It’s considered a fundamental part of our
fitness routines by medical professionals,
but many exercisers, particularly women,
are still put off by strength training.
We asked leading suppliers what
they’re doing to champion strength
Precor’s biceps curl machine: selectorised equipment provides a safe, controlled option for strength training
Late last year, the Chief Medical Officer’s (CMO) guidelines for physical activity put strength firmly in the spotlight. The UK’s NHS now recommends all adults undertake muscle strength exercises at least twice a week.
The CMO at the time, Professor Dame Sally Davies went so far as to describe strength training as ‘fundamental to the ability to perform daily tasks’ and positioned it equally alongside aerobic activity recommendations for the first time. She asked the UK fitness industry to make a greater effort to highlight the importance of strength training.
The science is clear. Resistance training builds muscle and helps boost resting metabolism, which in turn helps with weight loss. It slashes the risk of stroke and heart attacks by around 70 per cent (according to research by Iowa State University in 2018), cuts the chances of developing metabolic syndrome, and helps to preserve muscle mass and bone density to offer protection against osteoporosis.
Despite this, a recent survey by Sure Women suggested one in four women are intimidated by strength kit and half have felt negatively judged while working out in weights areas.
Dr Luke Turnock, a researcher at the University of Winchester in the UK, interviewed female gym-goers for a study and says: “One of the primary issues identified was a feeling of intimidation when using weights. Crossing the divide into the ‘male space’ felt daunting and the majority of women, even those who were comfortable in other areas of the gym, commented on this issue. Weight plates, dumbbells, bars, benches and racks can be scary when you don’t know how to use them.”
Selectorised kit provides a good alternative, not just for women but also for beginners and the elderly. Data from the Fitness Industry Supplier Association (FISA) shows that the demand for selectorised strength remains strong and has been growing at 9 per cent year on year.
Because movement is more limited, it can help exercisers focus on their form in a safe, controlled setting, especially at a time when more and more gyms are operating on a lower staffing model.
Selectorised machines can play a role in building confidence with weight training, requiring less experience and precision than free weights in terms of technique, weight selection and injury risk. We asked operators how they’re ensuring strength training appeals to all gym-goers.
Michael Dorman
Strength Products Manager, Precor
Selectorised strength is very much a part of the complete gym and facility experience. This spring, we launched the new Resolute Strength line. We’ve focused on product and motion designs that support accurate biomechanics, regardless of body type or sex. Our research into exerciser preferences shows a desire for timeless equipment that feels right and isn’t gender specific – the new line works for every body type.
We have always known that selectorised strength is a safe, effective place to both begin or continue a strength journey. Resolute strikes a balance between adjustability and usability. So for example, a patented add-on for weight works like the flip of a switch to allow exercisers to add as little as 2.6 kg (5lb) at a time. This provides an opportunity for men and women to experience incremental gains in their strength.
In research we conducted, we learned that some women are uncomfortable with strength training and can be intimidated by the machines. Since then, one of our primary areas of focus has been on approachable design for all. The frames are designed to be minimalistic so they appear less intimidating. Adjustment points are easily discoverable and easy to move. The selectorised and plate-loaded lines have picture-based instructional placards, along with a QR code that accesses an instructional video too.
In addition, we’ve partnered with Advagym by Sony. Using the Advagym app, exercisers can experience a fully connected gym experience and access how-to videos and written instruction on each selectorised or plate-loaded piece, eliminating concerns about looking silly. Advagym also allows facilities or personal trainers to push customised workouts to exercisers, boosting their motivation and inspiring them through personal feedback.
Precor with Advagym means exercisers can perform weight training without fear of injury or need for direct supervision from a professional, while offering options to challenge seasoned fitness enthusiasts to progress.
One of our primary
areas of focus has been
approachable design
Sony’s Avantagym is integrated into the Resolute line
Resolute has been designed to be biomechanically acccurate for men and women
Matt Gleed
UK Lead Master Trainer,
Matrix Fitness
In our experience, most exercisers still use the pin-weighted resistance machines when they want to target an isolated area. The Matrix Versa Series offers light or heavy weight stacks and optional foot support kits so operators can assemble a strength collection that’s right for their member demographics.
A gas-assisted design makes seat adjustments quick and effortless so that everyone, regardless of ability, gender or age, finds the setup easy to use.
In a bid to overcome some women’s common concerns about strength training, Matrix has increased its strength range. As demand increased for glute workouts, we designed the Glute Trainer, incorporating a plate loaded weight design for tone and shape as well as a power training option with resistance. We use Ergo Form cushioning to ensure proper body alignment and support, and in the Ultra Range we have Action Specific Grips that are ergonomically designed to reduce stress on contact points, redefining feel, form and function.
