What Is The Gym Group?
The Gym Group is a UK-based chain of low-cost, 24/7 fitness clubs that offers no-contract gym memberships. Founded in 2007 by John Treharne in Hounslow, West London, the company has grown significantly over the years and is now listed on the London Stock Exchange. As of December 2022, The Gym Group operates over 229 gyms across the UK with more than 821,000 members. Memberships start from £13.99 per month for basic plans. Their flexible membership options allow users to join without long-term commitments. Gyms are open around the clock for convenience. Facilities include modern cardio and strength training equipment. The company focuses on providing accessible fitness facilities to diverse communities, including areas with socioeconomic challenges.
The Gym Group has been recognized for its contributions to making fitness more accessible. It was named one of the Sunday Times Best Places to Work in 2024 due to its strong culture and employee satisfaction. Additionally, it became the first carbon-neutral gym chain in the UK as of December 2022 and achieved a verified net-zero target by early 2023. Overall, The Gym Group is known for breaking down barriers to fitness by offering affordable and convenient gym access across various locations throughout the United Kingdom.
How Does The Gym Group Work?
The Gym Group operates as a low-cost, no-contract gym with 24/7 access at most locations. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how it works:
Signing Up for a Membership
- You sign up online through The Gym Group website or app.
- Memberships are monthly with no contract, meaning you can cancel anytime.
- Some locations offer day passes if you don’t want a full membership.
Accessing the Gym
- After signing up, you receive a PIN code to enter the gym.
- Simply enter your PIN on the keypad at the entrance to gain access.
- No need for a membership card or receptionist check-in.
Gym Facilities & Equipment
- Cardio Zone – Treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bikes, and ellipticals.
- Strength Training – Free weights, resistance machines, squat racks, and benches.
- Functional Training Area – Kettlebells, battle ropes, TRX suspension training, and stretching mats.
- Studio for Group Classes – Free live classes like HIIT, yoga, and spin.
Group Classes & Personal Training
- Free live group fitness classes included with membership (unlike some budget gyms).
- Personal training is available for an extra fee, and trainers are independent, so pricing varies.
The Gym Group App
- Allows you to track workouts, find class schedules, and access virtual workouts.
- Lets you upgrade or cancel your membership anytime.
Multi-Gym Access
- If you travel frequently, you can get a “LIVE IT” membership, which gives you access to multiple Gym Group locations.
Gym Etiquette & Rules
- Bring your own towel and water bottle.
- Use the self-service lockers (some locations require your own padlock).
- No need to book workouts – just walk in and start training anytime.
Cancelling or Changing Membership
- You can cancel anytime online with no extra fees.
- Membership changes, like upgrading to multi-gym access, can be done via the website or app.
Final Thoughts
The Gym Group is designed for convenience and affordability, with easy access, no contracts, and 24/7 availability. It’s perfect for people who want a basic but effective gym without unnecessary extras.
The Gym Group vs. Other Gym Memberships
The Gym Group is a budget-friendly, no-contract, and 24/7 gym chain in the UK. Here is how it compares to other gym memberships like PureGym, Basic-Fit, Anytime Fitness, and premium gyms.
Pricing
The Gym Group: One of the cheapest gyms in the UK, starting from £15–£25 per month, depending on location. No joining fees at times. PureGym: Similar pricing, typically £15–£35 per month, but sometimes has higher joining fees. Basic-Fit: Lower prices (€19.99/month) but only available in Europe. Anytime Fitness: More expensive, around £35–£50 per month, but offers 24/7 access worldwide. Premium Gyms (David Lloyd, Virgin Active): Expensive, typically £60–£150 per month, but include pools, saunas, and high-end facilities.
Pricing – verdict: The Gym Group is one of the most affordable options, especially for UK-based members.
Contract & Flexibility
The Gym Group: Fully no-contract, cancel anytime. PureGym: No contract for most memberships, but some require a 12-month commitment. Basic-Fit: Monthly or annual contracts, harder to cancel. Anytime Fitness: Usually 12-month contracts, making cancellation less flexible. Premium Gyms: Require long-term contracts (6–12 months).
Contract & Flexibility – verdict: The Gym Group and PureGym offer the most flexible memberships.
Opening Hours & Access
The Gym Group: Most locations open 24/7. PureGym: Almost all gyms are 24/7. Anytime Fitness: 24/7 worldwide access but more expensive. Basic-Fit: Some locations are not 24/7, depending on the country. Premium Gyms: Not 24/7 but have longer opening hours than budget gyms.
Opening Hours & Access – verdict: The Gym Group, PureGym, and Anytime Fitness are the best choices for 24/7 access.
