Creating successful training environments requires a deep knowledge of functional design. Gregory Bradley, sales director at BLK BOX Fitness talks us through the company’s approach

What design principles apply when you’re creating training spaces?
The key principle for us is the intent of the end user. What would a great training experience look like for them?

From there, we begin by reverse-engineering the space from the ground up, using our framework of Surface (functional flooring), Lift (core kit such as rigs), Move (training accessories), Sweat (cardio kit) and Store (storage for functional spaces).

We also consider versatility and layout efficiency, building in provisions for growth and the ability to accommodate future training methodologies and class offerings.

A well-executed space should allow the user to transition smoothly between exercises, and the operator to easily transform the space between classes.

Personalisation of equipment is the final touch; it brings the space to life and lets the facility reflect the brand or individual.

And if you’re designing for an existing gym?
This requires a harmonious balance between the new and the old. It’s important that with refurbishments we’re adding value to the overall offering and are careful not to lose or remove anything which is central to the existing member experience.

Optimising space, complementing existing equipment, and ensuring the new area flows well are the key principles. The space shouldn’t feel like a bolt-on after thought, but be integrated into the gym’s aesthetic and core narrative, so we think about those aspects and take a holistic approach.

How do you ensure it can be used by people with different fitness levels?
We view fitness and strength training as universal and inclusive. While weights, reps and sets may change from one user to the next, fundamentally their intent, experience and outcome should be shared. Designing spaces with this in mind allows us to bake scalability into both the offering and our equipment selection.

We create environments where exercises can be adapted to suit individual abilities. By ensuring appropriate safe working zones around key pieces of equipment and preserving an element of seamless open floor space, we ensure people have the ability to train effectively and safely in a shared space, whether they’re an amateur or elite.

Can you walk us through your design process?
Our wing-to-wing design process covers consultation, design, manufacture, delivery and installation and also ongoing support.

In the consultation and design phases, we work with clients to understand their vision, immersing ourselves in the brief to understand the needs of their clients, as well as their operating model and space.

We then move to the visualisation stage, where our team creates tailored solutions in real-time with our clients through 3D renders and VR. This step is critical in bridging the gap between expectation and reality.

With projects often spanning months, numerous email threads and correspondences, it’s important to have accurate visuals that instantly align with the vision for the space.

Once the design and specification are agreed, manufacturing and production starts at our Belfast HQ, with an emphasis on precision and quality and once complete, our BLK BOX project delivery team takes the reins to ensure seamless installation.