Motivated by my squishy belly, I started thinking long and hard about creating a home gym.
I know it isn’t just about collecting equipment but designing a space that motivates me to move and keeps the clutter out of sight.
I have a landing space upstairs that could work. It’s not a huge space, but the right setup can make all the difference.
So let’s start cracking on how IKEA can help assemble a workout zone that looks good, functions well, and blends right in with the rest of my home. Think storage that hides away resistance bands and foam rollers, hooks for your yoga mats, and shelving that doubles as décor.
In this post, we’ll explore IKEA ideas to create a home gym that’s organized, practical.
6 Things Every Home Gym Needs
1. Smart Storage Solutions
Before you start shopping for storage, take inventory of your equipment. Do you have bulky items like kettlebells and balance balls? Long equipment like yoga mats and resistance bands? Or smaller accessories like jump ropes and workout gloves? Understanding what you need to store will determine the type of storage solution that works best for your space.
The key is creating a system that keeps everything accessible while maintaining a clean, organized look.
Take inspiration from the sleek setup above that houses loose items in one streamlined storage area. While this particular example features custom built-ins, you can easily achieve the same effect using IKEA modular systems like the SEKTION/ METOD kitchen units or the PLATSA range.
If you have less equipment, the KALLAX is a good choice. The X divider insert is a great idea for sorting weights. The KALLAX doubles up as a bench, too.
2. Mirrors for Form and Function
Proper form is everything in fitness, and mirrors are essential for checking your technique and preventing injury. While gym-quality mirrors can be expensive, there are creative ways to achieve the same effect on a budget.
Think Beyond One Large Mirror
You don’t need to invest in a single expensive mirror when multiple smaller ones can create the same visual impact. Take inspiration from Diane of In My Own Style, who created a functional mirror wall using a series of mirrors arranged in a grid pattern. While she used Target mirrors, you can try the same trick with the IKEA MINDE mirror or the BLODLÖNN mirror
Before buying new, consider what’s already in your home. That old wardrobe with mirrored doors? Don’t donate it—repurpose it! The mirrored panels from furniture like the IKEA PAX Vikedal wardrobe can be given new life as workout mirrors. See how to hack it here.
3. A Versatile Bench
A sturdy bench is one of the most versatile pieces of equipment in any home gym. Beyond supporting exercises like chest presses, step-ups, and tricep dips, it provides a convenient spot to rest between sets or change shoes before your workout.
DIY or Buy Ready-Made?
If you’re handy with tools, consider building your own like Corey of Sawdust 2 Stitches, who created this industrial-style bench using wood and pipes. A DIY approach lets you customize the height and length to perfectly fit your space and workout needs.
The IKEA Solution: SKOGSTA Bench
For those who prefer a ready-made option, the IKEA SKOGSTA bench hits the sweet spot of style and functionality. The SKOGSTA checks all the boxes while adding a warm, natural wood element that doesn’t scream “gym equipment” in your living space. This solid acacia wood bench brings several advantages to your home gym:
- Rock-solid stability: The flared legs provide excellent support during workouts
- Built-in storage: The lower shelf keeps dumbbells, resistance bands, or gym shoes organized and within reach
- Multi-purpose design: Doubles as seating or even a coffee table when not in use for workouts
4. Smart Hanging Organization
Nothing kills workout motivation faster than untangling a knotted mess of resistance bands or jump ropes. Create a dedicated hanging spot for all your long and dangly equipment, such as resistance bands, jump ropes, suspension trainers, and even headphone cables.
Tony from A Bowl Full of Lemons nailed this concept with a simple rail system that keeps everything visible and accessible. While he used a Target rail, IKEA offers equally effective solutions.
IKEA Options That Work
- HULTARP rail with hooks: Perfect for hanging up long dangly ropes in your workout space
- IKEA HÖVOLM wall rack: Solid oak rack with knobs to hold up jump ropes and bands
- SKOMAKARE coat rack with hooks: A wall-mounted option that comes with hooks and a shelf.
5. Tracking center
“What gets measured gets improved,” and your home gym needs a dedicated spot for tracking workouts. I know there are FitBits and wearables, but there’s something satisfying about the old-school approach of writing things down and physically checking them off.
Melissa of Polished Habitat created the perfect solution with wall-mounted clipboards. This system lets you easily swap out different workout routines and track your progress in real-time. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of checking off that final set!
Alternative: IKEA SKÅDIS Pegboard System
If clipboards aren’t your style, the SKÅDIS pegboard offers incredible flexibility. With its range of accessories, you can create a command center that holds workout plans, tracks goals, and even displays motivational quotes.
6. Audio-Visual Setup
Great music can transform a mediocre workout into an epic training session. Whether you’re streaming pump-up playlists or following along with video workouts, you need a designated spot for your devices.
Keep It Simple: A strategically placed shelf does double duty—holding your phone, tablet, or speaker while providing storage for other essentials like your yoga mat or water bottle.
IKEA Solution: The PERSHULT brackets paired with a simple shelf create the perfect perch for your devices. Mount it at eye level for video workouts, or at any height that keeps your music source safely out of the way during floor exercises.
What IKEA pieces have you incorporated into your home gym setup? Share your creative solutions and hacks in the comments below. We’d love to see how you’ve transformed everyday furniture into fitness essentials.