Picking out a gym is an important process that takes research and knowledge. Not everyone is looking for the same things that a gym can offer. Some want a gym that contains heavy weights for the novices and some beginners are just looking for moderate weights for body shaping. You will usually find gyms with heavy weights such as dumbbells going up to 150 lbs involving serious weight lifters who are not there for a social event. But some people are intimidated by these gym goers and would rather a more relaxed atmosphere. While other gyms I have visited seem to be more of a fashion show filled with people who are not serious about the sport. I will list some gyms that I have been to or trained at. First make a list of what you want to get out of a gym and check all that apply for each. No matter your needs there is a gym out there for you.
Gold's Gym - This is a true bodybuilders playground. Most of these gym's exercise equipment are up to date. Their free weights such as dumbbells and barbells have great grips. Their weights are generally the rubber type with handles made easier for picking up and putting down. The gym is always kept very clean with a friendly staff. There are also many plate loaded machines for you people who prefer this verse barbells. The cable machines are plentiful as well. Most Gold's Gyms also have women only weight rooms. This is nice for you women who enjoy working separate from the men. Cardio area consists of many different machines such as bikes, treadmills, rowing machines and elliptical machines with flat screen TVs in this area. Most gyms also have an aerobics room offering classes. Locker rooms are equipped with locker space and showers. Usually priced around $30 a month with a sign up fee which may be waived during promotions. Plenty of trainers for all of you beginners.
Best Fitness - Located generally in the northeast. These gyms are great for both body builders and beginners. Plenty of free weights and cable machines. Again dumbbells are heavy going up to 125 lbs. There is also a boxing room with bags and jump rope. The ab machines are put in a separate room along with other machines where you will find most women getting their JYM pre workout. Their cardio area is also filled with many cardio machines and flat screen TVs. Some of their gyms also contain a basketball court and daycare for all of you parents in need. Locker rooms are being updated with lockers and showers. Some also have saunas or steam rooms. The equipment is a little on the older side but are in good enough shape for proper use. The plates and dumbbells are not rubber like Golds gym. Usually priced around $20 a month with a sign up fee. Trainers are knowledgeable in both fitness and nutrition. There is an aerobics room as well offering classes, most free for members.
WOW (Work Out World) - This gym is not for bodybuilders looking for the heavy weights. No grunting here as they may tell you to quiet down. Their cardio area and cable machines are what draw people to them. They are looking for people who are more into body shaping and not you muscle heads looking to toss around weights like myself. You will find these gyms are great for women and beginners new to the sport. They do have locker rooms and showers. They also have many flat screen TVs in the cardio area. Dumbbells only go up to 80 lbs so again weight lifters looking to gain size and strength stay away. This is a very cheap gym with a 15-20 dollar a month fee. A sign up fee can sometimes be avoided here as well. Trainers are available but not the best.
Planet Fitness - Much like WOW this gym has a countless number of members which can in return be too crowded at times. So many people go here for the cheap price of $10 a month. Most gyms are on the smaller size with very limited free weights. Focusing mostly on cardio and cable machines they attract people who may attend the gym 2-3 days a week for limited exercise. Seems to be more of a social event at times. But if the price is what matters most to you this gym is your place. Showers are not available in all gyms and locker space is limited. Again none of their gyms contain dumbbells over 80 lbs with maybe 1-2 bench press machines which causes a log wait at times. The gym I attended did not offer personal trainers.
Bally'sTotal fitness - This is probably my least favorite gym. Their cost is generally very high for what they have to offer. Their equipment are generally updated with the rubber weights and new cable machines. Most contain separate rooms for the free weights which is a plus for those wanting to go heavy and grunt. Cardio area is plentiful here as well. I just don't care for the feel in the gym. Seems uptight with that cooperate feel. Most have a protein bar for your fill after your workout. Flat screen TVs are available and locker rooms as well. Personal trainers are knowledgeable but pricey here.
I hope these reviews are helpful in choosing which gym is right for you. Again for serious weightlifters and bodybuilders I recommend Gold's or Best Fitness. Looking for more cardio and body shaping without the heavy weights I recommend WOW. I have attended all of these gyms so if you have any more questions shoot me an email and I will respond. Have fun and stay fit!
