Ready to create the ultimate gym right in the comfort of your home? Look no further because we’ve done the research and found the best home gym flooring around!
Whether you’re squatting like a champ, doing jumping jacks like a jazzed-up jackrabbit, or busting out some yoga poses that would impress even the calmest Zen master, these gym flooring options will be your trusty sidekick. Get ready to unleash your inner superhero (cape not included) as we dive in.
Contents
Overall Best Home Gym Flooring
When it comes to the best home gym flooring, one product stands out above the rest – the American Floor Mats ½” rolls. These gym flooring rolls offer exceptional quality, durability, and versatility, making them the top choice for fitness enthusiasts. Let’s delve into why they are considered the best:
| Features | Description |
|---|---|
| High-Quality Materials | Very durable rubber material with excellent shock absorption for intense workouts. |
| Ideal Thickness | ½ inch thickness balances cushioning, protection, noise damping, and impact resistance. |
| Versatility | Suitable for weightlifting, cardio, HIIT, yoga, and various exercises. Resilient and shock-absorbing. |
| Easy to Install | Convenient sizes for hassle-free setup. Can be cut to fit your space. |
| Price | Offers good value for money with a balance of features. |
| Aesthetics | Attractive gym flooring that complements your home gym’s look. |
| Durability | Resistant to wear, tear, and impact. Comes with a 5-year warranty. |
| Easy Maintenance | Non-porous surface resists moisture and stains, making cleaning effortless. |
- High-Quality Materials: The American Floor Mats ½” rolls are constructed from a very high-quality rubber material, specifically designed to withstand the rigors of home gym environments. The dense rubber composition provides excellent shock absorption, reducing the impact on your joints during intense workouts.
- Ideal Thickness: With a thickness of ½ inch, these gym flooring rolls strike the perfect balance between cushioning, protection, noise damping, and impact resistance. The ample cushioning protects your flooring and equipment from damage caused by dropped weights, while still offering a firm and supportive surface for various exercises.
- Versatility: Whether you’re into weightlifting, cardio workouts, HIIT, or yoga, these gym flooring rolls have got you covered. Their resilient nature and shock-absorbing capabilities make them suitable for a wide range of exercises and fitness activities.
- Easy to Install: The rolls come in convenient sizes that are easy to handle and install, ensuring a hassle-free setup process for your home gym. You can cut them to fit your specific space and layout, creating a custom fit for a professional look.
- Price: This is not the cheapest gym flooring you can find but this combination of features is hard to find in other flooring options. It’s also not the most expensive so you’re getting a lot of value for money. Read more on what you can expect to pay for different types of gym flooring in this article.
- Aesthetics: While it’s not the most important factor, good-looking flooring does pull the look of your home gym together and this one does look good.
- Durability: The American Floor Mats ½” rolls are built to last. They are resistant to wear, tear, and impact, ensuring your home gym remains in top-notch condition for years to come. While rubber costs a bit more than other materials, it also lasts longer. You get a 5-year warranty on these mats.
- Easy Maintenance: Cleaning and maintaining these gym flooring rolls is a breeze. The non-porous surface resists moisture and stains, making it effortless to wipe away sweat or spills, keeping your gym space clean and hygienic.
Whether you’re a seasoned fitness enthusiast or just starting on your fitness journey, the American Floor Mats ½” rolls provide the perfect foundation for your home gym. Their superior quality, versatility, and durability make them the overall best choice for gym flooring.
For the vast majority of home gym activities, this is a great floor. From weightlifting to bodybuilding and heavy equipment, this floor can handle it. At the same time, it’s not overly thick and expensive which means this is the sweet spot for most people.
This is the best overall home gym flooring, we’ve got a few other recommendations for specific situations below.
How We Selected The Best Gym Flooring
- Extensive Research: Our team of fitness experts and researchers conducted thorough research to identify the most popular and highly rated gym flooring products on the market. We analyzed customer reviews, expert opinions, and product specifications to narrow down the list.
- Material and Shape:
- Quality and Durability: Gym flooring should be able to withstand the demands of rigorous workouts. We evaluated the quality and durability of each product to ensure it could handle the impact of exercise equipment and heavyweights without wearing out quickly.
- Versatility: A good gym flooring should accommodate various exercise styles and fitness activities. We selected flooring options that are versatile enough to support weightlifting, cardio, HIIT, yoga, and other popular workout routines.
- Ease of Maintenance: Keeping your gym space clean is essential for hygiene and aesthetics. We looked for gym flooring that is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a long-lasting and visually appealing flooring solution.
