Sheds For Home Gyms (Design Ideas & DIY Build Advice)

Building a home gym usually consists of a garage, spare bedroom, or even a basement. However, many homeowners and renters alike are moving outdoors and building their home gyms in a shed. 

With the right type of shed, you can have an impressive home gym, full of all the required equipment and plenty of room to move around. 

In this article, we will look at the best sheds to make into your own personal gym, give you advice on selecting the right workout shed, and how to get the most from your investment. 

Preview

Product Name

Exterior Dimensions

Door Opening Size

Materials

Check Price

Lifetime 60079 Outdoor Storage Dual Entry...

180 x 96 x 94.8 inches

58.3 inches

Steel reinforced High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

Suncast 8' x 10' Heavy-Duty Resin Tremont...

100.5 x 122.25 x 103 inches

60 inches

polypropylene resin, steel roof beams

Lifetime 60127 20 x 8 Ft. Outdoor Storage...

240 x 96 x 96 inches

58.3 inches

Polyethylene, Wood, Alloy Steel, High Density Polyethylene

Lifetime 60075 8 x 15 Ft. Outdoor Storage...

180 x 96 x 96 inches

58.3 inches

Wood, Alloy Steel, High Density Polyethylene

Arrow Shed WR1012 Woodridge EG Feet Steel...

145.8 x 123 x 82.1 inches

55.5 inches

Alloy Steel

Arrow Shed CHD1020-A Storboss Mountaineer...

243.75 x 123.25 x 92.5 inches

98.25 inches

Alloy Steel

Benefits Of Having A Gym Shed For Working Out

A lot of people are transitioning from traditional gym membership to home gym because of the convenience. 

Sheds are taking over the home gym space as a convenient and accessible option which offers some great benefits. You can put the workout shed in your driveway, backyard, side yard, or even your front yard. 

They offer versatility in size, shape, and height to accommodate all family members working out from home. 

You can even mount items to the floors, add shelving for storage, and add heating and cooling options into your own personal gym for year-round use. 

On top of that, they offer added security compared to using a covered patio as your own personal gym. You can close the shed and lock the doors to keep prowlers at bay. 

With modern sheds and shed kits, you can even add electricity, music, and other amenities.

The best part is that compared to other outdoor home gym options, sheds offer you protection from wind, rain, snow, and direct sunlight. 

This gives you the option to add rowers, treadmills, and other motor or belt-driven equipment to your gym space. 

Home Gym Shed Set Up

6 Best Sheds For Home Gyms Reviewed 

1. Lifetime 60079 Dual Entry Shed - Our Top Pick!

Lifetime 60079 Outdoor Storage Dual Entry...
  • Dual-Wall High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)...
  • Note that a foundation is required for the...
  • Product dimensions | Exterior – 180” W x...
  • Slip-Resistant High-Density Polyethylene...

Shed Specs

Exterior Dimensions

180 x 96 x 94.8 inches

Interior Dimensions

170.4 x 90 x 71.4 inches

Door Opening Size

58.3 inches

Materials

Steel reinforced High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE)

Lifetime is a brand that offers more in their sheds than most other brands. As a result, their durability, ruggedness, and features are above the norm for a standard shed. It is this reason that Lifetime Sheds make a good choice for your own gym. 

The Dual-entry 60079 model is our top pick for a reason. Not only do you get front and side access, but you can choose which side the door goes on. While assembly does require a few people, it can be done in a single day. 

Once fully assembled, you will find that this long gym shed offers shatterproof windows, skylights, and large doors for ease of access. The height is also good enough for standard racks, and there are even storage shelves to keep resistance bands and weights out of the way. 

Everything you need in most gyms can be placed inside with ease, and you have plenty of extra space for almost every exercise. 

The one downside here is that this large unit will require a flat, level surface and a floor installed. It is best placed on a concrete slab, but 2x4 and 4x4 joists with plywood subflooring will also work.

If you're looking to replace your gym membership with an impressive shed gym then this is the one for you. 

