As part of the health, wellbeing and lifestyle initiative at Bentley Motors, Legends – one of the most technologically advanced gyms in the Crewe area – provides a range of fitness and sport activities for Bentley colleagues and contractors to enjoy.

Following a facility-wide refurbishment of Legends in 2016, Matrix were chosen to install the latest 7Xi generation of cardio machines and Matrix Ultra Resistance machines of the highest specification with rep counters and incremental weight settings.

Matrix also support the Legends team to boast a dedicated weights area furnished with all of the latest equipment needed to optimise any workout and a state-of-the art functional training zone providing a flexible, friendly fitness environment to suit all workout styles, abilities and goals.

Amy Collins, Service Manager at Legends, explains: “The Matrix team have been great to work with and we have built a strong and reliable partnership with them. They have been very helpful and if we have any questions, they are there on hand to support.

Our customers have been extremely impressed with the new, and improved fitness suite at Legends, Bentley Motors. Some even think we have extended the gym, but in fact it was the carefully thought out floor plan that has created a spacious feel. The modern and multi-functional machines, has definitely received a big thumbs up from our members.”

In 2019, having been so impressed with the Matrix equipment, the team at Bentley Motors transformed their indoor cycling offering by replacing dated bikes with the installation of 12 new Matrix CXC bikes into a spinning zone with a virtual spin area to shortly follow in the fitness suite.

Amy Collins, Service Manager at Legends, explains: “The Matrix team have been great to work with and we have built a strong and reliable partnership with them. They have been very helpful and if we have any questions, they are there on hand to support.

Our customers have been extremely impressed with the new, and improved fitness suite at Legends, Bentley Motors. Some even think we have extended the gym, but in fact it was the carefully thought out floor plan that has created a spacious feel. The modern and multi-functional machines, has definitely received a big thumbs up from our members.”

The CXC bikes are ideal for group cycling classes or for use in our cardio section on the gym floor. They optimise ergonomics for a real outdoor ride feel and are designed with durability in mind; low maintenance, a well-protected rear flywheel design that includes magnetic resistance for smooth, consistent adjustments and low power consumption for long life.

The wireless LCD Console on the CXC bikes display RPM, calories, distance, time and heart rate when used with a heart rate strap, for efficient live feedback. Wiggins adds: “The health, fitness and wellbeing of our workforce is of the highest importance. That’s why we pride ourselves on working with the best to provide world class fitness facilities for our colleagues and contractors.

Our Bentley Health and Wellbeing programme, ‘BeFit’ offers information, support and advise on leading a more active and healthier lifestyle, both physically and mentally, and Matrix have helped us create not just an exercise environment, but an exercise experience that helps us promote and provide this.”

Tim Grainger-Smith, Head of Sales – Public Sector at Matrix Fitness explains: “We are pleased to continue our partnership with Bentley Motors, helping them to deliver a complete health and fitness solution to their team and clients. We have no doubt that the introduction of our CXC bikes will make their indoor cycling, and overall fitness offering, more measurable, engaging and immersive and we look forward to supporting the team to stay at the forefront of fitness moving forwards.”

Gym facilitates are increasingly becoming an important aspect of any college or University looking to provide students and staff with an engaging experience that promotes a healthy lifestyle.

In May 2018, Matrix Fitness were chosen by Imperial to transform a cafe area in the Ethos building into SW7; a brand new, boutique and functional training space to ensure the best quality of fitness offering for students, staff and members.

Will Hollyer, Head of Sport at Imperial College London, comments: “The rise of the boutique gyms and functional training has transformed the offering we needed to be providing. We have a membership of over 10k students and 800 staff, all who want a modern, engaging and interactive workout experience and we needed to create a leading, boutique training space to cater for this.”

Ethos is a state-of-the-art training facility, which as well as the new SW7 gym also houses their existing gym, which has had its own refurbishment September 2018, in partnership with Matrix, to modernise and improve its appeal.

Hollyer continues: “We chose to work with Matrix, with whom we have a long, successful partnership already, and their ideas for SW7 and the refurb of main gym, the equipment selection and visuals helped us to incorporate a new way of training with an inspiring design to match.

An element of their design that we’ve had great positive feedback on one wall which is completely mirrored with the London skyline, this incorporates our SW7 logo which we worked with Matrix and QPS to create makes the training space appear bigger.”

Equipment installations in the new SW7 include a bespoke Exigo rig, Matrix S-Force, Matrix S-Drive, functional training accessories, assault bikes, Ski Ergs and astro turf flooring. SW7 hosts four group exercise classes throughout the day, Monday to Friday, focusing on Conditioning, Force, Move and HIIT, all led by newly trained instructors and offering heart rate training using MyZone technology.