The Matrix Intelligent Training Console has in-built demonstrations and pre-set workout plans. Members can also log into a personalised account where a PT can assign specific workouts.
Users can even train with a partner and take alternating turns on the strength kit, with both following the training plans they’ve been assigned.
A gas-assisted design makes seat adjustments
quick and effortless so that everyone, regardless of
ability, gender or age, finds the setup easy to use
Matrix’s Glute Trainer offers both ‘tone and shape’ and ‘power training’ options
Ben Steadman
Business Development Director,
Pulse Fitness
Selectorised machines provide an exact framework and movement plane for users to work within and they’ll always have a place. Pulse’s selectorised strength range has been biomechanically designed for anyone to use, whether they’re below 5ft or 6’6” and beyond. To ensure our kit works just as effectively for both sexes it has a standard weight stack and an additional stack feature, plus an incremental 2.5kg selector pin to increase or lower the weight in more fine measures.
Pulse Fitness selectorised machines are clearly labelled with instructional decals and our premium units come complete with 10.1” touchscreen consoles. The console includes both static instructions and video content for every machine, showing how to use the equipment and exercise techniques.
We’ve deliberately created our equipment with a sleek design to soften the appearance and ensure it looks easy on the eye. Our premium upholstery also ensures the best possible comfort levels during use, to make it accessible and a pleasure to use for people of all ages and levels of fitness.
The console
includes both static
instructions and
video content for
every machine
Pulse Fitness’s selectorised kit includes touchscreens with both static and video instructions
Anoushka Moore
Master Trainer,
Life Fitness Academy
The design of Life Fitness’s selectorised equipment has evolved over the years, with the aim of making it accessible and welcoming to more users.
First and foremost, it needs to enable the user to work the muscle intended in the best and most efficient way, with ergonomic support and easy options for adjustment that ensure it fits as many users as possible.
All our equipment is designed in this way, so those who are new to strength training can exercise safe in the knowledge that by following the guidelines, the machine will deliver the workout as intended.
Every machine displays a visual representation of the exercise and what muscle groups it uses, to help exercisers understand its purpose and how to use it effectively. Weights increase in increments of 2.5kg so there’s no need for big jumps. All this makes people feel more confident as they build their understanding of strength training.
We’ve also reduced the footprint of a lot of our equipment, so it isn’t quite so daunting in appearance, and introduced tinted shrouds and set the seat height to help provide privacy during exercise, which can be especially important to new members getting used to the machines.
Life Fitness and Hammer Strength selectorised equipment travels through a scientifically-researched set pattern of movement so you have no option but to follow it, reducing the risk of getting it wrong, but also encouraging natural, comfortable movement.
Our Life Fitness Academy (LFA) trainers work with our customers to help them deliver instructions to members on how to use each piece, which is key in building confidence and competence while training. Along with guidance on our social channels, website and the Halo app, we’re also launching a campaign later this year to help women who have concerns or nerves about getting into strength training.
Selectorised kit will always have a place on gym floors as, coupled with good instruction, it offers a safe and simple introduction to resistance training.
We’re launching a campaign later
this year to help women who have concerns
or nerves about getting into strength training
Strength training using free weights can be intimidating for many women
Seat heights are set to provide privacy during exercise
Study Active has legally acquired the name “Premier Global” and select Premier Global
branding assets from Assessment Technologies Institute LLC, part of Ascend Learning in the
US.
[more...]
Elevate, the premier event in the physical activity, fitness, sports therapy and performance
sector, is thrilled to announce that registrations for its 2024 conference are now live –
and the response has been nothing short of exceptional.
[more...]
It’s considered a fundamental part of our
fitness routines by medical professionals,
but many exercisers, particularly women,
are still put off by strength training.
We asked leading suppliers what
they’re doing to champion strength
Precor’s biceps curl machine: selectorised equipment provides a safe, controlled option for strength training
Late last year, the Chief Medical Officer’s (CMO) guidelines for physical activity put strength firmly in the spotlight. The UK’s NHS now recommends all adults undertake muscle strength exercises at least twice a week.
The CMO at the time, Professor Dame Sally Davies went so far as to describe strength training as ‘fundamental to the ability to perform daily tasks’ and positioned it equally alongside aerobic activity recommendations for the first time. She asked the UK fitness industry to make a greater effort to highlight the importance of strength training.
