Editor’s note: Ed Thomas is more than the founder of Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors, specializing in designing and outfitting onboard gyms. A former crewmember himself, he knows how much owners and guests prioritize health and wellness. Similarly, he knows the positive impact good workout space has on crew. We invited Thomas, who recently launched Gym Marine’s third international location in Fort Lauderdale, to provide insight into the necessity of superyacht crew gyms. As you’ll see, they pay dividends forward, even in small spaces.
Superyachts are increasingly incorporating dedicated crew gyms or exercise spaces onboard as owners recognize the associated benefits. Having been designing superyacht gyms for nearly 10 years, including 100 dedicated crew gyms, Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors has seen these benefits first hand. Here’s why superyacht crew gyms are essential.
Crew mental health and wellbeing
The restrictive and high-pressure environment in which superyacht crew work can take a significant toll on their mental health and wellbeing. Often, crew don’t get the opportunity to leave the boat during a charter or boss trip. So, having the ability to exercise regularly during a busy season can provide a release from the physical, social, and mental confinement of a superyacht. A well-designed crew gym acts as a sacred space where crew can go to escape the institution of the boat, be independent, and establish a sense of routine.
Team building
Superyacht crew gyms also become spaces where crewmembers can congregate and socialize with each other, regardless of department or seniority. Exercise, therefore, acts as a unifying activity that breaks down hierarchical and departmental barriers onboard. With new friendships formed and the sense of community strengthened, the crew work better as a team.
Improved safety
With fitter and healthier crew, industrial accidents in the workplace reduce. Furthermore, a good exercise regime reduces fatigue and increases alertness, which results in improved operational efficiency and safety.
Quality crew
According to yachting recruiters, crew increasingly ask if superyacht crew gyms are onboard before they apply for a position. By providing a well-equipped crew gym or exercise space on board, superyachts will be able to attract and hire the very best candidates for their programme.
Reduced operational costs
Recruiting and training new crew can be a significant expense for superyacht owners. As already mentioned, regular exercise can improve crew mental health and wellbeing as well as team spirit, and a happier and healthier crew will inevitably lead to reduced turnover.
Enhanced guest experience
It’s no secret that great teamwork, quality candidates, and limited turnover are all contributing factors to improving service onboard. Effective superyacht crew gyms can, therefore, impact the overall experience for owners and guests.
It’s so easy to do!
Incorporating some form of crew gym or exercise space is possible on any type or size of superyacht. A yacht in its natural form is one of the most perfect places to work out, in fact, since it has stairs, rails, and big deck spaces. It’s surrounded by water for swimming, too. Take advantage of multi-functional equipment providing a variety of exercises within a small footprint, as well as creative storage solutions. Smaller yachts with limited space should prioritize easily stored equipment, such as kettlebells, dumbbells, resistance bands, skipping ropes, and yoga mats.
Gym Marine Yachts & Interiors gymmarine.com
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