours and will serve to motivate you for years to come, so make it bright and attractive to keep you going through non-inspired moments.
Mean machines
Huge space is not the necessary criterion for having your favourite work out machines at home. A clever arrangement and a wall mirror can also do the trick. A room with a view or a balcony that is adequately covered to protect from sun and rain would also do. Alternatively, you can also have a soothing wallpaper of your favourite meadows or sea side on the wall and there’s your inspiration. “I like to fuse into the environment or focus on some interesting spot while on the treadmill.
Therefore, I have installed my treadmill next to the balcony door. I get a nice view of the green outside and also some fresh oxygen. And the best part is that I never miss exercising, even when it’s raining outside,” says Vaishali Deshmukh from Pune.
The machinery company usually installs and can best guide on the location and arrangement of several machines if required to be positioned in a particular space.
Make sure you have music or TV playing in front of you to ensure boredom doesn’t set in. Motivational posters, determinations and targets too are a good way to prep yourself. “Before installing various exercise equipment, do give some thought on how you would like to build up the space to avoid a machine clutter,” says interior designer Sarika Sethi from Delhi.
Finding peace
If you’re a no-machine exerciser and find your comfort in spot exercises, pilates, zumba, yoga and meditation, choose a space good enough to stretch, jump, exercise and of course breathe. It could be a room with a large window, a balcony that allows a mat to be spread, or may be just a room with less furniture. When exercising at home, atmosphere is everything. So, do not compromise on this aspect. Meditation requires a quiet environment, so ensure that road traffic doesn’t bother you. An open space that is not noisy will do too. Have some candles or incense burning to add to the effect. You can also keep lava lamps or oil scents to soothe the environment.
CrossFit
This is a new segment of exercising that can be very creatively incorporated at home. CrossFit comprises functional movements performed at high intensity with equipment like kettlebells, abs mats, jump rope, barbell, bumper plates, battle rope, squat box etc. CrossFit exercises can be performed in a small room or even an open balcony or terrace.
Creative hacks
Urban living is about finding creativity in each aspect of design and decor. Therefore, it’s only wise and stylish to find some interesting ways and means to stock your yoga mats, dumbbells, exercising rod, skipping ropes etc. A hanging mat holder can make for a colourful wall piece. You can get it custom-made by getting a wooden mat holder that can place three to four mats at a time. Hang colourful rolled mats and here’s your eye candy.
Similarly, create wall or floor dumbbell holders that act as art pieces when you’re not exercising. Mirrors are the best way to experience space when there’s a shortage of it. Plus, looking at yourself in the mirror while exercising takes your workout to a completely different level of action and perfection. Swiss balls are great for exercising and look cool just hanging around in a corner or perched up on a wall mounted hanger.
The essentials
Designing a workout space needs more than just the equipment or the mat. “More than having the fitness equipment, the place needs to be well-lit, motivating and exude a feel good message,” says Vibha Kumar a fitness freak from Delhi. It’s important that your fitness space is inviting enough for you to not leave your determination half way. Do it up with large mirrors to bring in a sense of space. Add motivating posters or determinations that keep you on track.
“Keep in mind that the space must have good ventilation. All the exercising is going to pollute the indoor air, so make sure there’s ample airing of the room,” says Sarika. The closer to the nature, the better – which could mean a window opening to a garden or a terrace facility or may be a spot in the garden that allows for yoga and meditation.
Hygiene too is an important aspect where equipment and machinery is involved. Ensure that you sanitise the equipment frequently to combat the germs arising out of sweat and human touch. Most importantly, don’t let the determination fade off.
Once you decide to dedicate a space to your health, make sure you make the best use of it.