Functional training is a popular exercise style that many fitness facilities are still working to effectively accommodate. This particular type of training involves exercises designed to ready and strengthen the body for everyday tasks and natural movements.
When it comes to buying functional training equipment, you want to ensure you find the right solutions for your gym or fitness center. We have put together a complete buyer’s guide with 9 tips to help you make informed decisions.
1. Understand Your Gym’s Functional Fitness Goals
Before you dive in, ensure you fully understand your facility’s goals and needs. Consider asking yourself a few questions:
Which equipment stations need an upgrade?
Is this functional training equipment intended for your group fitness classes or independent gym goers?
What gaps are there in your existing equipment selection?
You might consider surveying your exercisers for input on the most desired equipment in your facility. This insight will help guide your upgrades and prioritize functional training purchases.
2. Assess Your Available Fitness Space
Consider the space you have available in your gym for new equipment. Functional training equipment can vary in size, ease of storage, and portability — you will want to ensure you have the space needed to accommodate new purchases. There are compact solutions available, and gym planning and design experts can help you make the most of your available space.
3. Professional Equipment Delivery and Assembly
Evaluate the delivery and assembly needs of each new piece of functional training equipment you are considering. For fitness frames, it is worth hiring professionals for equipment delivery and installation. For instance, our in-house team of installation technicians have the tools and experience needed to safely deliver, place, and assemble new equipment.
While it might require some upfront allocation in your budget, this investment in professional installation can be crucial in saving you money. Avoid financial losses or liability if your team breaks new equipment, damages your facility during delivery, or experiences any injury.
4. Maintenance of Functional Training Equipment
Some functional training equipment requires regular maintenance to ensure peak performance, longevity, and warranty coverage. Before purchasing items that need ongoing care, it’s important to have access to a reliable gym equipment maintenance professional. The good news — when you work with ASF, we’ll connect you with certified service technicians right in your area!
5. Equipment Adjustability and Versatility
As you know, fitness is not a “one size fits all” journey — especially when it comes to functional training. Many functional routines are tailored to an individual’s specific needs outside the gym, so almost every circuit will look different for each user. Look for equipment that is adjustable and versatile, allowing exercisers to modify workouts and target different muscle groups.
6. Functional Safety Features
Ensure your functional training equipment meets your gym’s safety standards. Some features to look for include:
- Non-slip gripping surfaces
- Sturdy frame construction
- Durable materials
- High weight capacity ratings
7. Equipment Brand and Warranty
You want to invest in functional equipment that will last. Choose reputable brands known for quality materials, design, and durability. Additionally, check if the equipment includes a warranty for defects or issues. Escape Fitness is a leader in the industry when it comes to functional training. When you invest in Escape Fitness accessories at your gym or fitness center, you can draw in more exercisers and upgrade the workouts of anyone who walks through your doors. From complete functional frames to smaller accessory sets, they have it all.
8. User Reviews for Functional Training Equipment
You want to ensure your exercisers will enjoy the equipment you buy. Read user reviews and seek recommendations from fitness facility design professionals to get valuable feedback into the equipment’s performance and user experience.
9. Professional Gym Planning and Insight
You can help your functional training investment go further with professional insight. Expert support can help you understand the latest gym industry trends so that you don’t waste money on equipment that falls apart or quickly becomes yesterday’s news. Professionals can also help you avoid costly oversights and mistakes when making your fitness center visions come to life.
Functional Training Equipment from ASF
Advantage Sport & Fitness (ASF) is your trusted partner for functional training equipment. We work with top brands to provide high-quality fitness solutions and offer financing options to help you upgrade your facility. Combined with our industry-leading design services and full delivery and installation support, our team is ready to bring your functional fitness project to life. Contact our team of experts to schedule your complimentary site visit and consultation today!
