When deciding on the right flooring for your gym, you’ll want to choose something that is safe and comfortable for workouts while also providing durability, affordability, and is extremely low-maintenance. This often comes down to rubber and foam which tick all the boxes in this criteria.
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Rubber flooring is the most popular gym flooring option for the majority of fitness uses within the industry due to its versatility, various thickness options and its overall durability. Similarly, foam flooring also has these qualities but not to the same extent and in a slightly different way.
In this article we will look at the these 2 types of gym flooring in more detail and look at the best uses of each.
Rubber is often used in gyms due to its various sizes and thicknesses. These components are perfect for both low-impact and high-impact activities, including HIIT, weight training, and heavy equipment workouts.
While there are many reasons to use rubber mats for your gym floors, there are some disadvantages that cause people to choose foam instead. Take a look at the potential downside of rubber:
There are a few different rubber flooring options for gyms:-
Rubber Tiles - The most common type, tile format comes in various sizes, shapes and thicknesses to suit different uses. The good thing about rubber is that it is easily cut to size making it simple to install for most people.
Rubber Rolls - Rolls are widely used in larger, open-plan spaces such as Spin Studios or Fitness Rooms as it is cost-effective to use with less waste. Rubber rolls tend to come in different thicknesses but are not usually available in very thick options.
Puzzle Tiles - These are interconnecting tiles with a jigsaw profile which slot together. Puzzle Tiles are a great option for DIY installers. There is also interlocking tiles which differ from Puzzle tiles. These interlocking rubber tiles connect using hidden inserts which lock the tiles together for extra stability.
Poured Rubber - This rubber floor solution is mainly used for outdoor sports venues and play spaces where the area is extensive. Rubber is poured and dried similar to how a concrete surface is created. Very costly and time consuming, poured rubber is not the best option for indoor sports and gym facilities due to more cost efficient options being available to hand.
Foam flooring is another widely used choice for fitness and sports. It is naturally anti-fatigue, resilient and cushions impact from high intensity movements and fitness workouts. It is particularly popular in disciplines such as MMA, Martial Arts and Boxing because these types of training rely on superior cushioning and grip while being soft to the body and joints such as knees, hands and feet.
In fitness, foam is best used for activities with lighter weights and gym equipment as heavier free weights or machines may not be supported as well as with rubber flooring and foam mats can become damaged easier. It is the most suited for activities such as Pilates, Yoga, lighter weight training, bodyweight and workout classes, Martial Arts, Boxing and Gymnastics.
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Like rubber flooring, the suitability of a foam mat to the intended use usually comes down to the thickness. Very thin, lightweight foam flooring will provide good support to a degree. Thicker options in 20mm and 40mm work best for higher impact workouts and activities.
Foam mats are a great option for gyms that are typically used for certain sports. However, there are some disadvantages that you’ll want to consider when deciding on the type of floor for your gym.
Less Durability - Foam mats are less durable than rubber mats. In a regular gym with weight training, heavy equipment, and high-intensity training, foam mats won’t last as long as rubber.
Less Protection - For regular workouts, foam mats provide less protection for athletes, subfloors, and equipment. Too much intensity can cause damage to the mats.
Foam flooring is available in different styles:-
Foam Tiles - Foam tiles come in a variety of designs and thicknesses and are used in Boxing Gyms, Martial Arts Studios and Gymnastic Centres. They are installed together permanently or are sometimes laid loose.
Roll-Out Foam Mats - Many Gymnastic Studios and some dance facilities use foam roll-out mats which allow
Puzzle Foam Tiles - Shaped like a puzzle to the edges, these interlocking tiles are commonly used in MMA and children’s play spaces. The easy design means the tiles can be joined and glued together permanently or laid loose for mobile use.
Foam Crash Mats - These are specialized mats used for tumbling, gymnastics, and parkour.
Both rubber and foam mats are popular types of flooring for gyms. They both have many advantages that make them a good choice, depending on your needs. Many sports facilities will opt for a combination of the two types of surfaces to use for different activities.
Rubber mats are best for traditional gyms where HIIT, heavy equipment training, and weight lifting take place. They are strong, durable, and provide the protection and comfort needed for workouts.
Foam mats are the right choice for gyms where martial arts, boxing, and gymnastics are the norm. They offer superior cushioning, impact absorption, and are soft to the body and joints. Foam mats are also suitable for fitness classes and home gyms with lighter weights and activities.
You may also be interested in:
The Advantages of Rubber Matting for Your Gym Floor
Benefits of Foam Flooring for Gaming & Play Rooms
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