No fewer than 40 creative minds unleashed their creativity on the Technogym bench. Rode? During Milan Design Week, the Italian fitness brand celebrates its 40th anniversary. 'Tanti auguri!'

Nerio Alessandri founded Technogym at the age of 22 in his family's garage by combining his passion for technology and design with his passion for exercise. Over the years, the brand has evolved from a fitness equipment company to an all-encompassing wellness lifestyle ecosystem and a key player in Italian design. With the exhibition Design to Move the brand is now celebrating its 40th anniversary.

The project was visually conceived with acclaimed architect and designer Giulio Cappellini and curated by Bruna Roccasalva, who gathered 40 artists and designers from around the world and inspired them to interpret the concept of well-being through their individual artistic and cultural lenses. It resulted in 40 unique Technogym benches.

''Design has always been a key element''

The launch took place on April 15. And not without reason... This is the so-called Made in Italy Day, set up by the Italian government on the occasion of Leonardo da Vinci's birthday. It doesn't get more Italian... Says Nerio Alessandri, founder and CEO of Technogym: “As Leonardo taught us, movement is the cause of all forms of life. For the past 40 years, we have helped people every day to live a better life through wellness. Design has always been a key element, a strong partner to convert functional into emotional and needs into aspiration. We are proud that so many designers and artists have joined our goal to move the world.”

Alien design

Among the series of 40 benches, Moon Surface is a true eye-catcher. Designed by the Dutch Osiris Hertman. Using groundbreaking techniques, such as casting aluminum, finishing with glittering Ferrari car paint in gold, and carefully pouring eight layers of epoxy, he managed to create a true moonscape. The leather, sourced from cows in India and colored by hand, adds a touch of authenticity and luxury to this cosmic design.

A selection of 15 Technogym benches will be auctioned by Sotheby's in September. The remaining 25 copies are available on the website. Nice bonus: all proceeds are donated to UNICEF.