A green gym is a health club that focuses on running an environmentally conscious business in order to be more eco-friendly. From using chemical-free cleaning products to having recycled exercise equipment, the gym may make the appropriate environmental choices and possibly work toward being certified by LEED.
A green gym does a lot of cleaning for sanitary and aesthetic purposes, so a big part of being more green is having eco-friendly cleansers. Not only do they have a non-chemical smell but they also aren't made up of the harsh chemicals like many other cleaners. The gym may also use recycled paper items, such as recycled toilet paper, paper towels and tissues.
Considering the amount of electricity a gym uses, a green gym may have solar panels to help harness the sun's energy as well as reduce the electricity bill. Another option is for gym goers to supply energy that goes back to the gym. When gym goers use certain machines, such as the bikes, the energy generated goes back into the gym's grid.
A green gym will also focus on using as little water as possible. One option is to use an energy-efficient washer and dryer for any laundry. Another option is to use low-flow shower heads in the showers to reduce the amount of water used. Energy-efficient toilets in the bathroom are also options for reducing water use.
Part of becoming a green gym is using recycled exercise equipment. For example, it may purchase exercise equipment made from recycled metal instead of buying standard equipment. It may also have the exercise floor made from recycled rubber. Even the yoga mats will most likely be made from recycled materials.
LEED, which stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design and operates under the U.S. Green Building Council, provides certification to those who meet the requirements and hope to have a more green business. It also helps existing structures through the LEED for Existing Buildings: O&M certification process, which helps buildings use fewer resources and make long-standing, environmentally conscious changes.
Before long, more gyms may find themselves shifting toward eco-friendly practices, even if it involves small changes. Some people may prefer going to a gym that has eco-friendly practices. Being labeled as a green gym may not only be great for the environment and for saving money but can also help bring in new clientele who find that type of business appealing.