Flexible Gym Studio Design: How to Maximise Space with Les Mills Programming
In the evolving landscape of fitness, the most successful facilities aren’t necessarily the biggest, they’re the smartest.
Across the UK and Ireland, operators are rethinking how their spaces are used. The focus is shifting towards flexible gym studio design. Environments that can adapt throughout the day, support multiple training formats, and maximise return on investment.
At IndigoFitness, we’ve seen this first-hand.
Our work at West Wood Club Westmanstown demonstrates how a well-designed, multi-use studio can seamlessly support both small group training and Les Mills programming, including CEREMONY™ and CONQUER™ without compromise.
For gym owners, operators, and local authorities, the lessons are clear: flexibility isn’t a luxury, it’s essential.
Why Flexible Gym Studio Design Matters
In a competitive fitness market, every square metre needs to deliver.
Traditional layouts, with fixed-purpose zones and underutilised studios are no longer commercially efficient. Members expect variety, and operators need spaces that can keep pace with changing demands.
Flexible gym studio design solves this by enabling:
– Multiple class formats within one space
– Higher utilisation throughout the day
– Increased revenue opportunities per square metre
– Greater adaptability as trends evolve
At West Wood Club Westmanstown, this philosophy was central to the project from the outset.
Designing a Studio Around Les Mills Programming
When incorporating Les Mills gym design principles, the starting point must always be the programming itself.
Les Mills CEREMONY™ and CONQUER™ are structured, high-energy formats that combine strength, conditioning, functional and combat training. They require more than just open space. They demand precision in layout and equipment.
At Westmanstown, the studio was designed to:
– Support clearly defined workout stations
– Allow seamless transitions between phases of each class
– Maintain consistency across sessions
– Deliver an immersive, coach-led experience
But importantly, the space wasn’t limited to Les Mills use alone.
One Space, Multiple Functions
The real strength of this project lies in its flexibility.
The studio at West Wood Club Westmanstown was designed to support:
– Les Mills CEREMONY™
– Les Mills CONQUER™
– Small group training
– General functional and strength-based sessions
This multi-use capability ensures the space remains active throughout the day, maximising both engagement and revenue.
For operators, this is where flexible gym studio design delivers its greatest value.
Layout: Balancing Structure and Freedom
A successful flexible studio must strike the right balance between structure and adaptability.
At Westmanstown, the layout was designed to work in two key modes:
– Structured Mode (For Les Mills Classes)
– Clearly defined training stations
– Consistent spacing for participants
– Logical flow between exercises
– Optimised coaching visibility
– Open Mode (For PT and General Use)
– Adaptable for different session styles
– Supports varied coaching approaches
This dual functionality allows operators to switch seamlessly between programming types without reconfiguring the space.
Equipment That Supports Les Mills and Beyond
One of the biggest challenges in Les Mills gym design is selecting equipment that works for structured programming while remaining versatile enough for broader use.
At IndigoFitness, our approach is always bespoke.
For Westmanstown, equipment was selected and manufactured to:
– Align with the demands of CEREMONY™ and CONQUER™
– Support a wide range of strength and functional exercises
– Withstand high-frequency, high-intensity use
– Integrate seamlessly into the overall design
Because we manufacture in the UK, we can tailor every detail, ensuring the equipment enhances, rather than limits, the training space.
Creating an Immersive Studio Experience
A flexible studio shouldn’t feel like a compromise, it should feel like a premium destination.
At West Wood Club Westmanstown, the space was designed to:
– Stand apart from the main gym floor
– Build energy and focus as soon as members enter
– Reinforce the quality of Les Mills programming
– Create a sense of community and engagement
This is particularly important for Les Mills classes, where atmosphere plays a key role in the overall experience.
The Commercial Benefits for Operators
For gym owners and operators, the impact of a well-designed flexible studio goes far beyond aesthetics.
Maximised Space Efficiency: One studio supports multiple revenue streams, reducing downtime and increasing utilisation.
– Increased Revenue Potential: From Les Mills classes to small group PT, operators can layer different income models within the same footprint.
– Improved Member Retention: Variety, structure, and high-quality experiences keep members engaged for longer.
– Future-Proof Design: As programming evolves, the space can adapt without requiring significant reinvestment.
– A Smart Solution for Local Authorities: Flexible gym studio design is equally valuable for public leisure facilities.
With increasing pressure on budgets and participation targets, local authorities need spaces that deliver maximum impact.
A multi-use studio allows for:
– Diverse programming across different demographics
– Efficient use of limited space
– Increased community engagement
– Stronger justification for capital investment
By incorporating Les Mills programming within a flexible design, facilities can offer premium experiences while maintaining accessibility.
Why Bespoke Design Delivers Better Results
The success of the Westmanstown project comes down to one key factor: it was designed specifically for its purpose.
At IndigoFitness, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions.
Our bespoke approach ensures:
– Alignment between space, equipment, and programming
– Higher quality and durability
– Greater flexibility and long-term value
– A finished environment that reflects your brand
For operators, this means a space that not only looks impressive but performs consistently over time.
Explore the Full Project
To see how this flexible gym studio design was brought to life, including full details of solutions and impacts on Westmanstown Club, visit:
https://indigofitness.com/west-wood-club-westmanstown
Ready to Maximise Your Space?
If you’re planning a new facility or looking to get more from your existing one. Flexible gym studio design could be the key to unlocking its full potential.
At IndigoFitness, we specialise in creating bespoke training spaces that support Les Mills programming, small group training, and everything in between.
Let’s build a space that works harder for your business.
