The average cost of the best gym memberships in the UK is £40 monthly, depending on many factors like location, amenities, and membership type.
So you do not have to break the bank to have a gym membership. Yes, that is true, as not all gym memberships are expensive. But, even though most people understand the need for exercise and fitness, the assumed high cost keeps many of them away.
With over 3000 gyms across the UK, with different pros and cons, you are bound to find one that fits your budget and needs. However, if you only focus on looking for cheap gyms rather than getting the best value for your money, you might end up with a gym membership that you will regret.
Want to find out what to look out for when choosing a gym membership? Keep reading.
This article will discuss the average cost of gym memberships, the factors that affect them, money-saving tactics, and budget-friendly gym memberships. So, let’s get right to it.
The average cost of the best gym memberships in the UK is £40 monthly, depending on many factors like location, amenities, and membership type. However, this doesn’t mean that all gym memberships cost this or higher, as you can find much cheaper options. Plus, with the post-pandemic fitness surge and the high cost of living crisis, most gyms are charging less than they did pre-pandemic in a bid to keep their clientele.
You can find gym memberships for as low as £10 monthly, but there is no guarantee that these low-cost memberships will suit your needs.
There are multiple reasons why some gym memberships cost more than others, and we will discuss several of them below.
The type of gym will determine whether or not the cost of gym membership will be high. For example, a 24-hour access gym membership will cost more than a gym that has a set opening and closing period. On the other hand, membership gyms with multiple amenities like a pool, sauna, personal training, and a basketball court will cost more than a small group training gym. Additionally, other gyms that will have varying costs of gym memberships include training gyms, boot camps, and CrossFit gyms.
If the gym is in a high-traffic location with expensive real estate, like London, there is a high probability that the gym membership will be more costly than in a regular-priced area like Cardiff. Also, suppose the gym is in a competitive location with other gyms. In that case, the membership prices might be less costly to attract more customers, and multiple discounts will be available to take the customers from other gyms.
The membership package you choose will determine the overall cost of your gym membership, as some membership plans cost more than others. For example, annual memberships, which enable you to make a single yearly payment for gym services, will be a little less expensive than monthly memberships that are paid monthly. Pay-as-you-go membership types, on the other hand, allow you to pay only when you go to the gym, and they cost less than the no-contract gym membership that you can cancel at any time.
The number of amenities the gym offers will determine how expensive the membership will be. For example, a gym with the lasts gym equipment, swimming pool, sauna, massage therapists, and other amenities will be much more expensive than a gym with only basic workout machines. This means that if you want a gym with the most up-to-date equipment, you have to be ready to pay more.
The cost of running the gym is an essential factor that affects gym membership prices. Most gym enthusiasts will opt for a gym with updated equipment for a higher cost over one that needs an upgrade for less. This means that the more updated the gym equipment, the higher the membership cost. Another overhead cost is cleaning and maintenance; this ensures that the facilities in the gym are maintained and everywhere is clean. Besides, would you rather go to a clean gym that costs more or a dirty gym that is cheap?
People who work in the gym must get paid, and the higher their experience and training level, the more they will earn. This means that if you go to a gym with popular fitness trainers working there, you will most likely pay a high membership price.
Most people that join the gym need fitness trainers to instruct them, and most times, some gyms include an additional cost for members that will need a fitness trainer. However, most gyms consider fitness trainers’ costs when calculating their membership prices.
Smaller gyms will require less maintenance and equipment, translating to less pricy memberships than larger gyms, which will cost more to rent, maintain, and update. This means that the lesser the overhead costs, the less the membership cost.
Not all gyms include the cost of developing and designing their facilities in their membership costs, but it is a factor that matters. Because the more expensive the facilities costs are, the pricier the gym memberships will be.
The cost of gym memberships varies across the different regions in the UK. Like any location, you can find varying costs of gym memberships in London.
Some go as low as £10, while others, like Equinox, go as high as £350 per month. On the other hand, Northern Ireland has an average gym membership cost of £40.
