The University of Liverpool has partnered with Matrix Fitness to transform student wellbeing with a major gym revitalisation

The University of Liverpool has unveiled a major refurbishment of its main gym facility, developed in partnership with Matrix Fitness, one of the world’s leading providers of commercial fitness equipment.

The newly-upgraded gym represents a significant investment in student wellbeing, reflecting the University’s commitment to providing a first-class fitness experience for its diverse community of students, staff and members.

Due to high levels of demand and extensive usage, the University’s previous equipment needed an upgrade. The decision to refurbish the facility stemmed from a need to modernise, refresh and realign the gym with evolving fitness trends.

“Our previous equipment had served us well, but it was simply time for a complete refresh,” explains Peter Grugel, sports and fitness centre supervisor at the University of Liverpool. “The gym is an incredibly busy space and our members were ready for something new. The refurbishment has completely transformed the environment, it feels brighter, more spacious and more in tune with what our members want from a modern gym.”

A major focus was addressing the popularity  of strength training

Increased functional space

A major focus of the redesign was addressing the increasing popularity of strength and functional training. The new layout doubles the number of lifting platforms, expands the free weights area and introduces an open turf space for functional workouts – now one of the most popular areas in the facility.

The new equipment mix also includes an enhanced range of glute and lower-body strength machines and additional stair climbers to meet member demand.

“The old setup was quite cramped and heavily cardio-focused, but member feedback made it clear that strength and functional zones were the priority.” Grugel adds. “We’ve now got an open, well-balanced space that supports all types of training, from beginners to experienced lifters.”

The refurbishment was delivered through a highly collaborative partnership between the university and Matrix Fitness, going far beyond equipment installation. Matrix supported the project with consultancy on gym design, branding, lighting and visual identity, ensuring the space felt cohesive and on-brand with the university’s ‘Be Part of It’ messaging.

“The process with Matrix has been incredibly collaborative,” Anthony Williams, sports and fitness centre supervisor at the University of Liverpool commented. “We worked closely together on every detail, from layout and equipment selection to the messaging and visual feel. The Matrix team was open to feedback, responsive and creative, helping us bring our ideas to life. It felt like a true partnership from start to finish.”

Substantial uplift in usage

Matrix Fitness’ Stephen Nutt, head of sales for the education market, commented: “This project has been a real labour of love. Peter, Anthony and the Liverpool team had a clear vision of what they wanted and our role was to listen and deliver solutions that reflected that. The result is a dynamic, future-proofed facility that will support active wellbeing for years to come.”

Since reopening in September 2025, the gym has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from students, staff and visitors, with main student membership numbers already showing a 25 per cent uplift when compared to previous years.

“The space speaks for itself,” adds Williams. “During Welcome Week, new students were queuing to get in and signing up straight away. The feedback has been incredible, everyone’s impressed by how modern and engaging it feels.”

With plans already in motion for Phase Two – a new purpose-built studio space in an adjacent building – the University of Liverpool is continuing its investment in health and wellbeing. The new studio will allow an improved group exercise offering and expansion of the gym into the existing studio space.

As student demand for wellness and fitness continues to grow across higher education, the University of Liverpool’s collaboration with Matrix Fitness demonstrates how thoughtful design and partnership can redefine the campus fitness experience.