Building a New Athletic Training Room
Maybe you've just received tentative approval to design a new athletic training room - or perhaps you're still at the 'dream a little dream' stage. Regardless - there is a lot to consider when designing a new athletic training room.
Furniture
Laminates - Typically laminate is going to be the least expensive option. Laminate construction uses a plywood sheet and a four color printed sheet which can simulate woodgrain or other desirable patterns. These sheets are then are then glued together with resin in a process called laminating under extreme pressure. The materials and the laminating process give the characteristic of wood (they can be cut and drilled and have the strength of wood) with added benefits - such as the surface being antimicrobial. A handy characteristic in an Athletic Training Room.
These sheets are then cut to specification and then used to construct your cabinetry. Warranties on these products usually last about 1 year. In many cases if you have existing cabinets in your Athletic Training Room, a laminate can be found that either closely or identically matches from companies like WilsonArt.
Pros: Generally your cheapest option. Very customizable. Lots of color matching choices.
Cons: Less durable than hard woods and steel. Very liable to water damage.
Shorter warranty period (2-3 years on frames).
MioTech currently offers wood laminates from Athletic Edge and ProTeam Hausmann.
Hard Woods - Hard woods are generally more expensive than laminates but less expensive than steel & aluminum. Originally Athletic Training Rooms were furnished almost entirely with hard wood treatment tables and cabinetry. Hard woods offer fewer options for customization and can be stained to your preference.
Pros: Very sturdy construction. Woods tend to last longer than laminates. Warranty 3-5 years on frames.
Cons: Less customizable than laminate or steel & aluminum. Wood is more porous than laminate surfacing and can be scratched and gouged more easily.
MioTech currently offers wood laminates from Athletic Edge and Bailey Manufacturing.
Steel & Aluminum - Steel & Aluminum tables are the most sturdy option available. If you are in a setting with big athletes are rough on equipment, steel is a good way.
Cabinetry
Electrotherapy
Therapy
Hot & Cold