Equipment & Facilities
The Gym Group has modern cardio machines, free weights, resistance machines, and functional zones. PureGym is similar but has slightly larger workout spaces in some locations. Basic-Fit provides basic but quality equipment. Anytime Fitness offers good equipment, but its locations are smaller than those of The Gym Group. Premium gyms have more extensive equipment, including pools, squash courts, and recovery zones.
Equipment & Facilities – verdict: The Gym Group provides solid equipment, but premium gyms offer luxury extras.
Group Classes & Training
The Gym Group includes live group classes in its membership. PureGym offers some live classes, but they are only included in certain plans. Basic-Fit only provides virtual classes without live instructors. Anytime Fitness offers small-group personal training, but it costs extra. Premium gyms have live yoga, HIIT, spinning, dance, and more.
Classes & Training – verdict: The Gym Group is one of the few budget gyms that include free live classes.
Personal Training & Coaching
The Gym Group has personal trainers available, but sessions cost extra. PureGym offers a similar model, where personal trainers can be booked separately. Basic-Fit does not provide personal training unless it is booked separately. Anytime Fitness includes personal training in some of its higher-tier memberships. Premium gyms often include personal training in certain membership plans.
Training & Coaching – verdict: If personal coaching is a priority, Anytime Fitness or premium gyms might be a better choice.
Locations & Multi-Gym Access
The Gym Group has over 230 gyms in the UK, and its “LIVE IT” membership allows access to multiple locations. PureGym has over 370 gyms in the UK, slightly more than The Gym Group. Basic-Fit has over 1400 locations but only operates in Europe. Anytime Fitness has more than 4000 locations worldwide, making it the best option for frequent travelers. Premium gyms have fewer locations, mostly in major cities.
Locations & Multi-Gym – verdict: For global access, Anytime Fitness is the best option, while for UK-based users, PureGym has slightly more locations than The Gym Group.
Extras & Facilities
The Gym Group does not include pools, saunas, or spas, offering only essential gym facilities. PureGym is similar and does not provide extra wellness facilities. Basic-Fit also lacks additional services beyond standard gym equipment. Anytime Fitness has some locations with recovery areas. Premium gyms include swimming pools, saunas, steam rooms, and cafes.
Extras & Facilities – verdict: Those looking for luxury extras may prefer premium gyms like David Lloyd or Virgin Active.
Your First Visit To The Gym Group: What To Expect
Visiting The Gym Group for the first time is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you need to know to get started.
Signing Up for a Membership
The Gym Group operates on a no-contract basis, meaning you can sign up online at any time. Membership options vary by location but typically range from £15 to £25 per month. Some locations also offer day passes for one-time visits. After signing up, you will receive a unique PIN code via email, which you will use to enter the gym. There is no need for a membership card or receptionist check-in.
Entering the Gym
Once you arrive, locate the entrance keypad and enter your PIN code. The door will unlock, granting you access to the gym. If you have trouble, use the help station available at most locations. The Gym Group is largely self-service, so there may not always be staff at the front desk.
Exploring the Facilities
The Gym Group provides a range of workout equipment, including treadmills, rowing machines, exercise bikes, and ellipticals in the cardio area. Strength training options include free weights, resistance machines, squat racks, and benches. The functional training area offers kettlebells, battle ropes, TRX suspension trainers, and stretching mats. Some locations also have dedicated studio spaces for group fitness classes.
Group Classes and Personal Training
Unlike some budget gyms, The Gym Group includes live group classes in its membership. Class schedules vary by location and can be found online or in the Gym Group app. If you prefer one-on-one guidance, personal training services are available at an additional cost. Trainers operate independently, so pricing and availability may differ.
Using the Gym Group App
The Gym Group app allows you to track workouts, check gym occupancy levels, and find class schedules. You can also use it to update your membership, upgrade to multi-gym access, or cancel your subscription if needed.
Bringing Essentials
The Gym Group provides lockers, but you may need to bring your own padlock, depending on the location. Showers and changing rooms are available, but towel service is not included. It is recommended to bring a water bottle and a workout towel for hygiene purposes.
Gym Etiquette and Rules
To ensure a comfortable environment for all members, follow basic gym etiquette. Wipe down equipment after use, avoid using machines for extended periods during peak hours, and store weights properly after lifting. The Gym Group has a relaxed dress code, but wearing appropriate athletic wear and clean indoor shoes is expected.
Exiting the Gym and Next Steps
When you finish your workout, simply leave through the designated exit. Your PIN code remains active as long as your membership is valid, so you can return anytime. If you need to make changes to your membership or have questions, you can manage everything through the website or app.
Final Tips for Your First Visit
Try visiting during off-peak hours to get familiar with the gym before it becomes crowded. Check the class schedule in advance if you want to join a session. Bring any necessary items such as a water bottle, towel, and padlock to make your visit smoother.