Listening to the fitness trends and current equipment usage and demand, upstairs in the main gym, floor space has been removed to make room for more cardio equipment, doubling treadmills as well as the free-weight area and equipment.

Julian Taylor, Marketing Director at Matrix Fitness UK adds: “Physical activity has the ability to positively influence personal wellbeing, for students and staff. But times have changed, and fitness has become more modernised, interactive and engaging.”

“It’s been an exciting project, working with the Imperial team on the launch of their boutique SW7 offering and group exercise programme as it provides a training space and fitness equipment that will engage and motivate its users whilst increasing connectivity in a time of technological advancement. Providing them with equipment that helps them set goals, track progress and celebrate achievement.”

Northumbria University have completed the impressive transformation of sport central, a multi-purpose sports centre in Newcastle city centre that forms part of the campus. Investing in an innovative gym refurbishment, supplied by Matrix Fitness, the 751sq m gym now offers a premium offering for students, staff and the community.

“Fitness has evolved rapidly since Sport Central was first opened in 2010. The days of cardio equipment lining the gym floor are gone, replaced by functional training, immersive technology, measurable metrics and performance-led equipment.” Daryl Dixon, Sport Experience Manager at Northumbria University explains.

“Prior to the tender, we spent a lot of time visiting other gyms and were hugely impressed by what we saw from Matrix Fitness. It was imperative that we partnered with a supplier that was going to support our vision to install the best, and most technologically connected equipment, and we awarded Matrix the contract based on quality, price, added value but also their desire to collaborate with us to ensure the gym was a long-term success. Technology is shaping the industry and Matrix were the perfect partner and ‘one-stop-shop’ to launch us ahead of the curve.”

Membership targets for 2019/2020 were exceeded within five weeks of installation and this includes a year on year increase in student memberships of over 600. The team are already having to explore options of increasing their Group Exercise Programme as classes are consistently full.

“This investment isn’t just about providing a fantastic student experience, it’s about ensuring that student wellness stays at the forefront of what we do.” Daryl continues. “With more students visiting the gym more frequently, working out has become the new ‘going out’ and we’re really pleased to see the positive impact that providing a first-class fitness facility can have on not only physical, but also mental and social health.”

The gym refurbishment included installation of top of the range Matrix equipment, incorporating its 7xi cardio equipment, Ultra strength equipment with the connected intelligent training consoles, Magnum Racks and Magnum Plate Loaded units, CXP bikes, the Connexus Perimeter rig as well as S-Force and S-Drive performance trainers.

Utilising the Matrix CXP bikes for indoor cycling classes has proven particularly popular, with a distinctive Target Training touchscreen display that uses engaging graphics and vibrant colours to motivate riders, assess effort and keep everyone on track for their goals.

“The positive feedback has been overwhelming. Our indoor cycling is always fully booked now. The instructors have even commented on how refreshing the new bikes have been to the way they teach; allowing them to track, measure and focus on meaningful metrics rather than just a pumping backing track so our members get to see real results. Since the installation and Matrix Master Trainer visit, we now have the most motivated gym team around!”

Stephen Nutt, Matrix Fitness Head of Sales - Education adds: “Students are more health conscious than ever before. Universities are having to get creative, offering a fitness experience that engages and motivates its members.

The team at Northumbria have been completely open minded, forward thinking and have allowed us to collaborate on an installation that brings Sport Central to the forefront of what the fitness industry has to offer. It is a leading, showcase site and one that both teams are incredibly proud of.”

Salt Ayre Leisure Centre, run by Lancaster City Council, has received two brand new training areas for members – a gym and a Training Zone – following a full refurbishment. Doors reopened to the public in September 2022.

Both of these new areas have been equipped with a full suite of the latest Matrix Fitness equipment, making Salt Ayre Leisure Centre an impressive flagship showcase site demonstrating the very best of what Matrix Fitness has to offer.

“There were a few different factors that prompted the refurb,” said Rachel Williams, general manager, Salt Ayre Leisure Centre.

“We had a rapidly growing membership base, more ambitious income targets to meet and to accommodate this, needed to provide a state-of-the-art offering.”

“Due to this, we revised the centre's layout in order to better utilise the space and increase the amount of equipment available to our members. Essentially, we wanted to better the customer's existing offering and experience, while also attracting new members.”

The new gym and training zone are centrally positioned within the leisure centre, allowing both areas to become a central hub for visitors.

The installation included the latest, innovative equipment from Matrix Fitness, including the new Performance & Endurance Cardio range with touch-screen consoles, items from the Versa Strength range, the Magnum Dual Mega Rack equipped with functional training accessories and the pioneering Glute Trainer.

The overhaul also included a Connexus Perimeter rack – which optimises underutilised wall space and from which the team have introduced the Matrix Fitness MX4 and MX4 Active group training programming into its class schedule as well as the impressive 3D cycle studio now housing the Matrix Fitness CXC Indoor Cycles, for the feel of a real outdoor ride.

