Garage Gym Setup: Complete UK Guide
Everything you need to build a garage gym in the UK. From flooring and insulation to equipment selection and layout planning.
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Planning Your Space
Minimum setup: Power rack + barbell + bench = 2.5m x 2.5m Comfortable setup: Add cardio + storage = 4m x 4m Full garage gym: Equipment variety + walkways = 5m x 6m
Measure ceiling height carefully. Power racks need 2.2m minimum. Olympic lifts and pull-ups need more.
Flooring First
Concrete is hard on joints and equipment. Rubber flooring is essential.
[Rubber Gym Flooring Tiles](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CNG9BKM2?tag=homegymadvice-21) from £49 for a 4-pack interlock for easy installation. 20mm thickness handles dropped weights and protects the concrete.
For budget setups, horse stall mats from agricultural suppliers work well at lower cost.
Essential Equipment
Power rack: The [Mirafit M3 Power Rack](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B08B8Z6BZK?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£499) handles 400kg and includes everything needed. Bolt it to the floor or add counterweights if your landlord objects to drilling.
Barbell and plates: Start with the [York Olympic Barbell Set](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DL5J2G17?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£249). Add plates as strength increases—they hold value for resale.
Bench: The [Mirafit M3 Adjustable Bench](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B086HVK2ZY?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£159) fits properly inside most racks and handles heavy loads.
Cardio: If space and budget allow, the [Concept2 RowErg](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00NH9WEUA?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£999) folds for storage and delivers the best cardio workout available. Budget option: [JLL IC300 bike](https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0FXFCT5NL?tag=homegymadvice-21) (£179).
Climate Control
UK garages are cold in winter and sometimes hot in summer.
Heating: Portable electric heaters work for most garages. Infrared panel heaters warm you directly without heating the air, efficient for large spaces with poor insulation.
Insulation: The garage door loses most heat. Insulation kits are cheap and effective. Insulate the door before buying expensive heaters.
Cooling: Usually just open the door. A standing fan helps on still summer days.
Lighting
Most garages have a single bulb. That's not enough.
LED shop lights are cheap and bright. Mount 2-3 across the ceiling for even coverage. Cold white at 5000K or higher is better for workout spaces than warm light.
Costs Breakdown
Basic garage gym: £1,500-2,500 - Power rack: £350-500 - Barbell + plates: £250-400 - Bench: £150-300 - Flooring: £100-200 - Accessories: £100-200
Mid-range garage gym: £3,000-5,000 - Add quality cardio equipment - Better barbell and plates - Mirrors, sound system
Premium garage gym: £8,000+ - Commercial-grade everything - Multiple cardio options - Full lighting and climate control
Common Mistakes
- Buying equipment before measuring space - Forgetting ceiling height for pull-ups and overhead work - Skipping flooring (regret this fast) - Starting with machines instead of free weights - Forgetting to plan for plate storage
Products Mentioned in This Guide
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Start the QuizFrequently Asked Questions
How much does a garage gym cost UK?
Basic setup: £1,500-2,500 (rack, bar, plates, bench). Mid-range: £3,000-5,000 (add cardio, flooring). Premium: £8,000+ (commercial-grade everything).
Do I need planning permission for a garage gym UK?
No planning permission needed if you're using an existing garage. If converting another building or adding significant electrical work, check with your local council.
How do I heat a garage gym in winter?
Portable electric heaters work for most UK garages. Infrared heaters are efficient and heat you directly. Insulating the garage door makes the biggest difference.
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