Best Gym Memberships 2024: Top-Rated Gyms for Every Goal

Best Budget-friendly Gym Membership: Crunch Fitness

Why we chose it: Crunch Fitness is our top choice for its affordability, extensive facilities, and varied fitness options, catering to all levels without stretching your wallet.

Standout features: Over 400 locations, diverse equipment, HIIT zones, and class variety. Offers three membership tiers: Base, Peak, and Peak Results.

Starting price for single membership: Begins at $14.99 per month for the Base membership, granting essential gym access.

Contract Options: Flexible choices, with month-to-month plans for Peak and Peak Results, and a 12-month commitment for the Base membership at its lowest rate.

Crunch Fitness (7-day free trial here) hit the gym scene with one location and has since grown into a nationwide brand. There are 400+ locations worldwide, with 28 Signature locations featuring luxury amenities. All Crunch facilities offer cardio equipment, free weights, training areas, resistance machines, HIIT training zones, and exercise rooms.

Crunch Fitness has three membership levels: Base, Peak, and Peak Results. If you’re going for affordability, we recommend the Base membership, which starts at $14.99 per month. This gives you access to all equipment. If you want the benefit of group classes and multi-club access, then the Peak level starting at $26.99 per month is the way to go. And if you want to be able to bring a guest anytime you want, opt for the Peak Results, which starts at $34.99 per month. This is a great value if you often go to the gym with the same person.

The Peak and Peak Results have no commitment and come with a month-to-month plan. But if you want the lowest-priced Base fee, you’ll need to commit to 12 months. Otherwise, it costs more to go month-to-month. Plus, Crunch requires an annual and initiation fee, so plan accordingly.

Best Amenities: Life Time

Why we chose it: Life Time stands out for its unmatched luxury amenities and a vast array of fitness and lifestyle services, making it more than just a gym but a comprehensive wellness destination.

Standout features: Athletic country club setting with top-tier equipment, indoor/outdoor pools, courts for various sports, luxurious spas, and a wide selection of fitness classes. Present in 31 states and Canada, catering to a broad audience.

Starting price for single membership: Memberships start around $79, scaling up to $200+ monthly, reflecting the premium facilities and services offered. A one-time joining fee is also applicable.

If you want luxury amenities, then it doesn't get much better than Life Time Fitness. Designed as “athletic country clubs,” these premium facilities offer everything from exercise and fitness to work spaces, dining areas, and even living accommodations.

Life Time Fitness members have access to large-scale facilities packed full of premium cardio machines, strength training equipment, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, basketball courts, racquetball, pickleball, squash, spas, indoor tracks, and a wide range of fitness classes. There are currently Life Time facilities in 31 states nationwide and in Canada. States with the highest number of locations include Texas, New York, Minnesota, Illinois, Georgia, Colorado, and Florida.

If it fits your budget, we think Life Time is worth considering. Membership levels and prices are a bit confusing, so we recommend contacting customer service. That said, they do offer a standard and signature membership, which come with different levels of amenities. In general, plan to pay around $79 to $200+ per month, with a one time joining fee.

Best Gym Membership for Beginners: Blink Fitness

Why we chose it: Blink Fitness is recognized for its welcoming, inclusive environment, making it the ideal choice for beginners or those seeking a straightforward, mood-boosting workout space.

Standout features: Simple, user-friendly layout with over 80 pieces of cardio equipment, weights, strength machines, and functional fitness areas. Known for its affordability and presence in nine states.

Starting price for single membership: Membership options range from $15 to $30 per month, accompanied by an annual maintenance fee, offering a cost-effective gym solution.

Beginners or anyone looking for a welcoming fitness facility will appreciate the simplicity of ease of Blink Fitness. Located in nine states, including California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas, and Virginia, this chain is known for being the “gym for every body.”

Blink has a simple layout featuring 80+ pieces of cardio equipment, free weights ranging from 5-90 pounds, strength machines, and functional fitness areas with resistance bands, TRX, battle ropes, Bosu balls, and more.

