Creating a home workout space doesn’t have to be expensive, aesthetically perfect, or take up half your living room. After more than five years of teaching online classes, we’ve seen every setup (tiny apartments, shared spaces, mats squeezed between pets and furniture) and guess what? They all work.
Here’s what we’ve learned from hundreds of virtual clients about building a home workout space that supports consistency, joy, and ease.
1. create a dedicated area
(even a tiny one)

Having a specific spot for your workouts makes a huge difference in sticking to your routine. It doesn’t need to be fancy, just somewhere you can roll out your mat and return to again and again.
If space is limited, a simple rolling workout cart is a game-changer. It keeps your weights, bands, and mat organized, and lets you wheel everything out of the way when you’re done. No more digging through closets or tripping over dumbbells under the bed.
2. you need way less space than you think

Seriously — if you have enough room to roll out a yoga mat, you’re golden.
Most of our online classes and training sessions are designed with small spaces in mind. That means no sprawling, gym-floor routines or choreography that requires a runway. Just you, your mat, and a few pieces of equipment.
3. start small with equipment

You don’t need a full home gym to get strong. If you’re new to strength training, one small set of dumbbells is enough to begin.
Here’s what we recommend:
- 3–8 lb dumbbells if you’re brand-new
- 8–15 lb dumbbells if you’ve been active for a while
Starting with two dumbbells of each weight gives you tons of options without overwhelming your space or your budget.
Remember: the goal is consistency, not collection.
4. bands are your best friend

Resistance bands are compact, affordable, and incredibly versatile. A small set can replace dozens of big machines you’d find at a gym.
Pick up:
- Straight bands (also called long or TheraBands)
- Looped bands (great for glutes, hips, and mobility)
They’re perfect for adding challenge without adding clutter — and they store easily in your cart, drawer, or even a basket beside your couch.
5. build as you go, not all at once

Once you’ve settled into a routine and know what you enjoy, you can slowly add more equipment. Some clients love incorporating kettlebells, a small step, or a stability ball — others stick to dumbbells and bands forever.
There’s no “right” setup. There’s just what works for you.
what’s the bottom line?
With a bit of intention (and maybe one cute storage cart), you can create a functional, welcoming workout space in any home — no renovation, no stress, no pressure.
We hope these tips help you feel empowered to start building a space that supports joyful, accessible movement.
Ready to use your new setup?
Join our virtual classes or dive into our on-demand library and start moving with us today. Your mat is waiting.
Jenna Doak
November 14, 2025
