Gym floors see a lot of wear and tear. From the constant foot traffic to the heavy equipment, it's no wonder that many gyms opt for interlocking floor mats to offer maximum protection and stability.
Interlocking floor mats are a type of floor solution which uses either hidden inserts, connector pieces or a puzzle design to lock tiles together for extra support They are easy to install and can be cut to fit any space, making them a popular choice for gyms of all sizes. Best of all, they can be easily removed and replaced if necessary.
In this blog post, we'll discuss the benefits of using interlocking floor mats in gyms.
What are Interlocking Floor Mats?
Interlocking floor mats are a type of mat that fits together. Sometimes, the mats are puzzle shaped and intersect like a jigsaw.
Other options have small hidden pegs or metal rods which connect the tiles together making them easy to install and remove.
They are often used in areas with lots of movement or traffic to prevent the tiles from moving around while protecting gym users and the subfloor from injury and damage. Interlocking mats can be made from a variety of materials, including rubber, foam, carpet, and plastic.
A home gym is a great example of an area where interlocking floor mats would be beneficial. They can help protect your floor from the weight of gym equipment and provide cushioning to make your workout more comfortable while being simple to install DIY without specialist assistance.
Commercial gyms often use interlocking gym mats for the same reasons. They do a great job of protecting the floor while having a uniform and professional look and feel. The inserts or puzzle format make them easy to fit quickly and easily with less disruption and they are easily repaired/replaced if required.
Different Uses of Interlocking Floor Mats
There are many different uses for interlocking floor mats. They can be used in a variety of settings, including:
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Gyms and fitness facilities - One of the most common uses for these mats is in gyms and fitness centres. They provide a safe and comfortable surface to exercise on, and protect floors and equipment from damage while retaining their position.
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Yoga studios - Interlocking floor mats are also popular in yoga studios. They provide a cushioned surface to practice on and can help prevent injuries.
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Garages - These mats can be used in garages to protect your floors from oil, grease, and other fluids. They can also help to keep your garage floor clean and free of dirt and dust.
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Office spaces - These mats can be used in office spaces to create a more comfortable working environment. They can also help reduce noise levels and protect your floors from damage.
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Boxing and MMA gyms - Interlocking floor mats are often used in boxing and MMA gyms. They provide a safe and cushioned surface to train on and can help reduce the risk of injuries.
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Children's playrooms - A foam mat is a common choice for children's playrooms. They provide a soft surface for kids to play on and can help protect your floors from damage.
These are just a few of the many different uses for interlocking floor mats. They are versatile and can be used in a variety of settings.
Benefits of Using Interlocking Floor Mats in Gyms
Now that we've discussed interlocking floor mats and some of the different ways they can be used, let's take a look at the benefits of using them in gyms.
1. Stability
Interlocking floor mats retain position meaning tiles will not move around while working out, group classes or using equipment. The last thing you want in a gym is a moving surface that can be tripped over or slips out of position.
2. Protection from Heavy Equipment
One of the main benefits of using interlocking floor mats for your gym floor is the protection they offer from heavy equipment. Free weights, treadmills, ellipticals, and other workout machines can put a lot of stress on your flooring. Over time, this stress can lead to cracking, warping, and other damage.
However, when you use interlocking floor mats, particularly made with rubber, that damage is much less likely to occur. The mats act as a buffer between the heavy equipment and your flooring, absorbing some of the impacts and protecting your floor from damage.
3. Reduced Noise Levels
Another great benefit of using interlocking floor mats is that they help reduce noise levels. When you have hardwood or concrete floors, every footstep or dropped weight echoes throughout the room, which can be pretty jarring (not to mention distracting) as well as cause damage. However, when you use interlocking floor mats, that noise is dampened significantly.
This is because the mats are made of a dense rubber or foam material that absorbs sound instead of amplifying it as hard surfaces do. So if you're looking for a way to reduce noise levels in your gym (and who isn't?), interlocking floor mats are definitely worth considering.
4. Improved Safety Levels
Finally, another benefit of using interlocking floor mats is that they can help improve safety levels in your gym. When you have hard surfaces like concrete or wood, they can be quite slippery when they get wet (which often happens in gyms). However, that risk is eliminated entirely when you use interlocking floor mats.
The mats provide a textured surface that helps prevent slips and falls, even when they're wet. In addition, the straight edges of the mats create clearly defined boundaries, which can help prevent accidents. So if you're looking for a way to make your gym a little bit safer for everyone involved, interlocking floor mats a great option.
