Why zones need different floors
A gym used to be a place to lift weights and run on a treadmill. Now members also want functional training, group classes and sometimes combat sports. Different training methods need different layouts and equipment. They also need different flooring for safety and durability. Use the flooring itself to divide the space into zones.
A zone-by-zone flooring map
| Zone | Flooring to consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Strength and powerlifting | High-impact rubber | Lets strength athletes train safely |
| CrossFit and performance | High-traction flooring | Safe footing for running and jumping |
| Cardio and stretching | 8mm rubber | The thickness our Quick Ship guide uses for these areas in a mixed layout |
| Dumbbell area | 1″+ rubber gym tiles | Replace a worn tile without removing the whole floor |
| Sled lanes and stretching | Gym turf rolls | A soft, natural grass feel; turf handles sled pushing and pulling |
| Martial arts | Martial arts mats | An added layer of cushioning |
Mixing thicknesses in one building
One building can use several rubber thicknesses. Our Quick Ship guide describes a college recreation center or corporate gym layout. It puts 1/2″ rubber under the Olympic platforms, 3/8″ across the free-weight zone, and 8mm in the cardio and stretching areas. Quick Ship holds these Pre-Cut thicknesses in the same regional warehouse network, so the zones can ship together.
Most gyms also mix rubber and turf to give a different feel for different exercises. Our most popular commercial thicknesses are 3/8″ for rubber and 3/4″ for gym turf.
Share your floor plan. We can quote the flooring for every zone in one order.
Match the format to the zone size
Rubber rolls are the best choice for large areas. Mats suit a small, dedicated lifting area when the whole room does not need high-impact flooring. Turf tiles fit small or odd-shaped areas. They cost more than turf rolls, so gyms often use them for dedicated areas. Rubber tiles also suit a smaller zone. They lock together like puzzle pieces, but they take a long time to install in large spaces.
Leave room to move
- Equipment: put in only the essential equipment for each activity.
- Key stations: have two of the main stations, such as two squat racks, but not at the cost of space.
- Open floor: leave space for walking, running, jumping and weighted carries.
- Contrast: pair dark gym mats with bright equipment and furnishings to make the space feel larger.
- Group classes: members like guided group training. Plan a zone for classes.