The 10 best gyms and health clubs in 2025 offer unbeatable value, modern amenities, expert trainers, and flexible memberships to fit every lifestyle and budget. Choosing the right gym is the first—and most important—step toward your fitness goals. Whether you’re after luxury facilities, 24/7 access, group classes, or affordable pricing, knowing the best gym options can save you time, money, and disappointment.
In this guide, you’ll get a quick overview of the top gyms and health clubs this year, including their unique features, membership fees, and the latest updates or policy changes. If you want a gym that suits your specific needs—like family amenities, boutique workouts, or beginner-friendly vibes—this list will help you make a confident decision. For official details, check the gym’s own website or support pages.
What Makes a Gym or Health Club “The Best”?
Key Criteria for Ranking the Best Gyms Health Clubs
- Reputation & member satisfaction (based on online reviews, ratings, and rankings)
- Facility quality and cleanliness
- Range of equipment and classes
- Membership value (pricing, flexibility, hidden fees)
- Unique amenities (pools, saunas, sports courts, childcare)
- Accessibility (locations, hours, parking, digital options)
The gyms on this list have been selected using up-to-date reviews from reputable sources like Chatmeter’s Gym Reputation Rankings, Men’s Journal, and Smart Health Clubs.
Top 10 Best Gyms & Health Clubs in 2025
1. Planet Fitness
Planet Fitness is the go-to choice for beginners and budget-minded fitness fans.
- Over 2,500 global locations and 18+ million members.
- “Judgement Free Zone” creates a welcoming environment for everyone.
- Standard memberships from $10/month; Black Card $24.99/month (with added perks).
- No annual contracts for most memberships (check your location for details).
- Official Planet Fitness Support
Recent Update: Planet Fitness increased their Black Card price in some regions in 2025 to reflect new amenities.
2. Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness is famous for its 24/7, worldwide access—perfect for busy schedules and travelers.
- 4,700+ locations across 50 countries.
- Personalized plans and coaching included in many memberships.
- Average monthly fee: $30–$45, but can vary by location.
- Official Anytime Fitness FAQ
Recent Update: Enhanced security and digital check-in for member safety in 2025.
3. Crunch Fitness
Crunch Fitness stands out with its fun, inclusive classes and affordable pricing.
- Over 400 US locations, rapidly expanding.
- Memberships: Base ($9.99/month), Peak ($24.99/month), Premium ($29.99–$130, includes more classes).
- Unique classes like Zumba, HIIT, and even pole fitness!
- Crunch Fitness Membership Info
4. Life Time Fitness
Life Time offers resort-style fitness, perfect for families and multi-sport athletes.
- Large clubs with pools, sports courts, cafés, and kids’ activities.
- Membership: typically $79–$149/month (varies by region, family plans available).
- Known for exceptional cleanliness and community events.
- Life Time Locations & Pricing
5. Equinox
Equinox is the gold standard in luxury fitness, with spa-level amenities and elite trainers.
- 100+ US locations, with digital “Equinox+” platform.
- Average monthly fee: $200–$300 (some cities higher).
- Includes exclusive classes, on-site spa, and luxury locker rooms.
- Equinox Membership FAQ
Recent Update: Equinox settled a major NY lawsuit in 2025 over cancellation practices—now more flexible cancellation policies (source).
6. Gold’s Gym
Gold’s Gym is legendary among bodybuilders and strength enthusiasts.
- 700+ global locations; famous for its free weight areas and training atmosphere.
- Standard membership: $30–$40/month (regional variation).
- Signature clubs offer extras like sauna and group classes.
- Gold’s Gym Official
7. LA Fitness
LA Fitness offers excellent value with large gyms, pools, basketball courts, and diverse classes.
- 500+ locations, mainly in the US.
- Monthly membership: $29.99–$39.99; no long-term contract required.
- Add-on options for racquetball, personal training, etc.
- LA Fitness FAQ
8. F45 Training
F45 is the best for efficient, high-intensity group workouts.
- 3,300+ studios worldwide.
- HIIT-focused, 45-minute team training sessions.
- Membership: typically $150–$200/month, includes unlimited classes.
- F45 Official FAQ
9. Orangetheory Fitness
Orangetheory Fitness blends group energy and heart-rate tech for maximum results.
- 1,500+ studios, over 1 million global members.
- Classes monitored by heart rate for personalized feedback.
- Packages start around $59 (4 classes/month), unlimited ~$159–$189/month.
- Orangetheory FAQ
10. Pure Barre
Pure Barre specializes in low-impact, full-body toning through barre workouts.
- 640+ studios across the US.
- Monthly unlimited classes: $119–$179.
- Friendly for all fitness levels, including beginners.
- Pure Barre FAQ
Best Gym or Health Club for Your Needs
What to Consider Before Joining
- Your goals: Do you want strength, weight loss, group classes, or social events?
- Location & hours: Make sure the gym is convenient to home or work and open when you need it.
- Budget: Memberships range from $10 to $300+ per month. Always check for hidden or annual fees.
- Amenities: Pools, saunas, courts, and childcare are worth extra for many families.
- Trial periods: Most major gyms offer free passes—try before you buy!
Quick Comparison Table
| Gym / Club | Best For | Starting Price | Notable Perks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planet Fitness | Beginners, affordability | $10/mo | No-judgement, 24/7, basic |
| Anytime Fitness | Travelers, 24/7 access | $30–$45/mo | Global access, coaching |
| Crunch Fitness | Fun group classes | $9.99/mo | Unique, inclusive, wide locations |
| Life Time | Families, amenities | $79–$149/mo | Resort facilities, pools, events |
| Equinox | Luxury, spa, advanced | $200–$300/mo | Premium everything, Equinox+ app |
| Gold’s Gym | Strength, bodybuilding | $30–$40/mo | Serious lifting, sauna |
| LA Fitness | Variety, pool, sports | $29.99/mo | Basketball, swimming |
| F45 Training | HIIT, efficient workouts | $150–$200/mo | Group HIIT, personal attention |
| Orangetheory | Cardio, heart-rate tracking | $59/mo | Tech-driven, small groups |
| Pure Barre | Low-impact toning | $119/mo | Barre, instructor guidance |
FAQs About Joining a Gym or Health Club
How can I avoid hidden fees?
Always ask for a detailed contract and look for annual or sign-up fees. Some chains (e.g., Equinox) have changed their cancellation and fee policies in 2025 after lawsuits (source).
Can I pause or cancel my membership?
Most gyms now allow flexible pause/cancel options—especially post-2025 updates. Always check the terms before joining.
Are classes and amenities included?
Some gyms, like Life Time and Equinox, bundle premium amenities. Budget gyms (e.g., Planet Fitness) may charge extra for classes or guest access.
How do I find reviews for a gym near me?
Check Chatmeter Gym Rankings or Google Maps reviews for local insights.
Conclusion
The best gyms and health clubs in 2025 combine quality, value, and flexibility—so there’s something for every fitness journey. Take the time to visit a few, try out free passes, and choose the membership that matches your goals and lifestyle. For the latest details or to sign up, visit the official gym websites above.
Ready to take charge of your health? Pick one of the top gyms above, visit their website for a free trial, and start your fitness journey today!