The science is clear. Resistance training builds muscle and helps boost resting metabolism, which in turn helps with weight loss. It slashes the risk of stroke and heart attacks by around 70 per cent (according to research by Iowa State University in 2018), cuts the chances of developing metabolic syndrome, and helps to preserve muscle mass and bone density to offer protection against osteoporosis.
Despite this, a recent survey by Sure Women suggested one in four women are intimidated by strength kit and half have felt negatively judged while working out in weights areas.
Dr Luke Turnock, a researcher at the University of Winchester in the UK, interviewed female gym-goers for a study and says: “One of the primary issues identified was a feeling of intimidation when using weights. Crossing the divide into the ‘male space’ felt daunting and the majority of women, even those who were comfortable in other areas of the gym, commented on this issue. Weight plates, dumbbells, bars, benches and racks can be scary when you don’t know how to use them.”
Selectorised kit provides a good alternative, not just for women but also for beginners and the elderly. Data from the Fitness Industry Supplier Association (FISA) shows that the demand for selectorised strength remains strong and has been growing at 9 per cent year on year.
Because movement is more limited, it can help exercisers focus on their form in a safe, controlled setting, especially at a time when more and more gyms are operating on a lower staffing model.
Selectorised machines can play a role in building confidence with weight training, requiring less experience and precision than free weights in terms of technique, weight selection and injury risk. We asked operators how they’re ensuring strength training appeals to all gym-goers.
Michael Dorman
Strength Products Manager, Precor
Selectorised strength is very much a part of the complete gym and facility experience. This spring, we launched the new Resolute Strength line. We’ve focused on product and motion designs that support accurate biomechanics, regardless of body type or sex. Our research into exerciser preferences shows a desire for timeless equipment that feels right and isn’t gender specific – the new line works for every body type.
We have always known that selectorised strength is a safe, effective place to both begin or continue a strength journey. Resolute strikes a balance between adjustability and usability. So for example, a patented add-on for weight works like the flip of a switch to allow exercisers to add as little as 2.6 kg (5lb) at a time. This provides an opportunity for men and women to experience incremental gains in their strength.
In research we conducted, we learned that some women are uncomfortable with strength training and can be intimidated by the machines. Since then, one of our primary areas of focus has been on approachable design for all. The frames are designed to be minimalistic so they appear less intimidating. Adjustment points are easily discoverable and easy to move. The selectorised and plate-loaded lines have picture-based instructional placards, along with a QR code that accesses an instructional video too.
In addition, we’ve partnered with Advagym by Sony. Using the Advagym app, exercisers can experience a fully connected gym experience and access how-to videos and written instruction on each selectorised or plate-loaded piece, eliminating concerns about looking silly. Advagym also allows facilities or personal trainers to push customised workouts to exercisers, boosting their motivation and inspiring them through personal feedback.
Precor with Advagym means exercisers can perform weight training without fear of injury or need for direct supervision from a professional, while offering options to challenge seasoned fitness enthusiasts to progress.
One of our primary
areas of focus has been
approachable design
Sony’s Avantagym is integrated into the Resolute line
Resolute has been designed to be biomechanically acccurate for men and women
Matt Gleed
UK Lead Master Trainer,
Matrix Fitness
In our experience, most exercisers still use the pin-weighted resistance machines when they want to target an isolated area. The Matrix Versa Series offers light or heavy weight stacks and optional foot support kits so operators can assemble a strength collection that’s right for their member demographics.
A gas-assisted design makes seat adjustments quick and effortless so that everyone, regardless of ability, gender or age, finds the setup easy to use.
In a bid to overcome some women’s common concerns about strength training, Matrix has increased its strength range. As demand increased for glute workouts, we designed the Glute Trainer, incorporating a plate loaded weight design for tone and shape as well as a power training option with resistance. We use Ergo Form cushioning to ensure proper body alignment and support, and in the Ultra Range we have Action Specific Grips that are ergonomically designed to reduce stress on contact points, redefining feel, form and function.
The Matrix Intelligent Training Console has in-built demonstrations and pre-set workout plans. Members can also log into a personalised account where a PT can assign specific workouts.
Users can even train with a partner and take alternating turns on the strength kit, with both following the training plans they’ve been assigned.
A gas-assisted design makes seat adjustments
quick and effortless so that everyone, regardless of
ability, gender or age, finds the setup easy to use
Matrix’s Glute Trainer offers both ‘tone and shape’ and ‘power training’ options
Ben Steadman
Business Development Director,
Pulse Fitness
Selectorised machines provide an exact framework and movement plane for users to work within and they’ll always have a place. Pulse’s selectorised strength range has been biomechanically designed for anyone to use, whether they’re below 5ft or 6’6” and beyond. To ensure our kit works just as effectively for both sexes it has a standard weight stack and an additional stack feature, plus an incremental 2.5kg selector pin to increase or lower the weight in more fine measures.
