April 15, 2025

Designing a Commercial Gym: What to Know Before You Build

Building a commercial gym from the ground up is a big opportunity. Whether you're opening a new facility in the St. Louis area or expanding an existing location, the way you plan your gym layout will impact everything from user experience to equipment lifespan. A great gym design does more than just fit machines into a space. It creates flow, encourages consistent use, and makes maintenance easier over time.



At EcoFit Equipment, we help clients throughout St. Louis and the surrounding region design custom fitness spaces that reflect their goals, budget, and the needs of the people who will be using them. Here’s what to think through before you start moving in equipment.


Start With Your Facility Type and Audience

A well-designed gym begins with a clear understanding of who it's for. A fitness room in an apartment complex will look very different from a full-scale commercial gym. A corporate wellness center has different needs than a police department training room.


Ask yourself who will be using this space. Are they beginners or experienced lifters? Are you designing for general fitness or sport-specific training? Will it be used by employees, members, students, or tenants? Once you know who you're serving, you can start shaping the space around their habits and goals.


In the St. Louis market, we see a wide range of facility types, each with its own layout priorities. Understanding your user base allows us to recommend the right equipment and spacing from the start.


Map Out Your Available Square Footage

The size and shape of your space directly impact what equipment you can fit and how users will move through the area. Start by measuring the entire room, including ceiling height, doorways, and access points. Make note of any HVAC systems, windows, or columns that could affect equipment placement.


From there, you can create zones. Most successful gyms include areas for:


  • Cardio

  • Strength training

  • Functional fitness

  • Stretching or cool-down

If your space is limited, we can help you choose multi-function equipment that covers more ground in fewer square feet. In larger gyms, we can help optimize spacing to reduce crowding during peak hours.


Design for Flow and Safety

One of the biggest mistakes people make when designing a gym is cramming too much into a space without thinking through how members will use it. People need room to move freely between stations, adjust machines, and complete workouts without bumping into each other.


We look at things like walking paths, sight lines, and visibility when planning layouts. You want users to find what they need quickly and move through their workouts without confusion or frustration. You also want staff to be able to monitor equipment zones easily for safety and cleanliness.


Proper spacing between machines helps prevent accidents and makes the space more inviting overall. We also consider things like emergency exits and clear access for service or deliveries.


Select the Right Equipment Mix

Every gym needs a mix of cardio, strength, and functional training equipment. But how much of each depends on your audience, available space, and budget.


Cardio equipment like treadmills, ellipticals, and bikes are essential in almost any facility. Strength training can be covered with selectorized machines for beginners and plate-loaded stations or free weights for more advanced users. Functional equipment like cable machines, sleds, and turf space allows for more dynamic movement and group training.


In St. Louis, many facilities are leaning toward hybrid setups that combine traditional and functional training zones. That approach gives your users more variety without needing a massive footprint.


At EcoFit, we’ll guide you through which machines make the most sense for your layout and user goals. We also offer refurbished commercial equipment if you're looking to stretch your budget without sacrificing quality.


Plan for Flooring That Matches Usage

Flooring often gets overlooked in gym design, but it's one of the most important parts of creating a safe, durable space. The right flooring protects your equipment, reduces noise, and provides the right amount of grip for different activities.


Rubber flooring is ideal for weight rooms and high-traffic cardio areas. Turf works well for functional training and sled work. Softer foam or mat surfaces can be used in stretching and mobility zones.


We offer full flooring consultations to help you pick the right material and layout based on your gym’s design. We also handle installation so everything fits your space cleanly from wall to wall.


Make Equipment Maintenance Easy

One overlooked aspect of gym design is how serviceable the equipment is after installation. When machines are pushed too close together or placed in hard-to-access corners, simple maintenance becomes a challenge. That can lead to longer downtimes, higher repair costs, and frustrated users.


Our team designs layouts that not only look clean but are easy to maintain long term. We make sure there’s enough clearance around moving parts, proper access to power sources, and logical placement for the most-used machines. This makes it easier to perform regular maintenance, fix issues quickly, and avoid downtime.


Don’t Forget About Noise and Acoustics

Gyms can get loud. Between treadmills, weights hitting the ground, and group workouts, sound carries. If your facility is in a shared building or residential complex, noise management matters.


