How to Choose the Right Gym Membership for You
From budget-friendly Planet Fitness to luxury Equinox, today’s gym landscape spans every price point and amenity level. No single gym dominates every category, so the sliders help you focus on what matters most. Take two minutes to set your priorities, and the tool will recommend the best club for your goals, schedule, and budget.
Personalize your shortlist: Slide each factor toward what matters most. Results update instantly.
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Slide to adjust what matters most. Your results will update based on your preferences.Monthly Cost: Finding an Affordable Gym Membership
The monthly cost of a gym membership is often the first filter for many people seeking an affordable gym. Sticker prices can range from $10–$25 /mo at value-focused clubs like Planet Fitness to $200+ /mo at premium facilities like Equinox. Mid-tier major gym chains, including Crunch Fitness, L.A. Fitness, and 24 Hour Fitness, typically range from $30–$55 /mo. Beyond the monthly fee, always consider annual fees and potential costs related to cancellation policy.
You might not know: Many employers offer wellness benefits that reimburse up to $30–$75/month for any health club or gym membership. Ask your HR department before you rule out potentially pricier options.
Here’s a quick look at typical costs and fee structures for major chains:
| Chain | Typical Monthly | Annual Fee | Cancellation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planet Fitness | $10–$25 | $49 | $58 buy-out |
| Crunch Fitness | $25–$40 | $49 | 30-day notice |
| 24 Hour Fitness | $35–$55 | $49 | 0–30 days |
| Equinox | $200+ | $300 init. | 30-day + fee |
Note: Gym prices and specific membership options vary by location, tier, and promotions. Always read the electronic funds transfer (EFT) agreement carefully before signing.
Location Access: The Commute You’ll Actually Stick With
A five-minute drive beats the perfect facility thirty minutes away—especially at 6 a.m. Look for multiple branches near home and work if you travel between sites. Weight Location Access higher if consistency is your biggest hurdle.
Most people travel around 4.3 miles to their gym. When the distance goes over 6 miles, attendance tends to drop by as much as 40% after three months. The closer the gym, the more likely people are to keep going.
Weight Location Access high if you struggle with consistency.
Equipment Quality & Variety: Machines, Free Weights, and Space
Chains such as Gold’s Gym, Life Time, and Equinox dedicate large footprints to premium selectorized machines, power racks, and functional-training turf. Budget clubs may offer fewer squat racks or Olympic platforms. Prioritize Equipment Quality to surface gyms where waiting in line is rare.
Cleanliness: Because Hygiene Matters More Than Ever
Post-pandemic, most brands stepped up sanitizing protocols—but execution varies location to location. Higher Cleanliness weights favor chains known for frequent towel service, well-ventilated cardio decks, and spotless locker rooms.
24/7 Access: True Anytime Convenience
If your schedule is unpredictable, 24 Hour Fitness, Anytime Fitness, and many Planet Fitness locations never close. Toggle Open 24/7 to the right to push those clubs to the top of your list.
Amenities: Beyond the Basics
Pools, saunas, basketball courts, child-care, and towel service can justify steeper dues. Life Time and Equinox excel here, while value chains trade perks for price. Give Amenities more weight if laps, steam rooms, or on-site smoothies keep you motivated.
Atmosphere / Gym Culture: Finding Your Crowd
Some lifters thrive on Gold’s no-frills iron paradise; others prefer Crunch’s upbeat vibe or Equinox’s spa-like calm. Slide Atmosphere higher if community and vibe drive your motivation.
- Planet Fitness: Purple cardio lanes and a literal siren (the “Lunk Alarm”) if you drop weights.
- Gold’s Gym: Birthplace of Schwarzenegger’s 1970s Venice crew—chalk welcome.
- Crunch: “No judgments” but louder playlists and theme days (e.g., ’90s Throwback Ride).
- Equinox: Spa robes, chilled eucalyptus towels, and phone-free “E.L.I.T.E.” zones.
If you find motivation in community, drag Atmosphere up the scale until the ranking feels right.
Group Classes: Variety Drives Motivation
Group classes significantly boost motivation and engagement:
- Equinox: Around 120 live classes weekly (17 daily).
- Life Time: Over 400 weekly sessions across Studio, Yoga, and Cycle at larger clubs.
- Crunch Gym: Unique classes like the "Bungee Workout," featuring zero-impact plyometrics with ceiling cords.
- Planet Fitness: Limited instructor-led sessions, emphasizing beginner-friendly "Design Your Own Workout" groups.
- Anytime Fitness: Primarily on-demand virtual classes.
Choose your gym based on the importance of live class variety to your fitness routine.