“The Matrix Fitness equipment really appealed to us,” adds Kyle Lewis, gym manager, Salt Ayre Leisure Centre.

“It fitted perfectly with the vision we had for the engaging, motivational and innovative training space we wanted to create. It’s added a whole new dimension to both the aesthetics and the offering we can offer for individual and group exercise options.”

“The support we received from the Matrix team has been second to none. They went above and beyond to not only advise on the equipment, but on branding, layout design, programming as well as the additional staff training they provided behind the scenes to upskill our team.”

The installation of the Matrix Fitness equipment, with considered layout and design to maximise the space, has allowed the centre to increase its training stations and exercise options for members, providing a more inclusive and impressive training zone.

“Since the refurb, our member engagement has drastically increased and our membership numbers have rocketed by just short of 200 net gain since re-opening,” Williams adds.

“The install went smoothly and the equipment is excellent. Working with Matrix Fitness has been a delight and we look forward to continuing a successful ongoing partnership with them.”

“This project has been a beacon of best practice across the local authority sector, a fantastic showcase of a local authority investing in a facility to better the offering for its community,” says Chris Porrino, area sales manager, UK – North & Scotland at Matrix Fitness UK.

“The team is already reaping the rewards of their hard work, both in membership numbers and customer feedback. We’ve enjoyed working with them to bring this project to life, and look forward to seeing its continued success as we continue our partnership for the future.”

To find out more about Salt Ayre Leisure Centre visit this link or to learn how Matrix Fitness can transform your fitness offering, visit Matrix’s official website.

Lifestyle Fitness and boutique class studio operator, V1BE, announced their second partnership in the summer of 2021 when they opened the doors to Lifestyle Fitness, Mosley Street, a luxury health club in the centre of Manchester.

The premium facility stretches across two floors, with an underground level providing members with an unrivalled atmospheric workout zone packed with first-class gym equipment including the latest Matrix Fitness cardio range, complemented by functional training and free weights downstairs. On the street level, a large V1BE studio provides a range of high-intensity group exercise classes and boutique workouts.

“Our aim with this central club is to provide a go-to stop for the best workout, regardless of whether that’s a HIIT class, a solo strength session or just a relaxing weekend workout,” said Ross Sutherland, club manager.

“We’ve carefully designed the space so that we can accommodate all abilities, and that everyone can feel comfortable in our exercise environment.

“This club will allow even more people to enjoy fantastic gym facilities and get involved with the V1BE experience, which we firmly believe is the best fitness experience in the city.”

The new Matrix Fitness Endurance Cardio Series provides an unmatched portfolio of cardio platforms designed for heavy use and solid workouts, with streamlined designs to simplify the exercise experience while still providing performance that can challenge even the toughest endurance enthusiasts.

To complement this, the install also included a glute trainer from the Matrix Fitness Magnum Series which uses smart biomechanics to mimic bar hip thrusting without the difficulty and discomfort of using free weights. Additionally, members have access to a selection of single-station strength equipment from the Matrix Fitness Versa Series, which incorporates an advanced design for a natural, smooth and efficient workout experience.

“Matrix Fitness has been fantastic to work alongside, with a rapid response time. The equipment is high-quality, reliable and effective, yet still really user-friendly for all of our members,” Sutherland continues.

“The install team was great in helping us create the best gym floor layout, utilising the space and equipment to the best effect. We worked with Matrix on our first site at Ancoats and we would certainly look to work with them again.”

Lifestyle Fitness and V1BE opened their first club in Ancoats in May 2021, shortly followed by the Mosley street project. At a time when the fitness industry was still reeling from the impact of Covid-19 and forced closures, Lifestyle Fitness and V1BE have remained committed to providing high-quality service and facilities at a competitive price.

Stephen Nutt, head of education sales at Matrix Fitness, adds: “This project has brought a very unique fitness experience to the centre of Manchester, blending a superbly aesthetic high-end gym space with the ever-growing on-trend boutique class-based space.

“The Lifestyle Fitness and V1BE team have created an amazing dual concept and is one of the best and most unique gyms in the City. It's always a pleasure working with the team at Lifestyle Fitness and we can’t wait to launch the next facility with them.”

To find out more about Lifestyle Fitness, Mosley Street click here or to discover how Matrix Fitness can transform your fitness offering, visit Matrix Fitness’ official website.

Leading UK university the University of Bath is steeped in a history of sporting excellence, with Team Bath committed to offering its students a wealth of sporting opportunities and access to world-class facilities.

At the heart of the fitness offering is the Team Bath Gym & Fitness Centre – known as Gym 1 – a spacious 1,536sq m facility that’s open to members seven-days-a-week. There is also a dedicated High-Performance Gym for competitive athletes.