We help clients think through how to arrange high-impact activities away from walls that border offices or living spaces. We can also help recommend sound-reducing flooring, wall panels, and other acoustic considerations based on your specific space.


Create a Layout That Highlights Your Brand

Your gym layout says a lot about your business. Clean lines, open sight paths, and an intentional flow make your space feel more professional. The way you group equipment, use color, and integrate branding all contribute to the member experience.


We help St. Louis-area gyms create layouts that reflect their brand voice and mission. That might mean adding custom flooring tiles, installing wall graphics, or choosing equipment colors that match your identity.


Even in small spaces, small touches can elevate your design and give your gym a more polished, cohesive feel.


Work With a Partner Who Knows the St. Louis Market

Designing a gym isn’t just about placing equipment in a room. It’s about creating a space that supports your members, protects your investment, and helps your business grow.


EcoFit Equipment works with clients across the St. Louis area to create customized gym layouts that meet the needs of each facility. We understand the challenges and opportunities specific to our region, including building codes, facility types, and competitive positioning.


From concept to installation, we help you:


  • Choose the right equipment for your users

  • Maximize your layout for performance and safety

  • Select and install the best flooring

  • Plan for long-term maintenance and upgrades

  • Design a space that reflects your brand and mission

Ready to Start Designing?

Whether you're building a gym in a new development or updating an older facility, EcoFit Equipment is ready to help you create a space that works. Our design experts take the time to understand your goals, walk your space, and build a custom plan that meets your vision and your budget.


If you're in the St. Louis area and want to make sure your facility is designed right from the ground up, reach out to EcoFit today. We’ll help you get started with a layout that looks great, functions well, and supports your members for years to come.

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Best Equipment for Group Training Spaces in Commercial Gyms

