If you're thinking about joining a gym or signing up for fitness classes, congratulations! Taking steps to improve your fitness and health is a fantastic goal. But with so many options out there, how do you pick the right one for you?
Whether you're a gym novice or a seasoned fitness enthusiast, finding the best fit can feel a bit overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for when comparing gym memberships and fitness classes.
1. Cost and Contracts: What’s the Real Price Tag?
Gym memberships in the UK range from budget-friendly options around £10 per month at places like PureGym or The Gym Group, to higher-end choices at £100+ per month with big-name clubs like David Lloyd or Nuffield Health. Fitness studios, on the other hand, often charge per class or offer class packages, which may suit people who prefer variety without a long-term commitment.
Top Tips:
- Read the fine print: Some gyms offer rolling monthly contracts, while others have a minimum contract period (often 6-12 months).
- Look for hidden fees: Some gyms charge joining fees, cancellation fees, or extra costs for things like towel service or classes.
- Discounts & off-peak options: Many gyms offer discounted rates for students, NHS workers, or off-peak memberships. It’s worth asking!
2. Location, Location, Location
Convenience is key. Gyms or fitness studios that are close to your home or workplace will make it much easier to stay consistent with your workouts. If it’s out of your way, you’re more likely to skip sessions, which can make that membership feel like a waste of money.
Top Tips:
- Look for gyms on your commute: If you pass by the gym on your way to work or home, you’re less likely to skip a session.
- Consider virtual options: Many gyms now offer hybrid memberships with both in-person and virtual classes. This is great if you sometimes want to work out at home.
3. Facilities and Equipment: What’s on Offer?
If weightlifting is your focus, you’ll want a gym with a variety of free weights and machines. If you’re into group classes, you’ll want to ensure the gym offers the styles you enjoy.
Top Tips:
- Visit the gym first: Most gyms offer free trial days, so take advantage of this to see if the facilities meet your needs.
- Ask about peak hours: Equipment availability can vary significantly depending on the time of day. If possible, visit at your preferred workout time to see if it’s too crowded.
- Special amenities: Some gyms have pools, saunas, climbing walls, or even basketball courts. Decide which extras are a priority for you.
4. Classes and Variety
If you thrive in a group setting or enjoy following an instructor’s lead, classes could be a big factor in your choice. Some gyms focus on traditional group fitness (think aerobics, yoga, and spin), while others like F45 or CrossFit specialise in specific training methods.
Top Tips:
- Check the timetable: Make sure class times fit with your schedule. Many classes can be oversubscribed, so find out if you’ll need to book in advance.
- Range of class styles: Having a variety of classes helps keep things fresh and targets different aspects of fitness (e.g., cardio, strength, flexibility).
- Instructor quality: The vibe of a class is often down to the instructor, so it’s worth sampling a few classes with different instructors if you can.
5. Atmosphere and Community
Everyone’s preferences are different. Some people like a serious gym with an intense vibe, while others prefer a more relaxed or even social setting. Many smaller studios, especially those focused on boutique fitness, put a strong emphasis on community, with members often chatting and supporting each other.
Top Tips:
- Check the vibe: During your trial visit, pay attention to the atmosphere. Do you feel comfortable?
- Ask about community events: Some gyms and studios organise events, socials, or even fitness challenges that can help you meet people and stay motivated.
- Is it beginner-friendly?: If you’re new to fitness, you may prefer a gym or studio that has beginners’ sessions or smaller class sizes for more personal attention.
6. Opening Hours and Accessibility
Some people are early birds, while others prefer working out late at night. Check that the gym's hours align with your lifestyle. For instance, The Gym Group is known for being open 24/7, which is ideal for night owls or those with unpredictable schedules.
Top Tips:
- Weekend hours: If weekends are your main workout time, double-check that the gym or studio has decent opening hours.
- Accessibility features: For those with mobility concerns or disabilities, it’s worth asking about the gym’s accessibility features, such as ramps, lifts, and adapted equipment.
7. Health and Safety Measures
In the post-COVID era, cleanliness and safety have become top priorities. Most gyms have upped their hygiene standards, but it’s still good to check their practices.
Top Tips:
- Look for sanitisation stations: Gyms should have plenty of hand sanitiser and equipment cleaning stations.
- Crowd control: Find out if the gym has a capacity limit or a booking system for peak times, which can help maintain a comfortable environment.
8. Cancellation Policy
Sometimes life happens, and you need to pause or cancel your membership. Before signing anything, make sure you understand the gym’s cancellation or freeze policy.
Top Tips:
- Check the cancellation notice period: Some gyms require 30 days’ notice, while others might ask for 60 days or more.
- Freezing your membership: If you’re going on holiday or need a break, see if they offer a way to pause your membership without extra fees.
Final Thoughts
Finding the right gym or fitness class can take a bit of time, but it’s worth putting in the research to get a good fit. After all, you’ll be spending a lot of time there! Start by making a list of what matters most to you—whether it’s cost, location, or the range of classes available. And remember, most places will let you try things out with a free pass or trial class, so don’t be shy about giving a few options a go.
Happy gym-hunting, and here’s to a fitter, happier you!
