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The right color palette can make a huge difference in your workout room, and it becomes even more important when the gym is in a spare bedroom, cold basement, garage, or rec room. 

Whether you’re into high-energy cardio or prefer calming yoga, color choices can influence your motivation and set the tone for your workout. According to Erika Woelfel, VP of Color and Creative Services at Behr, color is the key to creating a workout environment that inspires and enhances your fitness journey.

Best Colors for Your Home Gym

Energetic Colors (Deep Red and Vibrant Yellow)

For those who thrive on intense, high-impact workouts like weight lifting or spinning, warm, stimulating, vibrant colors can give your space the adrenaline boost it needs. One standout is Rumors, a deep ruby red. According to a survey commissioned by BEHR, 52% of Americans believe this color would inspire strength and confidence, while 46% feel it would increase their motivation to work out.

Spirited Yellow, a vibrant and energetic shade, is another top pick. Yellow tones are known to enhance positivity and energy levels, making them a great choice for cardio-focused spaces where you want to keep your momentum high.

Calming Colors That Promote Focus (Blues and Greens)

If you're not one to seek an intense workout, opt for cool color accent walls. Air Blue, a soft, calming light blue, creates a sense of spaciousness and tranquility, the perfect color for a yoga studio or meditation space. Blue tones are scientifically linked to reducing stress and promoting focus, helping you center your mind and body.

If you’re looking for something that bridges your everchanging workout plans and delivers both calm elements and a boost of energy, Hillside Grove, a nature-inspired green, offers balance. Green paint colors connect us to nature, promoting both relaxation and invigoration—a versatile option if your gym serves multiple exercise styles, from strength training to stretching. 

We already know that biophilic design is making waves, so on the topic of nature, if you can make the most of natural light, you'll probably love your space even more. 

A woman does yoga and stretching in a blue room.
Doing a yoga workout in a blue room can have positive psychological effects. Credit: zoranm / Getty Images

Neutral Colors (Creamy White and Gray)

Sometimes, less is more, but neutral tones don't mean beige walls. For those who prefer a minimalist, distraction-free zone, Tranquil Gray is a perfect neutral backdrop, and Polar Bear is a shade of white paint that coordinates perfectly. “A light gray offers a clean, minimalistic environment that promotes focus and clarity,” shares Woelfel. Its versatility also allows you to incorporate various flooring styles (from concrete floors, light wood floors, or black rubber flooring) without clashing with the overall aesthetic.

Warm vs. Cool: Which Is Best for Your Gym?

“Warm colors like red and yellow boost adrenaline and motivation, making them ideal for high-intensity cardio workouts,” notes Woelfel. 

On the other hand, cool colors like blue and green promote calmness and focus, making them perfect for low-impact activities. If your gym environment accommodates both high- and low-energy workout routines, consider mixing both warm and cool color schemes. For example, try cool walls with energizing color accents, or a wall that uses a single accent color to keep the gym more adaptable.

Wood tones complement dark gray walls and natural light in a home gym.
Large windows and natural wood elements warm a home gym. Credit: onurdongel / Getty Images

Consider the Paint Finish

When it comes to paint finishes, practicality is key. A satin finish or semi-gloss paint finish is ideal for a home gym because it’s durable, easy to clean, and resistant to scuffs—perfect for handling the wear and tear of daily workouts. These finishes allow for simple maintenance, so you won’t have to worry about sweat marks or dirt taking a toll on your walls.

Color Psychology in Workout Spaces

Basic color psychology tells us that choosing the right color family isn't just about visual appeal; it’s also about how color selection makes you feel. Studies show that warm colors like red and yellow can increase heart rate and boost adrenaline, while cool colors like blue can lower stress levels and help with focus. 

By choosing the right hues, you can create a space that aligns with your fitness goals, helps you find feng shui, —whether that’s pushing yourself during a cardio session or finding peace during a meditation practice.

Woman in garage gym planking on a ball.
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Bonus Tip: Pay Attention to the Floors

While paint can set the mood for your home gym, choosing the right flooring is equally important for creating a functional space.

  • Look for durable, slip-resistant materials that provide both safety and comfort during workouts.
  • Rubber flooring is a popular choice due to its cushioning effect and shock absorption, making it ideal for high-impact exercises like weightlifting or cardiovascular workouts.
  • A transitional vinyl floor is another popular option, offering easy maintenance and resistance to moisture.
  • For softer, low-impact activities like yoga or stretching, consider adding foam tiles, which provide extra cushioning and support.