Sled/prowler/turf tracks are more popular than ever and add an element of texture and diversity to any fitness facility. With options to customise and enhance artificial turf, this product has grown not only in popularity but also in activity type.
Originally, artificial turf tracks were used for pushing and pulling sleds (or prowlers). The first known prowlers were developed in the early 2000s and quickly grew in popularity. Though athletes and workers had long pushed or pulled heavy weights, the idea of the prowler was a relatively new one.
Today sled or prowler tracks are used for a diverse range of exercises, including sled work, plyometrics, functional training, weightlifting, circuits, HIIT training, and stretching. These tracks aren’t confined to sports performance centres either. They are found in a broad spectrum of health and fitness facilities, including hotel gyms, residential gyms, private health clubs, leisure centres, home gyms, corporate clubs and Cross Fit gyms to name a few.
When choosing a track, there are a few key considerations:
Size of the track
Is the track wide enough for a sled/prowler? Do you want a track wide enough to fit more than one sled on? Does the track fit well within the confines of the gym space? Is the track long enough for sled pushes & pulls?
Design
Does your track need metre markers? Does it need a start/stop? Does it need a logo? Do the track colours need to tie in with your gym branding?
Specification
Does your track need to be a certain thickness? Do you need a polyethylene track or polypropylene? (polyethylene is more durable as far as friction is concerned)
Track position
Is there a danger of a sled colliding with other gym users as they walk past? Do you want the track to be a feature piece as you walk into the gym?
Track use
Is the track going to be a dedicated sled push/pull track? Do you need to incorporate a shock absorbent underlay with the track so impact work can be carried out?
At XL Gym Interiors we have made many tracks for health clubs all over the UK. We are happy to help with track designs & specification to make sure they work for your facility.
For more information please email us at info@xlgyminteriors.com