Pros

  • 10-year warranty 
  • Dual entry lockable doors 
  • Screened vents & shatterproof plastic windows 
  • Small and large skylights 

Cons

  • Needs a solid foundation 
  • Requires multiple people to assemble 

2. Suncast BMS8100 Tremont Shed - Best Small Option

Suncast 8' x 10' Heavy-Duty Resin Tremont...
  • OUTDOOR STORAGE: A beautiful shed to store...
  • DURABLE: Multi-walled polypropylene resin...
  • REINFORCED FLOOR: Heavy-duty floor is...
  • NATURAL LIGHT: Ideally placed series of...

Shed Specs

Exterior Dimensions

100.5 x 122.25 x 103 inches

Interior Dimensions

93 x 117 x 100.5 inches

Door Opening Size

60 inches

Materials

Polypropylene resin, steel roof beams

The Suncast Tremont shed is made for heavy equipment, including lawnmowers and tractors. With an additional flooring solution, it will have no problems acting as your backyard shed gym.

The reinforced resin walls come with windows, and the roof has skylights to help to let the natural light in. The large double doors also open to allow easy access when bringing in your equipment. You will also find a preinstalled padlock that allows you to lock up when you are done.

It does need extra ventilation, so adding a small heater in the winter and a fan to move the air will help a great deal. Check out our favorite garage gym fans and heaters to find the best solution for you.

While there isn't much room for shelving, you can add container storage in this gym shed with relative ease. It is also great for treadmills, benches, and free weight gyms.

If you have smith cages and squat racks, though, the walls aren't strong enough to have the racks mounted. You will need to create additional support beams in these cases.

With a 10-year warranty and included durable flooring, though, you already get more than most other sheds offer.

While some extra creativity may be needed for certain equipment, this is an excellent start to a growing gym solution, and a good choice of gym shed for those with a small space. 

Pros

  • 10-year warranty 
  • Includes skylights 
  • Lockable doors 
  • heavy duty flooring included 

Cons

  • May not support power rack weight 
  • Little ventilation 

3. Lifetime 60127 Outdoor Storage Shed - Top Of The Range

Lifetime 60127 20 x 8 Ft. Outdoor Storage...
  • Storage building exterior Dimensions: 240 in....
  • Customizable shelving and storage system
  • Heavy-duty Steel trusses provide additional...
  • Sturdy steel-reinforced dual-wall...

Shed Specs

Exterior Dimensions

240 x 96 x 96 inches

Interior Dimensions

234 x 90 x 70 inches

Door Opening Size

58.3 inches

Materials

Polyethylene, wood, alloy steel, high density polyethylene

Lifetime returns to our list with the top of the range gym shed model. This long shed is over 20 feet of workout space and has a high ceiling for your pull ups and jumping exercises. Because it requires a hard flat surface to install on, you don’t have to worry about the floor falling out.

You will need a concrete or solid wood slab to mount on, and if you don't have an existing option (such as a driveway), you may need to also get a permit for proper installation.

Because it is from Lifetime, you know it is durable and rugged. However, it also features a lot of creature comforts like aesthetically pleasing siding and shutters, windows, skylights and hooks, shelves, and braces.

The walls and doors are also steel-reinforced panels for added security. It will take a padlock on both doors, with the end side doors mountable on either end of the unit.

The extra-large doors and upright walking entrance allow you to move all your workout gear inside the gym shed with little effort.

You can also mount a power rack and cages to the steel beams, though some drilling and additional bolts may be required. 

Backed by a 10-year warranty, you can rest assured that your investment is protected.

Pros

  • 10-year warranty  
  • Steel reinforced walls and doors 
  • Dual entrance 
  • 20 feet long 

Cons

  • Requires concrete or wooden slab for installation 
  • Poor ventilation 

4. Lifetime 60075 - Most Popular Model 

Lifetime 60075 8 x 15 Ft. Outdoor Storage...
  • Storage building exterior Dimensions: 180 in....
  • Customizable shelving and storage system
  • Heavy-duty steel trusses provide additional...
  • Sturdy steel-reinforced dual-wall...

