6 Steps to Consider When Outfitting a Fitness Facility
1. Potential Users
Analyze your club's membership and identify the potential users of your fitness
centre to determine the right type of equipment.
2. Facility Traffic
An important consideration is the amount of usage your centre might receive.
Traffic in the fitness centre will depend on the size and demographics of your
membership as well as the center's hours of operation.
3. Staffed or Unsupervised?
The presence or absence of a staff person in the fitness centre also may affect
usage. Centers that are staffed tend to be used more. Unstaffed centers should
have equipment that is simple to use. Clear instructions should be posted on or
near the equipment.
4. Size of Facility
As you plan equipment for your facility, consider the space. Ensure that the
facility and the amount of equipment you purchase will comfortably accommodate
the number of anticipated users.
- If you have a small facility (100-200 users), you will need at least two types of major cardio machines
- If you have a medium facility (200-400 users), you will need at least four cardio machines (two from each category)
- If you have a large facility (400+ users), you will need one major
cardio machine for every 100 potential users.
5. Choosing Exercise Equipment
The amount of use is the most important factor to consider when choosing
equipment. Manufacturer’s brands and warranty are also an important
consideration. Down time and frequent repairs can lead to member frustration
and higher maintenance costs, make sure your product can be serviced locally.
6. Budget
Actual prices of equipment will vary, but the following is an approximate guide
to budgeting for your fitness centre.
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Treadmills Price Range $3,500 - $8,000 |
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Cross-trainers/Ellipticals Price Range $2,000 - $6,000 |
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Bikes Price Range $1,000 - $3,500 |
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Climbers Price Range $2,500 - $4,000 |
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Rowers Price Range $1,200 - $3,500 |
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Vibration
Machines Price Range $1,500 - $9,500 |
Single Station Strength Machines
Price Range $2,000 - $4,500
Combo Station Strength Machines
Price Range $2,500 - $4,000
Multi-Stations (2 Stack Multi Gyms)
Price Range $3,000 - $4,000
Multi-Stations (3 Stack Multi Gyms)
Price Range $4,000 - $6,000
Multi-Stations (4 Stack Multi Gyms)
Price Range $6,000 - $10,000