Best Gym Flooring Options 2023
Best Gym Flooring For Light Activities: Rubber-cal 3/16” Rolls
If you need flooring but it isn’t going to be used for very heavy lifting or equipment, you don’t need 1/2″ thick rubber. This 3/16″ rubber is going to be enough for things like; Yoga, Pilates, Bodyweight exercises, resistance band workouts and things like that.
3/16″ rubber is still going to give you a grippy, easy-to-clean surface that protects the flooring underneath from light impacts, foot traffic, and sweat. There is no downside to going bigger except it’s more expensive so if you don’t need the impact resistance of 1/2″ thick rubber, this is a good way to save some money.
These Rubber-cal rolls are very hard-wearing and look great so they will make your home gym look tidy.
Pros:
- Lightweight and Versatile: Rubber-cal 3/16” rolls are perfect for home gyms with light activities, such as yoga, Pilates, and bodyweight exercises. Their lightweight design allows for easy portability (when not taped/glued) and quick installation.
- Comfortable and Slip-Resistant: The rubber material offers a bit of cushioning for low-impact exercises, ensuring a comfortable workout experience. Additionally, its non-slip surface provides excellent traction and stability during movements.
- Affordable: This is a cheaper option compared to the thicker rubber mats
- Durable: While not as thick, when not used to place heavy equipment and drop heavy weights on, these rolls will still last a very long time.
- Easy to clean: Rubber is naturally water resistant and these rolls are available in long lengths which means minimal seams where liquid can leak through.
Cons:
- Not Suitable for Heavy Weights and Equipment: Due to its thinner profile, this gym flooring may not be ideal for heavy weightlifting or high-impact exercises, as it lacks the necessary shock absorption.
- Odor: These mats can emit a light rubber odor in the beginning although this does wear of pretty quickly.
Best For Noise Damping: American Floor Mats ¾” Horse Mats
Are your neighbors or family members getting fed up by workout noises? You need gym flooring that dampens as much noise as possible. These 3/4″ thick stall mats are a solution for larger surfaces.
They don’t look as good as ‘proper’ gym flooring but rubber gym flooring is hard to find in this thickness. And the thickness is what reduces the noise transmission to other spaces. You can find an article comparing gym flooring and stall mats here.
A big benefit of these specific stall mats is that they’re available in large 4′ x 10′ pieces which is much larger than the common 3’x4′ and 4’6′ mats. That means a cleaner look and fewer seams.
Pros:
- Superior Noise Reduction: If you live in an apartment or share a living space, noise reduction is crucial. The American Floor Mats ¾” Horse Mats are designed to dampen noise and vibrations, creating a quieter workout environment.
- Heavy-Duty and Durable: These mats are crafted from high-quality rubber, providing exceptional durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Cons:
- Less Portable: The thickness and weight of the mats may make them less portable than thinner gym flooring options. These things are HEAVY!
- Difficult to install: The weight and thickness also mean they’re difficult to move in place and cut to size. But once it’s done, they’ll be there for the next few decades.
- Price: These mats are not cheap. You’re paying for a lot of material and the shipping is also not cheap with mats of this size and weight.
Best Interlocking Gym Tiles: Yes4All Rubber Tiles
Tiles are easier to install and move around. Often they seem cheaper than rubber rolls but that’s because they’re made of less durable materials (foam). That’s not the case with these tiles. They’re made from 100% rubber which means you get most of the benefits of rubber rolls but easier. However, that doesn’t mean they’re cheaper.
But since they’re made from rubber, they can handle heavy equipment and impacts, unlike foam tiles. These will last much longer than foam tiles. Read more about the different types of tiles and their pros and cons in this article.
These tiles are 3/8″ thick which isn’t the thickest but enough for light to medium weightlifting (up to about 300 lbs.) and equipment.
Pros:
- Durable and impact resistant: Unlike foam tiles, these rubber tiles are durable like rubber rolls.
- Easy to Install and Customize: The interlocking design allows for straightforward installation and customization, making it easy to cover your entire gym space.
Cons:
- Price: When comparing rubber mats of the same thickness, they are actually a little bit cheaper per square foot. So if you don’t really need the convenience of tiles, rolls are a more economical choice.
- Seams: Tiles mean you have more seams. These seams can let liquid and dirt through. The interlocking parts are the most vulnerable and can tear in some situations.
- Not for Heavy Use: The 3/8″ thickness is good for light to medium duty but not heavy duty. A treadmill, rack with dumbbells, and lifting up to about 300 lbs. is OK, for heavier equipment and lifting you need thicker rubber.
