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With flooring one of the most important elements to designing a high quality training area - and often something that is overlooked and not noticed until it is too late - premium strength and conditioning equipment supplier AlphaFit has shared its experience on why gym flooring should be 'front of mind' for those setting up a new, or refurbishing an existing, commercial facility.

Expanding on a recent Blog, AlphaFit co-founder and Manager, Jamie Montesalvo explains "the flooring system you choose from the start of your planning, is literally the line item which dictates how your facility will operate from the ground up.

"When it comes to commercial gyms, not any ordinary type of flooring material will do. Gym flooring takes a beating from members and equipment alike. Different areas - think stretch/mobility, walkways, heavy foot traffic, weight dropping and big machines which are heavy in weight - in facilities require thought and planning for the suitable flooring material that is strong, resilient and durable.

"These requirements make rubber flooring the most popular choice for a commercial fitness facility. Rubber flooring offers excellent shock absorption, resists traction and safeguards against injuries. Not to mention it is easy to clean and is bacteria/mildew resistant.

"Not all rubber is the same, the thickness and top coat finish will often affect how it feels under foot and also on the skin depending on the movements which will be performed.

"For most of our fitouts which include rubber flooring systems, we use Regupol and A1 Rubber as our preferred sources as we find their products are world class, affordable and they are both businesses which deliver a seamless experience to clients from concept stages through to installation."

Characteristics of Rubber Flooring

Provides Impact Shock Absorption
Gym flooring that provides impact shock absorption for joints, muscles and tendons will keep your athletes safe whilst also providing additional protection to your equipment. Rubber flooring is one of the safest sports flooring options available on the market.

Strong and Durable
Rubber surfaces are strong, tough and durable and a good quality rubber floor will often outlast the lifespan of your equipment.

Slip Resistant
Rubber provides a good grip so installing rubber flooring will prevent unnecessary injuries since unintentional movements of machinery or equipment will be suppressed.

Sound Absorption
Commercial gyms with their large open spaces and high ceilings often suffer from poor acoustics. Rubber has the inherent ability to absorb sound and muffle noise, therefore improving the efficiency and comfort of the facility environment.

Moisture Resistant
Not only easy to clean, rubber is moisture resistant making it invulnerable to mold and mildew.

Types Of Rubber Flooring

Flooring Rolls
Rubber Flooring Rolls are long rolls available in various lengths and require very minimal labour to install. A benfit of flooring rolls is that there are fewer joins therefore giving them a smoother look and reduces the chance of gaps forming or becoming loose.

Floor Tiles
Floor tiles are the preferred choice for medium to thick flooring (anything above 10mm). These square tiles will need to be professionally laid as the edges will need to be accurately fastened to ensure no gaps or imperfections.

Interlocking Tiles
Interlocking tiles are a popular option for their easy to install and remove nature. Using a jigsaw locking system, interlocking tiles should be heavy enough to sit securely without the use of adhesives. 

AlphaFit are the biggest and most reputable supplier of Australian made gym equipment to the national and international fitness industry. 

Information courtesy of AlphaFit's Commercial Gym Flooring Buyers Guide.

Click here to contact AlphaFit via their entry in the Australasian Leisure Management Supplier Directory.

Images: AlphaFit fitout for Fitsop Oxenford (top) and rubber floor tiles (below).

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