The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Gym

Choosing the right gym is one of the most important decisions you can make when it comes to achieving your fitness goals. Whether you're looking to build strength, lose weight, boost endurance, or simply lead a healthier lifestyle, the gym you choose plays a crucial role in your success.

With so many options available—from traditional big-box gyms to smaller, boutique fitness studios like 9round—finding a place that aligns with your needs, preferences, and fitness level can be overwhelming. We’re here to help you navigate your options so you can make an informed decision that supports your health and wellness goals.

The Non-Negotiables: Location, Hours, and Convenience

When choosing a new gym, location, hours, and convenience are often the most important factors to consider. These are the "non-negotiables" that will influence how often you’re able to visit and how easily you can fit workouts into your busy schedule.  

A gym that’s conveniently located—whether near your home, workplace, or along your daily commute—will make it much easier to stick to your routine. We bet that when you started searching for a new gym, you typed "gyms near me" to find the best local options close to you.

Equally important are the gym’s operating hours. Look for a facility that fits your schedule, whether you're an early riser or prefer late-night workouts.

If you’re looking for an ultra-convenient option, 9Round is an excellent fit for busy schedules because there are no class times, so you can show up when you want rather than following a class schedule. You’ll also get a new professionally programmed workout daily, so you can skip the planning and focus on getting the most out of your session.

Choosing a gym that is both convenient and accessible will help reduce any barriers to exercise, allowing you to focus on your fitness goals rather than logistical obstacles.  

Gym Memberships: What to Expect and How to Budget

When considering a gym, understanding membership types and costs is essential to choosing the right fit for your budget. Gym memberships can vary widely based on factors such as location, amenities, and membership type.  

Common types of gym memberships include:

• Month-to-Month—A flexible membership where you pay a fixed monthly rate with no long-term commitment.
• Term Memberships—An option where you pay a set monthly rate for a specified time period, typically 3, 6, or 12 months. These plans often come with a discounted rate compared to month-to-month memberships in exchange for a longer commitment.
• Paid-in-Full or Upfront Payment—This option allows you to pay the entire membership fee for a given time upfront in exchange for significant savings. For instance, you might pay for an entire year in advance and receive a significant discount on the total cost. This may offer the best value if you're confident about your commitment and want to avoid monthly payments.
• Drop-In Rates—Many gyms offer drop-in rates for single sessions, providing flexibility for those who prefer not to commit to a membership.

Typically, gym membership rates vary depending on the equipment available, if they offer structured programs and personal training, and which amenities are available.

To budget for the gym, determine what you’re willing to spend and ensure the membership offers enough value to justify the cost.

Fitness Studios vs. Bix Box Gyms

When selecting a gym, there are a variety of factors to consider. Depending on your goals and preferences, studio-style gyms and big-box gyms each offer distinct experiences. Here are some key factors that could affect your decision: 

1. Specialization vs. Variety
• Studio-Style Gyms: Focus on specific workouts (like kickboxing, cycling, etc.) designed to meet particular fitness goals (strength, endurance, etc.).
• Big-Box Gyms: Offer a broad range of equipment and amenities for general fitness, including strength training, cardio, and additional facilities like saunas.
2. Personalized Training vs. Independent Workouts
• Studio-Style Gyms: A smaller member base allows for more personalized attention from trainers, helping to adapt workouts to different fitness levels.
• Big-Box Gyms: Limited personalized training due to larger membership base; typically, you follow your own workout routine or participate in generic group classes.
3. Community Motivation vs. Independent Experience
• Studio-Style Gyms: Strong community feel and camaraderie, with like-minded members motivating each other.
• Big-Box Gyms: Less sense of community; more of a solo experience where you're focused on your own workout.
4. Specialized Equipment vs. Equipment Variety
• Studio-Style Gyms: Access to specialized equipment tailored for specific workouts, providing exactly what you need to get the most out of your training
• Big-Box Gyms: Large variety of equipment to cater to diverse fitness needs, typically including strength and cardio machines.
5. Atmosphere & Environment
• Studio-Style Gyms: Intimate, focused environment conducive to dedicated training, with fewer distractions.
• Big-Box Gyms: Larger, often busier spaces with many activities going on at once.
6. Program Engagement & Progress Tracking
• Studio-Style Gyms: Tailored programs with progress tracking and ongoing support, ensuring long-term fitness growth.
• Big-Box Gyms: Less direct guidance or tracking of personal fitness progress.

Choosing the right gym is a deeply personal decision that depends on your fitness goals, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you thrive in the community-driven atmosphere of a studio-style gym or prefer the variety and flexibility of a big-box gym, the key is finding a place that motivates and supports you.

No matter where you start, consistency and commitment will always be the foundation of your fitness journey.