The longstanding relationship between the University and Matrix Fitness began in 2015 with an installation of indoor bikes and has grown successfully ever since.

Over the years, Matrix has helped the team complete a comprehensive gym refurbishment involving over 100 pieces of equipment and just recently, in January 2022, on a £150,000 equipment upgrade which introduced the latest Matrix cardio equipment and a new HIIT functional training area.

Miles Peyton, head of commercial sales, Team Bath explains: “Currently, both of our gyms are powered by Matrix, including our cardio, resistance machines and our racks.

“Unlike some other suppliers I’ve worked with, Matrix has excelled in customer service. It’s simply second to none. The team have always kept their promises, exceeded expectations, responded rapidly to any needs we’ve had and kept us informed throughout the entire process, from the inception of ideas through to opening day and beyond.”

“Matrix is not just an equipment supplier, we work as a partnership to keep our offering a step ahead.

“We were even invited to test the new cardio range out before it was even on the market and understandably, our gym equipment takes a hammering, so having a team we trust, and equipment we know is best-in-class, is essential.”

This major refresh and recharge of the University’s workout spaces has seen over a third of the equipment in Gym 1 upgraded. The installation includes the brand-new slat-belt Matrix Performance Plus Treadmill with Touch XL Console.

“We chose to go with slat-belt treadmills due to their comfort, design and the scientific evidence presented that highlights the stress reduction on joints,” Peyton adds.

“The Matrix Performance cardio range is unmatched, they look smart, the speed was faster than traditional treads and the incline was higher than the standard 15 per cent. That, and the connectivity helps our members strain their way with access to their favourite fitness apps and in-built workouts.”

All of the equipment comes with wireless charging, USB ports and large screens with a user-friendly, app-based interface, giving members access to all their favourite third-party apps with just a touch.

Tony Vaughan, sector specialist - education at Matrix, added: “The University of Bath is at the pinnacle of sporting excellence and needs to constantly stay at the forefront of health and fitness innovations in order to provide its students, staff and members with world-class facilities.

“We’ve worked with The University of Bath for many years, and have witnessed first-hand their fantastic drive and motivation to innovate and evolve in order to provide the best. We’re so pleased to have brought this exciting upgrade of cardio equipment to life and look forward to supporting them in the years to come.”

The refurbished Gym 1 opened its doors in January 2022.

To find out more about the Sports Village visitTeam Bath’s official website or to learn how Matrix can transform your fitness offering, visit Matrix
online.

Horwood House Hotel is a luxurious getaway nestled in the heart of the Buckinghamshire
Countryside. Over the last two years, the hotel has undergone a £6m refurbishment which has seen it upgraded with a brand new spa and leisure facilities, including an 800sq ft gym installed with top of the range Matrix Fitness cardio and strength equipment.

Karim Kassam, managing director at Horwood House Hotel, explains: “This refurbishment
was a huge project for us. We needed a partner to help us with the gym who had a proven,
trusted track-record and Matrix Fitness exceeded all expectations on both counts.

“The team not only provided us with expert advice on the equipment required to provide a first-class, innovative training space but have acted as consultants on design, graphic theming for the walls and fit-out concepts in order to maximise every inch of space we had, while ensuring that the look and feel complimented the existing hotel and new spa.”

Based in Little Horwood, the hotel’s H Spa is an idyllic spot to enjoy relaxation time through a selection of treatments and indulgent pamper days or stays or to work out in the state-of-the-art gym,
15m swimming pool or exercise studio.

The gym includes the latest equipment from the Matrix Fitness cardio range including the
Endurance Elliptical, Treadmill and Upright Bike with Touch Consoles, the wifi-enabled CXP
Indoor Cycle and Performance Ascent Trainer with Touch Console.

To complement this, the strength training area houses several pieces from the Matrix Versa Strength Series as well as a Connexus Column for functional training.

Kassam adds: “Our spa manager and our guests have been incredibly impressed with the new gym, in particular the quality and quantity of the equipment on offer. With the introduction of H Spa and its leisure facilities we’ve elevated the customer experience to the next level and can’t thank Matrix Fitness enough for their hard work in helping to bring this project to life.”

Nigel Tapping, head of spa and hospitality, Matrix Fitness UK, concluded: “At Matrix, we aim to be a partner to our customers, not just an equipment supplier. We strive to support the entire design and build, right the way from concept to completion.

“Premium fitness studios and versatile gym designs are playing an increasingly vital role in
the hospitality sector and Horwood House Hotel now has a gym facility to match the high
quality of its hotel and spa facilities.”

To find out more visit Horwood House’s official website or to discover how Matrix Fitness can help transform your offering, click here.