Tear Down That Wall!
8/28/2024
You may be asking, “Why are we tearing down the wall?” Well, previously the dumbbell area was located just outside of Studio X to the left. This area often felt congested, so we have been looking for a solution to allow more space and less congestion for people using dumbbells. When we installed the 3 new Eleiko rack / platforms in the main gym that replaced the deadlift platforms in Studio Z, we saw an opportunity to improve the dumbbell area by moving it to Studio Z.
This move also allowed us to add 2 more rack stations (with a 3rd on it’s way) where the dumbbell area was located but the primary reason for the move was to improve the area for dumbbell use.
Now that we have moved the dumbbells into Studio Z, I have asked quite a few members what they think of the change. I have heard many pros and cons. The good news (the “pros”) was it’s less congested and easier to get to the weights when they are in the studio. It’s also roomier when using a bench.
Members also brought “cons” to my attention that they did not like about the move:
Seems confining with the regular sized doorway into a “room” versus being in an open space like it used to be
The room seems a bit stuffy when fully occupied
Can’t get a lot of workout spots – seems comfortable for 4/5 people on benches but not enough room behind them to stand and lift comfortably.
It’s the only place to get dumbbells when Studio X is closed twice a week for the Senior Circuit class on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.
Based on this feedback – this is how we are responding:
We will be tearing down the wall as you go into Studio Z and the wall between Studio X and Studio Z. The opening into the dumbbell area will be 12 feet wide (versus the current 3 foot wide doorway). The wide opening along with removing the wall between Studio X and Y, will greatly open up the space.
Removing the walls between Studios allows access to the air conditioning system in Studio X and will also increase air flow.
We will establish a roomy 2nd row for dumbbell users allowing 8-9 stations and any overflow can do dumbbell work in the Studio X.
The Senior Circuit class is moving to Studio Y as of September, and we will no longer close Studio X for any classes – giving access to Studio X 24/7.
Since we are tearing down the wall where the very popular Community White Board is located, we will be moving that precious instrument of shared wisdom to a place above the stairs leading to the locker rooms. With Studio X being accessible 24/7, we now have the option of putting back items into that space without worrying about people not having access 2x a week. This is why we have just moved the kettlebells into Studio X freeing up space in the main gym.
Tearing down walls in a 96-year-old building is a bit daunting. They are not supporting walls – the columns do that in a multi-story building. But what is used in the original walls in this building are 2 layers of terra-cotta brick. So the demolition will be a dusty mess with a few tons of debris. The areas we will be working on will be sealed off with floor to ceiling plastic sheeting to prevent the mess from getting out to the main gym. So please excuse our mess!
We will be replacing the carpet that is in the area just outside Studio Z with new rubber flooring that matches the rest of the main gym.
If you have any comments or questions about the project, please email Pat, the General Manager, at pat@ballardhealthclub.com