You can choose from four membership types: Green, Blue, Gray, and Orange. Each level offers different access to facilities, monthly fees, and obligations. In general, memberships range from $15 to $30 per month with an annual maintenance fee of around $55 for each membership.

Best for Students: Planet Fitness

Why we chose it: Planet Fitness is favored for its budget-friendly memberships and widespread availability, making it an excellent choice for students and those seeking a no-frills gym experience.

Standout features: Extensive network with over 2,500 locations, offering a range of cardio and strength equipment. Many clubs operate 24/7, enhancing accessibility for various schedules.

Starting price for single membership: Memberships start at a wallet-friendly $10 per month for the Classic plan, providing basic gym access.

Contract Options: Features two main membership types: Classic and PF Black Card. The latter offers additional perks and access to all locations. Some plans may include an annual fee and a 12-month commitment, so it's advisable to review the terms carefully.

Planet Fitness is known for its low-cost membership options, making it an excellent choice for students on a budget.

Each facility has a simple layout with tons of cardio and strength equipment. And many clubs are open 24 hours a day, which is great news for night owls! We also like that it often offers no-commitment memberships, allowing students the flexibility to join on a month-to-month basis. And with more than 2,500 locations in 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Canada, Panama, Mexico and Australia, Planet Fitness offers convenience for students who may move or travel frequently.

With the Planet Fitness mobile app, you can get on-demand workouts at your fingertips on days when getting to the gym is not possible. This can be convenient for students who prefer to supplement their gym workouts with at-home exercises or guidance.

Planet Fitness offers two memberships: Classic and PF Black Card. The Classic starts at $10 per month and includes unlimited access to your home club. The PF Black Card starts at $24.99 per month and features access to any club, premium digital workouts, and you can bring a guest anytime. Some memberships may include a 12-month commitment and annual fee, so make sure to read the fine print.

Best Gym Membership for Seniors: YMCA

Why we chose it: The YMCA is celebrated for its community-centric approach and extensive offerings tailored to seniors, making it a top destination for older adults seeking a supportive, resource-rich fitness environment.

Standout features: Wide-ranging amenities including pools, classes, and social activities, focused on senior wellness and engagement. Locations nationwide provide convenient access and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Starting price for single membership: Starting at $45/month, prices vary by location. Some branches offer senior discounts or partner with insurance plans for added affordability.

Seniors of all fitness levels will enjoy the amenities, exercise equipment, programming, and community the YMCA (3-day free trial here) has to offer. With access to cardio machines, strength training equipment, free weights, and functional fitness tools, the YMCA gives older adults a safe and supervised area to work out on their own or with another member.

You can participate in the senior-focused exercise classes such as yoga for seniors, chair aerobics, blood pressure monitoring, engaging social activities, water aerobics, and balance activities. Some locations also offer signature activities arthritis management and Tai Chi designed especially for fall prevention.

We really like the staffing model in place at the YMCA. In addition to front desk employees, you’ll find numerous floor attendants and trainers throughout the facility, and in areas where members congregate. They are available to answer questions, help with equipment, or simply observe while people work out. Plus, several YMCA locations offer senior pricing or partner with health insurance plans or offer Medicare-eligible members senior discounts.

Best Gym Membership for Personal Training: 24-Hour Fitness

Why we chose it: 24 Hour Fitness earns acclaim for its around-the-clock availability, comprehensive amenities, and top-tier personal training services, making it a prime choice for those prioritizing flexibility and quality in their fitness journey.

Standout features: Spacious facilities, extensive cardio and resistance equipment, turf zones, and group classes. Renowned for expert personal trainers and a welcoming environment suitable for all fitness levels.

Starting price for single membership: Membership tiers start from $19.99 per month for the Silver plan, offering value and variety to suit different fitness needs and budgets.

