Running with Purpose: GymBum UK Sponsors Andrew Adam at the Great North Run 2026

The right gym flooring protects your floor, your joints, and your equipment. This guide breaks down every flooring type — foam, rubber, interlocking, and roll-out — so you can make the right call based on your floor, your training style, and your budget.

Updated: 30 August 2026

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Why Gym Flooring Matters
• Types of Gym Flooring
• How to Choose by Floor Type
• How to Choose by Budget
• Top Picks from GymBum UK
• Installation Tips
• FAQ
• Wrap-Up

Introduction

Most home gym mistakes happen before a single rep is pulled. People buy the equipment, set it up on bare concrete or laminate, and within weeks they've got scratched floors, damaged kit, and joint pain from training on an unforgiving surface.

Good flooring is the foundation — literally. It absorbs impact, reduces noise, protects your subfloor, and gives you a stable surface to train on. It's also one of the most cost-effective investments you can make in your home gym.

Why Gym Flooring Matters

• Floor protection: Barbells, dumbbells, and kettlebells will destroy laminate, hardwood, and tile without adequate flooring
• Joint protection: Hard surfaces increase impact stress on knees, hips, and ankles — especially during HIIT and plyometrics
• Equipment stability: Rubber and foam flooring prevents equipment from sliding mid-set
• Noise reduction: Essential if you're training on an upper floor or in a flat
• Hygiene: Dedicated gym flooring is easier to clean and more resistant to sweat and bacteria than carpet

Types of Gym Flooring

Foam Tiles (EVA Foam)

Best for: Yoga, Pilates, stretching, light dumbbell work

Lightweight, affordable, and easy to install. EVA foam tiles interlock like a jigsaw and can be laid without adhesive. Softer underfoot than rubber, but less durable under heavy loads.

• Thickness: 10–20mm typical
• Pros: Cheap, lightweight, easy to cut and fit, comfortable underfoot
• Cons: Compresses under heavy weights, can tear under sharp edges, not suitable for dropping weights

Rubber Tiles

Best for: Weightlifting, powerlifting, CrossFit, heavy equipment

The gold standard for serious home gyms. Dense rubber absorbs impact from dropped weights without cracking or compressing permanently.

• Thickness: 15–50mm typical (20mm+ recommended for barbell work)
• Pros: Extremely durable, excellent impact absorption, slip-resistant, easy to clean
• Cons: Heavy, more expensive than foam, can have a rubber odour initially

Interlocking Rubber Tiles

Best for: Mixed-use home gyms, garages, basements

The most popular choice for home gym setups. Combines the durability of rubber with the modular flexibility of foam tiles.

• Thickness: 15–25mm typical
• Pros: Modular, no adhesive needed, durable, good impact absorption
• Cons: Gaps between tiles can collect dust and debris

Roll-Out Rubber Matting

Best for: Covering large areas quickly, garages, commercial-style setups

Comes in rolls (typically 1–1.5m wide) and can be cut to fit any space.

• Thickness: 6–12mm typical
• Pros: No joins, fast installation, clean look, good for large spaces
• Cons: Harder to transport, can curl at edges initially

How to Choose by Floor Type

How to Choose by Budget

Top Picks from GymBum UK

1. 20mm Interlocking Rubber Tiles — Editor's Pick

The best all-round choice for a home gym. Dense rubber construction handles dropped weights without issue, and the interlocking design means no adhesive and easy reconfiguration.

Best for: Weightlifting, CrossFit, mixed-use gyms
Key feature: 20mm density, interlocking, easy to expand

2. EVA Foam Interlocking Tiles

Ideal for a dedicated yoga, Pilates, or stretching zone. Lightweight and comfortable underfoot.

Best for: Yoga, Pilates, stretching areas, light cardio
Key feature: Lightweight, affordable, comfortable

3. Roll-Out Rubber Mat

Perfect for covering a full garage floor in one piece. No joins, easy to clean, and cuts to size.

Best for: Large spaces, treadmill zones, garage gyms
Key feature: No joins, fast installation, clean finish

Installation Tips

• Measure twice: Calculate your floor area and add 10% for cuts and waste
• Start from the centre: Lay tiles from the centre of the room outward for a balanced finish
• Cut with a utility knife: A straight edge and sharp blade gives clean cuts on both foam and rubber
• Leave an expansion gap: 5–10mm at walls allows for temperature expansion, especially in garages
• No adhesive needed: Interlocking tiles hold themselves in place under equipment weight

FAQ

How thick should home gym flooring be?

For general training and light weights, 15mm is sufficient. For barbell work and dropped weights, use 20mm minimum. For Olympic lifting, 25mm+ or a dedicated lifting platform is recommended.

Can I put gym flooring on carpet?

