Sport Brighton is inspiring the community with a new gym. Barry Squires, head of sport, explains how the vision was brought to life

The University of Brighton has chosen Technogym to create a cutting-edge gym and fitness space at its Moulsecoomb campus.

Delivering the university’s 2025 strategy – popularly known as the Big Build Project – involves relocating several schools across its campuses, including the School of Sport and Health Sciences, which is moving to Falmer in 2024.

It’s a critical time for Sport Brighton and the School of Sport and Health Sciences as they collaborate to improve the student experience.

“With Moulsecoomb set to be a key site, with over 6,500 students, we needed to improve provision as soon as possible”, says Squires. “This new gym and fitness facility are part of the Big Build masterplan which will transform the local area, bringing together services for a more efficient student experience and creating a new gateway into the city.”

Creating a destination facility
Sport Brighton wanted to deliver a space that’s responsive to current and future student fitness trends and the fit-out brief drew on elements from boutique gyms, functional aesthetics and the culture of Brighton. This has resulted in a space with unique touches, such as feature walls by graffiti artist Aroeart.

The gym is divided into distinct zones – resistance strength training, free weights, power, functional and cardio. It also has a turf track and a large studio which opens onto the gym floor via bifold doors.

“We’ve created an inviting, functional, trendy space,” says Squires. “I believe you can create a unique, inspiring space on any budget if you plan carefully and have the support of expert partners who understand what you want to achieve.”

Technogym supported all aspects
Sport Brighton worked with Technogym to design and equip the new space, choosing equipment and digital features appropriate for student university sports, elite sports, social interaction and general gym participation, as well as international students, staff and local community users.

“We have a longstanding relationship with Technogym,” said Squires. “Its equipment and digital offering are the best on the market and the company delivers great service support and sector advice. Crucially, its understanding of trends was invaluable in helping us create a future-proofed space for students.”

Equipment to maximise space and create flow
The Moulsecoomb Gym was kitted out with state-of-the-art cardio equipment, including Excite Live which allows for tailored training inspiring students – and members of the community – to personalise their cardio workouts, embrace exercise and make it part of their daily life. Skill line was implemented across the gym providing performance workouts and enabling members to train in all areas.

The studio space features Technogym Group Cycle Connect, an advanced digital solution that offers the option of virtual classes, as well as live, instructor-led sessions. This has helped Sport Brighton operate a low staffing model with long opening hours, maximising studio use during traditionally quieter times.

“We knew from feedback in our other facilities that the studio space had to be multifunctional,” said Squires. “Lots of members take kit into the studio space and we’re now considering splitting the studio in two so we can have a class running while retaining space for those who want to train in there.”

Digital solutions support member wellness
Sport Brighton opted to use Technogym Mywellness to allow members to book classes, track their activity and engage with Technogym training content. Mywellness also helps Squires and his team monitor gym use across different demographics and engage with users to boost retention.

Sport Brighton Moulsecoomb Gym and Fitness has exceeded targets for membership uptake across all demographics, while Squires and his team have had positive feedback from prospective students and parents on open days and community members have noted how different it is to local gyms. “We’re proud of our student-centric experience, offering the best equipment in a motivating environment,” said Squires. “The facility is helping more people get fit and active whatever their journey, which is a key aim for Sport Brighton.”

More: www.technogym.com/HCM6