Ultimate Guide to the Best Gyms Across the United States
Thinking of joining a gym and tired of spending countless hours looking through online reviews to find the best one for you? Look no further, we’ve done the research for you in this week’s newsletter.
Economy Gyms
Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness stands out as one of the leading gym chains in the United States, attracting millions of members nationwide with its affordable pricing and welcoming atmosphere.
Origins and Mission
Founded in 1992 , Planet Fitness began with a focus on serving people new to fitness or those who felt intimidated by traditional gym settings. The gym’s mission is to create an environment that is approachable, inclusive, and supportive for individuals of all fitness levels. Its motto, “Judgement Free Zone,” underscores its commitment to fostering a non-intimidating community.
Affordable Membership Options
One of the key factors behind Planet Fitness’s success is its affordability. Membership plans include a basic option for just $15 per month and a Black Card membership for $29.99 per month. While the basic membership grants unlimited gym access, the Black Card offers additional perks such as tanning, massage chairs, and guest privileges. These competitive rates make Planet Fitness a budget-friendly choice, especially compared to other gym franchises with significantly higher costs.
Factors Behind Success
Several elements contribute to Planet Fitness’s widespread appeal:
- Inclusive Environment: By addressing common barriers such as intimidation and cost, Planet Fitness attracts those who might otherwise avoid gyms.
- Extensive Network: With over 2,000 locations across the U.S, the gym’s accessibility ensures that members can easily find a location nearby.
- Effective Marketing: Planet Fitness utilizes relatable, humorous advertising to appeal to a broad audience and reinforce its brand identity.
Membership Benefits and Amenities
In addition to its affordability, Planet Fitness offers a variety of amenities, including cardio equipment, weight training, certified personal trainers at no extra cost, clean locker rooms, and 24/7 access at most locations. This combination of value and convenience has helped solidify its reputation.
Crunch Fitness
Crunch Fitness began as a small basement studio in New York City’s East Village in 1989 and has since grown into a major gym franchise. Today, Crunch operates over 300 clubs worldwide.
Crunch Fitness has gained widespread popularity due to its energetic and inclusive atmosphere, diverse workout options, and affordable membership plans. The gym focuses on creating an engaging environment for all fitness levels, making workouts both accessible and enjoyable. Crunch Fitness is well known for its unique and dynamic group classes, state-of-the-art equipment, and knowledgeable staff who cultivate a welcoming and supportive community.
The gym offers a range of membership options at various price points to accommodate different budgets and preferences. Membership costs vary by location and selected plan, with tiers ranging from basic gym access to premium packages that include perks such as group fitness classes, tanning, and guest privileges.
Monthly membership fees range from $9.99 to $29.99, making Crunch an affordable option compared to many other fitness franchises.
Several key factors have contributed to Crunch Fitness’s success. The gym’s vibrant and energetic atmosphere attracts those seeking a fun and motivating workout experience. Unlike traditional gyms, Crunch incorporates entertainment into fitness, offering unique classes like aerial yoga, kickboxing, and Zumba. By providing a wide selection of group classes, Crunch caters to diverse interests and keeps members engaged in their fitness journeys.
Investment in high-quality equipment and modern facilities has also played a significant role in Crunch’s growth. The gym continuously updates its spaces and equipment to maintain a contemporary, well-maintained workout environment that supports members’ fitness goals.
The gym quickly gained popularity among fitness enthusiasts for its wide variety of classes, personal training options, and welcoming environment.
Amenities:
- Weight training & cardio equipment
- Group fitness classes
- Personal training
- Tanning
- Sauna
- Hydromassage beds
Crunch Fitness stands out as one of the top gym chains due to its lively atmosphere, diverse workout offerings, affordable membership plans, and commitment to inclusivity. With engaging classes, modern facilities, and a strong brand identity, Crunch continues to attract a loyal community of fitness enthusiasts looking for a fun and effective workout experience.
YouFit
YouFit burst launched about 10 years ago. Designed for casual gym-goers, YouFit offers personal training at all locations and group exercise classes at most.
In under ten years, YouFit has expanded to over 100 locations. A standout feature of the brand is its commitment to environmental sustainability, incorporating recycled materials in gym flooring and other eco-friendly initiatives.
Membership Cost: $10–$36.99 per month
Amenities: Weight training, cardio equipment, group fitness classes, personal training, showers, locker rooms.
24 Hour Fitness
24 Hour Fitness is a well-known gym chain recognized for its 24/7 accessibility, expansive facilities, and diverse workout options. It operates over 287 locations across the U.S., offering a variety of equipment for strength training, cardiovascular exercise, and functional training. Many clubs also provide additional services such as swimming pools, group classes, and personal training.
Pricing varies by location and membership type, with three main plans:
- Silver – from $9.99/month
- Gold – from $26.99/month
- Platinum – from $39.99/month
The company’s success is attributed to its convenience, affordability, and extensive amenities. With round-the-clock access, diverse workout options, and structured programs, it caters to individuals with hectic schedules and varied fitness needs. Its strong brand presence, customer-centric approach, and commitment to quality service have solidified its reputation as a leading gym chain in the U.S.
Mid-Tier Gyms
LA Fitness
Founded in 1983, LA Fitness has built a strong reputation for its expansive facilities, diverse workout programs, and excellent customer service. Over the years, LA Fitness expanded through strategic acquisitions, including Bally Total Fitness and Lifestyle Family Fitness, growing to over 700 locations across the United States.
Facilities and Amenities
LA Fitness offers state-of-the-art equipment, group fitness classes, personal training, and dedicated areas for cardio, strength training, and free weights. Many locations feature additional amenities, including basketball and racquetball courts, indoor pools, saunas, hot tubs, and childcare services.
