When you only have 60 square feet, traditional gym equipment doesn't fit. This guide documents building a fully functional training space using multi-purpose equipment designed for extreme space constraints.

The Challenge: 60 Square Feet

This project started in a 6x10 spare closet that was previously used for storage. The homeowner wanted a complete workout solution—strength training, cardio, and flexibility work—without sacrificing the adjacent living space.

The All-In-One Solution

Modern functional trainers combine multiple stations into a single footprint. The machine chosen for this build—the Inspire Fitness FTX—includes:

• Functional trainer (dual cable columns)
• Smith machine bar
• Pull-up station
• Leg press attachment point
• Preacher curl pad

All within a 4x7 foot footprint.

Why Multi-Function Machines Make Sense Here

While purists prefer separate pieces for maximum strength development, the physics change in tiny spaces:

The Math:

• Power rack: 4x4 ft = 16 sq ft
• Separate cable machine: 3x4 ft = 12 sq ft
• Smith machine: 4x7 ft = 28 sq ft
• Total separate: 56 sq ft (almost entire room)

vs.

• All-in-one unit: 4x7 ft = 28 sq ft
• Remaining space: 32 sq ft (for bench, movement, storage)

Step-by-Step Build Process

Step 1: Room Preparation

The closet needed work before equipment installation:

1. Removed carpet - Replaced with 3/4" rubber flooring
2. Reinforced ceiling joist - The pull-up station needed solid mounting
3. Added ventilation - Cut in a small exhaust fan to manage heat and humidity
4. Improved lighting - Installed flush-mount LED panels

Step 2: Equipment Delivery and Assembly

The Inspire FTX arrived in 7 boxes weighing 850 lbs total. Assembly required:

• 2 people minimum
• 8-10 hours total time
• Basic tools plus rubber mallet
• Patience (lots of it)

Pro tip: Assemble the frame in the room, even if the boxes fit through the door. A fully assembled unit won't fit through standard doorways.

Step 3: Accessory Organization

With limited space, every accessory needs a home:

• Wall-mounted bar holder for attachments
• Magnetic strip for smaller cable handles
• Under-machine storage bin for bands and straps
• Door-mounted resistance band anchor for warm-ups

Complete Exercise Library

This 60 sq ft gym enables over 100 exercises:

Chest:

• Cable flyes (high, mid, low)
• Smith machine press
• Cable crossovers

Back:

• Lat pulldowns
• Seated rows
• Pull-ups (multiple grips)
• Straight arm pulldowns

Shoulders:

• Cable lateral raises
• Face pulls
• Overhead press (Smith)

Arms:

• Cable curls
• Tricep pushdowns
• Hammer curls

Legs:

• Smith squats
• Leg press (with attachment)
• Cable kickbacks
• Romanian deadlifts

Pros and Cons After 6 Months

Pros

• Extremely compact - Fits where nothing else would
• Hundreds of exercise variations - Never gets boring
• Built-in storage - Weight stacks don't take floor space
• Quiet operation - No clanging plates disturbing neighbors
• Safe for solo training - Smith machine provides built-in safety

Cons

• Expensive upfront - The FTX costs $3,500
• Assembly nightmare - Budget a full weekend
• Proprietary attachments - Some accessories only fit this brand
• Limited maximum resistance - 150 lb stacks don't challenge advanced lifters on big movements

Final Thoughts

This tiny home gym proves that space constraints don't have to mean fitness compromises. For apartment dwellers, condo owners, or anyone working with minimal square footage, all-in-one functional trainers offer a genuine solution.

The total investment of $4,200 (including flooring, lighting, and accessories) replaces a gym membership forever—and it's always available, always private, and always exactly how you left it.