What makes a fitness center stand out? In today’s emerging fitness landscape, building a unique and engaging environment to move is essential. Well beyond equipment selection, the true magic lies in creating atmosphere and space preservation, not occupation by equipment overload.
Here are 5 architectural considerations that are foundational to the gym environment:
- Breathe Easy: Healthy Interiors
Proper ventilation is crucial for a healthy workout environment. Overcome the stale air and germs of traditional AC systems and embrace natural ventilation by opening glass walls or windows whenever possible. Fresh air instantly revitalizes the space, reducing fatigue during exercise, and creating a more enjoyable workout experience.
- Maximize Space: Less is More
Smart space management is key, especially in a post-pandemic world where many exercise participants have learned a new a whole host of movement-based modalities. Expand your space by connecting to outdoor training areas and ensure the separation of high and lower energy training zones. For certain spaces, interior dividers allow for multiple classes or activities to run simultaneously, while offering the option to unite spaces when needed.
- Control the Chaos: Sound Abatement
Dropping weights and pounding treadmills can be disruptive. Work to soundproof your space(s) and cater to today’s wider variety of workout styles while also minimizing disruptions to adjacent non-fitness rooms. Smart equipment selection coupled with a wide variety of sound abatement best practices in fitness design are critical.
- Best In Class Equipment: One Size Does Not Fit All
Invest in high-quality equipment from leading manufactures by modality, not in generality. Today’s consumers have a much stronger degree of exposure to leading products and best-in-class offerings at their local gyms or studios. No single manufacturer of equipment makes the best of everything. Working with a leading design and procurement professional will enable you to determine and competitively purchase the best equipment and accessories for your environment, even if your total project purchase amount is far lower than a multi-national chain of larger health clubs.
- Connect with Nature: Expand Your Exercise Footprint Outdoors
Natural light is a powerful mood booster and goes hand in hand with an energizing workout. Even if you operate within a seasonally restricted climate, every effort should be made to flex or expand to outdoor training spaces whenever possible. Not only will you price per square foot of real estate dedicated to fitness undoubtably drop, but you will also find that many exercise participants today are more than willing to brave the elements to enjoy fresh air, open spaces, and well programed outdoor spaces that facilitate functional training.
Remember, the gym today is as much about the experience as it is about the sweat. By prioritizing these architectural considerations, you will create a welcoming, healthy, and dynamic space that will attract and engage a broader range of participants regardless of their proficiency.