Redefining Gym Design: Hyrox-Inspired and TikTok-Approved

In this gym design case study, discover how Stronger Wellness transformed an underused studio into a high-impact, content-driven training space, built for Hyrox athletes, TikTok creators, and the next generation of gym-goers:

Project: Fitness Influencer Studio
Client: Sandwell Leisure Trust
Industry Sector: Fitness & Wellness
Location: Sandwell, Midlands, England Website
Website: Sandwell Leisure Trust

This project was internally known as the Hyrox Fitness Space – a working title that captured the vision for a dynamic new space without making any official Hyrox claims to the Brand. At its core, this was a studio transformation project: a chance to turn an underused cycling room into something bolder, brighter, and far more relevant to modern fitness culture.

Project Introduction

The brief was simple: create something better with the space. The studio in question was previously used for indoor cycling, but it just wasn’t pulling its weight. Utilisation was low, the energy wasn’t right, and it felt like the space could do so much more. So the idea was floated, could we move the cycling studio elsewhere, reduce the bike count, and instead build something completely different?

That sparked the bigger question: 
What kind of space does today’s generation actually want?

The client, Sandwell Leisure Trust wanted to create something that felt fresh, exciting, and multi-functional. A space that could serve the growing demand for Hyrox-style training and bootcamps, but also double as a content-friendly zone for influencers and TikTok creators to thrive in.

"This wasn’t just about fitness; it was about culture!"

We needed to design a fitness studio that looked incredible on camera and felt even better in person. Perfect lighting, clearly defined zones, and a vibe that made everyone from hardcore Hyrox competitors to casual social media creators, feel like they belonged.  That meant every detail had to be intentional: from gym layout and lighting to equipment and flow.

In short: This was about creating a space that worked hard from open to close. A place where people could train hard, film content, feel proud, and most importantly — come back for more! 

The Client Brief

When Sandwell Leisure Trust came to us, the mission was clear: transform an underperforming indoor cycling studio into something much more impactful — a gym space that worked harder, reached wider audiences, and represented the rhythm of modern fitness culture.

The State of Play

The existing studio wasn’t living up to its potential. It was a standard cycling room, mostly quiet outside of peak hours, and underutilised across the day. It didn’t inspire, and it wasn’t aligned with current or emerging trends in how people want to move, workout, or interact with fitness spaces.

Client Requirements

• Maximise use of space across the full day.
• Attract a younger, more diverse audience.
• Retain accessibility for general users and the existing member base.
• Cater to modern training styles like Hyrox and bootcamps.
• Make the space ‘Insta and TikTok-ready’ without compromising function.
• Create zones that could allow people to feel like they had their own space.

The gym design challenge

How do we create a multifunctional space that feels personalised and communal, structured and flexible? It had to feel fresh, work hard, and have clear purpose – while still leaving room to adapt in the future.

 

The Stronger Solution

The Main Challenge

We knew we were working with a limited footprint, so every square metre had to be smart. The fitness space needed to serve high-performance Hyrox-style group training and at the same time work as an inviting, content-friendly zone for individual creators — all without becoming cluttered, chaotic, or confused.

On top of that, we had to manage the classic “gym design by committee” moment: when excitement builds and everyone wants to add something new. So, we made a point of staying laser-focused on the original objectives — reminding all stakeholders of the vision and not letting scope creep compromise the clarity of purpose.

Designing a Fitness Space for Real Life

We knew this studio had to be zoned — and zoned with intention. We wanted users to feel like they owned their area, without encroaching on others. That sense of personal space, even in a group setting, was key.

But we also designed for flexibility. If, one day, the influencer concept didn’t stick, the room could still operate as a functional extension of the gym floor, a hedge against risk that reassured the team at Sandwell.

Gym Lighting that Wows, and Works

Lighting played a major role in the overall design. We had to strike a balance between utility and aesthetic,  bright enough for cleaning and safety, but with the ability to dim, warm, or change tone when content creation or immersive training was the focus.

We installed fully controllable lighting zones, giving users and staff flexibility over the atmosphere. Want to train hard under bright whites? No problem. Prefer a moody amber glow for filming or winding down? Easy.

Workout Zones that Feel Like “Mine”

We created clear, functional zones that spoke to real behaviours we’re seeing on gym floors today. People aren’t just moving between stations,  they’re claiming them. So we leaned into that trend.

• Glute Zone: A defined area fully kitted out for glute training, reflecting the current popularity of lower-body strength work (and loved by the TikTok crowd).

• Free Weight Zone: A space with its own lighting profile and wall colours, ideal for filming lifts and feeling “in the zone”.

• Strength Pods: These were a standout: fully equipped mini zones for beginners or novice lifters. Everything you need, right where you need it,  no walking around feeling unsure or intimidated. Just show up and get started.

• Group Area: Enough space for all class members to complete functional movements in unison (yes, even walking lunges and planks).

We were particularly proud of how the flooring, lighting, and kit all reinforced the feeling of ownership in each space.

Branding, Visual Design & the Graffiti Shutters Moment

One unexpected design win came from an awkward detail, the metal shutters. Budget didn’t allow for a major structural overhaul, so the decision was: own it.

That’s when the graffiti idea came to life.

Rather than ignore or hide the shutters, we turned them into a centrepiece, commissioning an artist to create bold, vibrant artwork designed to become a photo backdrop. The brief? Something people would want to pose in front of. Something shareable.

It worked! The shutters went from eyesore to icon.

Gym Equipment Strategy

We selected equipment to match both training goals and aesthetic goals. Each zone had everything it needed to deliver a full session no running back and forth. Key considerations included:

• Starter weights for newcomers.
• Full conditioning setups for Hyrox-style circuits
• Free weights, steps, benches and racks optimised for both training and content filming
• Layout logic to avoid traffic jams or dead space

We even factored in the “station hoarders” people who set up with kettlebells, dumbbells, steps, and a mat, and stay there for the full hour. So, we built for that reality, not just the theoretical.

Acoustic & Soundproofing Considerations

While not the flashiest part of the build, acoustic balance was essential, especially in a space that could be loud, high-energy, and full of movement. We made sure sound didn’t bounce around the room or spill into neighbouring areas, keeping sessions feeling immersive and focused.

 

The Results

The reaction? Overwhelming, in the best way.

Classes are full and up 200%. People are buzzing. Staff are noticing a drop in complaints across the whole site, not just related to the studio which is fascinating. It seems like this space is having a halo effect. People are just... happier.

It’s also getting attention beyond the facility magazine features, word of mouth, and of course, loads of social media love.

It’s the first of its kind (as far as we know). A fitness space designed to blend performance, culture and content creation from the ground up not an add-on, but a core feature. And the results are speaking for themselves!