Yes, but it's not ideal. If you must use carpet, choose firm rubber tiles and avoid heavy barbell movements where possible.

How do I clean rubber gym flooring?

Sweep regularly, then mop with a diluted mild detergent. Avoid harsh chemicals. Allow to dry fully before training.

How much flooring do I need?

Measure your training area in metres squared (length × width). A typical home gym setup needs around 10–12m². Add 10% for cuts.

Wrap-Up

The right gym flooring comes down to your floor type, your training style, and your budget. For most home gyms, 20mm interlocking rubber tiles are the best all-round investment. Browse the GymBum UK gym equipment collection to find the right option for your setup.

Written by the GymBum UK team — fitness equipment specialists helping you build a better home gym.

A matching gym set that looks premium and performs under pressure. This guide covers the best co-ord gym sets available from GymBum UK in 2026 — ranked by performance, style, and value so you can train looking the part without compromising on function.

Updated: 30 August 2026

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• What Makes a Great Gym Set?
• How to Choose by Training Style
• Top Picks from GymBum UK
• Colour & Style Guide
• Size & Fit Guide
• FAQ
• Wrap-Up

Introduction

The gym set has become the defining piece of activewear — and for good reason. A well-matched co-ord instantly elevates your gym look, removes the guesswork of mixing and matching, and when the fabric and fit are right, it performs just as hard as any single piece.

But not all gym sets are equal. Some look great on the hanger and fall apart after three sessions. Others compress uncomfortably, pill after washing, or go transparent the moment you hit a deep squat. This guide cuts through the noise and focuses on sets that genuinely deliver — on the gym floor and beyond.

What Makes a Great Gym Set?

The leggings and the sports bra or crop top need to work as a system, not just match in colour. Look for:

• Fabric consistency: Both pieces should be the same fabric weight and opacity
• Waistband-to-hemline coordination: The legging waistband should sit where the crop top ends — no awkward gaps mid-torso
• Movement compatibility: If the leggings are designed for high-impact training, the top needs to support the same range of motion
• Colourway durability: Matching colours should survive multiple washes without one piece fading faster than the other

How to Choose by Training Style

Weightlifting & Strength Training

Prioritise leggings with a high, wide waistband and a crop top or low-impact bra that doesn't restrict overhead movement.

Best set style: High-waist legging + longline crop bra

HIIT & Cardio

You need maximum support in the top and four-way stretch throughout. Look for sets with a high-impact bra component and moisture-wicking fabric across both pieces.

Best set style: High-impact bra + compression legging

Yoga & Pilates

Prioritise softness, stretch, and coverage. Seamless construction eliminates distraction during floor work.

Best set style: Seamless crop + seamless mid-rise legging

Everyday / Athleisure

Versatility is the priority. A set that transitions from a workout to errands without looking too gym-specific.

Best set style: Fitted crop + classic high-waist legging

Top Picks from GymBum UK

1. PHIA Co-ord Set ⭐ Editor's Pick

Built around the bestselling PHIA Pocket Leggings, this set pairs a matching crop sports bra with the same four-way stretch fabric. The waistband-to-hemline alignment is precise, and both pieces maintain their colour across washes. Available in multiple colourways including black, slate, and dusty rose.

Best for: Weightlifting, gym sessions, everyday wear
Key features: PHIA Pocket Leggings + matching crop bra, consistent fabric weight, zip-pocket legging

2. Seamless Sculpt Set

A seamless co-ord designed for sculpting workouts and Pilates. The fabric has a subtle ribbed texture that flatters while the seamless construction removes all friction points.

Best for: Pilates, yoga, low-impact training
Key features: Seamless knit, ribbed texture, moulded crop top

3. High-Impact Training Set

For the high-intensity sessions. The legging is a compression knit that stays in place through box jumps and burpees, and the matching sports bra provides medium-to-high impact support with a racerback cut.

Best for: HIIT, CrossFit, running, cardio
Key features: Compression knit legging, high-impact racerback bra, moisture-wicking

4. Essential Everyday Set

The entry point to the GymBum UK range — clean, minimal, and versatile. A classic high-waist legging with a matching fitted crop top in a range of neutral colourways.

Best for: Light training, everyday athleisure, travel
Key features: Lightweight fabric, clean minimal aesthetic, wide colourway range

Colour & Style Guide

Tip: If you're buying your first set, start with black. It's the most forgiving for opacity, versatile across every training style, and never goes out of trend.

Size & Fit Guide

Fit note: If between sizes, size up in the legging and size down in the top.

FAQ

Are gym sets worth it over buying separates?

Yes, if the quality is right. A proper co-ord set removes the guesswork, looks more premium than mismatched pieces, and is usually better value than buying two high-quality individual pieces.

How do I keep my gym set matching after washing?

