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News report: Fuelling fitness
Fitness brand Reebok has partnered with global architecture practice Gensler to create 'Get Pumped' – a proposal which sees redundant gas stations across the US turned into fitness hubs. Health Club Management's Kim Megson reports
The rising demand for electric cars has promoted visionary architects Gensler to image a time when gas stations are no longer needed and can be repurposed as fitness hubs.
The proposal, called Get Pumped, is a long-term vision for adaptive reuse, created in partnership with Reebok.
Gensler have imagined various ways in which these redundant facilities could become community spaces which are dedicated to wellbeing – “where people can prioritise their mental and physical wellness and access fuel for their bodies."
Scaled to fit the opportunity
Alfred Byun, senior associate at Gensler, said: “We envision our cities of the future to have a network of fitness oases between home and work where you could stop and recharge more than just your car. Imagine an option to leave the traffic jam to unwind with yoga, get your Crossfit Fix, or pick up a green juice and your weekly farm shop all in one place, while also charging your electric car from renewable sources.”
The concept takes on three different forms, reflecting the different types of gas/petrol stations which are scattered across the US – The Network, for major interstate rest stops; The Oasis, for larger gas stations and The Community Center for local and small town gas stations (see details, left).
Austin Malleolo, head of fitness facilities at Reebok said: “Reebok believes that we’re always training to be our best. This design work with Gensler allows us to imagine a future where there is zero barrier to entry for an opportunity to work out and be healthy.
“Consumers may not need gas stations anymore, but instead of wasting them, we’re advocating recycling them, and maximizing the space so that they become places of community.”
In the spotlight: Get Pumped’s Fitness Hubs
The Network
Major interstate rest stops will be reimagined as places where travellers can stop and generate energy through spinning and boxing, Crossfit, Les Mils classes, and running trails.
There'll also be a range of wellness activities and services on offer, from massage treatments to mindfulness and meditation. A range of healthy food and food shopping options will also be available.
The Oasis
Larger gas stations that commuters pass on small, local highways will be turned into recharge zones, to capitalise on the type of mental and physical rest those commuting need. There will be real food offerings from farms to table eateries and juice bars, as well as yoga and meditation pods. The exteriors will provide sustenance in the form of herb gardens and outdoor tracks where you can run in the fresh air.
The Community Center
Small town gas stations will be transformed in four ways for communities to enhance their healthy life. People will be able to charge electric cars, attend nutrition classes and access minimarts offering local, healthy food. Pop-up trucks will offer crossfit and spinning classes.
