Green Gyms Are Making a Huge Impact on the Environment

Green Gyms That Are Ahead of the Curve

The Green Microgym in Portland, Oregon, uses a combination of solar and human power to run its business and is almost completely self-sufficient. The gym uses very little electricity, as owner Adam Boesel has hooked up the gym’s spin bikes to DC generators, which produce electricity that is harnessed in a 12-volt battery bank. This bank is used to power the TVs, stereos, lights and fans around the facility. The club also purchases used equipment and refurbishes it, and even has some high-performance mountain bikes made from bamboo. The bathrooms are outfitted with on-demand water heaters, and environmentally friendly cleaning products are used to clean the equipment and wipe down machines after use.

Green Fitness Studio in Brooklyn, New York, tries to unplug completely. Most of its machines don’t even plug into walls; they are completely self-powered and most of the equipment is completely refurbished, keeping trash out of landfills. In order to keep the gym cool, they have a “living” roof, a 2,000-square-foot rooftop covered in sod that also conserves water runoff. They also use infrared saunas, which are 40 to 50 percent more energy-efficient than traditional hot rock or steam saunas. In addition to the equipment, Green Fitness Studio works with local farmers and a local food co-op to provide fresh and sustainably grown foods and juices to its members, complete with eco-friendly carry out containers for any leftovers.