By Laura Wilson VanLanduit • May 13, 2025
Group training continues to be one of the most popular offerings in commercial gyms. Members enjoy the social motivation, coaching support, and structured workouts that come with a group class. But delivering a great experience starts with having the right equipment in place. When building or improving your group training space, your equipment choices impact everything. It affects how your members move, how your instructors lead, and how smooth the sessions run. You want equipment that is versatile, durable, and easy to use for people of all fitness levels. Whether your group classes are focused on functional fitness, HIIT, circuit training, or strength-based formats, the right setup makes a difference. Let’s go over what to prioritize when designing your group training space, what equipment works best, and how EcoFit helps gyms choose gear that supports member retention and daily performance. Start With the Format of the Classes You Offer Before picking out equipment, think about the type of group training you provide. A yoga class needs different gear than a bootcamp. A circuit-style setup needs different space and tools than a cycling studio. Your layout and equipment should match the programming. Some of the most common formats include: Functional training Strength circuits Bootcamps High-intensity interval training Core and mobility classes If your gym offers multiple types of group training in the same space, your equipment needs to be flexible. It should allow for fast transitions and support a range of movements without needing a full reset between sessions. Versatile Equipment Is Key in Shared Spaces In group training, space is limited and timing matters. Members move between stations quickly, so you need gear that supports fast use, multiple functions, and minimal setup. Good options include: Dumbbells and kettlebells with clear weight markings Resistance bands with varying levels of tension Adjustable benches that can be flat, incline, or decline Sandbags or weighted balls for compound movements Medicine balls with textured surfaces for grip Suspension trainers like TRX units Plyometric boxes with soft edges for safety Battle ropes with dedicated anchor points Each piece should be easy to move, quick to sanitize, and durable under frequent use. Instructors should be able to reset the room between classes in just a few minutes. Flooring Should Match the Intensity Your flooring choice matters as much as the equipment. Group training involves dynamic movement, jumping, lifting, and often equipment drops. Choose flooring that reduces noise, absorbs impact, and supports balance and grip. Good flooring options include: Rubber tiles Turf lanes with clear markings Anti-slip mats Foam tiles in mobility zones Flooring should be easy to clean and strong enough to support weighted movements. It also helps define zones in the group training area, separating different class types or station flows. Storage Keeps Everything Moving Smoothly Storage is one of the most overlooked parts of group training areas. Without it, your space can quickly become cluttered. That slows down transitions and creates a safety hazard for members and instructors. Wall-mounted racks, bins for bands and balls, vertical dumbbell towers, and cubbies for mats all keep gear off the floor. Clear storage labels help members know where things go, and that makes cleanup after each session easier for everyone involved. Smart storage also extends the life of your equipment. When members know where to return things and instructors can quickly reset the room, your gear avoids damage and stays in rotation longer. Incorporate Digital Timing and Audio Tools Group classes rely on structure. Members want to know how long to perform each movement and when to switch stations. Adding a digital timer with a visible display keeps everyone on track without instructors having to call out time constantly. Audio systems that sync with class timers or playlists help set the tone for each session. You do not need nightclub-level audio, but your sound system should be clear, reliable, and easy to control mid-class. EcoFit works with many gyms to integrate timers and audio solutions directly into their group spaces. That small touch improves the member experience and makes classes feel more organized and professional. Group Training Rigs Bring It All Together Training rigs are becoming more common in group spaces. These structures serve as a central station for suspension training, pull-ups, resistance bands, ropes, and more. A well-designed rig can replace multiple pieces of equipment while improving flow. When planning for a rig, consider: How many people will use it at once What attachments you need now and later Floor anchors or wall-mounted supports Storage integration for accessories Rigs can be customized to fit the style of your group training. Some are compact and minimal. Others offer full stations around all four sides. EcoFit helps gyms evaluate their space and choose a setup that supports both class size and training goals. Design Around Instructor Visibility and Movement Group training requires instructors to be able to see everyone and coach in real time. If your layout blocks visibility or limits instructor access, the class experience suffers. When designing your group training space, avoid placing large equipment or dividers between participants. Keep walkways clear so instructors can move around and help members with form or transitions. Use mirrors in key locations to give both instructors and members feedback on positioning. Just avoid placing mirrors directly in front of high-movement zones like plyo boxes or slam balls. That reduces distraction and improves safety. Plan for All Fitness Levels Your group training space should feel accessible. That means having equipment that works for beginners and experienced members alike. Offering a range of dumbbell weights, bands, and adjustable tools ensures everyone can participate without feeling left out. Make it easy to modify movements by having: Lighter kettlebells available Shorter step-up platforms Resistance bands for assisted movements Clear cues from instructors about scaling options This kind of inclusivity improves class participation and helps keep members coming back over time. Sanitation Should Be Built Into the Flow Keeping your equipment clean is part of delivering a quality experience. Place sanitation stations within easy reach of your group training space. Members should be able to wipe down gear before and after class without walking across the gym. Include: Spray bottles or wipe dispensers Trash cans near exits Easy-to-clean surfaces on benches and mats Well-placed sanitation supplies make it easier for everyone to do their part. It also shows members that you take cleanliness seriously, which helps with retention and referrals. EcoFit Helps You Choose the Right Group Training Setup Every facility is different. Some gyms dedicate a large section to group training. Others need the space to shift between group sessions and open gym. Your equipment plan should be built around how your members train and how much space you have. EcoFit works with gyms of all sizes to design group training areas that function well under real-world conditions. We help you: Choose versatile equipment that fits your class styles Plan layout for maximum flow and instructor visibility Recommend flooring and storage that improves use Source durable tools that hold up under daily pressure Build zones that transition quickly and clean easily If you are starting a new space or upgrading your current setup, our team will walk through the full process with you. We do not just sell equipment. We help you build a space that works for your business and gives your members a reason to stay. Create a Group Training Experience That Delivers The right equipment turns a basic group workout into a high-value member experience. It helps instructors do their job, gives members the tools they need to succeed, and keeps your facility running efficiently day after day. If your group training area feels cramped, outdated, or hard to manage, it might be time for a reset. With a few smart updates, you can improve the look, flow, and function of the space. Reach out to EcoFit for help planning, sourcing, and maintaining the equipment your group training area needs. We will help you build a space that delivers results, supports retention, and runs smoothly for every class.

