AV supplier Music Marketing Services has recently completed an upgrade to the audio visual system in the fitness facility at Aberystwyth University.

The basic 21 station Cardio Theater system was installed in 2005, but upgrading the music system, screens and a review of the site's managed music and video content became a priority.

The sound system in the main gym now carries radio, CD and Box music as audio options. Speakers were upgraded to Martin Audio throughout the gym and the weights room. The addition of Box music provides the gym with 2 additional managed music channels.

Additional plasma screens were supplied to improve visibility for those using cardio equipment. Three more 32in plasma screens half way down the main gym and a 42in screen in the weights room were added.

Manager Darren Hathaway said: "Improving the audio visual systems and the entertainment has helped us attract more women to the club, which is part of our strategy to move to an emphasis on health and wellbeing.

"Our ratio of men to women before was 60/40, now it's 40/60 with more members."

Tom Downes, CEO of Music Marketing Services said: "Aberystwyth is responding to a growing demand for more female-friendly facilities; and the choice of entertainment plays an important part in that process."

Other recent developments at the company in the education sector have seen installations at Brunel, Reading and Queen Mary's College, London universities.

Commenting, Downes said: "Universities compete hard to attract students, and realise that high quality sport, fitness and wellbeing facilities can be an important point of difference. What we're seeing is better specifications and higher investment in CV and associated AV and entertainment systems.

"Cardio Theater, flat screen TV in workout and sit-out areas, pro-audio music systems for studios and selective music and video channels have become the norm.

"The skill is in planning the most cost-effect installation."