What about cork?

Cork floating floor = $1.99/sf Golden Beach from iCork Floor LLC.

www.icorkfloor.com

Add some cork underlay for $0.35/sf or $0.69/sf for more cushion and more acoustic insulation. We've done this HUNDREDS of times with cork floating floors. Have fun. Your $1500 goes a long way with iCork Floor pricing.

So in my research I have viewed a few gyms that use cork and I like the look of it. The concern i initially had was regarding a dropped weight (I am not rough with my weights typically - just accounting for the moment of exhaustion) and dragging benches on the surface without ripping or tearing this material. Also, I do cross fit workouts as well.. What is the surface like in terms of slip and grip?

What about rubber tiles? If they use them in garages, they must be able to stand up to your weights and benches.

I have looked through a bunch of rubber tiles and although I wanted to go this route in the beginning, the stench of most of these tiles has ruined the concept for me. There was only a handfull of tiles that had 'minimum' odor. These are in a room in my basement - and with the door being closed most of the time - i don't want an overpowering smell upon entry!