After comparing the costs in the different other regions in the UK – England, Wales, East Midlands, East of England, Scotland, South East, North East, and North West, the conclusion is that even though the prices vary with region, the average cost remains the same.
This comprehensive list of affordable gyms serves as a roadmap to the most cost-effective gyms in your vicinity, ensuring that your search for the perfect workout haven is both stress-free and fruitful.
Unveiling an accessible path to fitness, The Gym Group operates a network spanning 380 locations across England, Scotland and Wales. Diverse needs and financial circumstances find a match here with memberships initiated at a modest £18.77 per month or £169/year. Those immersed in academia benefit from a tailored student gym membership, competitively priced, translating to roughly £18.77 monthly.
The Gym Group curates two distinct tiers of membership packages. Each tier is designed to accommodate individual fitness trajectories, from the casual visitor to the dedicated regular. Every member gains access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities that uphold the ethos of value without compromising on quality or availability.
Discover how PureGym makes fitness accessible and affordable. Boasting a strategic presence with 380 locations across the country, finding a PureGym nearby is a seamless experience. With membership prices beginning at a modest £15.99 per month, the value proposition is clear. A spectrum of amenities ranging from high-quality equipment to a variety of fitness classes complements the affordable rates, providing an optimal blend for budget-conscious gym-goers.
Navigating their website or mobile app reveals a user-friendly interface where signing up or managing your membership is straightforward. Additionally, the provision of personal trainers and custom workout plans can be availed for those who seek a guided fitness regime.
Engage with the PureGym community online through their social platforms, which provide motivational insights and tips for a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned athlete, the inclusive atmosphere welcomes all who wish to pursue their fitness targets without financial strain.
Finding a gym that offers both affordability and a wide range of facilities can be a jackpot for fitness enthusiasts. Better Gyms rises to the occasion, presenting a suite of options tailored to diverse requirements and schedules.
Consider the nationwide Better Health UK Monthly membership, a comprehensive package priced at £65 a month. This membership grants you the freedom to use any gym, pool, or fitness class at local Better facilities. Imagine the convenience, one membership providing the golden ticket to facilities across different locations.
For those with a more flexible schedule or looking to save, the Better Health Saver membership is a bargain at £24.50. This option offers off-peak access to Better’s range of services. Imagine revisiting your day’s schedule, finding that optimal window where gym and wallet align.
Are you pursuing an education? The weight of academia need not derail your fitness journey. With a specially discounted membership of only £38 a month, students can maintain their health routine without upsetting their budget. Reflect on the energy and focus a regular workout can add to your studies.
Moving beyond the cost, the wider implication is clear: These memberships pave the way for a healthier lifestyle, unhindered by financial restraints. Would this blend of flexibility and affordability not streamline the path to your fitness goals?
Searching for a gym that harmonizes luxury with value? David Lloyd Clubs Monthly memberships for individuals commence at a competitive rate of £94.50. Those partnering up for fitness could take advantage of the couple’s membership, priced attractively at £77 each per month.
For young adults looking to maintain their fitness regime without breaking the bank, the young adult membership stands at an inviting £55.95 per month. This dedicated price bracket facilitates a more affordable entry point without compromising on the unparalleled facilities and services characteristic of David Lloyd Clubs.
Members have access to a breadth of state-of-the-art fitness equipment, an array of classes, luxurious spa facilities, and swimming pools, ensuring a comprehensive fitness experience. The investment in a David Lloyd membership not only opens doors to physical training but also to a community and lifestyle that supports overall well-being.
With Virgin Active, budget-conscious fitness enthusiasts can grab an off-peak membership at just £54 per month. For those seeking unrestricted, anytime gym access, the rates remain competitive with yearly memberships at £59.99 per month.
Virgin Active clubs come with a promise of a premium experience inclusive of well-maintained equipment, a variety of classes, and additional amenities. As a renowned name in the fitness industry, Virgin Active tailors its offerings to meet the needs of modern lifestyles with flexible options for varied schedules and budgets.
