ABOUT THIS EPISODE
An athletic woodshed is a purpose‑built training space that reduces friction and increases consistency. The panel discusses how to choose equipment that carries the most training value per dollar, arrange the layout for safe unracking and bar path, and use rubber gym flooring to protect the floor and dampen noise. We also cover minimalist programming—big compound lifts, tight exercise menus, and simple progression models—so lifters can keep moving forward without decision fatigue.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
How to set up a compact, efficient garage or home gym that supports progressive overload.
Which pieces of strength training equipment are essential and how to scale purchases over time.
How rubber gym flooring and platforms protect surfaces, reduce vibration, and improve safety.
Simple tracking habits that keep workouts objective and results measurable.
KEY TOPICS
Power racks, Olympic barbells, weight benches, bumper plates
Rubber gym flooring rolls vs. interlocking tiles for small spaces
Minimalist programming, session flow, and progressive overload
QUICK ANSWERS
Q: What is an “athletic woodshed”?
A: A dedicated, distraction‑free training area with the minimum effective equipment and a repeatable session structure to drive consistent progress.
Q: What’s the best starter setup?
A: A sturdy rack or half rack, a quality Olympic barbell, plates, a flat/adjustable bench, and rubber gym flooring; add accessories later as training advances.
Q: How often should I train in a minimalist plan?
A: Two to four sessions per week focused on compound lifts works for most lifters; track loads and small weekly improvements.
SHOP THE EPISODE
Elite Lean Garage Rack (compact, storage‑ready power rack)
https://www.ironcompany.com/elite-lean-garage-rack-iron-company-wri-lgr-elite?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep99
20 kg Olympic Weightlifting Bar — 195,000 PSI (durable bar for squat/press/pull)
https://www.ironcompany.com/olympic-weightlifting-bar-20kg-195-000-psi-iron-company-ic-ob-5150?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep99
Iron Company Premium Rubber Bumper Plates (versatile plates for garage gyms)
https://www.ironcompany.com/iron-company-premium-rubber-bumper-plates?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep99
Performance Beast Rubber Flooring Roll by Ecore (protects concrete and reduces noise)
https://www.ironcompany.com/performance-beast-rubber-flooring-roll-ecore-performance-beast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep99
Body‑Solid Full Commercial Adjustable Bench SFID425 (stable bench for pressing)
https://www.ironcompany.com/body-solid-full-commercial-adjustable-bench-sfid425?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep99
FULL EPISODE LIST & RESOURCES
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_ep99
IRON COMPANY — trusted gym equipment & flooring since 1997
Full episode list & resources:
https://www.ironcompany.com/podcast?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Cardio Equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, bikes):
https://www.ironcompany.com/cardio-equipment?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Free Weights (dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells):
https://www.ironcompany.com/free-weights?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Gym Flooring (rubber rolls, mats, tiles):
https://www.ironcompany.com/rubber-gym-flooring?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Shop Strength Training Equipment (benches, racks, cages):
https://www.ironcompany.com/strength-training-equipment?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
Government & GSA Buyers (contract & bids):
https://www.ironcompany.com/gsa-and-cmas-bid-information?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
RAW Articles & Training Guides:
https://www.ironcompany.com/articles?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=notes&utm_campaign=raw_all_eps
