POWERING TOMORROW’S GYMS

Much of the talk about how tech is changing the fitness industry is focused on apps, trackers and other consumer-facing products. But the role of IT is important too and is overlooked, suggests Allan Casten, previously co-founder of easyGym and now CEO of managed services provider Nomical

The fi tness industry is undergoing a technological transformation, with IoT (Internet of Things) at the forefront, redefining gym environments and elevating member experiences. Through IoT-enabled sensors and biometric devices, members now access real-time insights into their performance and health metrics, allowing workouts that dynamically adapt to meet individual needs. Advanced equipment such as adaptive cardio units, intelligent yoga mats, and form-tracking weightlifting machines deliver tailored, data-driven experiences, setting a new standard for connected fi tness.

But the impact of IoT extends beyond member engagement; it’s revolutionising operational efficiency. Smart sensors track equipment usage, detect potential malfunctions, and notify gym staff for proactive maintenance, extending equipment lifespan and enabling rotation plans. Environmental controls, driven by IoT, can fine-tune lighting, temperature, and music, creating an optimal workout atmosphere while maximising energy efficiency. These innovations turn gyms into sophisticated, experience-focused wellness environments, a leap forward from traditional workout spaces.

Building the IT backbone of a connected gym Creating a fully IoT-enabled gym demands more than just equipment - it requires a resilient IT infrastructure that supports continuous connectivity, high data throughput, and minimal downtime. Allan Casten, CEO of Nomical and previously co-founder of easyGym, explains, “Technology and high-speed connectivity are now as fundamental to the gym experience as weights and cardio machines. Over the last 15 years, we’ve seen IT infrastructure in gyms evolve from a support role into a critical component of operations and member engagement.”

As connectivity in fitness spaces becomes a staple, member expectations have soared. Allan elaborates, “With members connecting multiple devices, they expect fast, reliable Wi-Fi that handles everything from streaming Netflix to syncing with wearables and tracking their fitness data. It’s no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity. Gyms that don’t meet these expectations risk falling behind, as connectivity has become an integral part of the fitness experience.”

Members expect fast, reliable Wi-Fi that handles everything from streaming Netflix to syncing with wearables. It’s no longer a luxury; it’s a necessity

Meeting these digital demands requires gym operators to maintain two separate SoGEA or FTTP connections - one for operational needs and one dedicated to member use, each with at least 60 Mbps bandwidth. Many gyms also maintain a third backup connection, often with a cellular option or even satellite solutions like Starlink for remote areas, ensuring service continuity no matter the location. This robust network architecture supports everything from CCTV and access control to member Wi-Fi, creating a dependable framework for a modern gym’s critical operations.

Navigating security challenges in an IoT-enabled gym The adoption of IoT devices enhances member experience but introduces security challenges that must not be overlooked. Each connected device serves as a potential entry point for cyber threats. Allan underscores this issue: “The sheer scale of connected devices in gyms today requires security architectures that keep pace with evolving threats. Gyms need proactive, multi-layered security frameworks that go far beyond traditional firewalls, creating an environment where every device and network layer contributes to protecting member data and ensuring operational stability.”

Modern gym security protocols include end-to-end encryption, regular software updates, and routinevulnerability assessments. AI-driven systems add another layer, continuously monitoring network traffic for anomalies. Network segmentation is also key, isolating IoT devices from core systems to contain any threats. Device Authentication and a Zero Trust Architecture - where no device is trusted by default, further strengthen these defences, helping gyms safeguard data and provide members with a secure, seamless experience.

Partnering for innovation and future readiness As technology and member expectations continue to evolve, many gym operators are partnering with IT specialists who understand the unique demands of the fitness industry. With over 15 years of experience supporting major UK gym chains like The Gym Group and PureGym, Nomical is well-positioned to help gyms navigate this dynamic, tech-driven landscape.

Looking ahead, the next frontier for IT in fitness lies in constant innovation. Allan concludes: “Today’s IT solutions are the foundation for tomorrow’s smart gyms. These technologies promise to transform not just how we exercise, but how we think about fitness and wellness as a whole. A robust IT foundation is more than just an asset - it’s an advantage.

“By partnering with companies like Nomical, gyms can build resilience for today and lay the groundwork for the innovations of tomorrow, ensuring their spaces evolve with members’ ever-growing expectations.”