Nuffield Health stands out with a proposition that balances affordability with comprehensive health support. The minimum monthly investment starts at £25/month and for any time access stands at £75, while those opting for off-peak hours benefit from a reduced rate of £64. These fees reflect not just gym access, but a commitment to overall wellness.
Factoring in the value provided, Nuffield Health members receive significant financial advantages on additional health services. A 20% reduction applies to physiotherapy, a pivotal service for both recovery and preventive care. Health assessments, which are critical for monitoring and maintaining health, also come at a 20% reduced cost, as do mental health support services. Such provisions ensure that Nuffield Health members are equipped to prioritize their health in a holistic manner, beyond the bounds of conventional gym services.
Do you value a gym that caters to all dimensions of your health? Reflect on the integrated approach Nuffield Health offers. Consider how a membership can align with not only your fitness objectives but also your broader health goals. The financial benefits of discounted health services could significantly outweigh the upfront cost of a membership.
Discover a budget-friendly option in Everlast Gyms with their competitive membership fees. A typical Core membership can be secured at £30 per month anchored to a 12-month commitment and exempts you from a joining fee. This compelling offering delineates Everlast Gyms as a favorable contender for those seeking affordable fitness solutions. Elevate your gym experience with the Champion membership, modestly priced at £35 per month under the same 12-month directive, sweetened with a privilege of 10% off on in-gym consumables and merchandise.
Flexibility remains within reach for those requiring non-binding agreements. The Core flexible membership stands as a testament to this, presenting a monthly tenure at £40, unshackled by long-term commitments and needless joining fees. This flexibility encapsulates Everlast Gyms’ commitment to accommodating divergent workout schedules and financial circumstances. Choose Everlast Gyms for their blend of cost-efficiency and adaptability, enhancing your fitness journey without the strain of financial rigidity.
Xercise4Less offers no-contract gym memberships starting at £10 for the first month and £14.99 a month thereafter. However, there are only 11 gym locations currently open. This gym also offers a ladies-only area – where women can feel safe while working out. It comes with standard workout equipment and personal trainers but is not open 24/7 like The Gym.
IMPORTANT: Even if you choose a no-contract membership, after the first month you’ll be charged automatically every month until you cancel the subscription (see below for how to cancel).
EasyGym is a budget-friendly gym owned by the easyJet group. They have Bradford, Basildon, Camberwell, London, and Slough facilities. Their joining fee is £10 for a monthly membership of £19.99, while the off-peak membership rate is £12.99 monthly.
Additionally, most easyGym locations are equipped with top-of-the-line workout machines, and they have exclusive gyms in London and international clubs in France.
While gym memberships are not free, you can cut costs and save money on your gym memberships in several ways. Highlighted below are a few insights on how you can do this.
Most gyms offer countless discounts and offers, and the best way to find out about them is to ask the gyms for them. But most of the time, you wouldn’t need to do this as they usually advertise their discounts to attract new customers.
The beginning of the year is a good time to find gym membership discounts, as most gyms usually slash their prices for the first few months. You can ask if your local gym offers student discounts if you are a student. Additionally, there is usually a spike in membership deals just before summer.
Free trials are a good way for you to use a gym without the commitment to decide whether or not it is the right fit for you. Many gyms nationwide typically offer free trial periods—some offer a week while others offer a month. You can use different gym free trials to work out for a couple of months and save money before finally committing to one. Plus, if you have a friend who is a gym member, they may be entitled to bring a friend along for different periods.
A good way to save money on gym memberships is to choose a membership that offers off-peak access. These are usually when people are usually at work, so the gym is not as crowded. Off-peak memberships are usually not as costly, so you can ask the gym if they offer this membership type. Besides, off-peak memberships are usually best for people with a flexible schedule as they enable you to save money while getting the workout you need.
