When we go to the gym, the last thing we want to have to think about while sweating it out on the treadmill is the security of our belongings. Yet in a 24/7 world, the majority of gym members will choose to do their daily workout either before, after or during work hours – meaning highly valuable items such as wallets, mobile phones and keys are likely to be entrusted to the gym changing rooms.

Nothing is more likely to sour a customer’s gym experience than losing their belongings, and a spate of thefts can have a major impact on the reputation of your facility. For those reasons, a secure and comfortable gym changing room space is a vital element of a successful gym. If you’re thinking of setting up an exercise space – or renovating an existing changing room – these are the utilities you should be considering:

• Phone lockers

Small locker compartments are ideal for storing wallets, mobile phones and other hand-held equipment. Because they take up less space, they’re a good solution for smaller changing room spaces, as clothes are generally less likely to be stolen than electronic valuables and money. Alternatively, if you want to create a high-security feel for your customers, you could set up small compartment lockers behind the welcome desk at your gym for customers who don’t wish to leave their valuables in a changing room.

• Single door lockers 

A full-size, single-door locker not only contains space for hand-held valuables, but also provides space to hang clothes or larger items away from prying eyes. To get the most out of single-door lockers, consider installing an interior hanging rail with captive coat hangers so your clients can keep their clothes secure and wrinkle-free.

• Island seats 

Island seats provide a comfortable space for clients to relax and disrobe – or recover from a workout – while also offering space to hang clothes and towels. Essentially consisting of a series of coat racks attached to a standard bench, they’re a staple of any gym changing room.

• Lock types

There are a number of lock types you can choose from when it comes to installing lockers in a gym changing room. Standard coin or key-operated models should suffice for most gyms – though bear in mind that lacking the correct denomination for a coin-operated locker can be a source of frustration for many customers. To add a more personal touch, you could also offer keyless digital combination locks, meaning your clients won’t have to worry about keeping hold of a key while they work out. Access codes can be set and changed at any time, and you’ll have access to a master override code in case of accidents.

• Bike racks 

To further empower your clients to visit the gym at any time convenient to them, installing bike racks on the premises is an excellent courtesy. Ideally you would set these up outside, but larger changing rooms could also include space for a small number of bikes provided there’s a clear and spacious route from the front entrance.

At 3D Lockers, we provide all the equipment you need for a comfortable, fully stocked gym changing room. Check out our product range and get in touch today on 01924 240 291 if you have any questions or special requirements.