Newcastle University recently upgraded its 400sq m, 125-station gym with Precor equipment and its cloud-based Preva networked fitness. The upgrade is in line with the university’s digital interactive strategy, which promotes the use of digital media and interaction with students.

With over 20,000 students, more than 10,000 participants at its Centre of Recreation and Sport, and 4,000 gym members, providing students with technologically advanced equipment – and the means to access all facilities with the university’s ‘Smart Card’ – was a key requirement.

Nick Beall, facility services manager at Newcastle University, said: “We were interested in Preva as it allows students to record their exercise history and goals, but also gives them access to the internet and social media while they’re exercising.

“A major benefit of Precor equipment was its RFID technology and compatibility with the university’s ‘Smart Card’, a student and staff ID card that allows access to all facilities on site and log in to the Preva network, without having to remember user names or passwords.”

Members now benefit from state-of-the-art Precor equipment including AMTs with ‘Open Stride’, elliptical cross trainers and bikes. It also features Precor’s Discovery Series selectorised and plate-loaded strength machines, Icarian racks and a large selection of free weights. The gym has already seen a 28 per cent increase in usage, achieving more than 6,800 visits each week.