Top Benefits of Using Air Supported Structures for Academic Athletics

Academic athletics is an important aspect of any school or university. It is a way for students to stay active, compete, and build school spirit. However, not all academic institutions have the resources or space to build traditional athletic facilities. This is where air-supported structures come in. These structures offer a unique and cost-effective solution for academic athletics. In this blog post, we will explore the top benefits of using air-supported structures for academic athletics.

What are air-supported structures?

Air-supported structures are a type of temporary or permanent building that uses air pressure to support the roof or canopy. These structures are made from a lightweight, durable material that is inflated with a blower or fan. The air pressure inside the structure creates a stable and rigid surface that can be used for a variety of purposes, including athletic facilities.

Air-supported structures come in a range of sizes and shapes, making them versatile for different types of athletic activities. They can be used as indoor or outdoor facilities and can be easily relocated if needed. These structures are also available in different materials, such as PVC or ETFE, which provide varying levels of insulation and UV protection.

Cost-effective solution

One of the biggest benefits of using air-supported structures for academic athletics is their cost-effectiveness. Traditional athletic facilities, such as gyms or sports complexes, can be expensive to build and maintain. Air-supported structures offer a more affordable alternative that does not compromise on quality or functionality.

For example, a university in the United States used an air-supported structure to replace their old, outdated gymnasium. The new structure provided a modern and spacious facility for their athletic programs at a fraction of the cost of building a new permanent gymnasium. This allowed the university to allocate funds to other areas of their athletic department, such as hiring new coaches and improving their sports equipment.

Flexible design

Another benefit of using air-supported structures for academic athletics is their flexible design. These structures can be customized to fit the specific needs of the institution and the sports programs. For example, the size and shape of the structure can be adjusted to accommodate different sports, such as basketball, volleyball, or track and field. The interior layout can also be modified to include features such as bleachers, locker rooms, and storage space.

In addition to being customizable, air-supported structures are also versatile. They can be used for a variety of athletic activities, both indoors and outdoors. For example, a high school in Canada used an air-supported structure to create an indoor track and field facility. This allowed their athletes to train year-round, regardless of the weather conditions. The structure also provided a space for other sports, such as soccer and football, to practice in the winter months.

Quick installation

Another benefit of using air-supported structures for academic athletics is their quick installation. Unlike traditional athletic facilities, which can take months or even years to build, air-supported structures can be set up in a matter of days. This makes them an ideal solution for institutions that need a temporary or permanent athletic facility on short notice.

For example, a university in the United Kingdom used an air-supported structure to create a new indoor soccer facility. The structure was installed in just three days, allowing the university to provide their athletes with a state-of-the-art training facility in time for the start of the soccer season. The quick installation also allowed the university to avoid the lengthy and disruptive construction process that comes with building a traditional athletic facility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, air-supported structures offer a unique and cost-effective solution for academic athletics. Their flexibility, quick installation, and customizable design make them an ideal option for institutions that need a temporary or permanent athletic facility. As the demand for athletic facilities continues to grow, air-supported structures are sure to become an increasingly popular choice for academic institutions around the world.