University of Nebraska–Lincoln

The University of Nebraska’s Campus Recreation department embarked on a mission to enhance its fitness and training facilities, ensuring students and members had access to world-class strength training opportunities.

Nebraska’s newly renovated Power Room was designed with two primary goals in mind: expanding strength training access by increasing the availability of racks and dedicated barbell spaces to accommodate a growing student population and enhancing versatility by introducing a flexible training space that could support a variety of fitness modalities, including functional training, powerlifting, and Olympic weightlifting.

Repurposing an underutilized locker room — never intended to house a weight training facility — posed significant challenges. Space limitations and structural columns in the middle of the area made it difficult to create an optimal layout for safe and efficient workouts.

To overcome these challenges, Eleiko designed a customized rig solution that seamlessly integrated with the structural columns, maximizing space efficiency while maintaining an open, functional training environment.

Integration of the Eleiko Prestera Strength System — including modular racks, rigs, and an adaptable cable system—allowed Nebraska to create a dynamic, multi-purpose training environment. The interchangeable attachments supported a wide range of training styles, from Olympic weightlifting to small group functional training.

Elevating Nebraska’s strength training offerings, the redesigned space has enabled a diverse range of new training and coaching styles, fostering a more engaging and effective fitness experience for students and members.

“The Prestera racks have been the most beneficial with the variety of uses they offer. Whether it is open recreation or small group training, the racks can be adjusted to fit the needs of the user.” – Kyle Minchow, Coordinator of Strength Training and Conditioning

The collaboration with Eleiko has reshaped the student fitness experience, attracting more students—including competitive powerlifters—who now choose to train at the university rather than external gyms.

"The equipment and layout of the space are elite, and we are excited to program it for our campus community and showcase it to prospective students and guests for years to come. And the ability to customize equipment added pride and affinity to our university, further demonstrating ‘There is no place like Nebraska.’ – Steve Woita, Associate Director – Well-being

Through this partnership, Nebraska has successfully transformed its fitness facilities into a premium strength training hub, ensuring students and athletes have access to a best-in-class training environment for years to come.