Contract Options: Offers membership options like Platinum, Gold, and Silver, each providing different levels of access and amenities. While some plans require a six-month commitment, others offer more flexibility, catering to various member preferences.

With spacious facilities, plenty of amenities, top personal trainers, and 300+ locations nationwide, 24 Hour Fitness (3-day free trial here) is a premium club at a reasonable price.

Taking our top spot for best gym for personal training, you will feel supported and ready to tackle new workouts with the expertise of 24 Hour Fitness trainers. Working with a trainer gives you access to customized workouts that fit your goals, training on the range of equipment at the clubs, and help building healthy habits.

We like the extensive collection of premium cardio and strength equipment, free weights, turf zones, and functional training areas available at most facilities. Plus, 24 Hour Fitness offers expert-led studio and cycle classes to help beginners get in shape. 24 Hour Fitness offers three membership types: Platinum, Gold, and Silver. Prices range from as low as $19.99 per month for Silver with a six month commitment to $49.99 per month for Platinum with no commitment.

Best for Travelers: Anytime Fitness

Why we chose it: Anytime Fitness is praised for its convenience and global accessibility, making it an ideal choice for travelers or those with unpredictable schedules, thanks to its 24/7 open doors and widespread locations.

Standout features: Key fob access system for secure, round-the-clock gym entry, and a consistent, user-friendly layout across over 4,700 locations worldwide. The Anytime Fitness app enhances the experience by facilitating gym location, class bookings, and check-ins.

Starting price for single membership: The average monthly membership is around $41, offering a solid balance of cost and convenience, with the potential for reduced rates on longer-term contracts.

Contract Options: Flexible contract terms, including 6, 12, or 18-month options, cater to varying needs and provide opportunities for savings on longer commitments.

When you’re traveling, the last thing you want to do is spend time looking for a gym. That’s why Anytime Fitness (7-day free trial here) is our top pick for best gym for people on the go. With over 4,700 locations across the globe, Anytime Fitness offers members convenience, easy access, and familiarity with similar cardio and resistance equipment and layouts across the brand. Plus, they keep the doors open 24/7, 365 days a year, with access via a fob, making it easy to exercise no matter the time zone.

Anytime Fitness locations typically have security measures in place, such as key fob entry systems and surveillance cameras. This can contribute to a safe and secure workout environment, especially for those who exercise during off-peak hours.

We also like the Anytime Fitness app, which helps locate gyms, find classes, and check in when you arrive. Monthly membership fees average $41, but you may get a lower price if you’re willing to sign a 6, 12, or 18-month contract.

Best Gym Membership for Weight Loss: LA Fitness

Why we chose it: LA Fitness is recognized for its comprehensive approach to fitness, offering a variety of equipment, classes, and amenities tailored for those seeking a full-service gym experience, particularly beneficial for individuals focusing on weight loss.

Standout features: Spacious facilities with a wide array of high-quality equipment, group fitness classes, and sports courts. Notable for its personalized fitness assessments and programs to support members' weight loss goals.

Starting price for single membership: Memberships begin at $39.99 per month for nationwide access, providing a balance of quality and variety to accommodate different fitness preferences and goals.

Spacious facilities, high-quality strength machines, cardio equipment, group exercise classes, and sports courts might be what LA Fitness (3-day free trial here) is known for, but they also have a comprehensive program to help support your weight loss efforts.

At LA Fitness, you’ll get a fitness assessment, which includes a body composition test, a personalized timeline to achieve your goals, an overview of cardio and weight equipment, and a quick one-on-one workout with a certified trainer.

For many people embarking on a weight loss journey, getting off on the right foot is key to success. That’s why we think LA Fitness is a great choice if you’re looking to change your weight in 2024. Monthly memberships start at $39.99 for nationwide access and $59.99 per month for nationwide access with one guest privilege. LA Fitness charges a $75 initiation fee for the basic membership and a $59 annual fee for both plans, so make sure to add that to your total cost.