Kingston University Enriches Student Experience
Members of the Kingston University Boat Club have started a trend for exercise classes using the Life Fitness Circuit Series.
The club’s Thursday morning training sessions attracted so much attention that now additional classes are being run throughout the week to cater for the demand among other gym users.
Located in the dance studio, the Life Fitness Circuit Series is a space-efficient line of resistance machines which are extremely easy-to-use, require minimal set-up adjustments and provide a challenging workout for exercisers of all ages and abilities.
“We deliberately chose a wide variety of equipment to cater to different groups within the university and local community.” said Phil Muschamp, Director of Sport at Kingston University. “The Circuit Series is great for entry-level exercisers, while also appealing to more experienced athletes, like the rowers from the Boat Club, who combine short, sharp bursts on the resistance machines with sessions on the rowing machine, to get a really challenging and time-efficient workout.”
The facility, situated on the Penrhyn Road campus, underwent extensive renovations and redecoration last summer, which include a 65-station, Life Fitness-equipped gym complete with wireless connectivity system, VIVO; installation of air conditioning in the fitness areas and studio; improved lighting and a new sound system in the studio; refurbished changing areas and showers; and a new, online membership system.
“The university places great emphasis on enhancing the student and staff experience, both from an academic and non-academic point of view,” said Muschamp. “By investing in sports and recreation, and providing high-quality facilities and a pleasant fitness environment to exercise in, we hope to encourage participation and promote healthy living.”
The 300m2 gym features Life Fitness cardiovascular equipment with integrated entertainment screens; a comprehensive range of strength products from the Signature Series; Hammer Strength Motion Technology Selectorised (MTS) machines; and dual adjustable pulleys and free weights.
The redesign of the facility has not only encompassed the physical environment, but it has also focused on improving the efficiency and professionalism of the service offered to members. The centre is now a virtually paperless facility with a front desk system that allows online bookings, as well as VIVO, the new connectivity system from Life Fitness which aims to enrich the member experience and improve operational effectiveness. VIVO integrates Life Fitness cardiovascular and strength equipment with new software, wireless systems and communications tools. It provides personalised data that facilitates communication and enables instructors to monitor and proactively support members.
“We were keen to install the very latest technology and invest in high quality, reliable systems to support our business going forward,” said Muschamp. “VIVO fits perfectly with our front desk software, and while its primary purpose is to help our members track and develop their fitness programmes, we also anticipate some research and academic cross-over with our Sport Science and Exercise, Nutrition and Health students.”
The £0.5M refurbishment project, which was completed in just seven weeks, was managed by Summit Leisure Solutions via a five-year funding package.
 BACK TO LIST OF ARTICLES | NEXT ARTICLE |
|