Top Fitness Trends Shaping Commercial Gym Design in 2025

By Laura Wilson VanLanduit • May 10, 2025
The fitness industry is changing fast. If your commercial gym is still designed the way it was five or ten years ago, it may already feel outdated to your members. Design is not just about looking modern. It plays a big role in how your space functions, how your members interact with it, and how competitive you are in your market. This is especially true in areas like St. Louis, where gym-goers have plenty of options. Whether you are building a new facility or upgrading an existing one, it is worth knowing what trends are shaping gym design in 2025. These trends are based on how members train, what they expect from a gym, and how your space can help you stand out and perform better as a business. Let’s walk through what’s happening now and how it applies to commercial gyms, especially in and around the St. Louis area. Hybrid Training Zones Are the New Norm Modern gym members want flexibility. They are not just lifting weights or running on a treadmill. They are doing circuits, functional movements, and mobility work all in one session. That means gym spaces need to support variety. Hybrid zones combine equipment and open space. These areas often include: Adjustable benches Free weights and kettlebells Turf lanes Sleds and plyo boxes Cable units and training rigs Instead of breaking up your gym into tight sections, this kind of zone allows for fluid use and makes it easy to host group training or individual sessions. In St. Louis, where gyms compete across features and experience, hybrid training areas help facilities feel more current and user-focused. Recovery Areas Are a Key Part of the Member Experience High-performing members want to recover just as well as they train. Facilities that offer spaces for stretching, cooldowns, and mobility work are seen as more complete and professional. These areas might include: Soft flooring Foam rollers and mats Percussion tools Light resistance bands You do not need to dedicate half your gym to recovery. A small, well-designed corner with the right tools and lighting can go a long way. In competitive markets like St. Louis, offering this added value can make your facility more appealing to members who are looking for more than just the basics. Equipment That Saves Space While Doing More Commercial gyms today are looking to make the most of every square foot. This is especially true in urban areas or older buildings that have fixed layouts. The goal is to find equipment that does more in less space. Multi-function machines, half racks with multiple attachments, and dual-purpose selectorized machines are all gaining popularity. Instead of ten machines for ten different muscle groups, you can use five that each serve multiple functions. In the St. Louis area, where older buildings are often repurposed as fitness centers, having compact and flexible equipment can be a huge advantage. It also makes your gym easier to navigate, which helps improve the overall member experience. Technology Integration Is Becoming the Baseline Tech is no longer just for high-end gyms. Members now expect a certain level of digital convenience and connectivity when they work out. This includes: Smart cardio machines that sync with fitness apps Equipment that tracks performance Digital displays for class schedules Mobile check-in or keyless access Adding these features helps modernize your facility and gives members a reason to keep coming back. In a market like St. Louis, where tech-savvy professionals and college students are a large portion of the fitness population, these updates can be a difference-maker. Group Training Layouts Are Evolving Group fitness is still one of the most popular parts of gym life, but how the space is laid out is starting to change. Instead of rows of mats or machines, gyms are now designing group areas with more intention. That means better spacing, better acoustics, and better equipment flow. Design tips include: Curved or circular layouts for better engagement Mounted storage for accessories and mats Zoned flooring to separate instructor areas Built-in lighting to create energy without being distracting If your gym runs popular group sessions in the St. Louis area, it is worth investing in a layout that looks and feels more polished. People remember the way a class feels, and smart design plays a big role in that. Simple, Industrial Design Is Taking Over A lot of gym owners are moving away from bright or loud color schemes. Instead, they are choosing more neutral tones, open ceilings, and materials that give the space a professional and clean feel. Think black, gray, white, and metal finishes. This type of design is: Easier to maintain More gender-neutral Versatile across training types Visually aligned with modern gym branding For St. Louis gym owners looking to appeal to a broad audience or present a more polished brand, this design trend is practical and effective. It also keeps the space feeling organized and cohesive. Storage Is Built Into the Layout Poor storage creates chaos. It makes members feel like your gym is unorganized, and it can even become a safety issue. Smart gym design in 2025 includes storage as part of the initial layout, not as an afterthought. Effective storage includes: Wall-mounted racks Under-bench compartments Vertical dumbbell trees Hidden storage for cleaning supplies and towels In facilities with tight spaces like many urban gyms in St. Louis, this kind of storage planning helps keep everything accessible without creating clutter. Lighting Plays a Bigger Role in Zone Planning Lighting is being used more intentionally to separate spaces and improve member experience. High-energy zones might use bright white lighting. Recovery or mobility zones benefit from softer tones. Group classes often combine lighting with music and layout to create a full experience. Many gym owners overlook lighting, but it directly affects how your space feels and how people interact with it. In St. Louis, where natural light is not always available year-round, your lighting strategy can help offset seasonal mood changes and improve consistency in how your gym looks. Brand Identity Carries Through Design Members want to feel like they are part of something bigger than just a room with equipment. That means your colors, your layout, and even your signage should reflect your brand. From the moment someone walks into your gym, they should have a clear sense of what your facility is all about. This does not mean branding has to be loud. You can use subtle touches like: Wall graphics Branded color accents on equipment Custom signage with your mission or values Lighting and layout that reflect your personality In the St. Louis fitness market, where members have options and are comparing facilities quickly, a strong and consistent brand experience will make your gym more memorable. EcoFit Helps Gyms in the St. Louis Area Plan Smarter At EcoFit, we help commercial gyms across the country build smarter spaces. In areas like St. Louis, where demand is high but competition is even higher, having a thoughtful approach to layout, design, and equipment can make a big difference in member retention and brand reputation. We work with gym owners to: Choose the right equipment for their space Create layouts that improve flow and safety Develop training zones based on how members actually use the facility Integrate technology and storage solutions that keep things running smoothly Whether you are planning a new build or trying to bring an older space up to today’s expectations, our team is here to help. We can consult with you on everything from flooring and equipment selection to full design planning. If you are located in or near St. Louis and want to create a gym that members stay loyal to, reach out to EcoFit. We will help you bring your vision to life while keeping it functional, modern, and tailored to your goals.

