Are you shopping around for a new gym? Finding the perfect fitness club that aligns with your workout goals and lifestyle can be daunting. Fortunately, many gyms offer trial memberships so you can test the equipment and atmosphere before making a financial commitment. This flexibility is key in making an informed decision to ensure your experience is as rewarding as possible. We’ve done the research and identified the best gym membership options depending on your specific needs and preferences.
There are many factors you may want to consider when searching for a gym — including location. Choosing one near your home or work will make it more convenient and more likely that you’ll stop for your workout. If you travel a lot, having a gym with locations across the country can keep you on a consistent routine. Other things to consider are cost, amenities, and hours of operation. Some gyms offer 24/7 access, while others have specific hours. Which fitness clubs will fit your lifestyle? We have searched across eight expert reviews to compile this list of the seven best gym memberships that were recommended most. Check out our list below and let us know which one you choose!
➡️ How Our “Best Of The Best” Lists Are Created
StudyFinds’ “Best of the Best” articles are put together with the idea of taking the work out of common consumer research. Ever find yourself searching for a product or service on Google and reading multiple reviews to find items listed across many of them? Our Best of the Best lists are created with that process in mind, with each item ranked by how frequently it appears on expert reviews or lists. With Best of the Best, you are getting consensus picks — making them truly the best of the best!
The List: Best Gym Memberships, According to Fitness Experts
1. Orangetheory Fitness – Best Overall
This gym, which focuses on heart-rate-based cardio and strength training, was lauded by many of our sources as the “Best Overall” fitness club and the “Best Boutique” club.
Orangetheory Fitness is all about camaraderie and high-intensity workouts. SI loves their supportive environment, perfect for those who thrive in group settings. With over 1,400 studios nationwide and memberships starting at $59, Orangetheory offers a chance to work out with certified coaches who will guide you towards your fitness goals, no matter how ambitious.
Good Housekeeping points out the key differences between Orangetheory and a traditional gym. Orangetheory focuses on group classes with set times, taking the guesswork out of planning your workout routine. Each class incorporates a mix of treadmill work, rowing, and floor exercises using dumbbells, benches, TRX trainers, and more. The instructors keep things engaging with motivating music, and memberships can be purchased as class packages or monthly subscriptions depending on how often you plan to attend.
Active.com says even though Orangetheory is a group setting, you can control your own intensity and pace throughout the workout. They’re known for their encouraging atmosphere and constantly evolving workouts, so you won’t get stuck in a rut – you’re unlikely to do the same workout twice!
2. Planet Fitness – Best Budget
Looking to ditch the workout excuses without breaking the bank? Planet Fitness might be your perfect match. Verywell Fit loves their incredibly affordable memberships, with monthly fees starting as low as $10! That’s right, there’s no reason to skip a workout with such a budget-friendly option.
Need a gym you can use almost anywhere? SI loves Planet Fitness’ nationwide (and even international!) reach. With over 2,300 locations across the U.S., Canada, and beyond (including Puerto Rico, Panama, Mexico, and Australia), you’re practically guaranteed to find a Planet Fitness close by. Plus, many gyms offer 24/7 access, making it easy to fit a workout into your busy schedule.
What do you get for your money? Good Housekeeping explains that Planet Fitness boasts spacious and clean facilities with a good variety of equipment, perfect for a well-rounded workout. Most clubs are open 24/7, and for the price, you can’t beat the quality of the locker rooms and showers. They also emphasize their Judgement Free Zone®, creating a welcoming and comfortable environment for beginners who might feel intimidated at a traditional gym.
3. Equinox – Best Luxury
Equinox isn’t your average gym – it’s a full-blown luxury fitness experience. Good Housekeeping raves about their best-in-class equipment and extensive selection of group fitness classes, led by some of the industry’s top instructors. Members can’t get enough of the luxurious amenities and top-notch cleanliness. The facilities are constantly being sanitized, with hand sanitizer stations readily available throughout the clubs, and even UV-C light sanitizers are offered to instantly disinfect your personal electronics.
Byrdie calls Equinox the ultimate destination for those seeking a luxurious approach to fitness and wellness. It’s more than just a gym – it’s an environment designed to pamper you while you reach your fitness goals.
Verywell Fit sums it up perfectly, awarding Equinox the top spot for luxury gyms. From the lavish surroundings to the expert instructors, top-of-the-line equipment, and seemingly endless amenities, Equinox offers a truly unparalleled fitness experience.
4. Anytime Fitness – Best For Travelers
Busy schedule and frequent travel got you down? LA Fitness might be your saving grace! Good Housekeeping commends their massive network of over 4,700 gyms, some even international. This means you can practically find an LA Fitness wherever you roam, making your membership truly worthwhile – especially if you’re constantly on the go. Plus, members rave about the cleanliness of the facilities, and the convenient 24/7 hours ensure you can squeeze in a workout no matter how hectic your day gets.
What can you expect at each LA Fitness location? While the layout might vary slightly, Active.com says you can generally expect access to a full range of free weights, machines, and other equipment, allowing you to tailor your workout to your specific fitness goals. So, whether you’re a weightlifting enthusiast or a cardio bunny, LA Fitness has you covered.
5. LA Fitness – Best Variety
Looking for a gym that offers everything under one roof? Look no further than LA Fitness! Good Housekeeping reviewers were impressed by the sheer variety of amenities available, all at a reasonable price point. Spacious layouts, a wide range of group fitness classes, personal training options, and an aquatic area are just the tip of the iceberg. For the sporty types, basketball and racquetball courts are also available. Members rave about the quality of the classes and the pool and appreciate the ample parking and overall size of the facilities.
Byrdie specifically likes LA Fitness’ strength training capabilities. They offer equipment that caters to all functional needs and weight requirements, making them a consistent favorite for those focused on building muscle. No matter which LA Fitness location you visit, you can expect top-notch equipment to help you reach your goals.
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations. This article may contain affiliate links in which we receive a commission if you make a purchase.
Choose a clean, well maintained gym that is close to you or to your work. If you have to go out of the way to hit the gym, you likely won’t go.
Or….buy a set of kettlebells and learn to use them properly. Do them and 10k steps per day.
It’s a lot cheaper and as effective as a gym.