Check off a typical gym priority list and the class timetable, calibre of equipment, and cleanliness of the changing rooms are usually top of the list.
What rarely features as highly is the quality of the toilets. Yet ignoring them could be a costly mistake.
Whilst inspecting gym toilet cubicles might not be the first thing that springs to mind for prospective members, ensuring your gym offers clean, user-friendly and attractive facilities could be key to standing out from the competition – and the difference between bagging that new membership or not.
Want to make sure your gym toilets make the grade?
Here we take a look at the essentials…
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Carefully planned layout
Whilst plans may be restricted by the design of a building, where possible the location and layout of toilets needs careful consideration.
Get caught short mid-class and no one wants to miss half the session traipsing to the loo. Likewise, if there’s a swimming pool, a toilet needs to be located not too far from the poolside to avoid a wet slippery floor and a cold uncomfortable walk for swimmers.
Thought also needs to be given to whether facilities will be shared by both wet and dry users. Where space allows, separate toilets are largely favoured.
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Durability and low maintenance
One of the most important things to ensure when planning new gym toilets is that they are durable and low maintenance.
You need cubicles capable of enduring constant, heavy-handed use and damp, sweaty conditions to ensure they stay looking good for as long as possible.
Features such as opting for a design with raised partitions, will not only allow for easy drainage but also make cleaning faster and more efficient as mops can easily slide under cubicle walls to keep floors clean and dry.
Fitting IPS panels is another great idea. Not only do these protect pipework from damage but they also tidy up appearances by tucking plumbing safely out of sight. They have the additional benefit of streamlining surfaces and reducing nooks and crannies where dirt and germs can accumulate.
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Privacy
Offering members a safe, comfortable and relaxed bathroom environment is important.
Toilet cubicles should have sturdy partition walls, with no cracks or holes that may make users feel uneasy about being seen.
Strong, easy-to-use locks and handles are also essential.
Remember users are likely to have wet or sweaty hands making grip more difficult, so it’s crucial to ensure doors and locks open and close smoothly.
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The right amount
Whether mid-swim, halfway through a weights session or just keen to get a workout done and go home, queuing for the loo is definitely not an activity that will impress gym users.
Important then, that you ensure sufficient facilities are available. Again, this largely comes down to a carefully planned layout – ensuring a design that maximises space to include as many toilet cubicles as possible.
Durability also comes into play – one thing sure to frustrate members is ‘out of order’ signs. So whilst providing enough toilets is important, so too is ensuring they are fit for purpose and stay in good working order.
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They look good
Don’t make the mistake of thinking the look and feel of gym toilets doesn’t matter – it does!
They represent your business and need to look the part. Incorporating gym colours and branding is a great idea so it’s worth shopping around for cubicles that can offer you a resilient surface in an extensive range of colours.
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Include extras
Some basics should always be available in gym toilets – plenty of soap, toilet rolls, paper towels etc, but there are other non-essential features that can make all the difference to the comfort level of users.
For example, providing hooks to ensure there’s somewhere to hang towels, and proper signage so new members and users in a hurry are clear on which toilets they should be using.
Raising your game with gym toilet cubicles is pretty easy. It’s even easier when you use a supplier trusted for great quality and competitive pricing. So why not visit M&P Cubicle and Hardware Supplies? With an extensive range of gym toilet cubicles available, and all the fixtures and fittings you need, they’re a one-stop shop for all cubicle requirements.
