If you've been promising yourself that you'll make it out to the local fitness club, but are constantly deterred by shifting work schedules, rainy days and a general lack of motivation, then building an exercise room (above design by Stanislav) in your home could be the solution you've been looking for. Not only is this a great way to make hitting the gym more convenient, but you won't have to deal with annoying wait times or equipment left sweaty by inconsiderate club members. If you have the room in your humble abode, here are some design tips to get your exercise room started.

Room with a view
Let's face it – pumping iron and running on the treadmill aren't exactly the most engaging or enjoyable activities on their own, so it helps to have a source of distraction and comfort to get you through your workout routine. Because of this, you might want to consider building some large floor-to-ceiling windows into your home gym so you can make the view outside part of your decor. For those rainy days when there's not much to see outdoors, a flat screen TV in the corner can provide a much-needed diversion from your sweating and grunting.

Self reflection
When you're getting used to a new fitness regimen, much of your success lies in observing your workout so you can tell if you're practicing proper form or not. In order to do this, it helps to have several full-length or oversized mirrors set against the walls so you don't fall off track. In addition to this function, extra large contemporary mirrors can also boost the aesthetic of your gym by making the room feel more open and spacious.

Plantlife
When you're working up a sweat, you'll feel far more willing to go on if the environment around you is comfortable. While there isn't a ton of room for decorative accents in a home gym, placing a few potted plants around the space can help you feel relaxed and at peace. In addition to providing a soothing visual effect, these leafy greens can keep the air quality high and offer sweet fragrances for you to enjoy.