Shed Specs

Exterior Dimensions

180 x 96 x 96 inches

Interior Dimensions

174 x 90 x 70 inches

Door Opening Size

58.3 inches

Materials

Wood, alloy steel, high density polyethylene

The most popular gym shed model right now is the Lifetime 60075. This 8-foot shed is tall enough for most gym equipment, long enough for you to properly stretch out, and includes storage shelves for your accessories. 

When it comes to mounting and stability, the steel-reinforced panels offer you a place to rest your power rack, and you can even secure it to the floor, since you need a concrete slab for proper installation. 

While this gym shed only has a single set of doors, they open wide enough to get all of your personal gym equipment in. The downside here is the lighting. 

You will need to run electricity for a fan and additional lights as the windows don't allow a lot of light in, and the ventilation is enough for your equipment but not for you. 

We did a complete review of the best home gym lighting solutions, so the lack of light here, shouldn't be a problem if you know what to buy.

As with all Lifetime sheds, you get a 10-year warranty which more than pays for itself in time.

With the right equipment and multi-use devices, you can have a full-body workout any day of the week, year-round, at any time of day. 

Pros

  • 10-year warranty 
  • High pitch roof prevents snow or rain pooling 
  • Shelving included 
  • Steel reinforced wall panels 

Cons

  • Windows do not allow a lot of light 
  • Must be installed on concrete slab 

5. Arrow Shed WR1012 - Best Budget Option 

Arrow Shed WR1012 Woodridge EG Feet Steel...
  • Built from electrogalvanized steel for...
  • Will not wear due to insects, heat, sunlight...
  • Arrow wood grain design along with horizontal...
  • Extra tall 71" wall provides extra headroom...

Shed Specs

Exterior Dimensions

145.8 x 123 x 82.1 inches

Interior Dimensions

142 x 119 x 81 inches

Door Opening Size

55.5 inches

Materials

Alloy steel

Arrow is one of the most popular outdoor building brands in the world. They offer durable, reliable, and low maintenance sheds for any use.

The WR1012 model is 12 feet long and offers you more workout space inside than most other metal sheds.

You get a wide 55-inch opening to bring your equipment in, but you will need to add the flooring to the gym shed yourself. It is advised that the shed be placed on concrete or wood, both of which can be used so you can secure your power rack and benches to the subfloor with greater ease.

However, because this gym shed is made from steel and there are no skylights, you will need more fans or a portable air conditioner to help keep stay cool and the air moving. Don't forget to read our article detailing the best ACs for home gyms!

However, with a 12-year warranty, which is a leader in the class, you won’t have to worry about it breaking down, rusting, or being bored by insects.

With sturdy construction and a low maintenance system, cleaning and assembly are as easy as locking the doors behind you when you are done with your workout.

Pros

  • 12-year warranty 
  • Wood grain pattern looks like real wood 
  • Will not corrode or wear due to sunlight or insects 

Cons

  • No storage included 
  • May not have enough headroom for some exercises 

6. Arrow CHD1020 Storboss Mountaineer - Best Large Metal Shed

Arrow Shed CHD1020-A Storboss Mountaineer...
  • Item may ship in more than one box and may...
  • 100% HDG Steel - Hot dipped galvanized for...
  • High gable roof with reinforced low profile...
  • Available in substantial sizes, all with...

Shed Specs

Exterior Dimensions

243.75 x 123.25 x 92.5 inches

Interior Dimensions

240 x 121 x 89 inches

Door Opening Size

98.25 inches

Materials

Alloy steel

Rounding out our list is another Arrow model. The CHD1020 is the best large metal shed on the market, and a great option as a gym shed.

This all-steel shed is more durable than some garages. It features 100% hot-dipped steel that is double reinforced, enamel-coated, and all steel trusses.

The weight of snow and rain are no match for the roof strength, and you won't have to worry about fading, chipping, or corrosion for years to come.

In fact, this unit is backed by an industry-leading 15 year warranty. It is also secure, designed for farm equipment, automobiles, and lawn care items; a home gym is nothing but possible here.