The Gym Group Cost
The Gym Group offers affordable gym memberships with various pricing tiers to suit different needs. Here’s an overview of their membership costs:
- Basic Membership: Prices start from as little as £15.56 per month for the Live It package when paid annually (£249 per year). This tier allows access to multiple gyms across the UK.
- Standard Membership: The Do It package provides unlimited training and classes at a single gym, starting from £17.99 per month.
- Student Membership: There is also a student-specific membership option available, which is equivalent to approximately £16.58 per month.
Key Features Included in Memberships
- 24/7 Access: All members have access to facilities around the clock.
- Fitness Classes: Members can participate in various fitness classes like boxing, spin, HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training), and weight training.
- Equipment Availability: Gyms are equipped with modern cardio and strength training equipment.
Pricing Comparison
Compared to other UK gyms:
- The average cost of a gym membership in the UK is about £47.24 per month for peak memberships.
- Low-cost budget gyms typically charge around £24.51 on average.
The Gym Group’s pricing strategy focuses on affordability while offering quality facilities and services across multiple locations throughout England, Scotland, and Wales.
For specific deals or promotions that might be available at any given time, it’s advisable to check directly with The Gym Group or visit their website for updates on current offers.
The Gym Group: Pros and Cons
PROS ✔️
Affordable Membership – One of the cheapest gym options in the UK, with prices starting from £15–£25 per month.
No Contract – Fully flexible memberships with no long-term commitment, allowing you to cancel anytime.
24/7 Access – Most locations are open 24/7, making it convenient for people with different schedules.
Modern Equipment – Well-equipped with cardio machines, free weights, resistance machines, and functional training areas.
Free Group Classes – Unlike some budget gyms, The Gym Group includes live fitness classes at no extra cost.
Self-Service Entry – Easy access with a unique PIN code, removing the need for reception check-ins.
Multi-Gym Access – The “LIVE IT” membership allows members to use multiple locations across the UK.
Good Location Coverage – Over 230 gyms across the UK, with many locations in major cities and towns.
Personal Training Available – Members can book personal trainers for extra guidance, though this comes at an additional cost.
The Gym Group App – Provides workout plans, virtual classes, gym occupancy tracking, and membership management.
CONS ❌
Limited Staff Availability – As a self-service gym, there are fewer staff members on-site to provide assistance.
No Luxury Amenities – Unlike premium gyms, The Gym Group does not offer pools, saunas, steam rooms, or spa facilities.
Can Get Crowded – Peak hours, especially in city-center locations, can result in long wait times for equipment.
No Free Personal Training – While personal trainers are available, sessions come at an additional cost.
Locker Policy – Some locations require you to bring your own padlock for lockers.
Basic Facilities – The gym provides essential workout equipment but lacks extra features such as smoothie bars or relaxation areas.
Strict Guest Policy – Guests are only allowed with the “LIVE IT” membership, and they must enter with the paying member.
No Social Atmosphere – The Gym Group is designed for independent workouts, so it may not offer the strong community feel of boutique fitness studios.
Cancellation Process – Although there is no contract, some members report difficulty canceling through the online system.
Final Verdict: Is The Gym Group Worth It?
The Gym Group is a great choice for budget-conscious gym-goers looking for affordable, no-contract, and 24/7 access to a well-equipped gym. With modern equipment, free group classes, and flexible memberships, it is one of the best value-for-money options in the UK.
For those who prefer independence and self-guided workouts, The Gym Group provides everything needed for strength training, cardio, and functional fitness. Live group classes are included, which is a major advantage over some other budget gyms.
However, it lacks premium amenities such as pools, saunas, steam rooms, and dedicated wellness areas. There are also fewer staff members on-site, meaning those who need frequent guidance or a social gym atmosphere may find it less appealing.
Who Should Join The Gym Group?
- People looking for an affordable gym with no long-term commitment
- Those who want 24/7 access for flexible workout times
- Individuals who prefer self-service gyms with modern equipment
- Anyone who enjoys free group fitness classes
- Beginners and experienced gym-goers who do not need luxury facilities
Who Might Want to Look Elsewhere?
- Those who want pools, saunas, or steam rooms as part of their membership
- People who need constant staff support or a strong social gym environment
- Individuals looking for personal training included in the membership fee
- Frequent travelers who need global gym access, as Anytime Fitness may be a better option
The Gym Group: Bottom Line
The Gym Group is worth it for those who want a no-frills, budget-friendly gym with 24/7 access and a good selection of equipment. It may not be ideal for those seeking premium facilities, but for a low-cost gym experience, it is one of the best options available in the UK.
