University of California, Berkeley A World-Class University Prioritizing Wellness, Innovation, and Access

As one of the top public institutions in the world, UC Berkeley is committed to enhancing the student experience—both inside and outside the classroom. With a growing emphasis on campus well-being, the university continues to invest in forward-thinking solutions that support physical health, accessibility, and innovation across all recreation facilities.

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Meeting Student Demand with Expanded Access and Smarter Spaces THE CHALLENGE

UC Berkeley’s Recreational Sports program faced a growing challenge: long lines and crowded training spaces due to high daily usage. With demand increasing year after year, the university needed a solution that would allow more students to work out at once—without sacrificing quality or experience. The goal was to expand their strength and cardio areas and deliver a more engaging, accessible environment for the entire campus community.

Designing a Unified Fitness Experience Across Campus The Process

As part of a broader initiative to standardize fitness across all campus facilities, UC Berkeley turned to Life Fitness / Hammer Strength to design and outfit their new space. The team focused on creating a forward-thinking layout that addressed both usage and user preference, incorporating more racks, hip- and glute-focused strength pieces, and a greater variety of equipment.

When it came to cardio, the 24-inch SE4 console stood out as the top choice. Its advanced features, including Interactive Terrains and Muscle Mapping, aligned with the university’s goal of providing an immersive, tech-forward experience for students.

With equipment versatility and proven durability, our Life Fitness /Hammer Strength team delivered a tailored solution built to evolve with student needs.

Improved Flow, Innovative Tech, and a Campus-Wide Impact The Outcome

UC Berkeley's decision to partner exclusively with Life Fitness / Hammer Strength across all their recreation facilities has proven to be a forward-thinking investment. By prioritizing user experience, equipment diversity, and long-term scalability, the university not only alleviated overcrowding but also elevated the quality of its fitness offerings.

Wait times dropped dramatically, student satisfaction increased, and the advanced features of the SE4 console—like Interactive Terrain and Muscle Mapping—have become a standout attraction. As they prepare to roll out Facility Connect in 2025, UC Berkeley is reinforcing its commitment to operational efficiency and best-in-class fitness solutions. Their choice in a partner wasn’t just about equipment—it was about finding a team that could deliver on performance, innovation, and a shared vision for student wellness.