You can mount this gym shed with smith cages, a power rack, and benches in any support and feel secure. However, it does require a solid slab for installation. The concrete must also be perfectly level, or assembly will be nearly impossible.

If you do not have a large enough or level slab for this gym shed, it is highly recommended you hire a professional to pour one for you. Once complete, though, the 8-foot double swing doors open to give you full access.

Pros

  • 15-year warranty 
  • Hot-Dipped galvanized steel construction 
  • Full side panel door 
  • Reinforced on all sides 

Cons

  • Difficult assembly 
  • Requires a solid, perfectly level base 

Purchase Considerations When Buying A Gym Shed 

If you don't already have a shed to convert or find your existing shed isn't going to hold up, you will need to buy a new one.

Before you head to the local home improvement store, there are a few factors worth considering. 

Shed Size

The size of the shed and how much space you need for your gym equipment may be the most important factor. Not only do you need enough floor space for you and your equipment, but you also need all the space around the machines to perform exercises and routines. 

Not only that, but the access point of the shed needs to be large enough to get your equipment inside. Racks, benches, and other equipment may be able to break down and reassemble, but some may not. 

It's important that you carefully measure how much space you need, and check the specifications to see how much space the shed offers. The requires can vary depending on your workout style and exercise routine, but don't skip this step!

Home Gym Shed In Garden

Foundation Requirements 

A strong foundation is required for a shed to hold all the equipment and handle the jumping, landing, dropped weight plates, and more. 

It is always advised to use a concrete slab to put the shed on. However, this may not always be possible. 

When it is not, adding more floor joists to shorten the joist length or additional subfloor material to add more support is the way to go. 

Shed Materials 

Sheds come in many different materials. Wood and aluminum are the most common, but you can also get plastic, tin, and sheet metal.

Most people are best with wood because it's the most sturdy and uniform and also gives you ample studs to hang shelving or mount racks onto.

Shed Layout 

How much space your shed offers will impact what will fit in your gym, but proper planning can help you optimize your gym. 

You will need to plan your layout accordingly, and taller elements (like squat stands) need to be under the higher points of the shed roof.

With proper planning, you will know where to put your shelving, storage, and hangers, as well as your equipment, weights, and barbells. Everything should have a place, and organization will ensure you get the most from your home gym. 

smaller shed with household and gym equipment

Placement 

Organizing and measuring the inside is important, but so is where you place the shed. Most people want it to be in the backyard, but you may need to place your gym shed in another location. 

This could include the head of a driveway, in the side yard, or even on the back patio. 

Wherever you decide to place the shed, make sure it is stable, on a good foundation, and easy to access. 

Design & Quality 

The design of the shed should match the décor of the outside of your home. It should also have large doors and ventilation, at a minimum.

High-quality sheds of a size large enough for a gym aren't going to be cheap, but the investment will pay for itself over time.

If you short the quality of the shed upfront to save money, you will end up spending more in the long run on repairs, replacement, or even starting over from scratch. 

Price 

Home gyms tend to be a lot cheaper in the long run compared to a commercial gym membership, but price is still going to be a major factor in choosing your shed gym.

You want a shed that is durable, rugged, and looks good. It needs to perform just as well as your gym equipment, and the price will reflect that. High-quality sheds can cost several thousand dollars. 

However, they will come with almost everything you need to get started with your new home gym right from the start.

Warranty 

Most brand name, high-quality sheds will also come with a warranty. However, you need to read the warranty carefully as "home gym" may not be under the approved wear and tear section. Additionally, using your shed outside of intended purposes can void the warranty.

There are some brands that encourage it, though. Tuffshed, for example, actually has wraps and insulation to help convert their sheds to a home gym, which will be covered in their warranties.[1]


Existing Shed Into A Workout Space - Can It Be Done?

If you already have a shed, there is a good chance you can convert it to a home gym and get rid of that commercial gym membership once and for all. 

The first thing to do is to clear out the shed of anything you already have stored inside.

