When you set out to plan the layout of a new gym or functional fitness facility, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the many moving parts. From selecting the right equipment to mapping out traffic flow, every decision you make can significantly impact member satisfaction and overall revenue potential.
Here at Again Faster, we’ve guided countless gym owners to achieve a gym design that not only looks great but is practical and profitable.
Below are five common mistakes we see many facilities make, or are often overlooked in those crucial early planning days. If you keep these points in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating a fitness space that’s functional, inviting, and primed for success.
1. Not zoning equipment effectively
It can be tempting to line up your machines and weights however they fit, but failing to divide your gym into dedicated zones - like cardio, strength, and stretching - can lead to a disjointed experience for members. In a busy gym environment, people naturally seek out others who are doing similar workouts, whether that’s running or lifting. By placing your treadmills and rowing machines together, you help cardio enthusiasts feed off each other’s energy. Meanwhile, designating a separate area for free weights and squat racks allows strength-focused members to support and learn from one another more effectively.
Careful zoning can streamline traffic flow and reduce congestion too. If you’ve ever tried to dart between a treadmill and a squat rack during peak hours, you’ll appreciate the importance of a clear layout. A well-structured approach ensures that different training styles can coexist without intruding on one another. If you’re unsure where to start, experiment with our free gym designer tool to visualise how different zones might fit together. This planning step is often overlooked, but once implemented, it can dramatically improve the member experience - and ultimately, that positive member experience is what will keep them coming back and paying their membership fees.
2. Creating a cramped, unwelcoming environment
In an effort to offer variety, many gym owners pack in as many machines and training stations as possible. While a diverse equipment range is undoubtedly a selling point, there’s a fine line between having plenty of options and creating a cluttered, stressful environment. When machines are squeezed too close together, members may feel self-conscious about their personal space or become frustrated when navigating the gym floor.
A good layout also accounts for how people move through a workout. Most members start with a warm-up - be it cycling or rowing - before moving on to strength or resistance work. Ideally, you’ll place these zones in a logical order so people can flow naturally from one to the next.
Providing communal or breakout areas can greatly enhance comfort and reduce congestion around machines too. These small hubs can be used for conversations, rest, or a quick water break - freeing up equipment for those in active workout mode.
Ultimately, a spacious and thoughtfully arranged commercial gym design leads to happier members who are more likely to stick around.
3. Overlooking the importance of the locker rooms
The quality of your locker rooms can make or break a member’s experience. Far too many gyms consider it an afterthought, but if your facility doesn’t provide the basics - like secure storage, clean showers and enough changing space - members might think twice about returning.
A good locker room goes beyond the bare essentials by offering well-lit mirrors, hairdryers, and even small amenities like toiletries. These are little touches that show you care about your members’ overall wellbeing.
A well-equipped locker room is especially crucial for gyms that target busy professionals, students, or anyone juggling multiple obligations throughout the day. If people can’t comfortably freshen up and change, they may have to dash home or skip their workout altogether. By offering a space where members can seamlessly transition from an intense workout to their next obligation, you’re increasing the opportunity for members to come and use your gym and fit a workout into their day.
4. Neglecting branding and selfie-friendly spaces
Branding is more than just a logo on your reception desk. It’s the culture, personality, and promise you offer to your members. Many gym owners get so caught up in equipment lists and floor plans that they overlook the importance of making a visual impact. By integrating your brand colours, slogans, and design motifs throughout the facility, you can create an atmosphere that resonates with members and becomes instantly recognisable.
Selfie-friendly areas are a smart addition to any gym design. Setting up a small corner with great lighting, a mirror, and a branded backdrop encourages members to snap photos of their workouts and post them online. Not only does this make your members feel proud of their progress, but it also serves as free marketing - each selfie is essentially a personalised advertisement for your gym. Make these areas feel welcoming and don’t forget to add a subtle brand element, such as your gym’s name or logo, so it appears in every shot.
5. Often overlooked but always important…
Finally, several less glamorous but vital aspects of commercial gym design often fall through the cracks: storage, flooring, and soundproofing. Let’s start with storage. Without sufficient space to store accessories like mats, kettlebells, dumbbells, barbells and resistance bands, your gym floor can quickly become cluttered and unsafe.
Flooring is another factor that merits serious consideration. Functional fitness areas often require shock-absorbing floors to protect both equipment and members from the impact of dropped weights. In contrast, cardio zones might benefit from more cushioned surfaces for joint support. Beyond functionality, the type and style of flooring you choose can also reinforce your brand identity and aesthetic.
Finally, don’t forget about soundproofing. Gyms can be noisy spaces with loud music, clanging weights, and bustling chatter. Proper insulation helps contain the noise within your facility, ensuring that you don’t disturb neighbouring businesses or residents. It also keeps your members happier if you host group classes in one zone while others are training independently in another.
Speak to the gym design specialists
Meticulous planning goes a long way in shaping a gym layout that truly works. Even the most passionate gym owners can benefit from a second opinion or a fresh perspective - especially when it comes to maximising space and member satisfaction. Here at Again Faster, our gym design consultants can help you fine-tune your ideas, bring a fresh perspective from 20 years of experience of having seen what’s worked elsewhere, and make sure you only have to invest in this stage of your business once. Get it right the first time, and you’ll spend less rectifying things later on.
Whether you’re starting from scratch or revamping an existing setup, a little guidance can make all the difference. Request a free design consultation and let us help you transform your vision into a thriving, high-functioning space.
We look forward to learning about your fitness space and vision!
