Creating a fitness suite, or gym in an educational setting can be simple or complicated depending on your experiences and access to expertise.
A fitness suite in a school environment will give students the opportunity to try out exercises that they would not traditionally do in school. Gym equipment such as cardio machines and weights have been and still can be viewed by many as adult activities yet are in fact as beneficial to younger students. As long as they are used correctly and within recommended safety guidelines, a fitness suite will give students the ability to maintain a healthy body weight, build strength and build their confidence!
Some students who are not fond of traditional or team sports may feel more motivated and comfortable using a fitness suite. Celebrities and sporting idols play a huge part in social identity and the use of fitness suites are becoming more attractive to all age groups. Adapting your existing environment to facilitate a gym / fitness suite may really see an increase in student engagement when it comes to exercise.
If you don’t have an existing fitness suite or capacity within your sports facilities to create one, then it may be worth considering unused classrooms! Considerations such as hardwearing, durable flooring should be noted when designing your suite, but your designer will help guide you through the best options for your facilities.