You want a clean slate to take measurements and look at the space without clutter. You will want to measure the floor space and get the actual interior square footage.

However, you also want to measure ceiling height to know where you have the most headroom and extra space for tall equipment.

Once you have your measurements, you need to look closely at the gym equipment you have or plan to purchase.

Width, length, and height are all important in your gym shed, of course, but don't forget to add the extra room around the equipment for access and movement while lifting.

The most important factors for existing sheds to have are:

  • Solid Foundation 
    You need sure footing, no wobble, and sturdy floors to hold the weight and abuse a gym floor takes.
  • Height
    Racks or an exercise bike may fit well inside the shed, but if you can sit on the exercise bike comfortably or perform a pull up without banging your head, it won’t work well.
  • Lights & Mirrors
    Many sheds don't have windows or skylights. Therefore, you will need to add electrical lighting and at least one full-length mirror to the space. We've got you covered with the best home gym mirrors!
  • Storage
    Keeping your equipment and accessories well organized is a must. Pegs, hooks, and shelving need to be accounted for as well as measured and planned for positioning.

If your current shed fits the bill, you can get to work right away. It is suggested to pay the most attention to the flooring, adding a concrete slab or additional subfloor material for added support.


Creative Ideas For Converting Your Shed Into A Home Gym 

After you clear out your shed, you want to clean it thoroughly. Make sure the flooring and walls are in good repair and that the roof doesn't leak. 

If you are going to add subfloor support, extra floor joists, or insulation and drywall, now is the time. Once that is done (or skipped), you should add your storage. With a proper plan, you should have an idea of where everything will go. 

Adding larger doors or extra windows will allow for more natural light, which can help if you haven't been able to add electricity to the shed yet. 

Then, all that is left to do is bring in your equipment, mount the racks and cages as needed and put everything together.

home gym in relaxing outdoor shed

Common Home Gym Shed FAQs

What type of equipment can be put in a home gym shed? 

For the most part, you want to stick to the basics. Weight racks, benches, and cardio equipment are the most common.

When it comes to apparatuses and devices, you will want compact, foldable, or multi-use functionality to get the most out of your space. 

Do you need a permit to build a shed? 

You may need the approval of your home owner’s association, and the city code or inspectors may need to take a look.

However, in most areas and cities, a permit for a shed is not required. If, though, you pour a foundation, attach it to the home, or otherwise make it permanent, then you might need a permit. Contacting the building inspection department of your local city hall will confirm for you. 

Is it cheaper to build a shed from raw materials or buy a shed? 

A lot will depend on the build materials, size, and location of the shed. In most cases, a pre-built and professionally assembled shed will be cheaper than buying the raw materials and building the shed yourself.

However, there are some cases when you may save a lot of money by building it yourself, especially if you are making a shed outside the size range of a typical backyard shed. 

Are plastic, metal, or wood sheds better? 

For home gyms spaces, wood sheds tend to be the optimal choice. You can add shelving, insulation, and drywall to a wood shed that plastic sheds can't handle.

Metal sheds are sturdy and durable but offer less climate protection, forcing you to come up with alternative means of heating and cooling, whereas a wooden shed has natural temperature control.[2]


Conclusion

Having a home gym can save you time, money, and frustration compared to having a commercial gym membership. Where your home gym is located, though, can also make a huge difference.

If you don’t have a garage, basement, or spare room to convert to a gym, you may be able to make use of your backyard.

A shed home gym can be assembled or constructed in a weekend and give you the freedom to work out whenever you feel the urge.

References:

1. https://www.tuffshed.com/one-tuff-home-gym/

2. https://plasticinehouse.com/plastic-vs-wood-vs-metal-sheds/

Last Updated on December 17, 2022

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Andrew White

Andrew White is the co-founder of Garage Gym Pro. As an expert fitness professional (gym building nerd) with over 10 years of industry experience, he enjoys writing about everything there is to do with modern fitness & the newest market innovations for garage gyms. When he isn’t testing out products for his readers, he’s usually out surfing or playing basketball.