Best Deadlifting Flooring: GenaFlex Heavy Duty Tiles
You need something really heavy-duty to dampen your deadlifts or maybe to place in your weightlifting platform. These GenaFlex Tiles are 1″ of impact-resistant rubber. These things are the best when it comes to reducing noise and dampening the impact of dropping heavy weights.
You probably don’t want to cover the whole floor in these tiles since it’s really only necessary where the weights hit the floor. It’s better to use normal gym flooring in the whole space and then place some tiles where and when needed. You could even double or triple up to change the starting height of your deadlift.
Pros:
- Exceptional Shock Absorption: GenaFlex Heavy Duty Tiles are designed with high-impact exercises in mind, making them ideal for deadlifts and other heavy lifting routines. The thick rubber construction effectively absorbs shock and prevents damage to the floor and equipment.
- Portable: Just lay them down when and where needed and easily move them out of the way after.
- Laminated: The top part is smoother, nice looking, easy-to-clean rubber while the bottom is rougher rubber better for absorbing impact.
Cons:
- Higher Price Point: The quality and durability of these tiles come at a higher cost, making them a significant investment for deadlifting enthusiasts. But, as said, you don’t need to cover the whole gym in these. Four or six tiles are enough.
Best Cheap Home Gym Flooring: BalanceFrom Foam Tiles
You need something quick to cover your gym floor. Ok, here’s the deal: Foam tiles are cheap as chips but they don’t last long with equipment and heavy lifting. For very light duty they work but they will deteriorate much faster than rubber mats or tiles.
That said, if you’re on a budget, foam tiles are better than nothing. The BalanceFrom foam tiles are the best choice in this category. They are available in different thicknesses and the 1/2″ version will cost you less than a dollar per square foot. However, 3/4″ is a better choice, they’re a bit more durable.
Pros:
- Affordable and Budget-Friendly: BalanceFrom Foam Tiles offer a cost-effective gym flooring solution without compromising on comfort and support. They are a great option for those starting with a limited budget.
- Versatile and Easy to Clean: These foam tiles are easy to clean and maintain, making them suitable for various exercise styles and fitness activities.
Cons:
- Not Ideal for Heavy Equipment or Weightlifting: Due to their foam composition, these tiles may not provide the necessary stability for heavy exercise equipment.
- Water and Sweat Can Seep In/Through: These tiles use high-density foam but they’re still not as waterproof as rubber. You can clean them with a damp cloth but leaving a puddle of sweat on this type of floor will make it nasty quickly.
What To Look For When Buying Home Gym Floor Mats
You might be a bit lost as to what you need exactly. Here you can find the most important factors you should take into account when shopping for workout flooring.
If you need a more in-depth guide on selecting the right gym floor, here is a gym flooring buying guide.
Material:
Our team of fitness experts and researchers conducted extensive research to identify gym flooring products made from high-quality materials. We focused on materials like rubber, foam, vinyl, and cork, which are known for their durability, shock absorption, and versatility. Understanding the different materials helped us assess their suitability for various workout styles.
Thickness:
The thickness of gym flooring plays a crucial role in providing adequate support and protection. We considered the optimal thickness for each material based on its intended use. Thicker gym flooring, such as 8mm or more for rubber and 10mm or more for foam, was favored for weightlifting and high-impact exercises. Thinner options, like 6mm for rubber and 10mm for foam, were considered for yoga and low-impact activities.
Value for Money:
At Home Gym Resource, we understand the importance of budget-conscious decisions. While evaluating gym flooring options, we considered their value for money in terms of durability, performance, and longevity. Investing in high-quality gym flooring may come with a higher initial cost, but it often proves to be a cost-effective choice in the long run due to its extended lifespan.
Purpose:
Different home gyms cater to diverse fitness goals and exercise styles. We handpicked gym flooring that suits specific purposes, such as weightlifting, cardio workouts, yoga, and general fitness. Gym flooring with excellent shock absorption and stability was recommended for intense exercises, while more cushioned options were suggested for comfort during bodyweight exercises and yoga.
Shape:
Gym flooring comes in various shapes, such as rolls, tiles, and interlocking pieces. We considered the ease of installation and customization each shape offers. Roll and tile options allow for seamless coverage while interlocking pieces allow users to create a custom layout tailored to their gym space.
Ease of Maintenance:
Keeping your gym space clean is essential for hygiene and aesthetics. We looked for gym flooring that is easy to clean and maintain, ensuring a long-lasting and visually appealing flooring solution. Non-porous materials like rubber and vinyl, which resist moisture and stains, were preferred for hassle-free cleaning.
