How to Choose a Gym: What to Look For (And What to Avoid)

The gym you choose affects whether you'll actually go. A great gym for someone else might be wrong for you. Here's how to find one that fits your needs, budget, and goals.

Location Is #1

The most important factor: proximity to your daily routine.

A fancy gym 30 minutes away will lose to a basic gym 5 minutes from home every time. Consider gyms near:

• Your home
• Your workplace
• Your commute route

If it's not convenient, you won't go consistently.

Gym Types Explained

Big Box Gyms (LA Fitness, Planet Fitness, Gold's)

Pros:

• Lower prices
• Lots of equipment
• Long hours
• Widespread locations

Cons:

• Can be crowded
• Less personalized attention
• Quality varies by location

Best for: Budget-conscious, general fitness

Boutique Gyms (CrossFit boxes, specialty studios)

Pros:

• Community atmosphere
• Coached classes
• Specialized programming

Cons:

• Higher prices
• Limited hours/schedule
• Less flexibility

Best for: Those wanting structure and community

24-Hour Gyms (Anytime Fitness, Snap Fitness)

Pros:

• Flexibility of access times
• Quieter during off-hours
• Usually well-maintained

Cons:

• Smaller footprint
• May have limited equipment
• Less social atmosphere

Best for: Odd schedules, independent trainers

Powerlifting/Bodybuilding Gyms

Pros:

• Serious equipment (platforms, specialty bars)
• Like-minded community
• Knowledge and spotters available

Cons:

• May be intimidating for beginners
• Limited locations
• Can be expensive

Best for: Serious lifters, strength sports

What Equipment to Look For

Essential basics:

• Free weights (dumbbells from 5-100+ lbs)
• Barbells and plates
• Bench press stations
• Squat racks or power racks
• Cable machines
• Cardio equipment

Nice to have:

• Deadlift platforms
• Specialty bars (trap bar, safety squat bar)
• Kettlebells
• Rowing machines
• Turf area

If you plan to powerlift/bodybuild:

• Multiple squat racks
• Competition benches
• Calibrated plates
• Chalk allowed

Questions to Ask During Your Tour

1. "What are your busiest times?"
2. "Can I see the locker room?"
3. "Is there a cancellation policy or contract term?"
4. "What's the guest policy?"
5. "Are there any additional fees beyond membership?"
6. "Is there a free trial?"
7. "Is chalk/deadlift dropping allowed?" (if relevant)

Red Flags to Watch For

During the tour:

• High-pressure sales tactics
• Refusing to show you the contract
• Equipment in poor repair
• Dirty facilities
• Disinterested or pushy staff

In the contract:

• Long commitments (12+ months) with no exit clause
• Hidden "maintenance fees" or annual charges
• Difficult cancellation procedures
• Automatic renewal without notice

The Price Question

Typical ranges:

• Budget gyms (Planet Fitness): $10-25/month
• Mid-range (LA Fitness, Anytime): $25-50/month
• Premium (Equinox, Lifetime): $100-200+/month
• Boutique/CrossFit: $100-200+/month

Consider:

• What equipment do you actually need?
• Will you use the extra amenities (classes, pool, sauna)?
• Is the premium worth the convenience?

The cheapest gym you'll actually use beats the expensive gym you won't.

Try Before You Buy

Most gyms offer:

• Free day pass
• Free week trial
• Free guest visit

Use these. Visit during your intended workout times. See how crowded it is, how the equipment availability is, and how the atmosphere feels.

Atmosphere Matters

Some gyms are social. Others are heads-down serious. Some blast music; others are quiet. There's no "right" answer—you want somewhere you'll feel comfortable and motivated.

Pay attention during your trial:

• Do you feel comfortable?
• Are people respectful?
• Is the vibe motivating or intimidating?
• Can you see yourself coming here 3+ days a week?

Making the Decision

Choose based on:

1. Location (can't emphasize this enough)
2. Equipment for your goals
3. Hours that match your schedule
4. Atmosphere you enjoy
5. Price that works for your budget

Avoid choosing based on:

• Flash and marketing
• What's "cool" or trendy
• Where your friend goes (unless you'll actually go together)
• Features you won't use

The Bottom Line

The best gym is one you'll actually use. Prioritize location and convenience above all else. Make sure it has the equipment you need, check the contract carefully, and visit during the times you'd actually train. Don't overpay for amenities you won't use. A consistent habit at a basic gym beats sporadic visits to a fancy one.