Most gyms in the U.S. open early—typically between 5 AM and 6 AM on weekdays—and close late, around 10–11 PM, but these hours often change on weekends and holidays.
Knowing your gym’s hours helps you avoid frustration, get the equipment you want, and never miss a workout. Hours can vary widely by location, especially around weekends and holidays. In this guide, you’ll get the latest info on regular gym hours, special holiday and weekend schedules, which gyms stay open 24/7, and when to find your gym at its quietest.
If you ever need exact local times, check your club’s official site or app for real-time updates.
Typical Gym Hours: Weekdays vs. Weekends
Standard Opening and Closing Times (Weekdays)
The average gym opens between 5 AM and 6 AM and closes between 10 PM and 11 PM Monday through Friday.
Some high-traffic gyms, like Life Time or LA Fitness, may open as early as 4 AM. Smaller gyms or local clubs might close as early as 9 PM. Many chains offer extended or even 24/7 hours using keycard access after staff leaves.
- Most common opening: 5 AM–6 AM (sometimes 4 AM)
- Most common closing: 10 PM–11 PM
- 24/7 clubs: Always open for members with secure entry
Weekend Gym Hours
On Saturdays and Sundays, most gyms open later and close earlier, often 7 AM–8 AM opening and 7 PM–8 PM closing.
You’ll usually see reduced staff, shorter class schedules, and some amenities (like kids’ clubs or saunas) may be closed on weekends.
- Weekend opening: 7 AM–8 AM
- Weekend closing: 7 PM–8 PM
- 24-hour gyms: Remain open as usual
Tip: Always confirm weekend hours in your gym’s app or at the front desk, as changes are common.
Gym Hours on Holidays & Special Events
Most gyms adjust hours or close for major holidays.
Here’s what’s typical in the U.S. for 2024:
- Open with reduced hours: Memorial Day, Labor Day, Independence Day, MLK Day
- Closed or very limited: Thanksgiving, Christmas Day, Easter Sunday, New Year’s Day
- 24/7 gyms: Usually open, but with no staff or limited amenities on holidays
For example, 24 Hour Fitness stays open most holidays but closes on Christmas Day and operates reduced hours on Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve.
Some UK gyms like Pure Gym and The Gym Group remain 24/7 even on bank holidays, while others (David Lloyd, Bannatyne, Virgin Active) post special schedules (source, 2024).
Always check your gym’s website or app before heading out on holidays.
Major U.S. Gym Chains: Sample Hours & Holiday Policies
| Gym Brand | Weekday Hours | Weekend Hours | Holiday Hours & Policies |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planet Fitness | 24/7 at many clubs | 24/7 at many clubs | Reduced staffed hours & amenities on holidays (details) |
| LA Fitness | 5 AM–11 PM | 8 AM–8 PM | Reduced hours/closed on major holidays (info) |
| YMCA | 5:30 AM–10 PM | 7 AM–6 PM | Varies by branch; many closed on holidays (find your YMCA) |
| 24 Hour Fitness | 24/7 at select clubs | 24/7 at select clubs | Closed/limited on Christmas & Thanksgiving (official site) |
| Gold’s Gym | 5 AM–11 PM | 7 AM–8 PM | Reduced hours on most holidays (source) |
Always check your local branch for exact times!
Peak and Off-Peak Times: When Is the Gym Most Crowded?
Gyms are busiest on weekdays from 6–9 AM and 5–7 PM—right before and after work.
You’ll find the gym much quieter during:
- Mid-mornings: 9–11 AM
- Afternoons: 2–4 PM
- Late evenings: After 8 PM
- Sundays: Especially 8–10 AM
Saturday mornings (9 AM–12 PM) are often the busiest on weekends.
For the least crowded experience, check Google Maps “Popular Times” or your gym’s app for real-time updates (EnergyM source).
How to Find Your Gym’s Exact Hours
- Check the official website or mobile app for real-time info.
- Call your local branch—front desk staff are happy to help.
- Follow your gym on social media for announcements and schedule changes.
- Look for hours posted at the gym entrance (many post daily schedules).
Pro Tip: Many gyms email or text schedule changes before holidays. If you’re not getting alerts, ask staff to add you to their notification list.
Gym Hours, Closures, and 24/7 Access
Are any gyms open 24/7?
Yes! Many chains (Planet Fitness, 24 Hour Fitness, The Gym Group) offer 24-hour access at select locations. Staff and amenities may be limited overnight.
Why do hours change on weekends and holidays?
Member demand drops outside the workweek and on holidays, so gyms adjust hours to match usage and allow for deep cleaning or maintenance.
How can I avoid the gym rush?
Aim for weekday late mornings, mid-afternoons, or after 8 PM, and check your gym’s real-time “busy hours” tools.
Conclusion
Knowing your gym’s hours and busy periods gives you the freedom to work out on your own schedule—without crowds or surprises.
Check your gym’s official website or app for the latest info, especially before weekends or holidays. Thinking about joining a gym? Ask about their regular, weekend, and holiday hours before signing up for a membership.
Take charge of your fitness: Check your gym’s schedule today and plan your next session for peak results!