Outdoor fitness amenities are here to stay.

With the kickstart of the summer season, there is no better time to start considering an outdoor fitness space addition.

During the pandemic, most people began seeking outdoor spaces for their work outs. Still today, outdoor amenities are in high demand.

With the proper approach, gym owners, hotel operators, corporations, and multifamily developments have the opportunity to create an environment that attracts users, elevates brand identity and distinguishes it from competitors.

Not sure if designing and installing an outdoor fitness space is for your facility? Here’s what you need to keep in mind when it comes to crafting the ultimate outdoor fitness space.

The Benefits

Flexibility and Versatility

Outdoor fitness spaces are inherently versatile. They can be designed to accommodate various activities such as yoga, strength training, cardio workouts, and even team sports. This flexibility means that a wide range of fitness preferences can be catered to, creating a diverse group of users and class opportunities.

Tenant and Employee Satisfaction

For apartment complexes, offering outdoor fitness amenities can lead to higher tenant satisfaction and retention rates. Happy tenants are more likely to renew their leases, reducing turnover costs for property managers. Similarly, in corporate settings, providing employees with convenient access to fitness facilities (plus the perk of getting outdoors) can improve morale, reduce stress, and increase productivity.

Designing the Perfect Outdoor Fitness Space

Choosing the Best Location

Designing the perfect outdoor fitness space doesn't mean just taking some equipment and dragging it outside. It's important to select an area that suits your needs and is conveniently located.

If you’re going to focus on group fitness like yoga and Pilates classes, you’ll want an area that is flat, shaded, and has room for large class sizes. If you are providing outdoor fitness as an extension of your current gym, you can get away with a smaller space that has room for just a few users at a time.

Ideally, you should choose an open space with plenty of room for the planned activities and a few staple pieces of outdoor fitness equipment.

Selecting the Right Equipment

Choosing the right equipment is crucial. Most people expect an outdoor fitness area to be more of a functional training space.

When we design outdoor spaces we focus on providing unique equipment that will draw users outside such as, the Escape Fitness Barrow and functional frames. Other great options include: tire flips, battle ropes, and boxing bags!

It's important to make sure any equipment you plan on leaving outside is durable and weather-resistant to withstand the elements and ensure longevity.

Creating a Functional Layout

A well-planned layout maximizes the usability of the space.

Differentiate areas for different types of workouts. This prevents overcrowding and ensures a great workout experience for everyone. For example, placing functional equipment in one section and leaving open space for group classes or yoga sessions in another.

Including shaded areas or structures can provide relief from the sun and make the space usable even in the hottest weather.

No Outdoor Space? No Problem.

If you don't have an outdoor space to dedicate to fitness, or your climate just doesn't allow for it, that doesn't mean you have to miss out on providing a stellar "outdoor-like" amenity.

Creating a space that feels like the outdoors can be just as exciting for users.

Here are our top tips for bringing that feeling of the outdoor amenity in:

• Large windows that let in natural light

• Turf

• Functional Equipment & HIIT Cardio

• Garage style door that can be opened on nicer days

The Takeaway

The rise of outdoor fitness amenities to gyms is more than just a trend; it's a response to a growing desire for healthier, more flexible, and socially engaging lifestyles.

For apartment and corporate building developers, investing in these spaces can lead to enhanced property value, increased tenant and employee satisfaction, and a stronger sense of community. By carefully designing and maintaining these spaces, developers can create valuable amenities that cater to the modern consumer's needs and preferences.

Embrace the future of fitness by incorporating outdoor fitness spaces into your developments. Not only will you meet the growing demand for wellness amenities, but you’ll also create vibrant, health-focused communities that stand out in today’s competitive market.