There are literally thousands of different options when it comes to used gym equipment, so putting together a good package for your gym can be quite the Herculean task. Every gym is built differently, not only in size but also in atmosphere and customer base, which can play a factor in choosing the correct equipment. Here are some key aspects of your gym that you should consider first before looking for equipment.
Size of Facility:
The type of fitness equipment a gym purchases is highly dependent on how large the facility is.
Smaller Gyms:
A smaller gym would tend to lean toward all-in-one machines with a small footprint, such as a functional trainer or the Precor AMT, which can serve the functions of other machines. This ensures that the gym-goers can work on all their body parts even in a smaller sized gym.
Larger Gyms:
Larger gyms with more floor space may want to steer clear of all-in-one machines. While they are great for gyms with limited space, people tend to spend more time on them, creating lines for machines. Long lines and waiting for machines cause frustration and can upset your customer base. If your gym has adequate space, then you should opt for single station machines. Allowing gym goers to work on machines that target a specific body part will create less traffic as customers have more machines to choose from.
Customer Base/Location:
There is no one-size-fits-all for gym packages and in addition to the size of the gym, gym owners need to be aware of their target market. For example, if you are in a higher income area then your customer base will most likely expect newer machines with touchscreens or connectivity features. While these machines do cost more, you can compensate by charging higher membership fees. Gyms in lower income areas would most likely not benefit from opting for higher end equipment but rather durable and fundamentally sound equipment in order to keep membership fees down. Before buying equipment for your new potential gym, it is absolutely vital to scout the surrounding area and even other businesses in the vicinity.
Which Cardio Equipment to Buy:
When it comes to cardio, variety is key to a successful gym. While most cardiovascular machines accomplish the same goal of burning calories, people do have preferences for machines.
Treadmills: A successful gym will definitely have at least one treadmill. Treadmills are the most popular fitness equipment due to the calorie burning potential and simplicity of use. Every gym should be equipped with at least two of these no matter your size.
Elliptical Crosstrainers: The second most popular machine at the gym. Every gym, no matter the size, should have at least one elliptical in their lineup for people who wish to have a low-impact cardio workout.
Bikes: Exercise bicycles are also relatively easy to use and low impact, so including both an upright and recumbent bike (if your gym has adequate room) can also help tremendously in shortening the lines for the treadmills and ellipticals. Indoor cycles are also highly popular and very cost effective so buying a few of them would definitely be a great idea. If you can acquire about 10 or 20 indoor cycles, you can hold spinning classes which can generate some additional revenue.
Steppers/Stepmills: Also called StairMasters (in reference to the company that popularized them), steppers and stepmills are on the lower end of the popularity spectrum for gym equipment which is unfortunate because they offer so many benefits. If you are low on space and capital, you can afford to go without a stepper/stepmill.
What Strength Machines to Buy:
Functional Trainers: As we’ve previously stated, functional trainers are essential for smaller gyms or personal training studios because of their versatility. If you are limited on floor space, one functional trainer can take the place of around 10 single station machines.
Plate-loaded equipment: Plate-loaded single station machines are perfect for mid-sized gyms and gyms that cater toward the more “hardcore” customer base. Plate-loaded equipment is much cheaper than single stations because you only need to buy one set of plates that can be transferred from machine to machine. The downside is that your clients need to be strong enough to carry around those plates and it can be time consuming. If you have high traffic, plate loaded machines are not recommended.
Selectorized equipment: Larger and high end gyms should definitely invest in selectorized gym equipment. Selectorized equipment does not use weight plates and all the weight stacks are built in, which allows for more simple and efficient use. Adjustments can also be done without leaving the machine so usage time will be shorter and allows traffic to keep flowing.
Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines and every gym is different. While you are free and encouraged to put together your own gym packages, the experienced crew at Primo Fitness can do all that for you! If you would like us to put together a package for your gym, fill out our gym package request form!