If you’re working out alone at home, it’s easy to let your form fall to the curbside – especially when there is no one there to hold you accountable. Yet, bad form can quickly lead to injuries and pain. In fact, this is one of the most common reasons that many gym goers face injuries and setbacks when it comes to their fitness goals.
However, there are many ways you can prevent this from happening, including installing wall mirrors within your home gym. Yet, you might be wondering how to install wall mirrors for a home gym. You’ve never done it before. Maybe you’re not particularly tool or DIY-savvy – That’s okay! In this article, we have all the tips you need on how to install wall mirrors for a home gym so you can do so with ease. Let’s get to it.
Tips & Tricks For Installation
Besides avoiding the above mistakes, what else should you consider?
As always, there is your budget to plan around. This may help you decide what type of mirror glass is best for you and the size you prefer. Then, there’s installing the mirror once purchased. We’ll go into this in more detail in the sub-sections below.
Consider A Wall Mirror Installation Kit
If you’re not much of a DIY person, a wall mirror installation kit might be just what you need. It simplifies the whole process, as well as ensures your mirror stays securely on the wall.
And the kit comes with everything you need. That way, you won’t be missing anything and won’t need to make multiple trips to the hardware store.
Ways To Install Wall Mirrors Without Buying A Kit
Alternatively, you don’t necessarily need to purchase a wall mirror installation kit. Here are a few other options:
- Adhesive – This is super easy but also not the most secure or safe. Yet, if you do a good job, it can be! Before attaching the mirror, ensure the wall is clean. Apply the adhesive to the back of your mirror and press it against the wall, holding it in place until it dries.
- Screwing the Mirror Into the Wall – You’ll need at least four screws, a drill gun, and a screwdriver to get this done. Drill the holes into the wall first, then line the mirror up and screw it into place.
- J-Channels – This one is a little more technical. Again, you’ll want to clean the walls. From there, drill holes in the walls and attach the J-channel with screws. The mirror should be able to easily slide into the J-channel slots (you’ll need to ensure your measurements are bang-on for this one!).
Where Should Mirrors Be Placed In A Home Gym?
With a mirror in your home gym, you want to be able to see yourself as you perform various exercises. This allows you to quickly check your form at a glance as you go through each movement. As such, you’ll probably want your mirror positioned to the side of any squat rack or power rack that you have so that you can get a clear look at what you’re doing.
Additionally, you’ll want to consider the light source in your home gym. Ideally, your mirror should reflect the light source, without facing it directly (which can actually prevent you from seeing yourself clearly). You also probably don’t want to put the mirror directly across from any serious distractions, such as the T.V.
Other than that, it’s entirely up to you where your mirror should be placed. Choose wisely, since once you have that mirror up, it’s unlikely you’ll want to go through the effort to take it down and move it.
What Size Mirror Do I Need For A Home Gym?
This really depends on you and your preferences. Some things you want to consider include:
- How large of a mirror do you require or want?
- Do you want the mirror to cover your entire wall or just part of it?
- How big is your gym space and how big of a mirror will fit in this space?
Start by assessing your space and where you’ll be performing your exercises and watching your form. This can help you determine the best spot and size for your mirror. Generally, you probably want to go with a bigger mirror so you can see your full form and technique as you exercise. An ideal size is between 48 inches and 72 inches in length. That way, you can easily correct any mistakes you might be making and that might lead to injury.
Common Mistakes People Make When Installing Home Gym Wall Mirrors
Now, let’s quickly go over a few common mistakes that people make when installing home gym wall mirrors. This way you can learn from them and avoid them from the get-go!
Mistake #1: The Mirror is Too Small
Bigger is better when it comes to home gym wall mirrors. You don’t want to get a super small mirror where it’s difficult to fully see your form. This is why many people opt for mirrors that go from the ceiling to the floor. As mentioned previously, aim for a mirror size between 48 inches and 72 inches in length.
Mistake #2: Not Considering Lighting
Too little light or too much direct light can both hinder your ability to see yourself in the mirror. Ideally, natural lighting is always best – as it is for taking selfies! However, if this isn’t available, ensure your lighting is set up so that you can see yourself in the mirror properly.
Mistake #3: Paying Next-to-No Attention to Safety
In the gym, safety matters a lot! And when it comes to mirror material, glass isn’t your one and only option. For safety reasons (especially if you’re worried about potentially knocking the mirror off the wall during your workout), consider acrylic glass. This type of glass won’t shatter, yet it isn’t exactly the best for viewing yourself. If you want more in terms of safety and visibility, try tempered glass mirrors. These are the best of both worlds. However, it may cost you a little bit more.
Mistake #4: Purchasing a Thin Mirror
Thicker is better. They are more stable and aren’t as susceptible to breaking or flexing. If possible, we recommend purchasing a mirror glass that is about 3 to 3.5 millimeters thick.
What Tools Do You Will Need To Install Your Wall Mirrors?
This depends on the method you choose to install your wall mirror. However, generally, you’ll want a drill gun, screws, Measuring tape, and a screwdriver. Another important tool you may want to consider is a level in order to ensure that the mirror is placed evenly.
You may also want a friend or family member to help you out during the process to ensure you don’t drop the mirror or injure yourself while trying to set it up.
Final Thoughts
All in all, home gym mirrors are a wonderful investment that can save you aches and pains down the road. How to install wall mirrors for your home gym also doesn’t have to be overcomplicated. Use our tips above and finally finish off your home gym with the perfect mirror for your space.