Membership and Pricing
Membership fees start at $39.99 per month, with occasional initiation fees that may be waived during promotions. Premium memberships provide access to Signature Clubs, which offer enhanced amenities like spas and executive locker rooms.
Keys to Success
The company’s success is attributed to its consistent management, well-maintained facilities, and commitment to evolving with industry trends. LA Fitness has integrated technology such as online scheduling, mobile apps, and fitness tracking to enhance member experience. Cleanliness, reliable equipment maintenance, and a welcoming atmosphere make it a top choice for both beginners and seasoned gym-goers.
By continuously adapting to customer needs and maintaining high service standards, LA Fitness has established itself as a dominant force in the fitness industry.
Anytime Fitness
Founded in 2002 in Cambridge, Minnesota, Anytime Fitness is a global fitness franchise with over 4,000 locations. It has gained recognition as one of the fastest-growing health club franchises, offering members 24/7 access to its facilities.
Key Features & Membership
- 24/7 Access: Members can work out at any time using a key fob system.
- Facilities & Amenities: Equipment includes cardio machines, strength-training areas, functional training zones, and free weights. Some locations offer additional services like group fitness classes, personal training, virtual workouts, tanning, and Hydromassage beds.
- Membership Options: Prices vary by location, with an average monthly around $53/month . Flexible membership plans include single-location access or multi-gym privileges within a region.
Golds’s Gym
Founded in 1965 in Venice Beach, California, Gold’s Gym has become an iconic name in the fitness industry. Originally known as the “Mecca of Bodybuilding,” it gained prominence as a training ground for legends like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Dave Draper. The gym’s inclusion in Pumping Iron (1977) helped popularize bodybuilding and solidify Gold’s Gym’s reputation.
Over the years, Gold’s Gym has evolved beyond its bodybuilding roots to cater to a broader audience. Offering state-of-the-art equipment, strength training, cardiovascular workouts, group fitness classes, and personal training services, the gym provides a comprehensive fitness experience. Programs now accommodate various fitness goals, from marathon training to post-pregnancy recovery and senior wellness initiatives in partnership with AARP.
With over 600 locations worldwide, it is the largest co-ed gym chain. Membership prices vary based on location and services, with an average monthly fee of approx. $50/month.
The key to Gold’s Gym’s success lies in its commitment to high-quality equipment, expert training, and a results-driven approach. Its global brand strength, holistic wellness programs, and continuous innovation make it one of the top fitness franchises today.
Premium/Luxury Gyms
Lifetime Fitness
Lifetime Fitness follows a membership-based pricing model, with costs varying by location, membership type, and available amenities. They offer different membership tiers, ranging from basic access to comprehensive plans that include perks such as group classes, spa services, and personal training. Due to the premium facilities and extensive range of services, Lifetime Fitness memberships are generally priced higher than those of some other gym chains.
On average, a single-club range from $30-$40 per month, while multi-club access is range from $40-$50 per month.
Lifetime Fitness has continuously innovated and expanded its offerings to stay ahead in the fitness industry. Over the years, they have introduced specialized programs such as weight loss challenges, performance training, and various fitness sessions tailored to evolving trends and member needs. Their commitment to innovation and adaptability has played a key role in their ongoing success. Additionally, Lifetime Fitness operates some of the largest individual fitness facilities, with certain locations exceeding 200,000 square feet, providing ample space for diverse wellness activities and premium amenities.
Equinox
Founded in Manhattan in 1991, Equinox Fitness has grown into a premier luxury fitness brand, acquiring high-end subsidiaries like SoulCycle, PURE Yoga, and Blink Fitness. It has over 135 locations across the U.S
Luxury & Exclusivity
Equinox is known for its elite fitness experience, offering state-of-the-art equipment, innovative group classes, and world-class trainers—including former Olympians and celebrity fitness experts. Its high-end amenities include swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, luxury locker rooms, premium toiletries, and even laundry services at select locations.
Membership fees range from $200 to $300+ per month, with initiation costs between $100 and $500+.
Why It’s Successful
Equinox thrives by prioritizing experience over just fitness. Positioned in affluent urban areas, it caters to a high-end clientele seeking exclusivity, prestige, and personalized services. Members value the premium environment, top-tier trainers, and innovative fitness programs that go beyond standard gym offerings.
Expanding Digital Access
With the addition of Equinox+, members can access virtual workouts and wellness resources, further enhancing the brand’s value and accessibility.
By maintaining exclusivity with limited locations and a high client-to-trainer ratio, Equinox justifies its premium pricing, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most luxurious gym chains in the U.S.
EXOS
Equinox Fitness caters to a high-end clientele that values luxury, premium amenities, and a strong fitness culture. Founded in 1999, EXOS is headquartered in Phoenix but has expanded across the U.S.
Membership & Amenities
- Cost: $30,000/year ($2,500/month) in Phoenix; other locations range from $250–$1,000+/month.
- Facilities: Weight training, cardio equipment, group fitness, and personal training. The Phoenix location offers an underwater treadmill, hot and cold pools, a football field, and top-tier rehab tools, including physical therapy and massage tables. Other locations also feature sports medicine professionals and dietitians for nutritional guidance.
Why EXOS Stands Out
EXOS excels due to its top-tier strength coaches, sports therapists, and dietitians, all using cutting-edge research to guide clients. As a performance-driven facility, its highly motivated clientele ensures strong retention, provided training and rehab programs remain efficient and effective.
Disclaimer: Always consult your doctor before trying anything mentioned in this article. All information in this email is intended for educational use only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Fit Dads Over 40 is not responsible for the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information in this article.