5. Enhanced Comfort Levels
Interlocking floor mats offer a more comfortable surface to work out on, which can be important for many gym-goers. The increased comfort level can also lead to better results during workouts, as people are more likely to stick with a routine when they feel comfortable. The water-resistant and shock-absorbent properties of the mats can also help protect people from injury.
Make sure to review the different types of mats available and find the ones that will work best for your needs. There are interlocking floor mats available in a variety of sizes, colours, and materials, so you're sure to find the perfect option for your gym.
6. Improved Gym Appearance
Interlocking floor mats can give your gym a more polished and professional appearance. They can also help to create a more cohesive look by tying together different elements of your gym's design. If you're looking for a way to make your gym look its best, interlocking floor mats are definitely worth considering.
A wide range of colours and materials are available, so you can find the perfect option to match your gym's existing décor.
7. Increased Durability & Low Maintenance
Rubber Interlocking floor mats are designed to withstand heavy use, so they're much more durable than most types of flooring. This increased durability can save you a lot of money in the long run, as you won't have to replace your flooring as often. In addition, the mats are designed to be easy to clean and maintain, so you can keep them looking their best for years to come.
If you're looking for a durable and low-maintenance flooring option for your gym, interlocking floor mats made with rubber are definitely worth considering.
8. Increased Efficiency
Interlocking floor mats can also help you increase the efficiency of your workout routine. If you are doing a lot of repetitions or high-intensity interval training, having a mat that won't slip and slide around can help you stay focused and get the most out of your workout.
9. Easy Installation
Interlocking floor mats are designed to be easy to install, so you won't have to hire a professional to do it for you.
10. Affordable and Convenient
Finally, another great benefit of interlocking floor mats is that they are very affordable and convenient. You can find mats that fit your budget and your needs, and they are easy to install and maintain. In addition, if you need to replace a mat, they are very easy to remove and replace. So if you're looking for an affordable and convenient flooring option for your gym, interlocking floor mats are a strong contender.
Tips for Maintaining Your Interlocking Floor Mats
If you have interlocking floor mats in your gym, you know how convenient they can be. Not only do they provide a comfortable place to exercise, but they also protect your floors from dirt, debris, and moisture. Best of all, they are easy to clean and require very little maintenance.
However, you can do a few things to keep your mats looking and performing their best.
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Vacuum regularly - The best way to remove dirt, dust, and debris from your mats is to vacuum them on a regular basis.
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Spot clean as needed - When spots or stains appear, spot clean with a mild detergent and warm water. Never use harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage the mats.
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Protect from sunlight - Interlocking floor mats that are exposed to direct sunlight can fade over time. To prevent this, place them in an area that is not directly exposed to sunlight or use a UV-resistant spray to protect them.
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Replace worn-out mats - Over time, your interlocking floor mats will begin to show wear and tear. When this happens, it's time to replace them with new mats.
With just a little care and maintenance, your interlocking floor mats will last for years to come. By following these tips, you can keep them looking and performing their best.
FAQs About Interlocking Floor Mats
If you still have questions about interlocking floor mats, we've got you covered. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions we get about these mats.
What are interlocking floor mats?
Interlocking floor mats are designed to fit together either by design or with hidden inserts creating a seamless and sturdy surface. They are often made of rubber or foam and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as exercise and play.
Which mat is best for gym floor?
The best mat for gym flooring will depend on the type of equipment you have and the level of weights that will be used in specific areas. Often gyms will have 2 types of floor mat with a thicker floor type in free weights zones and cardio areas with lots of heavy machines and a standard floor tile or roll throughout. Similarly, commercial gyms also opt for other floor surfaces such as gym turf which can be used for sled-pulling, Crossfit or sprinting.
How do you install interlocking rubber mats?
Installing interlocking rubber mats is easy. With puzzle mats, they slot together by pushing down the edges into the jigsaw profile. With other options with inserts, there will usually be manufacturers guidelines to follow. Please see our Guidelines for the Konnecta mat range which uses connector pieces.
Should I put underlayment under interlocking foam mats?
No, you don't need to put underlayment under interlocking foam mats. These mats are designed to be used without any additional padding or support.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are plenty of good reasons to use interlocking floor mats for your gym floor. They offer protection from heavy equipment, remain in position, help reduce noise levels, and improve safety levels—just to name a few. So if you're looking for a way to extend the life of your gym floors and make them safer and more comfortable for everyone involved, interlocking floor mats are a popular option to take into account.
You may also be interested in reading:
Are Interlocking Tiles the Most Popular Gym Flooring?
Jigsaw Mats: The Final Piece of the Puzzle for At-Home Workouts