How to Set Up a Workout Space on Shag Carpet

Lay down a 4-foot by 8-foot sheet of 3/4-inch thick plywood in a corner of the room with the edges butted against the adjacent wall molding. Do not use plywood less than 3/4-inch think as they have a tendency to warp. Cut the sheet to fit the space, if necessary. However, a 4-foot by 8-foot sheet of plywood provides suitable space for weightlifting, cardiovascular movement or a single piece of exercise equipment.

Secure the plywood to the molding with one L-bracket on each edge of the plywood. Place an L-bracket in the corner between the plywood and the molding and press down to depress the shag beneath. Mark the screw holes on the molding and on the plywood. Set the brackets aside then drill pilot holes at the marked spots with a drill that has a bit with a diameter slightly smaller than the screw threads. Put back the brackets, lining up the screw holes and the pilot holes. Drive the screws through the screw holes and into the molding and plywood.

Line the top of the plywood with interlocking rubberized tile with texture. For a 4-foot by 8-foot sheet of plywood, use fifteen 20.7-square inch tiles. Cut off excess rubber that hangs over the edges of the plywood with a sharp utility knife. Secure the tiles to the plywood with construction adhesive. The stiffness of the foam rubber is firm enough to tread on when working out but provides just enough cushioning to soften high-impact moves. The texture provides traction.