You might have been thinking about having a home gym for a time now, but don’t know where to locate it. If so, a balcony gym can be an excellent solution to this struggle. You don’t need to give up indoor spaces this way, and your balcony will become a functional area. And, it certainly is a better alternative to your dark and dungeon-like basement. Stay with us to discover the feasibility, advantages, disadvantages, and best ways for involving a gym on your balcony.
Can I build a home gym on my balcony?
The simple answer is yes. But you always need to consider the specific conditions of your balcony. Most of the time, it does not require extensive reconstructions. Still, depending on your balcony gym desires, the scope of your workouts, or the size of the balcony may require you to make some adjustments.
Size matters
In terms of size requirements for a balcony gym, bigger is better. Even if you are not placing any large equipment, you need to have enough space to move freely.
You should have a minimum of 6′ x 6′ balcony (for those below 6′ height or 182 cm). But, the minimum recommended size is 6’6 x 6’6 (approximately 2m x 2m) for freer movement. If the balcony’s width is smaller than your height, it is not suitable for you to work out.
If you have a larger balcony, it is better, and you may think about making a setup with larger equipment.
Open or closed?
Whether your balcony is open or enclosed can affect the balcony gym setup.
An open balcony is fantastic in good weather; you can work out as if you are outdoors. But it will be useless in rainy or cold weather. Also, you need to think about equipment protection. Therefore, you might want to go for easily moveable types of equipment so that you can take them indoors in bad weather.
Suppose your balcony is enclosed, or you are doing an enclosing project. In that case, it means that you have more options for a balcony gym setting: You can get a big multifunctional bench or an elliptical trainer.
Weight-bearing check
Balconies may not be the most suitable areas for weight training. The deck may not be healthy enough to handle heavy weight lifting equipment. So, if you don’t know the structural condition of your balcony, it might be risky to install these. To stay in the safe zone, prefer light equipment, and try to spread them around instead of stacking them in one corner.
Patios and porches are safe to keep heavy workout equipment.
Advantages of a balcony gym
Balcony gym has many advantages, material and immaterial!
No waste of time
Sometimes it is hard to get motivated to leave home and hit the gym. A balcony gym removes this obstacle from your way to a healthy life. It is always ready and at arm’s length, so no more cheap excuses!
Fresh air
Training outdoors helps you get fresh air with more oxygen during your session. This allows you to elevate your mood and makes you more energized. Even if you have an enclosed balcony, you may want to open the windows during your workout!
Mentally stimulating
Breathing fresh air and getting sunlight can help boost your mental stimulation and get you more motivated.
An alternative to outdoors
You may like to work out outdoors, but a balcony can be an alternative place when it is not possible due to your location (maybe you live in a dense city center).
Socially distant
Even though the Covid-19 restrictions are partially revoked, you may want to stay away from crowded environments to play it safe. A balcony gym can be as beneficial as a regular fitness center but with a reduced risk of getting infected.
Disadvantages of a balcony gym
Before setting out for a balcony gym, you may want to consider some disadvantages to evaluate your options.
Equipment protection
Open balconies offer almost no protection to the gym equipment. Your equipment will be uncovered and unprotected from rain, wind, and sunlight. Waterproof covers are practical for protecting the equipment when unused.
Privacy
Balconies are semi-private spaces. So, if you are shy to work out in front of others or just want to keep your privacy, a balcony gym is not the right choice for you.
Weather conditions
Unfortunately, a balcony gym may not be available all the time. It is hard to work out in an unprotected area during wet seasons and hot summers. But of course, if the balcony is enclosed or you live in a warm climate, it is possible to benefit from the balcony all year long.
Best Balcony Gym Workouts
Although a balcony gym may not be suitable for any kind of workout, some would fit this space the best.
Yoga
Aims at creating awareness and harmony in mind and body; yoga can be done anywhere. Even the tiny balconies can be turned into a yoga practice area by putting on a yoga mat. Make sure you have enough space to open your arms and legs as wide as you can!
Barre
Barre is a form of fitness activity that is distinguished from other types with its use of ballet barre and inclusion of some ballet movements. The ballet barre can easily be mounted on the balcony wall, and now you have an open-air ballet studio.
Strength training with Free Weights
Strength training is one of the most popular physical exercise types. You can place a couple of free weights and a bench to create your own training station in your balcony gym.
