Must-have equipment for Gyms & Fitness Centers

If you’re responsible for kitting out a gym or fitness center, or are an owner or manager whose space is in need of a re-fresh, here’s our clear and comprehensive guide on the must-have items you’ll need to make your gym functional, fitted, and kitted out properly. Remember, these items are ‘must-haves’, meaning they are essential to the running of a decent and dependable fitness space. You cannot do without these if you are to qualify as a gym that’s appropriate to the name and to its users.

1: temperature controls

When undertaking fitness activity / exercise, people sweat. As such, you’ll need to ensure that your space is neither too hot nor too cold, and in fact is slightly more on the cool side to compensate for this fact.

Since fitness centers and sports facilities are normally large spaces, the best way to reduce temperature is by fitting an industrial ceiling fan. Air conditioning in such a large area would result in astronomical utility bills. A large ceiling fan of the right power will work to cool your entire space at a fraction at the cost, and keep your customers cool during their workout.

2: exercise equipment

It goes without saying that for people to exercise you will need equipment. Start by visiting gyms in your local area and listing the items they have. This is a useful way of knowing what’s needed as well as spotting what’s missing with your competitors – find a gap in the market, fill it, and your gym space will surely stand out.

As well as technological machines such as treadmills and cross trainers, ensure a good balance by investing in a range of non-tech equipment such as dumbbells, ropes, Pilates balls, mats, etc. This will draw both a wider range of attendees to your space – not everyone likes using machines, and most people prefer a mix.

3: water and snack supplies

Although it’s not at the top of everybody’s list, sports spaces do need water coolers as well as, ideally, a place to buy snacks. When exercising, people require regular refueling, particularly fresh water. Coolers are an essential item no gym is ever without.

For snacks, consider healthy options such as cereal and sports bars. Find out if there are any suppliers who could fit your space with a dispensing machine, cutting out the need for a paid staff member to make the sales.

4: lockers and benches

You’ll need lockers for members to store their stuff, and benches for them to sit on whilst changing. Ever been to a gym without either of these? No, neither have we.

5: and finally…

You’ll need a front desk and till to sign up new members. You’ll require a credit card machine in order to be able to take their bank account details. A banner for outside your front door, to lure customers in, is also a solid marketing idea.