Why I Wanted This Flooring

My old apartment floor felt like walking on concrete, especially when practicing dance moves after work. Stumbled upon a YouTube short showing bouncy wooden floors, started digging around. Found this shock-absorbing maple kit online. Said it could handle jumps without cracking or annoying neighbors downstairs.

What Came in the Box

Opened the delivery expecting chaos but actually looked organized. Here’s what was inside:

• Wooden planks packed like puzzle pieces
• Weird black foam strips for padding
• Little plastic connectors instead of glue or nails
• Rubber hammer that looked like a toy

Prepping the Space

Cleared out all furniture first weekend. Swept the concrete floor until my arms hurt. Found some wonky spots near the wall used leftover cardboard to level them. Measured the room diagonally twice because last time I screwed up the angle.

The Foam Layer Surprise

Rolled out those foam strips like wrestling mats. Thought they’d be smooth but felt like dense sponge. Cut one too short with kitchen scissors realized too late had to tape two pieces together. Pro tip: layer the seams in opposite directions.

Connecting the Maple Planks

Started in the corner working sideways. Each plank had tongue-groove edges those plastic clips snapped into slots when you whack ’em with the rubber hammer. First three rows went smooth. Then realized half the planks had arrows pointing the wrong way. Had to disassemble and flip ’em.

Around the fifth row, noticed gaps between boards. Shoved spare foam strips underneath and stomped on them worked like a charm.

Cutting Around Door Frames

Saved the worst for last. Had to notch planks around door trim. Tried tracing with pencil ended up eyeballing it. Cut too deep on one plank used wood filler mixed with coffee grounds to hide it. You’d never notice unless kneeling.

The First Dance Test

Slid across the floor wearing socks felt like skating on clouds. Did my basic salsa steps no creaking sounds at all. Jumped landing felt like springboard with zero vibration. Downstairs neighbor texted “hearing anything? Nope!” Best part.

Final Thoughts After Two Weeks

Some planks shifted near bathroom where it’s humid had to whack ’em back into place. The foam settled a bit after heavy furniture went back, but dancing still feels amazing. Sweat puddles wipe off easy with vinegar spray. Would tell anyone doing home workouts to try this stuff.