Wash both pieces together, inside out, on a cold gentle cycle. Air dry — tumble drying degrades elastane and can cause differential fading between pieces.

Can I mix and match pieces from different sets?

Yes — GymBum UK's core colourways are designed to coordinate across the range. Black pieces from any set will match, and the neutral tones work across multiple styles.

What's the best gym set for a bigger bust?

Look for sets where the sports bra component offers encapsulation rather than compression-only support. The High-Impact Training Set is the best option for D+ cup sizes.

Are gym sets suitable for outdoor training?

Yes — the compression and high-impact sets work well for outdoor running and bootcamp-style training. Opt for moisture-wicking fabric in darker colourways.

Wrap-Up

The best gym set is the one you actually want to put on. When the fit is right, the fabric performs, and the co-ord is consistent, it removes every barrier between you and your workout. Browse the full GymBum UK Gym Sets collection to find your perfect match.

Written by the GymBum UK team — activewear specialists helping women train harder, look better, and feel confident in the gym.

This Sunday, thousands of runners will line up in Newcastle for one of the most iconic road races in the world — the Great North Run. Among them is Andrew Adam, and we at GymBum UK couldn't be prouder to be sponsoring him for his second consecutive year taking on this incredible 13.1-mile challenge.

Follow Andrew's journey on Instagram: @andy_runjourney

Andrew's Story

Last year, Andrew proved he had what it takes. This year, he's back — more experienced, more determined, and ready to push even harder. Running from Newcastle to South Shields, Andrew is taking on the Great North Run not just for the personal challenge, but to raise money for a cause close to his heart.

Andrew is running to raise money for Blood Cancer UK — a cause that funds vital research and supports thousands of people affected by blood cancer every year.

Want to help him reach his goal? Every donation makes a difference: 👉 Donate to Andrew's Blood Cancer UK fundraiser

Every contribution counts and helps keep runners like Andrew motivated mile after mile.

How to Prepare for a Half Marathon

Whether you're running the Great North Run or training for your first half marathon, preparation is everything. Here's what the week leading up to race day should look like:

• Taper your training — reduce mileage in the final week to let your muscles recover and store energy
• Sort your kit early — never wear anything new on race day. Make sure your trainers are broken in and your kit is comfortable and tested
• Hydrate consistently — start increasing your water intake 2-3 days before, not just on race morning
• Carb load the night before — a pasta or rice-based meal the evening before helps top up glycogen stores
• Plan race morning — know your start time, travel route, and have your breakfast sorted (something light you've eaten before training)
• Warm up properly — 10 minutes of light jogging and dynamic stretches before the gun goes off reduces injury risk significantly

What to Wear: Kit Essentials

The right kit makes a real difference over 13.1 miles. You need fabrics that wick sweat, reduce chafing, and keep you comfortable from kilometre one to the finish line.

Andrew will be racing in the Lomond Men's QuickDry Performance T-Shirt — engineered for breathability and moisture management, so you stay cool and comfortable all the way to the finish line.

Browse our full running and activewear range at gymbumuk.com — built for performance, designed to last.

How to Warm Down After a Half Marathon

Crossing the finish line is just the beginning of your recovery. Here's how to warm down properly:

• Keep moving — don't stop dead after finishing. Walk for 10-15 minutes to bring your heart rate down gradually
• Static stretches — focus on quads, hamstrings, calves, hip flexors, and glutes. Hold each stretch for 30-45 seconds
• Refuel within 30 minutes — your body needs carbohydrates and protein to begin muscle repair. A banana and a protein shake or chocolate milk works well
• Ice or cold water — if your legs are inflamed, an ice bath or cold shower can reduce swelling and speed recovery
• Rest the next 48 hours — light walking is fine, but avoid running for at least two days post-race
• Sleep — your muscles repair during sleep, so prioritise rest in the days following the event

Cheer Andrew On!

The Great North Run takes place this Sunday. Follow Andrew's journey on Instagram @andy_runjourney and show your support by donating to his fundraising page:

👉 Donate to Andrew's Run

From everyone at GymBum UK — good luck Andrew, you've got this! 💪

Kit Up Like Andrew
Race-ready activewear, built for performance.

👕 Shop the Lomond Men's QuickDry Performance T-Shirt →

The right sports bra is the most important piece of kit in your gym bag. This guide breaks down exactly how to find yours — by impact level, cup size, and activity — so you can train without distraction or discomfort.

Updated: 30 August 2026

Table of Contents

• Introduction
• Impact Levels Explained
• How to Choose by Cup Size
• Key Features to Look For
• Top Picks from GymBum UK
• Fit Checklist
• FAQ
• Wrap-Up

Introduction

A bad sports bra doesn't just cause discomfort — it limits your performance. Too little support and you're distracted every rep. Too much compression and you can't breathe properly through a HIIT circuit. The right bra should disappear when you're training — you shouldn't notice it at all.

