In this blog from ukactive Strategic Partner, Airius, Guy Bridges– the organisation’s managing director – explains how airflow circulation fans can help the physical activity sector to improve comfort of users, while saving energy and costs too.
Energy efficiency is a key focus for gyms, fitness studios and leisure centres. Rising energy costs and the need to meet sustainability targets are driving operators to seek more efficient cooling solutions. Traditional Air Conditioning (AC) systems, while common, often come with significant financial, logistical and environmental drawbacks.
One solution gaining traction in the sector is airflow circulation fans. Designed to improve cooling efficiency, these systems reduce energy use, lower carbon emissions and improve comfort. They also extend the lifespan of AC systems by minimising wear and help prevent issues such as condensation, damp and corrosion. Already adopted by brands like Virgin Fitness, David Lloyd, Fitness First, The Gym Group, Freedom Leisure, More Yoga and BXR London these fans are fast becoming the cooling solution of choice in the UK.
The challenges of traditional cooling
Air conditioning has long been the go-to cooling solution, but comes with a myriad of limitations and challenges. Systems are expensive to install and maintain and their energy demands contribute significantly to operational costs and carbon emissions.
Rented studios or spaces with no external walls—may also find AC unsuitable or impractical. Even in facilities where it is feasible, traditional AC often creates uneven cooling, which can detract from member comfort, highlighting the need for more efficient solutions.
How airflow circulation fans work
Airflow circulation fans improve cooling by providing continuous airflow throughout a space. Widely used in tropical climates like Australia, the US and Asia, these fans ensure cooled air from AC systems is distributed evenly. They also promote evaporative cooling, where perspiration or moisture on the skin evaporates to cool the body. Airflow of just 1 metre per second across the skin can create a perceived cooling effect of 2-3°C.
These fans can work alongside AC to optimise performance, cutting cooling costs by an average of 25% and reducing energy consumption and emissions. In facilities where fans replace AC entirely, the savings are even greater.
Proven benefits across the UK
Airflow circulation fans have already delivered tangible results for numerous gyms, leisure centres and fitness spaces across the UK:
- Leap Into Fitness installed airflow circulation fans at approximately 50% of the cost of air conditioning, with 90% lower running costs.
- Uckfield Leisure Centre maintained a steady, comfortable temperature without AC:
- “No AC in the gym is available currently. However, with the fans running the gym is holding a steady 19°C without the need for AC.” – Kevin Symonds, Area Facilities Manager (Freedom Leisure).
- Swansea Leisure Centre reduced reliance on air handling units (AHUs) after installing airflow circulation fans, significantly lowering energy consumption:
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- “Since installing the fans in our two-floor gym, we no longer need the second AHU to cool the area and now only run one as required.” – Dave Lanhan, Area Technical Manager (Freedom Leisure).
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- Waterworld Wrexham delayed the use of AC until late spring, despite previously running it year-round.
- More Yoga Studios optimised cooling and reduced condensation in a space unsuitable for AC.
- Energie Fitness (Wokingham) optimised their AC and improved air quality with an optional air and surface purification system.
Sustainability and Financial Impact
Airflow circulation fans support decarbonisation goals and certifications like BREEAM and WELL Building Standards, which reward sustainability and indoor air quality. Recognised globally in the United Nations Green Technology Book, these fans offer a proven way to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.
The quick return on investment—typically within 24 months—makes these systems an appealing choice. Their lower capital, installation and operational costs, combined with long-term savings, provide facilities with significant financial advantages.
J.J. Jegede, owner of ‘Leap Into Fitness’, shared his perspective on cost savings:
“The cost of the fan units was amazing value and they cost very little to run. I had a look at air conditioning, which was between £15,000 to £20,000. Why would I commit to that much more on the price!”
A Smarter Cooling Future
Airflow circulation fans provide gyms, fitness spaces and leisure centres a smarter, more sustainable way to address modern cooling challenges. By reducing energy use, lowering costs and enhancing member comfort, they provide an innovative solution for facilities seeking to balance environmental goals with operational efficiency.
To learn more about Airius click here.
Airius is a member of the ukactive Strategic Partner Group – find out more here.
Disclaimer: Any views or opinions expressed are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of ukactive.
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