Choosing a pay-as-you-go membership is a good money-saving tactic, as you will only pay for it when you go to the gym and nothing extra. This way, you avoid signing a yearly contract and wasting money if you do not show up. You can also pay for a one-off session or a series of sessions without committing, enabling you to change gyms easily. Besides, these yearly contracts are usually very hard to cancel and are usually the add-ons of most discounts.
Nowadays, more gyms are offering no-contract memberships, and you can take advantage of these membership types to save money and limit contract commitment. With no contract memberships, the only difference is that you can opt-out at any time, but you are still obligated to pay your membership fees, whether monthly or weekly.
Did you know that you can negotiate your membership costs? Yes, you can, except the prices are set. If you show up ready to sign up without asking questions, you might miss out on current promos. You can speak to the sales team and ensure they give you the best deal by asking specific questions about discounts and promos.
Rather than a monthly membership, you can opt for a yearly one to save money in the long run. However, you should only opt for this if you are sure you will go to the gym regularly.
Are you paying for extra amenities like the spa, swimming pool, and massage therapy and not using them? If yes, switching to a basic membership that will allow you to use the fundamental gym equipment at a reduced cost is best. To save more money, you can also switch to a basic gym that offers the essential equipment you need with no added amenities.
Many local councils in the UK offer concession gym memberships in partnership with local gyms, like Better, to give access to people who cannot afford the gym—people on benefits like Universal Credit, income support, job seeker’s allowance, and housing benefits. Some gyms offer free concession memberships, while others offer discounts and offers like fitness classes and health assessments. Plus, there are a few not-for-profit gyms like Nuffield, YMCS, and GLL that you can visit to save money.
Many people have gym memberships but have never stepped foot inside the gym. If you are one of these people with a membership in the hopes that you will go one day, you should consider cancelling your membership. You can look for alternative workout methods like working out outdoors or at home that are more accessible. Once you are confident enough that you will go to the gym, you can restart your membership.
Month-end is when most gyms want to fill their sales quotas, so there’s a high chance that they will offer low membership rates to attract new customers. You should inquire about joining for the best deal on the last week or last day of the month.
Before you join the gym, you must ensure you are ready to be fully committed to your fitness goal. Once you determine why you want to join the gym, the next step is choosing a gym membership, and this can be difficult, especially with the over 3000 gyms in the UK. You can do this by looking at different gyms using the free trial to find the best one. Some factors you should consider apart from the cost to make your decision easier include the following.
The opening and closing hours are very important, but it is almost always overlooked. You need to consider the hours to ensure that the gym you choose will be open when you want to work out. On the other hand, there are 24-hour gyms available, but they usually do not always have staff on standby, which is also something to consider.
You need to consider whether or not the gym is in high demand, as this will influence the number of people you will find at the gym at any time. If you do not like full gyms, it is best to opt for less popular gyms to avoid waiting in lines for equipment.
The location of a gym is very important because the distance from your home or workplace is a huge factor in whether or not you will be committed. A gym can be completely furnished, but your chances of going will be minimal if it is too far away. A good plus is choosing a gym with multiple locations, enabling you to visit any location close to you on any given day.
Depending on the particular features you are looking for in a gym, you must ensure that the one you choose is equipped for your needs. If you are interested in boxing, you need to opt for a boxing gym, same goes for if you want a gym with updated weight machines and multiple sets of dumbbells. Other amenities that you can find in most gyms include massage therapy, fitness classes, daycare, a sauna, basketball courts, and tennis courts.
Look at how clean the general workout area and dressing rooms are. Are cleaning supplies available to ensure people wipe down equipment before and after use? Do they provide fresh towels or are people required to bring theirs? Answering these questions will give you a general idea of how clean the gym is.
Additionally, you must ensure that the gym you choose regularly maintains and updates its equipment.
If you want to freeze your membership at any time, you should consider a gym membership that offers a freezing membership feature. With this feature, you will be charged a lower rate. This is better than cancelling your membership and paying cancellation and start-up fees when starting your membership again.