Previously, social events could be held in schools, colleges, and municipalities, and gyms were only reserved for sporting and fitness activities. Today, Multipurpose gyms serve their main purpose for some time, after which they host other events.
The Gymnasium programming concept has expanded, causing the emergence of construction techniques and designs. Gyms are spaces of social significance, with career days, dances, and other events taking place. A designer should carefully handle the gym upgrades and designs so that they can hold such events and more.
Flexible design innovations
How a building is framed influences its ability to accommodate changes. Today, the masonry materials that were used on old gyms are paving the way for lighter materials that were initially used in commercial construction. The need to have walls with light gauge framing and laminate surfaces has triggered innovations in structural designs to enhance flexibility.
Light-gauge steal has an ideal strength-to-weight ratio, with lightweight steel achieving great results. Using light-gauge steel for roof trusses, floor joists and structural walls offers amazing benefits during design and construction.
According to a health and science research paper writing service, functional strength training triggers creative gym designs to ensure diverse use of the facilities. Many gyms have managed to use floor plans creatively to accommodate various training and other social events. Using different flooring materials to create space is exciting and offers better user experiences.
Digital engineering simulation
The advanced digital engineering technology facilitates new design simulation and generation, allowing for effective prototyping of new structures. When used in gymnasiums, it can result in an intricate structure because the engineers can simulate the structural integrity of the building.
Through simulation, the designers can examine the impact of the design on occupants’ comfort and running costs. There has been an increase in quality, quality, and accessibility of building data.
One of the technologies that have unlocked the ability to collect data in real-time is the Internet of Things (IoT). Building Management Systems can monitor and control building services and smart meters deliver utility meter readings quickly. Simulation models are useful in commissioning and can be applied in other areas, including:
- Measurement and verification of applied Energy Conservation Measures (ECMs). The pre-intervention model acts as a baseline model for savings calculations.
- Monitoring and Targeting (M&T) energy sub-categories, particularly those that are affected by the weather.
- Identifying ECMs and estimating the expected payback using virtual testing techniques.
Power handling innovations
Modern gyms can host a variety of events. Therefore, during the planning stage, planners should consider future power needs. The amount and distribution of power are dynamic, with rec centers consuming significantly more power in comparison to previous consumption. To have a community event in a gym facility, there could be many inflatables powered up.
A career day may involve tens of booths with internet access, while a fashion day may feature hair stylists and clothiers setting up shops with power connections.
Internet connectivity and power distribution require the designers to borrow technology from the hotel industry. To address the various needs cost-effectively, the architectures should incorporate internet broadcast and power trails instead of having permanent installations.
Interactive tech for Multipurpose Gyms
Today’s gyms are at the crossroads of digital technology, advancing health science and user experience design. Customizable technologies in the market and the need for interactions offer gyms lots of resources for space innovation.
Virtual-reality experiences are featured by technologies such as Precor, Technogym, and Cybex. The structure can be designed to allow software platforms to be added to the existing equipment.
Gym designs need improvement in the area of equipment through technological advancements. Evolution in biometrics is contributing to exceptional customer experiences, meaning that people attending any kind of event in the facility are likely to enjoy their stay.
Daylighting and illumination
Currently, some designers use Skylights and north-facing glazing in gyms to open the up to the sun. To improve the gym experience and for sustainability, the designers are focusing on insulating the walls and roofs. Based on the many uses of the space, it is possible to design lighting to allow for the accommodation of different events in the facility.
For a configuration to be flexible, there is a need for three tiers of lighting – the recreation tier, sports tier, and entertainment tier. Even if planners have used LEDs to enhance energy efficiency, the tiers of lighting are inevitable.
Daylighting enhances the beauty and functionality of the structure and makes viewing clearer. Daylight exposure can also enhance the mood, energy, and health of the users. Today, gym daylighting systems are enabling various creative architectural expressions like near darkness, full daylight, and spotlighting. These systems direct the natural light into indoor settings through highly reflective tubing and rooftop domes. That’s why designers and architects are increasingly using innovative daylighting systems to facilitate indoor events.
Storage design
Gyms are leveraging the psychology of exceptional design from an architectural point of view. A locker room is a final place for users after a workout and this can make or break their experiences. Locker rooms should provide a posh environment and be full of attractive details such as infused towels and luxury toiletries.
For using multipurpose gyms for fitness and host other events, they should have enough storage for gym equipment and stanchions. Therefore, the location of the storage space should be next to the gym for convenience. Designers should also consider the portability of moving equipment. People normally prefer roll-down doors like the ones used in most garages to the standard ones.
Air handling in Multipurpose Gyms
The purpose of the Heating, Ventilation, and Air-conditioning (HVAC) system is to maintain the air quality in the building through adequate ventilation. The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) has laid down standards aimed at reducing the energy consumption of compliant building designs.
Air handling units are part of ventilating, air conditioning systems, and heating that circulates and removes air from a building. The air handling units also have different capabilities and come in different sizes.
ASHRAE requires an additional 30% fresh air in sports facilities. Thus, the air handling system must be taken into consideration in any project. Good aeration of multipurpose gyms is important because the facility will be accommodating many users during events.
Many state codes specify the energy efficiency requirements, duct and pipe insulation, ventilation controls, among other factors. Some localities and states have also laid down the quality of air requirements to be followed.
Conclusion
The use of today’s gyms is not only for fitness purposes but also for social missions. Architectural designers should optimize the space to accommodate a larger number of users when the need arises. Therefore, constructing a gym from scratch or upgrading it goes beyond just paying attention to the equipment and storage space. In other words, having multipurpose gyms requires design innovations for a fresh perspective.
Author Bio:
Charlie Svensson is one of the fastest and engaging essay writers working with UK SuperiorPapers, which is regarded as the best and cheapest essay writing service for students. He is highly talented and covers various topics that include science, education, social media marketing, SEO, book reviews, and self-growth. He knows his job in and out and this makes his audience love him.
