Rubber gym flooring is a durable, safe, and low-maintenance option for workout spaces, available in tiles, rolls, and mats. The best type for you depends on your fitness routine, budget, and gym size.

Types of rubber gym flooring

Tiles

Rubber floor tiles interlock like puzzle pieces, making them easy to install and customize for specific areas. They are also simple to replace if individual pieces get damaged.

• Best for: Home gyms and irregularly shaped spaces.

• Consider: The seams can sometimes collect dirt and may shift during heavy, high-impact workouts.

Rolls

Rubber flooring rolls are ideal for large, open spaces, as they provide a seamless look with fewer joints. They offer a smooth, uniform, and stable surface.

• Best for: Commercial gyms and dedicated large fitness areas.

• Consider: Rolls are heavy and typically require adhesive for a secure, permanent installation, which can be more labor-intensive.

Mats

Large, loose-laid rubber mats are a versatile, non-permanent solution for specific workout zones, such as under a power rack or cardio machine. They are easy to move and rearrange.

• Best for: Garage gyms, temporary setups, and targeted equipment protection.

• Consider: Mats can be cumbersome to move and do not cover an entire floor seamlessly.

How to choose the right thickness

The ideal thickness of rubber flooring depends on the intensity of your workouts.

Activity Recommended ThicknessLight exercise and cardio4–12mm (approx. 1/4"–1/2")Free weights (up to 140kg)15–20mm (approx. 5/8"–3/4")CrossFit, powerlifting, and heavy drops (140kg+)30–60mm+ (approx. 1-1/8"+)

Key factors for selection

• Noise and vibration control: Thicker and denser rubber flooring provides better sound dampening, which is crucial for home gyms or areas with neighbors. Some products, like the

  Second Skin Stomp Mat

  , are specifically designed to reduce noise.

• Durability and density: Density, not just thickness, determines durability. Vulcanized rubber is one of the toughest and most durable options. The material can also be made from recycled rubber.

• Installation method: Decide if you want an easy-to-install, non-permanent option (tiles, mats) or a more durable, seamless surface that requires adhesive (rolls).

• Aesthetics: While most gym flooring is black, some products come with colored flecks to match your gym's branding or decor.