The University of Bath continues to set the standard for high-performance sport in the UK, earning recognition as Sport University of the Year 2026. At the centre of this success is the Sports Training Village, a world-class environment used by students and elite athletes, including Olympic and Paralympic performers.
BLK BOX partnered with the university to design and deliver a strength training space that could meet the demands of both developing athletes and those competing at the highest level.
The Brief
The goal was clear. Create a strength environment that could:
- Support elite-level performance
- Accommodate large groups and team training
- Maximise every square metre of available space
- Reflect the university’s identity through custom branding
Versatility, durability and efficiency were key frpm day one.
The Solution
High-Performance Flooring
The space was fitted with Fusion Rolled Flooring, engineered specifically for demanding training environments. A hard-wearing 3 mm top layer ensures long-term durability and easy maintenance, while a 12 mm shock-absorbing base layer delivers impact protection and energy return. This combination reduces stress on both athletes and equipment during heavy lifts and high-intensity sessions.
Custom Velocity Turf was also installed to create a dedicated zone for conditioning work, sled pushes and multidirectional movement.
Intelligent Layout for Team Training
To maximise capacity, 1 Series Half Racks and 1 Series Full Racks were installed facing each other. This layout allows more athletes to train simultaneously, making it ideal for squad-based sessions.
Each rack is paired with an integrated Weightlifting Platform, creating a complete training station within a compact footprint. This setup supports everything from Olympic lifting to strength work without compromising flow or safety.
Versatile Equipment System
The racks were enhanced with BLK BOX 1 Series Attachments, allowing each station to adapt to multiple training needs. These include:
This modular approach transforms each rack into a multi-use training hub, increasing exercise variety without requiring additional floor space.
Strength Equipment
To complete the space, BLK BOX supplied:
- HD Bumper Plates for durability and consistent performance
- Belfast Bars designed for high-frequency use
- Custom adjustable benches to support a wide range of movements
The Result
The finished space delivers a high-performance training environment that reflects the standards of the University of Bath.
Athletes can now train together more effectively, with a layout that supports both individual progression and team-based sessions. The versatility of the rack systems allows for transitions between exercises, while the dedicated turf area enhances conditioning and functional work.
This is a facility built for performance, where every detail supports stronger, faster and more resilient athletes.
Dan Savin, Business Development Manager, who played a key role in the project, said: “It all comes back to giving athletes a space that helps them train properly, and you can see the difference straight away.”
