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If you've ever tripped over a rolled-up exercise mat in a studio or watched clutter pile up in a home gym, you know that storage is not just about tidiness — it's about efficiency and safety. Good gym mat storage racks and carts keep mats accessible, dry, and out of the way, so you spend less time hunting for kit and more time working out. Think of a reliable rack like a bookshelf for your fitness equipment: put things where they belong, and your space instantly feels larger and calmer.
There are several styles of gym mat storage, each suited to different spaces and needs. Choosing the right type can transform a chaotic corner into a neat, functional zone.
Vertical racks save floor space by standing mats upright like records on a shelf. They usually hold multiple mats and are great where width, not depth, is limited. Expect capacities from a few mats up to a dozen on sturdy versions.
Horizontal racks stack mats flat, making them easy to pull out one at a time. These are ideal for heavier crash mats or thick gymnastics mats that are awkward to lift vertically. They can be low-profile, keeping eye-level sightlines clean.
Need to move mats between rooms? Carts with wheels are the answer. Look for heavy-duty casters and a secure frame. A typical mat cart might measure around 48 inches wide and 24 inches deep, holding 6–12 mats depending on thickness.
If floor space is at a premium, wall-mounted racks or fold-away brackets can be lifesavers. These mount to studs and keep mats off the floor, but check weight limits — some systems support mats up to 50 pounds each, while others are for lighter yoga mats only.
Not all racks are created equal. Here are the features that separate a decent rack from one you'll love.
Measure your mats first. A common exercise mat is about 72 inches long and 24 inches wide — that's 6 feet by 2 feet. If your rack lists capacity by number of mats, confirm whether that assumes standard thickness. Thicker 2-inch mats reduce capacity compared to slim yoga mats.
Steel frames with powder-coated finishes resist rust and abuse better than lightweight plastic. If you expect heavy daily use, aim for a solid steel rack rated at least 200 pounds total capacity. Wooden racks can look smart in boutique studios but may need more upkeep in humid spaces.
Casters should lock and be sized for the load — 3-inch to 4-inch wheels glide well over gym floors. Rubber wheels minimize scuffs, while nylon casters roll easily but can mark softer floors. For regular movement, test how the cart handles a full load.
Think of the rack as part of your workflow. A narrow but tall rack may save floor space but make mat removal awkward. Conversely, a low, wide shelf takes up more room but makes access simple for all ages. Sketch the area and mark 3 feet of clear space in front of the rack for comfortable access.
Whether you're equipping a school hall, a boutique studio, or a garage gym, the UK market has plenty of options. Below are well-known retailers where you can start your search, plus what each one tends to excel at.
Decathlon is a go-to for affordable fitness gear. Their range usually includes basic storage racks and mobile trolleys aimed at community sports centres and home users. You’ll find practical steel frames and budget-friendly options that work well for small studios or changing rooms.
Argos caters to the everyday buyer with a wide selection of home and lightweight commercial storage options. Their stock moves quickly, and you can often pick up modular shelving and small mat racks that fit snugly into a spare room or garage gym.
Sports Direct lists a variety of fitness accessories and occasionally stocks storage solutions suitable for heavy-duty use. While their selection focuses on mainstream needs, you can find affordable carts and racks that pair well with commercial mats purchased elsewhere.
Fitness Superstore specialises in gym equipment and often stocks heavy-duty, professional-grade storage racks. This is the place to look if you need solutions built to withstand daily use in a busy gym or school environment, including side-loading racks and large-capacity trolleys.
For home gyms where appearance matters, John Lewis offers attractive, well-finished storage that won't jar with your décor. Expect wooden or designer metal options that balance form and function — great for boutique studios or living-room gyms.
Dunelm's offerings skew towards home storage and clever space-saving ideas. While they may not carry industrial gym carts, you can find shelving units and wall racks that handle yoga and pilates mats with style and economy.
