Comprehensive Functional Systems Deliver Results
Cable stacks and selectorized equipment are mainstays due to their ease of use.
The new Resolute Dual Adjustable Pulley from Precor maximizes versatility in a minimum footprint. Equipped with a 4:1 pulley ratio, more than 12 feet of cable travel, a 400-pound weight stack, and four storage shelves, its variety appeals to exercisers and gyms alike.
Lift Fitness incorporates a patented, adjustable stabilization pad on its Dual Adjustable Pulley with Stabilization to enable users to perform a wider variety of exercises, with or without added support.
"Clubs and studios are seeking versatile strength training solutions that cater to the diverse and evolving needs of members,” observes Greg Highsmith, the vice president of strength and group training at Life Fitness. "We encourage facilities to replace products to provide exercisers with better strength tools."
Beyond single-station units, functional training and innovative rack systems continue to gain traction.
"Strength training is one of the strongest (pun intended) categories in fitness," says Duanne Abbott, West Coast sales manager for Body-Solid. "We recently introduced the Pro Clubline SPR500 and SPR1000 rack and half-rack systems, and included new innovations such as one-inch hole spacing, optional safety straps, several unique attachments, and other new features that were not available on traditional racks and cages."
With the weight room crowded, Abbott says that space and safety is as important as efficiency. "One of our newest innovations is the Pro Clubline SPRLFT Monolift liftoffs for power racks and half racks. The SPRLFT allows lifters to start and complete lifts without having to move the barbell out and away from the J-cups. This makes all your
lifts safer, more efficient, and reduces risk of injury."
The new XP Wall System from ZIVA incorporates a half rack with built-in storage posts, a pair of cable stacks, a section of training bars, and shelving for functional or free weight equipment. All pieces fasten to one another and to the gym’s wall.
"More and more, clubs and studios are asking for products that are built to purpose, whether that's functionality, dimensions, branding, or a combination of these," says Mitch Carlin, the CEO of ZIVA North America. "Our modular systems allow gyms to design equipment that meets the specific needs of their clients within their space."
Eleiko's cable collection—a dual adjustable pulley, cable cross, single adjustable pulley, lat pull-down, and low row—can stand alone or be building blocks of customized multistation configurations.
"Our customers aren't constrained by a base foundation and can freely design units that align with their preferences," Blomberg explains. “The cable system is available in freestanding, wall-mounted, or multifunction training stations for complete flexibility."
Storage and Single Solutions
The strength training boom has increased the need for storage of free weights and accessories to keep gym floors organized and safe for exercisers. Eleiko recently introduced customizable, modular storage solutions for free weights, accessories, and training tools on its Prestera Strength System.
"Orderliness is paramount for gym members, and easy access to equipment is essential," Blomberg points out. "This solution addresses challenges of space utilization, facility flow, and functionality, while enhancing the experience." Combining functionality and compact storage is FITBENCH. This all-in-one bench is ideal for indoor or outdoor small group training, group ex, personal training, or individual workouts away from the main strength area. It inclines and declines up to seven positions and houses several sets of dumbbells, kettlebells, a slam ball, FITBANDs, and more.
"We only create products that solve a problem for our customers," says Tyler Danen, the founder and CEO of FITBENCH. "And we include a QR code on every bench for our YouTube page that has more than 400 videos of exercises you can do with FITBENCH."
Putting It All Together
As clubs dedicate more space to strength training, layouts and
equipment mix continue to evolve. Abbott sees the trend continuing
indefinitely.
"The popularity of strength training will continue to surge in clubs
and the home market. The widespread benefits, improved education, and
product innovations will drive more people to incorporate strength
training as part of their program."
Representing 60-year-old strength training leader Eleiko, Blomberg agrees.
"Strength
equipment plays a crucial role in attracting and retaining members.
Versatile, space-efficient options that are accessible help operators
cater to the diverse needs of users, particularly as they become more
informed and competent."