It was identified that as part of the Exeter Chiefs Rugby Academy programme that an elite strength and conditioning facility at Exeter College would play a vital role in enhancing student athletic performance, reducing injury risk, and supporting long-term physical development. The purpose of such a facility is to provide a professional training environment that meets the needs of athletes across a range of sports while promoting safe, effective, and progressive training methods. In addition, the facility would promote a positive training culture focused on discipline, education, and long-term athlete development.
The facility was designed to support key components of athletic performance, including strength, power, speed, endurance, mobility, and recovery. Dedicated training zones were created to ensure efficient use of space and to allow multiple training activities to take place simultaneously. These zones would include free-weight areas, Olympic lifting platforms, functional training spaces, cardiovascular conditioning equipment, and recovery areas. Clear layout and appropriate spacing improved safety, supervision, and training flow.
High-quality equipment is essential in an elite facility. Power racks, Olympic barbells, bumper plates, resistance machines and conditioning equipment allowed athletes to follow structured, sport-specific training programmes. Using professional-grade equipment also ensures durability, safety, and consistency in training outcomes.
Overall, creating an elite strength and conditioning facility at Exeter College will enhance athletic performance, support injury prevention, and provide students with access to a professional training environment that prepares them for higher-level sport and lifelong fitness.
The equipment installed:
- Back to Back Performance Half Racks x3
- Prone Row attachments x3
- Branded Lifting platforms x6
- Adjustable Benches x5
- Olympic Discs and Bars
- Dumbbell Set
- Dual Adjustable Pulley
- Leg Extension/Curl
- 30mm Performance Flooring