Wiggle serves fitness enthusiasts and often stocks clever lightweight storage solutions for mats and accessories. Their focus tends to be on compact, mobile options for home studios and cycling gyms where space is at a premium.
Amazon offers the broadest range from specialist brands to marketplace sellers. You can compare dozens of racks, read reviews, and filter by size and material. Just be careful to check seller ratings and dimensions — pictures can be deceptive.
Comparing racks online can feel like shopping in a maze. I recommend creating a short checklist before you browse: dimensions, capacity, material, mobility, warranty, and ease of assembly. Rate each option 1–5 on those criteria and sort by your highest priorities.
If mobility is non-negotiable, eliminate wall-mounted racks up front. If aesthetics matter, filter for wood or powder-coated finishes. That simple triage saves time and avoids impulse buys that look good but don't fit your workflow.
Look for reviews that mention mat thickness, daily usage, and how the rack handles movement. A glowing review that never mentions capacity isn’t very helpful. Focus on feedback from buyers who used the rack in similar spaces to yours.
Once you've chosen a rack, install it safely. Here are a few practical tips that reduce risk and keep your space functional.
Always mount heavy units into studs or masonry using appropriate fixings. A poorly anchored rack can fall, causing injury or damage. If you’re unsure, hire a handyman — it’s a small price for long-term peace of mind.
If your cart will be stationary most of the time, engage caster locks. Use protective floor mats or rubber feet to prevent scratches on hardwood or laminate. Think of wheel locks like parking brakes — small features with big safety benefits.
Distribute heavy mats evenly and never overload beyond the manufacturer's rated capacity. Place the heaviest mats at the bottom of a stack or on the lower shelves of a rack to prevent tipping.
A bit of simple maintenance extends the life of your storage system. Treat racks like any other piece of equipment — a little care goes a long way.
Wipe down metal frames and shelves every few months with a mild detergent to remove sweat and dust. Inspect welds and joints for signs of fatigue, and tighten bolts if the rack starts to wobble. A quick monthly check is a good habit to build.
Excess humidity eats away at metal and wood over time. If your rack lives in a damp sports hall or an unheated garage, use rust-inhibiting sprays on metal parts and consider a breathable cover for extended storage periods.
How much should you spend? Prices vary widely depending on material, capacity, and brand. For a rough guide: a basic home mat rack might cost between £40–£100, mid-range commercial carts £150–£400, and heavy-duty professional racks can exceed £500. Think in terms of cost-per-mat — divide the total price by how many mats it holds to see the true value.
Measure the space where the rack will sit. Allow at least 3 feet of clearance in front for access, and add the rack’s depth to the mat’s length — a 72-inch mat on a horizontal shelf will need a shelf depth of at least 24 inches and space to slide the mat out comfortably.
If sustainability matters to you, look for racks made from recycled steel or sustainably sourced wood. Buying used commercial gym racks from closed studios can be a green choice that also delivers professional-grade build quality at a fraction of the cost.
Small add-ons can make a big difference. Consider strap systems for rolled mats, labelled slots for different classes, or covers that protect foam from UV and moisture. Accessories help systems age gracefully — like putting icing on a well-baked cake.
Choosing the right gym mat storage rack or cart is about matching your space, mat types, and usage pattern with a solution that feels intuitive. A well-chosen rack pays for itself in saved time, improved safety, and a tidier gym. Think through capacity, mobility, and materials — then buy with confidence.
Storage might not be the flashiest part of a fitness space, but it plays a starring role in keeping sessions running smoothly. From budget-friendly options at large UK retailers to heavy-duty professional racks for commercial gyms, there's a solution for every space. Measure carefully, prioritise the features that matter to you, and don’t skimp on build quality if you expect heavy use. Your mats — and your toes — will thank you.
| Exercise & Gym Mat Storage Racks & Carts | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Odin Matt Suspension 2-delt | kr. 249,- | |
| Titanium Life Pro Rack Lining Mats | kr. 269,- | |
| Toorx Weight Rack To 6 Set Dumbbells | kr. 999,- |
