Starting the process of designing a new gym, or reimagining your existing space, is always a really exciting time! But it’s also so important to get this stage right to help shape the rest of the project, and the ultimate success of your fitness facility.
Here at Again Faster, we’ve been helping gym owners and fitness entrepreneurs turn their passion for health and strength training into successful businesses, one design choice at a time, for almost 20 years.
If you’re starting that process, then feel free to get in touch with our gym consultancy team. If you’re not sure you’re ready for help just yet, then there are a set of questions you can ask to help refine just what it is you need in your space, to shape the design direction, and to solidify the must-haves from the just-wants.
So, here are 10 questions you can ask yourself before you start designing your commercial gym.
1. Who is your target audience?
The very first question we always ask is: who do you want to attract to your gym? Are you aiming for functional fitness enthusiasts, powerlifters, general fitness clients, or a niche group like seniors or beginners? Identifying your target audience at the outset is crucial because it influences the layout, the type of equipment you’ll need, and the overall vibe of the space.
For example, a gym focused on strength and conditioning will need more squat racks and functional training areas, while a facility geared towards group classes might devote more space to open-floor workout zones.
2. What first impression do you want to make?
Think about the entrance to your gym and how people will feel the moment they walk through the door. Do you want an open, inviting reception area with comfortable seating and a welcoming desk, or a sleek, minimalist entrance that radiates high performance? Is it dark and grungy for powerlifting, or open and bright and potentially less intimidating for people new to fitness?
Whatever your preference, this part of your commercial gym design sets the tone for the entire workout experience. We like to ensure there’s good signage, lighting, and a clear path to the workout area.
3. Should you include designated ‘selfie zones’?
Whether you love them or hate them, we can’t ignore that social media is a massive part of modern fitness culture. Having a designated, well-lit space for members to capture their progress or share their workouts can be a fun way to boost community and brand awareness. Some gyms brand these spots with their logo or motivational quotes on the wall, so your members’ social posts effectively spread your gym’s identity.
Additionally, you could decide that your gym is a completely camera-free zone, or designate some areas where filming is allowed and isn’t.
4. Will you offer refreshments, supplements, and merchandise?
Many gym owners overlook the opportunity to add revenue streams by selling drinks, supplements, or branded merchandise. If you do decide to include these, you’ll need an area to display and store products. This can be as simple as a well-placed retail shelf in reception, or a more extensive café-style arrangement. Make sure it doesn’t obstruct member flow but is still prominent enough to catch attention.
Think of it as a way to keep your members on-site, comfortably, for longer if they wish.
5. Do you need a breakout or rest area?
We’ve seen that members love having a small breakout space to chat, make plans, or just cool down without disrupting others who are mid-workout. It could be a corner with a few chairs or a bench near the entrance, or even a separate lounge area if you have sufficient space.
Creating this zone fosters community in your facility and can help improve the overall member experience, and also frees up the workout areas for just that - working out. You may find this actually increases the capacity of the workspace, as people won’t be sat at machines talking rather than working out.
6. What equipment will your members want the most?
When planning a gym design, we always match the equipment selection to the needs of the target audience. For instance, if you cater to a bodybuilding crowd, you might prioritise a variety of resistance machines and free weights. If you’re all about functional fitness, you may want rigs, plyo boxes, and sled tracks. Take time to test out different products or use our free gym designer tool to see how equipment will fit and flow in your space.
7. How does your brand shape the overall aesthetic?
We’ve learned that every aspect of the gym - from the colour scheme and signage to the layout and decor - should reflect your branding and mission. If you’re aiming for a high-performance vibe, you might choose bold colours and edgy graphics. For a more inclusive space, consider softer tones and motivational messages that resonate with beginners or diverse fitness groups. Consistency in branding helps you stand out and fosters loyalty among members.
8. How will you manage traffic flow and safety?
A well-designed gym doesn’t feel cramped, even during peak hours. To achieve this, think carefully about how people will move from one area to another. Are there clear walkways? Is there enough room between machines and squat racks for spotters? We consider the entire layout to ensure safety measures are in place and members aren’t tripping over each other.
9. Do you need input from gym design consultants?
Even if you have a clear vision, it’s often helpful to talk with gym design consultants who can bring fresh ideas and practical advice to the table. We’ve worked with gyms of all shapes and sizes, and we’ve seen it all—what works, and what tends to fall flat. Collaborating with experts can save you time, money, and a great deal of frustration in the long run.
10. What does success look like in the long term?
Finally, set clear goals for what you want your gym to achieve. Is it a thriving membership base, recognition in the local community, or expansion to multiple sites? Having these objectives in mind not only motivates you during the commercial gym design phase, but also guides decisions about budgeting, equipment investment, and potential future renovations.
We love helping fitness entrepreneurs and facility owners bring their vision to life. If you’d like a hand with any aspect of your design, request a free design consultation with us with us. We’d be happy to chat through your plans, share our experiences, and help create the perfect space for your members.
