Partner Post: Top 7 Considerations for Your Fitness Amenity
Creating a world-class fitness amenity starts with a few simple considerations that can bring your vision to fruition with the best possible application and products for your space. Consider these factors when mapping out your fitness amenity, and you’ll add incredible value and curb appeal to anyone considering your property.
Fitness is a Lifestyle
People are focusing on their fitness and well-being more than ever. According to IHRSA, since 2012, there has been a 15% increase in commercial fitness facilities and a 121% increase in boutique studios. And, 76% of renters are trying to achieve a healthy lifestyle (2018 Disruption Report, National Multifamily Housing Council). Being health conscious is considered the norm for a good portion of the general population. This amenity-turned-necessity only works as well as the planning, product selection and partnership you choose.
Know the Trends
Each year the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) surveys more than 4,000 industry professionals. The list rarely changes drastically, and provides a good barometer of what residents want from their fitness amenity.
ACSM Top Trends for 2019
- Wearable technology
- Group training
- High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
- Fitness programs for older adults
- Bodyweight training
- Employing certified fitness professionals
- Yoga
- Personal training
- Functional fitness training
- Exercise is medicine
Use Space Wisely
Space efficiency is one of the most important factors when planning your fitness amenity. Large equipment that doesn’t offer much versatility can be a difficult choice to make for a small facility. Meet your residents’ needs and expectations with comprehensive or modular equipment that allows training variety for all exerciser levels. Also, make sure to comply with the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) and ASTM (American Standard for Testing Materials). Life Fitness has a team of layout experts that can help you plan and visualize your space.
Get the Perfect Mix
Picking the right equipment is more about knowing your demographic than prescribing an ideal mix. Older residents typically prefer standard cardio like treadmills and cross-trainers, and selectorized strength equipment. Younger residents favor training tools like kettlebells and free weights as well as treadmills. Mix and match the ideal equipment to appeal to your residents. Life Fitness and its family of brands offer a wide variety of fitness training tools that can cover any exerciser’s training needs and expectations.
The Boutique Experience
According to IHRSA, 40% of fitness facility members reported belonging to a boutique studio in 2017. If you’re able to market your fitness amenity as a boutique experience, you’re adding tremendous value to residents.
Expectations vary by demographic and locale. Having a multipurpose space that meets the needs of residents across generations allows you to offer a variety of activities and meet more needs. Other residents—particularly those in urban high-rises—may warrant a hospitality-rich experience complete with personal trainers and a smoothie or juice bar.
Embrace the Digital Age
Everything is connected. Your residents expect to remain connected, even when working out. Connected fitness equipment allows residents to watch their shows, play their games, surf the web and track their workouts. They can connect their wearables and sync their fitness apps to seamlessly exchange workout data.
Find Your Vibe
Your fitness amenity should always have an inviting aesthetic. Exercisers feel motivated when they head somewhere welcoming—and stylish—for workouts. Don’t overlook important design elements, and be sure to incorporate energetic hues into the environment. Additionally, keep lighting in mind. Avoid harsh lighting and take advantage of natural light, and supplement it by flattering lighting that mimics its feel.