Step into any public space, and you’ll be met with impressive AV (audio visual) installations. That could be looking up at huge digital billboards in a city centre or getting lost in the pumping background music and ambient lighting of a Superdry Store.
The question is, why shouldn’t it be that way for gyms?
There are so many ways operators can easily and affordably improve their AV offering and improve member experiences in gyms. Let’s dive into a few.
Improved sound experiences
It’s 2022 and that means it’s time to put away the portable boombox or aerobics sound system for every class. A well-integrated fitness sound system provides the same accessibility (aux cord, Bluetooth connection, docking systems) as your classic portable speaker but delivers a far superior sound experience for your members.
Sound levels will be balanced across the room, making sure that people at the front won’t be deafened just so people at the back can hear the instructor and music. Microphones and music can even have their own dedicated speaker channels, meaning that each can be perfectly calibrated for the space depending on capacity.
Multiple integrated speakers also provide a slicker, more professional look and feel. They also reduce the potential for “technical difficulties” if multiple people try and use the same equipment.
An added bonus for having professional audio engineers design and calibrate your system is there’ll be less noise pollution for disgruntled neighbours or bordering studios. You keep the sound where it’s meant to be - find out how we did this for JAB boxing.
Finally, your audio can be programmed to influence the lighting in a space, which means that your members can experience a completely custom class and lighting programme every time they come in; just change the soundtrack!
Talk to our experts today to find out how sound can transform your spaces.
On the gym floor
On the gym floor, better audio means a more balanced and distributed background sound. With careful calibration, gym floor areas can be separated by different music styles while avoiding sound bleed between zones. Sound lets you sculpt a member journey that is truly tailored to your brand and your members.
There will likely continue to be a space for classic TV’s showing sports and news for members to tune in to. However, we’ve found that providing additional visual panels, sometimes located within booths - like we installed at The Gym Group - can provide a quick “virtual class” option for members who can’t join your prescheduled classes.
You can even link a screen or video wall to an online content provider and give members control with a simple iPad so they can start and stop any class they wish at any time that suits them.
Signage, the modern way
Why choose an old-fashioned cork board if you can provide bright displays across your facilities? Points of reference, maps, upcoming events announcements or timetable changes can all be covered by these versatile screens.
When it comes to improving the member experience, these eye-catching displays bring many advantages over static paper displays. Providing real-time updates on classes, important events, new members of staff or competition winners makes your members feel better informed and, more importantly, like they’re a part of a bigger community.
Apart from that, these displays simply look flashier than a cork notice board, so the perceived value your facility provides can go up too.
Next-Gen video walls
The latest tech in boutique fitness is wrap-round projection or curved videowalls that make members feel truly immersed. These, as well as interactive video walls like MultiBall, provide a sense of escape for members, truly immersing themselves in the class they are taking part in.
Visually, the projection or video can display a cycle route, pulsing abstract shapes that drive class energy up, or relaxing vistas, like rustling leaves and ocean shores for wellness and yoga classes.
Top quality 4K content can be displayed at vibrancy and resolutions unimaginable even 5 years ago. Pair this with a surround sound background installation, and you’ve given your members a truly unique experience they’ll not quickly forget.
Providing these next-gen studio experiences ensures your facility offers something they likely won’t be able to get anywhere else in your neighbourhood.
There are many ways in which AV for gyms can improve your member experiences, through visual impact, acoustic comfort or simply improving communication. The only thing you need to consider is whether a small investment is worth a happier member.