Gyms are one of the most vibrant and active environments to conduct a shoot. At times gyms are also the most underestimated locations in the industry. As times changes so are the norms. Gyms make amazing environments for shoots. Each gym is unique in many ways. They carve an identity with the ambiance, equipment, color layout and philosophy. While Gold's is not as Metroflex, Temple Birmingham is not as Powerhouse. Each has an identity and a story to convey. The trick of using a gym as a background is to convey the mood of the gym as well. So as to select a venue , one need to identify the gym that goes along with the theme of the shoot and athlete. Make sure that the gym is given due importance as the athlete so as to bring the best in composition. Images of equipment and people always convey the desired atmosphere and concept. For instance if your theme is to bring the best out of a powerlifter, an uptown gym with rows of threadmills may be a disaster (*the word may is used). Always pick the gym wisely and brief your team and model an outline of the shoot. It will be wiser to obtain a written permission from the management at the gym and sign a model release with the athlete. Gyms are dynamic working environments and a permission can come handy in case of accidents or if questioned.

In most cases the equipment you may require will be 

Before the shoot is commenced it will be a great idea to take test pictures of the equipment and the environment. Explore various angles to cover the athlete and the play with the emotion and feel of the image. Notice the gaze, composition and shadows of the test images so that you have a better understanding about the light and composition. It is always a better option to make the model commit an action and click through the action rather than making the model pose for an image. The results will be natural and focused.