Must-Have Gym Equipment for School Fitness Programs

Physical fitness is one of the most important parts of a student’s education. Unfortunately, in today’s world of standardized test scores and grade-dependent funding, physical education is often put on the back burner.  

Teaching children about physical education from elementary school through high school is one of the best things education programs can do to set them up for a life of physical health.  

For schools looking to invest in students’ physical education, upgrading your school gym with exercise equipment and fitness accessories is one of the best routes to take.  

What are gym equipment must-haves for school fitness programs?  

1Source Fitness has assembled this article for the top pieces of fitness equipment that every school gym or high school fitness program should have. 

Your School Fitness Program Must Have this Exercise Equipment 

Having proper fitness equipment is essential for schools who want to invest in their students’ physical education. That includes cardiovascular fitness, strength training, and flexibility.  

The benefits of physical fitness facilities at schools and colleges are clear. Learn more here! 

Let’s break down what pieces of equipment are necessary for each category of physical education.  

Cardiovascular Equipment Your School Gym Must Have 

Many school administrators wonder what cardio machines and cardio gear are best for their school gym or fitness program.  

• Treadmill 

The treadmill is an essential piece of equipment for anyone looking to improve their cardio fitness, but it is especially helpful for schools as it gives students and athletes a chance to exercise their cardio fitness even on rainy or cold days. Use the treadmill in addition to outdoor running or walking. 

• Rowing machine 

A rowing machine is an excellent piece of cardio equipment, because it gets the heart pumping and works the entire body with a focus on the often-neglected back muscles. The rowing machine is a cardio machine that is perfect for adding into a fitness or cardio circuit.  

• Recumbent or stationary bike 

Take your pick! Recumbent or stationary bikes are two great options to isolate the leg muscles when aiming for a cardio workout. This piece of cardio equipment is ideal for students struggling with back or knee issues and is a low-impact cardio workout. Stationary or recumbent bikes are also ideal for students new to cardio exercise who are looking to improve.  

Strength Training Equipment Your School Gym Must Have 

Strength training is just as important as cardio fitness and flexibility. Your school gym should have the following strength training machines and equipment. 

• Power rack 

A power rack can be used for a wide range of exercises, including squats, bench press, pulls-ups and more. Best for older kids, this piece of equipment will help students maintain healthy muscles as they go through puberty. Combined with a pull up bar and barbells, power racks are highly effective ways to improve muscle strength. 

• Dumbbell rack 

Dumbbell racks are ideal for teaching beginners about the basics of strength training and establishing their mind-to-muscle connection. Everyone’s natural strength levels are different, so a wide range of free weights is advisable. Start by teaching students some basic movements, and then advance to teaching them sets so they can get a grasp of how their muscle groups work together.  

• Cable machine 

Cable machines are often overlooked, but they can be a cost-effective way to provide strength training. Why? Because cable machines can work almost any muscle effectively. And since the weights are variable students can target muscles groups or they can isolate specific muscles. There are dozens of options to choose from, all on one machine.  

Flexibility Equipment Your School Gym Must Have 

Training for flexibility is another important area of your student’s physical education. Flexibility helps prevent injury, increases range of motion, and helps make physical recovery easier. These pieces of fitness equipment are essential for any school education program.  

• Resistance bands 

Resistance bands are excellent tools for improving flexibility and mobility. They are used for dynamic stretching and flexibility exercises. Additionally, you can use them for strength training. Consider that a bonus! 

• Yoga mats 

Yoga mats are another essential piece of flexibility equipment. They allow you to stretch or perform basic body weight movements on any flat surface. Any floor-based exercise can be performed with comfort and ease without causing bruising or soreness from hard surfaces (like gym floors).  

• Stretching straps 

Stretching straps are a great tool for improving flexibility and range of motion. They can be used to help deepen stretches and increase flexibility in tight muscles. They are also ideal for beginners who are new to stretching and flexibility. 

Fitness Equipment You Need from 1Source Fitness 

Finding affordable fitness equipment for your school gym doesn’t have to be a struggle. You can get all the fitness accessories you need for your school gym or fitness center from 1Source Fitness! 

Gym equipment lasts longer when it is properly maintained. Learn how here! 

1Source Fitness is your provider for top quality equipment from the best brands at the best prices. We have supplied Purdue University, Trine University, the Indiana Colts, and other prodigious institutions with high-quality physical fitness equipment.   

If you want the best fitness equipment for your school gym, reach out to 1Source Fitness today! 

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