and direction will support these efforts. A fitness consultant will also help keep unexpected costs to a minimum, support risk management efforts, and provide guidance on future capital expenditures. Regular collaborations will ensure fitness amenity spaces are relevant, well-maintained, and in keeping with fitness trends.
Here is a HERCULEAN checklist of 8 magnanimous items that should be addressed by management staff, owners, board /committee members or any homeowner or resident with an interest in community upkeep and relevance.
HIRE A CONSULTANT. With any renovation or equipment refresh, it is important to consult with a professional who can provide guidance from the beginning of the project. Information on power and data requirements and equipment spacing is important from the start of the project. Doorway sizes, elevator dimensions, and other logistics related to installation are important considerations to ensure the desired equipment will fit into the designated space(s). A reputable fitness equipment dealer will have consultants, many of whom will provide professional consultation as part of an overall equipment package – at little or no cost.
EQUIPMENT MIX. Name brand may not be as important as variety. Providing a mix of equipment that will appeal to the masses is of paramount importance - vs. satisfying a few. Offering equipment that is user-friendly, can be enjoyed by a variety of fitness levels, and is multi-functional is important. A balanced mix of cardio (including equipment for upper body conditioning), a strength circuit, dumbbells and other free-weights, equipment for core training and functional movement, as well as accessories that promote flexibility and recovery should all be considered.
REPAIRS. Finding a reputable service company that will provide regular preventive maintenance will contribute to equipment longevity and will help prevent costly, unexpected repairs. It is also important to note: Just because newer equipment is under warranty, does not mean PM services should be postponed. In fact, the manufacturer can nullify the warranty if neglect is suspected. A reputable service provider will have technicians who have been trained by the manufacturer and are using parts direct from the manufacturer. As a value-add, the provider should provide access to an online portal to view a history of all service and warranty visits for each piece of equipment.
CLEANLINESS. Gym-users and management should share in the responsibility of keeping the Fitness Center clean and sanitized. Providing convenient cleaning stations will
44 | COMMON INTEREST®
support users’ efforts to wipe down equipment after each use. The wipe solution should have disinfecting properties but not contain ammonia, alcohol, bleach, or hydrogen peroxide. These substances can damage fitness equipment. Wipes that are approved for use on fitness equipment are the best option. If spray bottles are provided, users should be asked to avoid direct spraying of consoles. Additionally, regular cleaning by a professional team is also important to deep clean areas prone to sweat accumulation and to remove dirt, sand, dust an,d other particles. The Owner’s Manual is a great resource for cleaning recommendations.
UPDATES. Having a capital budget and a two-, three-, and five-year replacement plan is important to ensure fitness equipment is relevant and in good repair. Strength equipment should be updated every eight to ten years; cardio equipment has a lifespan of five to seven years if well- maintained. Accessories should be replaced every couple of years.
LAYOUT. A good layout will provide ample space for gym users to move around freely and exercise without harming a passer-by. If space allows, provide the following fitness “zones”: Cardio, Strength Circuit, Free-weight Area, Stretching/Recovery Area, and an open area for Core Work and Functional Training. Equipment should be positioned based on doorways and direct access to any training zone. To avoid potential injury from a moving treadmill belt, it is important to provide a four-foot safety zone behind each treadmill.
EQUIPMENT: Non-Commercial. Fitness equipment that is not made for commercial use should be removed from any community fitness training areas. Non-commercial equipment poses a liability should someone get injured. Also, the manufacturer will not honor any warranty repairs if equipment is not in a home setting. And just because a piece of equipment states: “commercial -grade” or “commercial- quality” does not mean it is intended for commercial use. (Refer to “H” above)
ADA-COMPLIANCE. Spacing of equipment is important for ADA-compliance (where applicable). Anyone who is “differently-abled” must be able to access one of each type of equipment (i.e., one treadmill, one recumbent bike, one elliptical). Minimally, a 36-inch travel zone is recommended. It is also recommended to be mindful of those in a wheelchair when considering the equipment mix. There are a variety of fitness equipment options that can accommodate someone in a wheelchair.
NEAT AND TIDY. To avoid clutter and tripping hazards, all accessories should have dedicated storage. Residents are also more likely to put their equipment away after use, when balls, bands, foam rollers, kettlebells and dumbbells have clearly defined storage spaces.
• Spring 2022 • A Publication of CAI-Illinois Chapter
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