spaces, it also needs to create a mem- ber experience that is as frictionless as possible. “The average person has to over-


come a lot of mental friction just to get to the gym—objections like, ‘I don’t have time’ or ‘I don’t like exercising,’” says Knecht. “So once they’re in our clubs, our job is to make their work- outs flow and to be as easy as pos- sible. For example, we don’t want them wriggling between pieces of equipment, lugging weights long dis- tances or having difficulty accessing equipment.” While the ultimate list of dos and


don’ts is almost endless, here are 10 basic tips to help ensure your equip- ment layout is truly enhancing your users’ workout experiences:


1


Be realistic and select an appropri- ate amount of equipment for the


size of your facility. Think about safe- ty, functionality and comfort. Crowded workout areas are a general turnoff, and they also pose a liability.


2 “How you


organize your space and


equipment creates unconscious


impressions about your club that can be the difference between people staying or leaving.”


There is no magic formula for plac- ing equipment, but some com-


panies recommend the following: 18 inches between bikes; at least 8 inches between treadmills and stairclimb- ers; 4 feet behind bikes, ellipticals and stairclimbers; and 6 feet behind tread- mills. Members should be able to en- ter/exit safety and move to the next machine with just a step or two.


3 4


Consider windows and skylights. Be sure that bright light doesn’t


create glare on TV screens or blind members who are lying on benches.


Think way ahead since clubs of- ten change their equipment layout


every two or three years. Consider the long term consequences of your cur- rent design decisions as your business evolves and as training trends come and go. For example, will you always want those huge mirrors attached to that wall or that CrossFit-style rig bolt- ed to the wall and floor?


5 6 7


Group equipment appropriately. For example, keep a short circuit of


selectorized pieces near the entrance for new members and those who like a quick and simple full-body machine workout.


Avoid a messy look that, in mem- bers’ minds, might register as an


overall disorganized approach to run- ning your club. Slam balls, battle ropes and hurdles should be neatly stored away. Buy plate-loaded equipment that includes storage horns. This tidier look also eliminates safety concerns around members walking with equipment.


Take advantage of your equipment sales rep’s experience and design


tools. The best reps are always inter- ested in helping you visualize and execute the best possible equipment layout and concept. Let them partici- pate in your vision and help you create a thriving business. Take advantage of the digital drawings and floor plans they can provide.


8 9


Think about prospects and mem- bers who are self-conscious in a club


setting. For example, don’t place cardio equipment so people’s backs (and bums) are facing entrances. In facilities that are unstaffed and/or very quiet, users may also feel more comfortable with cardio equipment facing entrances.


Be sure your stretching area is safe. Avoid situations where members


using free weights are standing close to members who are lying or sitting nearby on mats.


10


Have your heavy lifters, free weight area, most-intimidating


equipment and high-intensity HIIT classes near the back of your space. Be sure that members aren’t intimidated before they even begin their workouts. FBC


Barb Gormley is the senior editor of Fitness Business Canada, a freelance writer and editor, and a certified personal trainer. Contact her at www.barbgormley.com.


May/June 2017 Fitness Business Canada 33


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