By meticulously analyzing these factors, we narrowed down our selection to the best gym flooring options available on the market. Our goal is to assist you in creating the perfect home gym environment that supports your fitness journey, enhances performance, and maximizes safety.
What’s The Best Gym Flooring Material?
Rubber is widely regarded as the best gym flooring material for several compelling reasons. Its unique properties make it a top choice for home gym owners looking to create a safe, durable, and high-performance workout space. Here are the key reasons why rubber stands out as the best gym flooring material:
- Exceptional Shock Absorption: One of the primary advantages of rubber gym flooring is its outstanding shock absorption capabilities. It effectively absorbs the impact of heavy weights and exercise equipment, reducing stress on your joints and minimizing the risk of injuries during high-impact exercises. This makes rubber flooring ideal for weightlifting and intense workouts.
- Unmatched Durability: Rubber is renowned for its durability and resilience, making it a long-lasting flooring solution for home gyms. It can withstand the constant wear and tear caused by equipment, weights, and continuous foot traffic, maintaining its integrity for many years without showing signs of deterioration.
- Noise Reduction: A noisy workout space can be distracting and bothersome, especially in shared living spaces. Rubber gym flooring’s natural noise-dampening properties create a quieter environment, preventing excessive noise and vibrations during workouts. This ensures a more peaceful and enjoyable workout experience for both you and your neighbors.
- Versatility: Rubber gym flooring is incredibly versatile and can accommodate a wide range of exercises and fitness activities. Whether you’re lifting weights, performing cardio workouts, doing high-intensity interval training (HIIT), or practicing yoga, rubber flooring provides the necessary support and stability for all types of exercises.
- Easy Maintenance: Keeping your home gym clean is essential for hygiene and aesthetics. Rubber gym flooring is easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to remove dirt, sweat, and spills. Its non-porous surface resists moisture and stains, allowing for hassle-free cleaning and ensuring a visually appealing gym space.
- Eco-Friendly Options: For environmentally-conscious individuals, there are eco-friendly rubber gym flooring options available. Recycled rubber flooring, made from reclaimed materials, offers all the benefits of traditional rubber flooring while contributing to sustainability efforts.
Need more information about home gym flooring? Start here.
FAQ
How Thick Should Gym Flooring Be?
The ideal thickness of gym flooring depends on the type of exercise and type of flooring used in your gym space. Here are some general guidelines:
For light to medium weightlifting areas and strength training zones: Opt for thicker flooring with a minimum thickness of at least 3/8. This helps protect the subfloor from heavy impacts and dropped weights.
For Heavy Weightlifting: Use rubber that’s at least 1/2″ thick in order to protect the subfloor, reduce impact noise and get a durable floor.
For general fitness and cardio zones: A medium thickness of 6mm to 8mm (3/16″) should suffice. It provides adequate cushioning and support for aerobic exercises and moderate impact activities.
For yoga, Pilates, and bodyweight exercises: Thinner flooring between 3mm to 6mm can offer sufficient comfort and support while maintaining stability for these low-impact activities.
Can you Lay Gym Flooring over Carpet?
Yes, it is possible to lay gym flooring over carpet, but there are some considerations. Rolls work better than interlocking tiles over carpet since this prevents the soft carpet from creating uneven seams.
Additionally, the thickness of the gym flooring plays a crucial role; thicker options tend to perform better on carpeted areas.
Can you Lay Gym Flooring over Concrete?
Absolutely! Gym flooring is designed to be versatile and can be installed over concrete surfaces without problems. In fact, it is one of the most common subfloors for gym spaces.
The gym flooring provides cushioning and protection, making your workouts more comfortable and helping to protect the equipment on top. Just ensure the concrete surface is clean, dry, and level before laying the gym flooring on top.
Does Gym Flooring Add Grip?
Yes, gym flooring generally adds grip and traction, which is essential for various exercises and activities. The surface texture of gym flooring materials like rubber, foam, or vinyl offers a certain level of grip to prevent slips and provide stability during workouts as well as prevent equipment from moving around.
Rubber is usually the best in providing grip for both humans and equipment.
Is Gym Flooring Waterproof?
Gym flooring is typically water-resistant rather than completely waterproof. Most gym flooring materials like rubber and foam are naturally resistant to moisture and spills, making them suitable for areas where sweating or spills can occur.
Just be careful around the seams, liquid can easily leak through those.
