Home Gym Showcase: Sebastian's 30-Square-Meter Strength Paradise
When it comes to home gym setups, having ample space can make all the difference. Sebastian's impressive 30-square-meter gym is a perfect example of how to transform a blank canvas into a fully equipped training facility that rivals commercial gyms.
The Transformation
Before creating his dream gym, Sebastian's space was in need of serious renovation. The room underwent a complete makeover, including replacing the flooring and repainting the walls with a sleek dark anthracite gray that creates the perfect backdrop for his equipment.
Flooring Solutions
Sebastian opted for Body Solid rubber mats measuring 1.5cm thick throughout the main area. He managed to purchase these at a significant discount from Athletiker's warehouse, paying only €25 per mat instead of the usual €53-54. This is a helpful tip for budget-conscious home gym builders – look for warehouse sales or direct-from-manufacturer outlets to save substantially on essentials.
The Centerpiece: Athletiker R8 Power Rack
At the heart of Sebastian's gym stands an impressive Athletiker R8 power rack. Initially planning to purchase the R5 model, he was advised by warehouse staff to invest in the more substantial R8 for longevity. The rack weighs approximately 200-240kg without attachments and costs €800, which represents excellent value considering its build quality and durability.
The rack comes equipped with numerous attachments including a landmine, leg blockers, and safety spotters. Sebastian also purchased an Olympic barbell with 100kg of weight plates for €400, and a lat pulldown attachment for €350 – all representing significant savings compared to retail prices.
Bench and Functional Trainers
Sebastian's setup includes an Athletiker bench (model B216) which he purchased second-hand for €200 instead of the €400 retail price. His collection also features a functional trainer from Athletiker that typically retails for over €1,000, which he acquired for just €500.
Machine Row
A standout piece is his Zelle cable row machine, which he purchased from Amazon with a coupon for €900 instead of €1,000. The unique design with dual guide rods provides excellent stability during exercises.
Specialized Leg Training Equipment
The leg training area includes a Flame Sport leg press with a substantial footprint (150cm depth required) that cost around €1,100 new. Sebastian also has a multi-hip machine from Athletiker for both leg extension and leg curl exercises, though he mentions contemplating an upgrade to Flame Sport's offering in the future.
Wall-Mounted Storage Solutions
One of the most impressive aspects of Sebastian's gym is his organization system. He's installed the Athletiker R8 Wall Mounted storage racks at a width of 160cm apart, which provides ample space for his equipment while maintaining accessibility.
Adjustable Dumbbells and Specialized Equipment
The gym features adjustable dumbbells from Ades that range from 2kg to 32kg, purchased during a special promotion for €320 (normally €480). Sebastian also has a specialized Flame Sport calf machine, which he finds superior to using cable attachments for calf training.
For arm training, he has dedicated Flame Sport machines for both triceps and biceps, with the triceps machine purchased for €480.
Finishing Touches
Sebastian cleverly incorporated a TV for entertainment during cardio sessions, custom grip storage solutions, and even built his own barbell storage system using roof battens and spare rack screws when wall-mounting wasn't an option.
Smart Equipment Selection
What makes Sebastian's gym particularly impressive is his thoughtful equipment selection. He mentions having tried and later sold some pieces that didn't get enough use (like a hyper-extension bench and a dedicated calf machine), demonstrating the importance of selecting equipment that aligns with your actual training habits.
The dark wall color contrasts beautifully with the equipment, especially the classic standard weight plates, creating an aesthetic that's both functional and visually appealing.
Key Takeaways
Sebastian's home gym showcases several important principles for creating an effective training space:
- Invest in quality equipment that will last, especially for foundational pieces like racks
- Look for warehouse deals and second-hand opportunities to maximize your budget
- Organize equipment with adequate spacing to ensure comfortable use
- Select machines based on your actual training preferences, not just what seems impressive
- Consider equipment versatility and space efficiency when making purchases
With thoughtful planning and smart purchasing decisions, Sebastian has created a training environment that provides everything needed for comprehensive strength training in a home setting.
