5 Features Every Commercial Gym Should Have [UPDATED]

[UPDATED in 2025]

Whether you’re launching a brand-new gym or giving your current setup a glow-up, nailing the essentials is key to creating a space your members will love. A well-thought-out design not only makes workouts more effective but also keeps your members motivated and coming back for more.

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How to Upgrade Your Commercial Gym

Running a gym means staying ahead of the curve. With fitness trends evolving and competition fiercer than ever, keeping your facility up to scratch is a must. Whether you’re replacing tired equipment or adding more variety to your setup, a few smart upgrades can seriously boost your members’ experience—and your retention rates.

While home workouts have surged in popularity, gyms are still where many people prefer to train. Why? Accountability, motivation, and access to equipment that helps them hit their goals. By offering a mix of versatile workout zones and high-quality equipment, you’ll help members see results, which is the secret sauce for building loyalty.

5 Features Every Commercial Gym Should Have

When it comes to designing a gym that works, it’s all about using your space wisely. The best commercial gyms have clear zones for different types of workouts, allowing members to move seamlessly between them. Here are five features your gym shouldn’t be without:

1. CrossFit Zone

For fans of intense, functional workouts, a CrossFit zone is a must. Stock it with essentials like kettlebells, bumper plates, barbells, and medicine balls. To make sure the space can handle the action, thick industrial gym flooring is non-negotiable. It protects both your equipment and your subfloor from the impact of dropped weights while giving members a safe, sturdy surface to train on.

2. Sled Track

A sled track (or sprint track) is a show-stopping addition to any gym. It’s not just eye-catching; it’s versatile too. Members can use it for sled pushes, tyre flips, lunges, and rope pulls. Plus, the specialist flooring provides great grip and shock absorption—perfect for explosive movements.

💬 Customer Insight:

"Investing in a sled track has transformed our boxing gym. It’s not just a smart visual feature—it’s opened up new training options for our clients."

3. Free Weights Area

No gym is complete without a dedicated free weights section. It’s where lifters of all levels come to train, from beginners to seasoned bodybuilders. To handle heavy-duty sessions, the commercial floor tiles in this zone needs to be robust. Our Antishock High Impact Rubber Floor Tiles, available in 43mm to 63mm thickness, are ideal for protecting your space—especially when Olympic weights are in the mix.

4. Cardio Equipment

Cardio is a gym staple, and members expect a solid range of equipment. Treadmills, rowing machines, stair climbers, and spin bikes are all popular choices. Keep this area easy to navigate with enough space between machines for a comfortable workout experience.

5. Functional Training Area

Functional training has become a big deal in recent years, so a dedicated area for it is a smart move. This is where members can use equipment like sleds, sandbags, agility ladders, and battle ropes—or just rely on their own body weight. Think open-plan design with versatile flooring options like artificial grass or sled tracks to support a variety of exercises.

Benefits of a Dynamic Gym Set-Up

A well-designed gym with diverse zones not only looks great but also delivers a better experience for your members. Here’s what a dynamic setup offers:

• More variety: Members stay engaged with different ways to train.
• Better results: A mix of equipment supports full-body workouts.
• Increased loyalty: Happy members stick around longer.

Final Thoughts

Your commercial gym is more than just a space—it’s where your members come to crush their fitness goals. By including features like a CrossFit zone or a functional training section, you’ll create a facility that stands out from the competition and keeps members motivated.

Thinking about upgrading your commercial gym?  Browse our Commercial Gym Flooring series for ideas.