Buzz
Starting a fitness journey can take many forms, and as we mentioned earlier, obsessing over minor details isn’t always necessary. But does the choice of gym make a difference? Facilities equipped with squat racks and barbells offer diverse strength-training options, though they rarely come at a bargain price. On the other hand, boutique fitness studios, CrossFit gyms, and yoga centers often come with a hefty price tag. What exactly are you giving up by opting for budget-friendly options like Crunch or 24 Hour Fitness?
You might miss out on premium amenities, but perhaps they’re unnecessary
A basic gym membership typically grants access to equipment during specific hours and little else. If that meets your needs, you’re all set.
High-end gyms and premium memberships at budget gyms often come with additional benefits. These can range from towel and laundry services, round-the-clock gym access, multi-location privileges, guest passes, group class participation, complimentary personal training sessions, or access to saunas and pools. Upscale gyms might also feature more advanced equipment. If a particular amenity matters to you, ensure you inquire about it before committing to a membership.
However, if your primary goal is to lift weights or use exercise machines, you can manage without the extras. It’s not a dealbreaker if you need to bring your own towel or even shower at home because your gym lacks proper locker facilities. I spent years training at such a gym and thrived. You can do the same.
Barbells aren’t the only option
As someone who mainly trains with barbells, I get the temptation to dismiss gyms that don’t offer them. Regular readers might remember when I designed a workout plan for Claire Lower, our senior food editor, to help her build strength for elk bow-hunting. Her gym was a Planet Fitness. Initially, I was skeptical, but since she was already a member, we had to make it work.
What did they have? Cardio machines, strength machines, cable machines, Smith machines (resembling squat racks with fixed bars), and plenty of dumbbells. Alright, I thought, this can work. This setup is common in affordable gyms, which might also include kettlebells, resistance bands, and other miscellaneous equipment.
The good news is: This setup works perfectly. If your aim is to build strength or improve your health, this equipment is sufficient. Barbells aren’t a necessity. However, if you’re training for a barbell-focused sport like powerlifting or simply prefer barbells for their appeal, you’ll need to find a gym that offers them. Otherwise, your current gym is just fine.
Machines are effective for building strength
Budget-friendly gyms often favor machines over barbells because they’re more beginner-friendly and safer to use without guidance. They’re also easier for staff to maintain, as there’s no need to constantly gather scattered plates and collars.
Take advantage of these benefits. Machines are straightforward to use, with instructions often displayed on them. If you’re ever unsure, a quick YouTube search can help. (We’ve even compiled instructional videos for 10 popular gym machines for your reference.) It’s completely acceptable to design a workout routine that relies solely on machines, skipping free weights altogether.
Smith machines, in particular, are often misunderstood. Attempting to squat in one as you would in a squat rack can feel awkward. However, positioning your feet forward and leaning back into the bar makes leg exercises both comfortable and effective. The same applies to bench pressing on a Smith machine. For more tips, check out our Smith machine guide here.
Don’t overlook dumbbells either
Another key feature of affordable gyms is their extensive dumbbell collection. If you’re exceptionally large and strong, you might find the dumbbells insufficient, as they often max out at 75 or 100 pounds each. For larger individuals who gain significant strength, the gym’s equipment might eventually fall short. However, beginners or smaller individuals may find the selection adequate for a long time.
Dumbbells offer a wide range of exercises, and yes, there are workout programs dedicated solely to dumbbells. Beyond the standard presses, curls, and rows, you can perform dumbbell lunges, step-ups, Romanian deadlifts, and more. Lifting dumbbells is often more challenging than lifting a barbell of the same weight, so don’t underestimate their effectiveness.
Pay attention to the pricing model
Since budget gyms are so inexpensive, they often rely on revenue streams beyond the $10 (or similar) monthly fee. Additional membership tiers or extra services may offer perks not included in the basic plan, so be ready to navigate potential upsells.
They might also encourage you to sign up for personal training sessions. While investing in personal training can be beneficial if it suits your needs, carefully review the contract details to ensure you have fair cancellation options if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Also, be mindful of hidden costs. Some gyms impose initiation fees or annual renewal charges. However, if you’ve calculated the expenses and believe you’re receiving good value, go ahead and enjoy! Even a basic membership offers plenty of opportunities to achieve your fitness goals.
