UNIVERSITY of BIRMIGNHAM SCHOOL
Rethinking Education

Location: Birmingham, England
Training Space: Education
Website: www.uobschool.org.uk

IndigoFitness is proud to partner with the University of Birmingham School to create a dynamic and adaptable training space designed to enhance student and staff well-being. By combining thoughtful design, versatile equipment, and custom branding, we helped the school make the most of its space and meet its growing needs.

See How We Did It

The Situation

The University of Birmingham School faced the challenge of making more productive use of its limited space. They needed a fitness space that would engage students in physical activity and teach them essential lessons about health and exercise.

A key challenge was selecting the right supplier who could align with their vision and create a versatile, functional, and appealing space that would meet the school’s specific needs.

Their ultimate objective was to design a space that could comfortably accommodate class sizes of 25, with a balance of cardio and weight equipment to support a wide range of physical activities. They wanted to expose students to different exercises and ensure safe practices, while also offering a multi-functional area that could be adapted for various activities within and outside of the school’s physical education curriculum.

See Our Solution

THE SOLUTION

IndigoFitness provided a comprehensive solution that transformed the school’s vision into reality, delivering a space that was not only functional but adaptable and aligned with the University of Birmingham School’s identity.

Design & Layout

We designed a flexible layout that preserved a large, open area to support multi-use sessions such as dance, yoga, and even exams. The design was tailored to meet the diverse requirements of both the physical education program and co-curricular activities.

Versatile Equipment Selection

To support the school’s broad fitness needs, we supplied a wide range of cardio and strength equipment. Much of this equipment is easily moveable or foldable, allowing the space to be quickly adapted depending on the activity. This flexibility ensures that the area remains a versatile asset for both staff and students.

Modular Storage Solutions

A modular storage system was installed to consolidate free weight storage and maximise usable floor space. Additionally, we incorporated custom branding and a colour scheme that reflected the University of Birmingham School’s identity, giving the space a professional yet personalised feel.

Flooring Solutions:

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Enduratile 20mm performance floor for lifting.

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Ramped perimeter and door wells to allow access to equipment stores and transition down to surrounding floor level.

Equipment Solutions:

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RAZE Shadow Series Full Rack in custom Red.

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RAZE Shadow Series Modular Storage in Custom Red.

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RAZE Strength equipment – including R-Sport Bars & Plates, Med Balls, Wall balls, Hex Dumbbells, Kettlebells & other accessories.

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RAZE Renegade Airbike.

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Spirit CT850+ Treadmills.

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Concept2 RowErg.

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Primal Pro Series Fixed Weight Barbells.

The Result

The new fitness space is now in daily use by both students and staff. During the school day, the area is central to the KS4 curriculum, and it plays a key role in the school’s bespoke enrichment sessions for Sixth Form students.. Confidence is growing as students and staff learn to use the equipment safely, and the space is helping to reduce the intimidation that some feel when attending gyms outside of the school environment.

Rather than relying on metrics, the success of the project is evident in the culture shift it has fostered. The space has created a positive environment where students and staff feel encouraged to engage in physical activity, which is having a lasting impact on the school community.

One significant and unexpected benefit has been the increased confidence among female staff members, particularly those whose cultural or religious beliefs may have previously inhibited their use of gym spaces. To support this, the school introduced female-only sessions, which have positively impacted groups of staff who had previously been disengaged from fitness activities.

What was the process of working with IndigoFitness like?
Working with IndigoFitness was incredibly easy. Sam and Lia have been fantastic. Only positive things to say, from scoping out the potential of the space all the way through to delivery and aftercare from the company. Very pleased with it all – thank you.

Were there any specific areas where Sam/IndigoFitness added the most value?
The personal touch made a big difference. Making effort to go above and beyond and showing excellent customer care. Working to meet our deadlines and understanding our limitations on when finances could be passed over due to staffing over the school holidays.

How did the overall experience of managing the project compare with your expectations?
The project exceeded our expectations. Everything ran smoothly, with no disruptions or delays. IndigoFitness have been brilliant and I will highly recommend them to others I know in the education sector. Thank you for working with us to create such a brilliant fitness space for our staff, pupils and students.