Pulse Fitness selectorised machines are clearly labelled with instructional decals and our premium units come complete with 10.1” touchscreen consoles. The console includes both static instructions and video content for every machine, showing how to use the equipment and exercise techniques.
We’ve deliberately created our equipment with a sleek design to soften the appearance and ensure it looks easy on the eye. Our premium upholstery also ensures the best possible comfort levels during use, to make it accessible and a pleasure to use for people of all ages and levels of fitness.
The console
includes both static
instructions and
video content for
every machine
Pulse Fitness’s selectorised kit includes touchscreens with both static and video instructions
Anoushka Moore
Master Trainer,
Life Fitness Academy
The design of Life Fitness’s selectorised equipment has evolved over the years, with the aim of making it accessible and welcoming to more users.
First and foremost, it needs to enable the user to work the muscle intended in the best and most efficient way, with ergonomic support and easy options for adjustment that ensure it fits as many users as possible.
All our equipment is designed in this way, so those who are new to strength training can exercise safe in the knowledge that by following the guidelines, the machine will deliver the workout as intended.
Every machine displays a visual representation of the exercise and what muscle groups it uses, to help exercisers understand its purpose and how to use it effectively. Weights increase in increments of 2.5kg so there’s no need for big jumps. All this makes people feel more confident as they build their understanding of strength training.
We’ve also reduced the footprint of a lot of our equipment, so it isn’t quite so daunting in appearance, and introduced tinted shrouds and set the seat height to help provide privacy during exercise, which can be especially important to new members getting used to the machines.
Life Fitness and Hammer Strength selectorised equipment travels through a scientifically-researched set pattern of movement so you have no option but to follow it, reducing the risk of getting it wrong, but also encouraging natural, comfortable movement.
Our Life Fitness Academy (LFA) trainers work with our customers to help them deliver instructions to members on how to use each piece, which is key in building confidence and competence while training. Along with guidance on our social channels, website and the Halo app, we’re also launching a campaign later this year to help women who have concerns or nerves about getting into strength training.
Selectorised kit will always have a place on gym floors as, coupled with good instruction, it offers a safe and simple introduction to resistance training.
We’re launching a campaign later
this year to help women who have concerns
or nerves about getting into strength training
Strength training using free weights can be intimidating for many women
Seat heights are set to provide privacy during exercise
The first annual Private Sector Benchmarking report was released today (27 March). A
collaboration between UK Active and 4Global, the aim of the research is to provide accurate
insight into the state of UK-based private sector health clubs.
With a new master franchisee on board, the rollout of Anytime Fitness in the Middle East will
get underway later this year, with the first club opening Dubai.
Myzone is now available on smart watches, allowing Android and AppleWatch wearers to record
workouts without an additional device, and taking the tech company into the multi-billion dollar
smart watch market.
Egym, which raised €207 million last year in new investment, continues to build its top team
with the appointment of former Technogym MD, Steve Barton, as country director for the UK.
Having announced its intention to open 50 low cost gyms in the next three years, The Gym
Group has appointed Alison Sagar as chief commercial officer to drive its plans forward.
The team behind TRIB3 has launched a reformer Pilates studio concept called PILAT3S, which
will be available either as a standalone franchise, or as a club-in-club concept, aiming to take
the exercise modality into the mainstream.
Adidas and its Breaking Barriers Academy has announced a partnership with female health
experts, The Well HQ – led by Baz Moffatt – for the launch of a free training course to raise
awareness about menstruation.
Will Orr, CEO of The Gym Group, has revealed the company’s full-year results for 2023, along
with an early trading update for 2024 and a new three-part strategy for the business.
Nuffield Health’s brand doesn’t justify its price, while Everyone Active has a distinctive
personality according to brand experts, Kantar, which has undertaken consumer research into
some leading fitness companies.
Despite high inflation and energy costs, Basic-Fit lifted 2023 revenues by almost a third,
achieved a record number of club openings and is bullish about the future.
Study Active has legally acquired the name “Premier Global” and select Premier Global
branding assets from Assessment Technologies Institute LLC, part of Ascend Learning in the
US.
[more...]
Elevate, the premier event in the physical activity, fitness, sports therapy and performance
sector, is thrilled to announce that registrations for its 2024 conference are now live –
and the response has been nothing short of exceptional.
[more...]