What Colors Should You Use in Your Commercial Gym?

By Laura Wilson VanLanduit • May 6, 2025
When it comes to designing or updating a commercial gym, most owners focus on the layout, equipment, flooring, lighting, and branding. But color selection is often overlooked, even though it plays a big role in shaping the atmosphere and experience of your gym. Color affects how people feel, how they move, and how long they stay. It can make your gym feel energized or relaxed, crowded or open, and even influence how members perceive your brand. Choosing the right colors for your commercial gym is not just about looks. It is about building the right environment for your members and supporting the goals of your facility. Whether your gym is focused on high-performance training, group classes, personal training, or general fitness, color can enhance how people interact with the space. Let’s walk through how you should think about color in your gym, what options work best for different areas, and how EcoFit can help guide you to make the right decision for your space. Understanding the Psychology of Color in Fitness Spaces Color psychology refers to how different colors influence mood, behavior, and perception. In fitness environments, certain colors can help motivate people to work harder, while others help calm the mind or aid recovery. Understanding these effects will help you pick the right color palette for your gym’s purpose. Bright colors like red, orange, and yellow are energizing and bold. They are associated with excitement, urgency, and action. These colors can be great in high-intensity areas like free weight zones, turf spaces, or bootcamp areas where people are pushing themselves. Cooler colors like blue, green, and gray have a calming and focused effect. They tend to work better in recovery areas, yoga studios, or cardio zones where people are trying to maintain rhythm and form. These colors can also make a space feel more open and less crowded. Neutral tones like white, black, and beige are often used for balance. Black can add a high-end feel and hide wear and tear in heavy-use areas. White can make a smaller gym feel more spacious. Beige and tan tones help soften a space and work well as a backdrop. Choosing Colors Based on Gym Area and Purpose Every gym has distinct areas that serve different purposes. A one-size-fits-all color plan does not work. Instead, think about how each part of your gym is used and how color can enhance that experience. Here is a breakdown by area: Weight Training Areas These spaces are often intense, loud, and high-energy. Use strong, bold colors like deep red, black, or navy. These colors support power and intensity. A darker palette in these areas can also help hide scuffs, chalk, and equipment wear. Cardio Zones Cardio areas benefit from colors that promote endurance and calm focus. Light blue, green, or slate gray are good options. These help create a smooth, steady environment that supports long treadmill or elliptical sessions. Bright colors in cardio areas may cause visual fatigue, so keeping the tones a bit cooler helps. Group Training Spaces Group training should feel inclusive and exciting without being overwhelming. Mid-tones like burnt orange, teal, or olive green strike a balance between energy and comfort. If your group sessions vary from yoga to HIIT, stick to a neutral base and bring in changeable accent colors through equipment or lighting. Yoga or Recovery Rooms Calming spaces call for muted tones. Soft greens, warm grays, or light wood tones create a peaceful feel. These colors signal to members that this is a space for stretching, breathwork, or recovery, not competition. Locker Rooms and Hallways These transitional spaces are often forgotten, but they help set the tone for the member’s overall experience. Neutral tones like gray, beige, or soft blue can give a clean, polished look. Brighter colors here may feel jarring, so subtlety is key. Reception and Entrance Areas First impressions matter. Use your brand colors here but in a way that feels professional and welcoming. Accent walls, lighting, and branded signage can all work together without overwhelming the space. Earth tones with branded highlights often work