The problem is most women are wearing the wrong size, the wrong impact level, or both. This guide fixes that.

Impact Levels Explained

Low Impact

Best for: Yoga, Pilates, walking, stretching, weightlifting

Light movement with minimal bounce. A crop-style or bralette design works well. Focus on comfort and coverage over compression.

What to look for: Soft fabric, light padding, pullover style, no underwire needed.

Medium Impact

Best for: Cycling, hiking, dance, gym circuits, reformer Pilates

Moderate movement with some directional bounce. Needs more structure than a low-impact style but doesn't require maximum compression.

What to look for: Wider straps, a defined back, some moulding or inner sling for shape.

High Impact

Best for: Running, HIIT, plyometrics, CrossFit, jumping

Maximum bounce, requires serious support. Encapsulation (each cup supported individually) outperforms compression-only styles at this level, especially for D+ cup sizes.

What to look for: Encapsulation cups, adjustable straps, firm underband, minimal stretch in the fabric.

How to Choose by Cup Size

Cup size changes everything. A high-impact bra that works for an A cup won't work for a DD — and vice versa.

Key rule: The larger the cup size, the more important encapsulation becomes over compression alone.

Key Features to Look For

Underband

Should sit flat and firm all the way around — not ride up at the back. The underband provides 80% of your support; if it's loose, the bra isn't doing its job.

Straps

• Racerback: Great for shoulder mobility, distributes weight evenly
• Adjustable: Essential for D+ cup sizes to fine-tune lift and support
• Wide set: Better for broader shoulders, prevents slipping mid-workout

Fabric

• Moisture-wicking: Pulls sweat away from skin — essential for HIIT and running
• Four-way stretch: Moves with you without losing shape
• Avoid: 100% cotton — holds moisture and loses support when wet

Padding

• Removable pads: Versatile — wear with or without depending on preference
• Moulded cups: Better shape retention and nipple coverage
• No padding: Preferred by larger cup sizes where fit and support matter more than shape

Top Picks from GymBum UK

1. High Impact Racerback Sports Bra — Editor's Pick

Maximum support for high-movement training. Encapsulation cups with a firm underband and adjustable racerback straps. Available in A–E cup. The go-to for running and HIIT.

Best for: Running, HIIT, CrossFit
Key feature: Encapsulation cups, moisture-wicking fabric

2. Medium Support Seamless Sports Bra

A seamless design that works across medium-impact activities. Light moulded cups, wide fixed straps, and four-way stretch fabric. Comfortable enough to wear all day.

Best for: Gym circuits, cycling, yoga
Key feature: Seamless construction, all-day comfort

3. Low Impact Longline Bra

A crop-length bra with light padding and a relaxed fit. Pairs with high-waist leggings for a co-ord look. Ideal for Pilates, stretching, and low-intensity sessions.

Best for: Yoga, Pilates, walking
Key feature: Longline cut, minimal compression, style-forward

Fit Checklist

Before you commit to a sports bra, run through this:

• ✅ Underband sits flat all the way around — no riding up
• ✅ Cups fully contain breast tissue — no spillage at the top or sides
• ✅ Straps don't dig in or slip off the shoulder
• ✅ You can fit two fingers under the band — but no more
• ✅ No movement between the bra and your body when you jump
• ✅ You can take a full deep breath without restriction

FAQ

How often should I replace my sports bra?

Every 6–12 months with regular use, or when the underband loses its elasticity. If the band rides up during exercise, it's time to replace it.

Should I size up or down in sports bras?

Size down in the band if you're between sizes — the band stretches with wear. Size up in the cup if there's any spillage or the underwire sits on breast tissue rather than the chest wall.

Can I wear a sports bra all day?

Low and medium impact styles are generally fine for all-day wear. Avoid wearing high-compression bras for extended periods as they can restrict lymphatic flow and cause skin irritation.

Do underwire sports bras provide better support?

For D+ cup sizes, yes — underwire combined with encapsulation cups significantly outperforms compression-only styles for high-impact activities. For A–C cups, a well-constructed compression bra is usually sufficient.

What's the difference between compression and encapsulation?

Compression bras press breast tissue against the chest to limit movement. Encapsulation bras support each breast individually in a moulded cup. Encapsulation is superior for larger cup sizes and high-impact activity.

Wrap-Up

The right sports bra comes down to three things: your cup size, your activity level, and the fit. Use the impact level guide to narrow your search, then run the fit checklist before you buy. Browse the GymBum UK Sports Bras collection to find the right support for your training.

Written by the GymBum UK team — activewear specialists helping women train harder, look better, and feel confident in the gym.