Our Home Gym Garage Makeover: From Bare Garage to Dreamy Fitness Studio
Turning our garage into a home gym was one of those ideas that got side-eye from more than a few people. “You’ll regret giving up that space,” they said. But honestly? We are so happy we did it! After months of planning, building, and DIY-ing through naps and weekends, it’s finally finished—and I couldn’t be more obsessed with how it turned out!
Why We Wanted a Home Gym
We always knew we wanted this garage space to feel different than the rest of the house. We were going for something moody, motivating, and a little vibey— almost like a studio and a total departure from the bright, neutral tones inside our home. We wanted a space that felt like its own little escape, and we love the way this space turned out!
Also, quick side note: At our wedding, a sweet older couple told us that for every anniversary, instead of gifts, they chose one home project to do together. I thought that was the cutest idea ever—and this gym became that project for us. We dreamed it up, built it out, and created something we both use together and love, especially on hectic days with busy kid schedules!
Building the Foundation
After considering all the options, we decided it would be best to hire contractors to wall in our garage. They removed the ceiling tracks that were previously there, and did thick insulation to help with those extremely hot Texas summers. We had a small portion of concrete that was already there ( designed to stop your vehicle from driving into the house, lol ) and my husband came up with the perfect idea, to extend the concrete and add hardwood on the entire section to create a “ stage”. This was the perfect spot for our treadmill, bike and stairmaster.
We knew when we built this house that one day we wanted a home gym here which is why there are windows already in the area. Not something you have to have, but the natural light is amazing in there!
We also upgraded the overhead lights to make the space brighter at night. We found an incredibly affordable option that made it SO much brighter, especially at night and for those early mornings. And then came one of my favorite parts—the wood slat accent wall. These slats were so easy to install and adds such a beautiful, elevated look. I love them so much I’m thinking about using them on a wall inside the house too!
Setting Up the Essentials
Once the space itself was in place, it was time to bring in the equipment. First up: our compact stair stepper. This little machine is mighty—perfect for getting in a quick burn while the kids nap. It’s been my go-to since gym visits aren’t always doable with little ones. We looked around for awhile, but the STEPR is what we ended up with, and I love sneaking in a Netflix show on the built-in screen when I can too, haha.
We had our hearts set on a specific infrared sauna for detoxing and recovery (as I’ve shared, I’ve had some health issues over the last year), and Home Depot had an awesome sale during Black Friday… but they oversold it. After many discussions, we decided to splurge and went with another one, and honestly? We’re so happy with it. It’s been the best treat post-workout! Plus- infrared saunas have so many benefits!
GET $200 OFF A SUNLIGHTEN SAUNA AND FREE SHIPPING WITH THIS LINK
The gym was really starting to take shape with the dark paint (Iron Ore by Sherwin-Williams), wood accents, and equipment coming in. It was finally starting to feel like the studio space we dreamed about.
Finishing Touches That Made It Feel Complete
This last phase is where the whole vibe came together. Starting with DIY lighting from Amazon that totally transformed the room—it looks like a boutique fitness studio now. And they’re perfect for early morning workouts when I don’t want those bright overhead lights on before the kids wake up! Some days, that makes the workout ahead feel more doable, haha
SHOP THE ENTIRE GYM SETUP HERE
We also finally got our hands on the dumbbell set we’d been eyeing forever (it sells out so fast!). My husband still goes to the gym for heavy lifting, but I love using the dumbbells and TV setup for my own quick workouts right here at home. I absolutely love the color and pattern of them and how they contrast from the wall color.
GET THE DUMBBELL SET & RACK HERE
A few last-minute but totally necessary details:
- We painted the breaker box to match the wall with Iron Ore by Sherwin-Williams
- Placed a narrow tree in front of the sprinkler system to hide it
- Added tall mirrors that made the space feel bigger and brighter, and reflected lights
- Organized small gear in a cabinet
- Picked up some cute workout sweat towels (because I’m always overheating!)
- We ended up getting an AC unit installed that also heats, to make workouts comfortable no matter the season. We were between a few, but this one from Amazon has great ratings and is a great price for all that it does!
Final Thoughts: No Regrets
So many people told us we’d regret turning our garage into a home gym—but honestly? No regrets. At all! This space is functional, beautiful, and makes it so easy to stay consistent with my workouts, especially on those early mornings with kids.
It’s not just a gym—it’s become a little retreat that we created together. And we use it all the time. We’ve had so many guests in awe of this little space when they’ve seen it in real life, and I’m so proud of how it turned out. If you’re dreaming about a garage gym of your own… let this be your sign to go for it!
Don’t forget to grab everything we used to create your own home gym too!
SHOP THE MAJORITY OF THE GYM SETUP HERE
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