Guide to Choosing the Best Fitness Center & Gym Lighting Fixtures and LED Lights

When planning lighting for a gym setting, there are a lot of options in terms of function and style. In addition to all the choices available on the market, a gym also has several different areas and the lighting needs vary based on the area. When it comes to choosing lighting for these areas, we have a few suggestions to keep in mind.

Exterior

The exterior lights play a role in drawing customers to your location. From the signage with the name of the gym to the parking lot lighting, there are a few lighting elements. When choosing exterior lighting, the most important factor is often durability. Only choose options that are listed for wet/damp locations. These light fixtures will be specifically designed to handle most outdoor elements such as rain, wind, and heat. Another aspect to consider with exterior lighting is the walkway. Customer accidents are decreased in locations with proper illumination. Whether you choose a wall mount with a downcast spectrum or posts with mounted lights, the key is to provide a safe and inviting walkway for your clients.

Workout Areas

This is one of the most crucial areas in gym lighting because it is where members spend the most time. From the weight lifting area to the cardio area, lighting has to meet certain requirements. One of the biggest mistakes gyms make in terms of lighting is choosing lights that offer a higher lumen output as opposed to slightly lower one. When working out, most members want a light that is a gentle level of brightness. Part of this is because if members are on a workout machine requiring them to lay on their back, they will inevitably spend a considerable amount of time staring at the ceiling. If the lights are too bright, it will make eyes uncomfortable or the lights distracting. A great way to offset this is by choosing an appropriate lumen output for the square space of the room or area and then combining it with other tactics such as diffusers and frosted or milky lens covers. Another option is to use lighting that casts upward as opposed to downwards for a gentler light. When choosing lighting for this area, you should also pay attention to glare levels. Most treadmills and workout machines will have a glare when lighting is too powerful or placed in the wrong position.

Lockers/Personal Areas

For this aspect of gym lighting, it should be bright, but gentle. Lockers and changing areas need adequate light for visibility and gentle light for a relaxing, flattering illumination. For this area, don’t be afraid to mix and match lighting fixture types or lumen outputs. For example, for locker areas, you may want a brighter light whereas the changing area might have a softer light.

Pool/Showers

For this area, you need to choose lighting that is UL listed for wet locations. Recessed lighting is a good choice here because it can add to the protection of the light when it is housed inside the ceiling as opposed to a suspended or pendant mount option. For the pool, you will want lighting that is diffused to avoid eye discomfort whereas, in the shower, lighting can be a higher level of illumination to aid visibility and the feeling of safety.

The bottom line when considering lighting for a gym is to keep the comfort of your clients in mind. You want to create an atmosphere that is safe, inviting, and enjoyable. With the right lighting, you can easily accomplish this goal.