Tips and ideas for designing your workout room at home.

The holiday decorations are packed away and the carols echo a distant memory. But, somehow, those big feasts have managed to stick with you.

    If you're looking for inspiration, here's an idea to get you pumped up about getting back into shape. Why not design your very own workout room at home? Here's how to get started:

A room with a view. Choose a space in your home that offers ample light and ventilation. Windows are great, but you can also install a ceiling fan overhead or keep some table fans on hand to keep the air moving and the room feeling fresh. And while your privacy is important, set up a baby monitor in the room so you can be aware of what is happening in other parts of the home.

Size matters. Measure the area you'll need for exercise equipment. Treadmills and rowing machines are large and bulky and will need to be placed in a spot that still allows for movement throughout the room. Also, consider where and how you'll have enough space to stretch or dance.

Décor galore. Large area rugs can be placed underneath the heavy equipment to protect your carpet. Carpet squares are easily installed and make for an attractive, yet durable surface for heavy machinery. Cool, vibrant colors set the tone for an energetic workout, but don't limit yourself to the ordinary. Try sky blue with white cotton clouds or floor-to-ceiling mirrors. Don't forget about storage. Wicker baskets are the perfect hiding place for iPods, exercise DVDs, clean towels, small hand weights and magazines.

Let there be…television. Let's face it, sometimes exercise is a slow and painful slog - no matter how motivated you are. When listening to music just doesn't cut it, consider setting up a TV in your workout space. Sturdy, wall-hanging brackets can be found at any local hardware store. Mount the TV in a safe, convenient location in a corner spot where the sun won't ruin your view, and enjoy a favorite show while on the exercise bike.

Look who's walking now! Be sure to childproof your workout room with safety locks or alarms. Secure the equipment and heavy weights so young children cannot be harmed.

    Kerri S. Mabee is a regular contributor.

Resources

•    MuralsYourWay.com can transform your home gym or exercise room with large posters to give your workout area more depth and an illusion of space.

•    Flor (flor.com) is a modular, do-it-yourself carpet square product that lets you create a cool new space at a reasonable cost.

•  Whether you have a flat-screen or regular TV, videomount.com has durable brackets and easy-to-follow directions.