The Top Fitness Clubs in America

When it comes to choosing a fitness club, potential members typically consider a combination of location, cost, facilities, services, atmosphere, and personal preference. Most often, it’s a balance of factors that align with an individual’s fitness goals and lifestyle.

But in an incredibly competitive market, what sets fitness clubs apart?

According to our market research, there are four key themes that the best clubs all share:

1. Environment

The environment of a gym is crucial to its members for several reasons, as it significantly influences their overall experience and motivation. 

Here are some specific things members look for in the environment of a fitness club:

• Cleanliness: A clean and well-maintained gym environment is essential for the health and safety of its members. Clean equipment, well-kept facilities, and proper hygiene practices create a more comfortable and enjoyable workout experience.
• Safety: The club should have adequate safety features, such as emergency exits, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. The staff should also be trained in first aid and CPR.
• Welcoming and Inclusive Atmosphere: A club that promotes inclusivity and caters to a diverse range of individuals is likely to attract a wider membership base. An inclusive atmosphere ensures that everyone feels welcome, regardless of their fitness level, age, or background. The staff should also be friendly and helpful.
• Effective Use of Space: A well-designed layout that optimizes space and minimizes congestion is crucial for a gym’s functionality. Members should feel comfortable moving between different workout areas without feeling cramped or restricted.
• Different Areas: The club should offer a variety of spaces to work out, such as a weight room, cardio area, and group fitness studio.

2. Enrollment

The enrollment options of a gym are important to members for several reasons, as they impact the accessibility, flexibility, and overall satisfaction of individuals seeking fitness services.

Key reasons why enrollment options matter to gym members include:

• Trial Memberships: Trial memberships or one-time free passes allow potential members to experience the club before making a long-term commitment. This flexibility can be crucial in attracting new members and ensuring that the gym meets their expectations.
• No-Contract Options: Offering no-contract or short-term contract options provides members with flexibility and freedom. Some potential members may be hesitant to commit to long-term contracts, and having options that accommodate shorter durations can be appealing.
• Payment Flexibility: Flexible payment options, such as the ability to pay monthly or annually, contribute to member satisfaction. Providing various payment methods and allowing members to choose the billing cycle that suits them can improve overall convenience.

3. Staff

The staff of a fitness club play a pivotal role in shaping the overall member experience. From providing guidance and motivation to ensuring safety and addressing concerns, a dedicated and well-trained staff contributes significantly to the satisfaction and success of gym members.

Specific qualities to look for in the staff at a fitness club include:

• Caring and Attentive: A friendly and attentive staff creates a welcoming atmosphere for members. Positive interactions with staff members contribute to a sense of belonging and encourage members to feel comfortable in the gym environment.
• Accessibility: Approachable staff members create an environment where members feel comfortable asking questions, seeking assistance, or requesting guidance in their workouts. This accessibility fosters a sense of community and support.
• Guidance and Expertise: Knowledgeable fitness trainers and staff can provide valuable guidance on exercise routines, proper form, and personalized fitness plans. Their expertise is especially important for beginners or individuals with specific fitness goals.
• Class Instruction: If your facility offers group fitness classes, the quality of instruction from staff members is critical. Well-trained instructors can lead engaging and effective classes that keep members motivated and coming back.

4. Products & Services

The products and services offered by a fitness club are crucial to its members for several reasons, as they significantly influence the overall value, experience, and satisfaction of individuals using the facility.

Here are examples of specific elements potential members look for at a fitness club:

• Fitness Equipment: The quality and variety of fitness equipment are incredibly important for members to achieve their workout goals. A well-equipped club with a range of machines and tools allows members to diversify their exercises and target different muscle groups.
• Variety of Classes and Programs: Group fitness classes, specialized training programs, and workshops add value to a club membership. These offerings provide members with structured workouts, social interaction, and opportunities to learn new skills or exercise specific techniques.
• Health and Wellness Programs: Clubs that go beyond basic fitness services to incorporate health and wellness programs, including stress management, mindfulness, or injury prevention, can provide a more holistic approach to members’ well-being.
• Amenities: Additional amenities such as showers, locker rooms, saunas, and pools enhance the overall convenience and comfort of a fitness club, making it more appealing to potential members.
• Inclusive Programming: Clubs that prioritize inclusivity by offering programs suitable for individuals of various fitness levels, abilities, and ages create a welcoming environment for a diverse range of members.

The Top 5 Luxury Gyms in America

Potential fitness club members often enjoy luxury gyms because these facilities provide a premium fitness experience that extends beyond traditional workout spaces. The combination of high-quality amenities, personalized services, and a focus on overall well-being contributes to the appeal of luxury gym memberships.

In our opinion, the top five luxury gyms in America include:

1. Equinox: This is the most luxurious gym chain in America, offering premium services, facilities, and experiences to its members. It has a reputation for being exclusive, trendy, and innovative.
2. Life Time: A close second to Equinox, Life Time offers a comprehensive range of health and wellness services to its members. It has a reputation for being spacious, diverse, and family-friendly.
3. The Houstonian: This is a unique gym that is part of a hotel and spa complex in Houston, Texas. It offers a variety of fitness, sports, spa, and leisure activities to its members. It has a reputation for being elegant, serene, and classy.
4. David Barton Gym: This is a stylish gym chain that has locations in New York, Miami, Chicago, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles. It offers cutting-edge equipment, personal training, group classes, and nightlife events to its members. It has a reputation for being fashionable, glamorous, and fun.
5. EXOS: This is a specialized gym chain that focuses on performance training for athletes, military personnel, and corporate clients. It offers customized programs, advanced technology, recovery services, and nutrition coaching to its members. It has a reputation for being elite, professional, and effective.

The Top 5 Gym Franchises in America

Fitness enthusiasts enjoy gym franchises for the consistency, accessibility, affordability, and diverse offerings they provide. The combination of these factors contributes to a positive and flexible fitness experience that meets the needs of a wide range of individuals.

The top five gym franchises in America include:

1. Planet Fitness: This is the most popular gym franchise in America, offering cardio, strength, circuit training, and more. It has a massive membership of fitness beginners who like its simplicity, price, and judgment-free atmosphere.
2. Gold’s Gym: This is the most iconic gym franchise in America, specializing in bodybuilding and strength training. It has a loyal fan base of fitness enthusiasts who appreciate its history, culture, and results.
3. Crunch Fitness: This is the most innovative gym franchise in America, offering a variety of classes, equipment, personal training, and online workouts. It has a large following of fitness lovers who enjoy its creativity, vibe, and affordability.
4. 24 Hour Fitness: This is the most convenient gym franchise in America, offering fitness, sports, group exercise, personal training, and more. It has a diverse customer base of fitness seekers who value its service, flexibility, and accessibility.
5. Anytime Fitness: This is the most accessible gym franchise in America, offering fitness, personal training, group classes, and more. It has a growing network of fitness fans who appreciate its availability, quality, and community.

The Importance of Having Gym Management Software

Technology plays an important role in the best fitness clubs according to Forbes. In fact, 70% of ABC Fitness customers are among the top gym memberships for the year.

ABC Ignite is a gym management software that helps fitness businesses streamline operations, maximize member retention, and scale for future growth. It redefines how fitness operators and members interact with technology.

If your fitness club uses ABC Ignite, members will be able to easily book classes, schedule appointments, track their progress, and access on-demand workouts anywhere. Plus, the mobile app and personalized recommendations help members stay on track with their training—almost like they have a personal trainer in their very own pocket.