OUTDOOR GYM PLANNING

How Much Does It Cost to Build an Outdoor Gym?

outdoor gym in germany with multiple calisthenics equipment

How to break down the cost of an outdoor gym

In order to have a clear understanding of the total cost of a public outdoor gym, we have outlined all the expenses involved in outdoor commercial fitness projects. Based on our experience, we have identified five main categories that contribute to the overall budget for constructing an outdoor fitness center suitable for all ages and abilities. These are the five primary factors that affect the cost of building an outdoor fitness facility:

  • Outdoor Fitness Equipment 60%

  • Safety Surfacing 20%

  • Site Amenities 0-10%

  • Shipping 10%

  • Installation 10%

When looking at your outdoor fitness site budget, outdoor exercise equipment prices include more than gym equipment. They include safety surfacing, landscaping, installation, shipping, and site amenities.

How much does outdoor fitness equipment cost?

The cost of a custom-built public outdoor fitness site depends on the fitness solution or package, including the number of exercise types, size, and site amenities. Without exercise equipment or machines, there is no outdoor gym.

We believe that using high-quality materials is crucial when creating durable fitness sites. The choice of materials impacts the cost.

In areas with high wear and tear and an increased risk of vandalism, exercise machines made of steel and high-density polyethene will reduce your maintenance costs significantly.

Wooden outdoor gym equipment, made from Robinia, will keep the maintenance costs low and extend the lifetime of your fitness site. Its natural look makes it perfect for a outfoor fitness trail.

Need help designing your gym?

How do you budget for an outdoor gym?

Let's look into the considerations that will impact your budget:
man exercising outdoors on outdoor fitness equipment

1. Outdoor gym design and layout

During the design phase, all the different components of the build are connected. The more complicated the design solution, the more expensive it will be. It is important to ensure that there is enough space around the equipment to prevent injuries and that there are clear paths between the equipment. We always recommend involving the local community in the design process, even though it may take a little longer, as it ensures that the outdoor gym meets the needs of the users.

three men doing push ups on outdoor fitness equipment in wood

2. Outdoor gym equipment

Are you planning to build a brand new outdoor fitness park? The first thing to consider is whether you will start from scratch or reuse existing exercise equipment. You should also decide if you need to install shade and outdoor furniture depending on where the site is located. The type of exercise equipment you choose will have a significant impact on the cost of the project. Additionally, it's essential to determine the target audience for the park, such as seniors, young and fit individuals, or a community park that caters to all abilities and exercise levels. Clearly defining the purpose of the site is crucial to ensure that it meets the needs of its intended users.

outdoor gym with various calisthenics equipment

3. Shipping costs

Please keep in mind that the delivery of the exercise equipment will affect the overall cost of an outdoor gym, as it will depend on the freight and shipping costs as well as your timeline. KOMPAN outdoor fitness equipment is similar in quality to machines and exercise equipment found in indoor fitness centres and is designed to withstand transportation and long-term regular use.

How do you budget for an outdoor gym?

4. Landscaping

It's important to note that not all outdoor gym installations are ready-to-fit solutions. The fitness site can require extensive landscaping and preparation before installation.

In some cases, the site already has existing equipment that needs to be removed, which impacts the overall costs. Additionally, not all fitness sites are built on soft soil, which can make the process of digging more complex in complicated soil areas. At KOMPAN, we conduct on-site inspections for any third-party manufacturer's equipment, even for those that no longer exist.

Your local Fitness site exper can estimate the cost of an outdoor gym by visiting the proposed location and conducting a site survey.

woman working out on outdoor training station

5. Surfacing

Surfacing can be a significant part of your budget. Therefore, it is essential to consider various factors, such as fall height, inclusivity, accessibility, maintenance, exercise type, and materials when selecting a surfacing material. One of the best options for surfacing is pour-in-place rubber. It is available in various colours and it can form patterns that can guide the exercise route and paths around the site. For instance, if you choose an obstacle course or a fitness trail, pour-in-place rubber can be a suitable option. Moreover, pour-in-place rubber has many benefits, such as ensuring accessibility for wheelchair users and people with mobility impairments. It is a durable material that requires minimal maintenance, making it a cost-effective option in the long run.

outdoor gym with obstacle course and fitness stations

6. Site amenities

Owners of commercial outdoor fitness sites have a responsibility to keep their fitness areas and exercise equipment safe for the public at all times. In addition to exercise equipment, commercial outdoor gyms often require amenities such as tables, benches, and bins to cater to users' needs. Having enough commercial outdoor furniture and a water fountain can attract users and keep them at the outdoor gym for longer. Additionally, keeping the site tidy by providing sufficient bins is also crucial.

two men installing an outdoor gym

7. Construction and Fitness site installation

There are various options available for the construction and installation of your outdoor fitness site, which depend on the complexity of the project. If you choose to work with multiple companies, it may increase the overall cost of your site. However, working exclusively with KOMPAN as your supplier can help reduce the overall cost.

Why not visit our installation page to read and learn more about a full-service installation from KOMPAN?

How do you budget for an outdoor gym?

8. Inspections and maintenance

Our KOMPAN inspection and maintenance teams have extensive experience with inspections, installation, and after-service. They can work with you to help extend the lifetime of your fitness site wherever it is across the UK. At KOMPAN, we offer a range of expert maintenance agreements, from all-inclusive to straightforward ones. This should be considered an additional cost.

If you want a free quote on your specific service and repair queries, don't hesitate to get in touch.

A man fixing a slide in a playground

Why do outdoor gyms cost so much?

It is generally recommended to allocate around 50-60% of your budget for outdoor exercise equipment. The remaining budget should cover expenses related to installation, shipping, and other services required for the actual build. It is important to ensure that your commercial outdoor gym meets all the necessary safety criteria as per the local regulations, which might impact the overall cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to build an outdoor fitness site?

The cost of an outdoor gym is challenging to put an exact number on. We recommend breaking down the costs according to the abovementioned guidelines. Our team of experts can help give you an initial idea over the phone, get in touch to find out more.

What affects the price of outdoor gym equipment?

The choice of material for outdoor gym equipment can impact the overall cost, which can be affected by shipping and timeline.

What to consider when budgeting for an outdoor gym area?

If you are planning to create an outdoor fitness site, there are several things that you need to keep in mind. Our team of experts is available to assist you in this process. It is important to consider the primary factors of your budget, such as equipment, safety surfacing, shipping, installation, and landscaping costs when creating your overall budget for the project.

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