The COVID-19 pandemic changed the way we do a lot of things, from work to recreation, and of course to the way we approach our fitness.
Home workouts boomed out of pure necessity during lockdowns. But a recent survey by the Worldwide Survey of Fitness Trends (which included an Australian arm) indicated that in an anticipation of a return to normal, including a need for more social interaction, returning to gyms was definitely a priority for Australians.
While large scale facilities with extensive, state-of the-art fit-outs that are commonplace around the country, there is an anticipation that boutique fitness facilities will also continue to see a sharp rise in the market, in a post-Covid-19 fitness world.
The Survey
Researchers sought to uncover how the fitness community may have changed in terms of fitness priorities and interests following the onset of COVID-19.
The results of the survey were published recently. Australians indicated that functional fitness, group exercise training, strength training with free weights, fitness programs for older adults, and training with a registered exercise professional are the priorities.
HIIT training was also a high priority, as was one-on-one and small group personal training.
Larger facilities will see these results and point to the equipment, spaces and programs that they offer to their members. It is clear however, that a percentage of the Australian market is also looking for a customised and more exclusive fitness experience.
Boutique Fitness
Unlike larger facilities that seek to be a catch-all, boutique fitness facilities tend to focus on specific fitness styles. They are often smaller, more intimate spaces, with a select, but versatile equipment offering with quality a high priority.
In the US, statistics show that 42 per cent of all gym memberships are for boutique fitness facilities. The boutique fitness industry is expected to grow by more than 16 per cent between 2022 and 2025, growing to a total value of over $26.2 billion.
Almost a third of the boutique fitness facilities proving popular are those that specialise in small group and personal training. Cycling and rowing studios make up just under 20 per cent.
Interestingly, boutique fitness facilities often outperform regular gyms in terms of retention. Boutique fitness members tend to seek out experiences and they seek a sense of community.
Looking at the results of the survey, boutique fitness studios must be equipped and appointed to meet those demands. Therefore, they must possess equipment that enables HIIT training, group fitness, small group and one-on-one training, strength training, and that sense of quality and exclusivity.
Popular Boutique Fitness Equipment
The challenge for fitness studios is providing as much equipment in a small footprint, while maintaining a sense of space and quality.
Cardio equipment is essential not just for steady-state work, but also to meet the HIIT demands highlighted in the survey that continues to grow in popularity.
Unless you’re operating a facility that is exclusively rowing or cycling focused, then the inclusion of a variety of pieces is a must.
Including rowers and indoor cycles is essential. Self-powered, get-on-and-go HD Treads, HD Air Bikes and HD Sparcs from the Hammer Strength’s HD Performance Trainer range will ensure HIIT sessions, small group and personal training requirements are well and truly met.
To address the demand for strength training, in particular functional training, a variety of top quality free weights and adjustable benches are critical to withstand the toughest workouts. Space-saving 4-in-1 free weights and compact bench and storage solutions will keep training zones tidy, allow for quick transitions between exercises and keep intensity high.
And of course, racks and rigs create great training spaces for group fitness work for athletes of all levels. With limitless configurations, an ideal system can be designed to suit a facility’s budget and space.
To round out your facility, accessories are great for adding variety.