well. Using Color to Enhance Member Retention and Brand Identity Color can do more than just set the mood. It is also part of how members remember your gym. If you walk into a facility that feels unified in style, layout, and color, it makes the space feel more polished and thought-through. This improves member satisfaction and helps set your gym apart from local competitors. Brand recognition matters. If your logo includes specific colors, those should be used intentionally throughout the facility. That does not mean painting every wall bright green if that is in your logo. It means finding the right way to blend your brand’s identity with the function of each area. For example, if your brand color is a bright orange, consider using it for accent elements like signage, equipment trim, or a painted stripe along the walls. Keep the bulk of the space in a more neutral tone to avoid visual fatigue. This approach ensures consistency without overwhelming the senses. Color and Lighting Go Hand in Hand The way color looks in your gym depends heavily on your lighting. Natural light, warm LEDs, and overhead fluorescent lights all affect how paint or material colors appear. A light gray under LED lighting may appear almost blue. A bold red near a window might look pink at certain times of day. When planning your color scheme, test paint swatches and material samples in your actual lighting conditions. Look at how the color appears in the morning, midday, and evening. This extra step helps avoid costly design mistakes. EcoFit can help guide you through this process. We do more than just provide equipment. Our consulting team understands how design, layout, lighting, and color all come together to create a successful gym environment. We work with your team to test colors, visualize layouts, and align everything to your brand and business goals. Flooring and Equipment Finish Choices Also Affect Color Planning Paint on the walls is just one part of the design. Flooring color, equipment frame colors, upholstery finishes, and even ceiling tiles can add or subtract from your overall vision. A poorly chosen flooring color can make a room feel smaller, colder, or overly busy. Equipment in clashing colors can create visual noise that makes the space feel cluttered. If your flooring is dark rubber, avoid painting the walls dark gray or black. Instead, go lighter on the walls to balance the space. If you have colored turf areas, make sure the surrounding elements complement rather than compete with it. For equipment, it is common to choose a neutral color for the frame like black, silver, or charcoal. Then you can pick upholstery accents that align with your brand or the theme of each area. This makes it easier to update sections over time without having to repaint everything. Creating a Color Strategy That Works Now and Later Trends come and go. What looks fresh today might feel dated in a few years. When planning color choices for your gym, it is important to balance modern style with longevity. Use neutral tones as your base, then rotate accent colors with lighting, signage, or interchangeable finishes. It is also smart to think about how your gym may evolve. If you plan to expand, add new services, or rebrand in the future, a flexible color plan will make updates much easier. EcoFit has helped hundreds of commercial gyms plan around growth, and we bring that experience to every consultation. Let EcoFit Help You Get It Right Choosing colors for your gym is not just about what looks good. It is about what performs. EcoFit can help you develop a practical and professional color strategy that reflects your brand, supports your members, and enhances your space. From equipment consultation to full facility layout and design support, our team is here to help. We look at every part of your facility, recommend the right finishes, and help you avoid costly design mistakes that can hurt your member experience long term. If you are thinking about remodeling or building a new facility, let’s talk. Our team can walk you through the process and make sure you are building a gym that looks great, performs well, and keeps your members coming back.
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