La Fitness vs. Anytime Fitness: Which Gym Is Right for You?
Tired of the same old workout routine and looking for a gym that fits your lifestyle? Choosing between fitness centers can be a tough decision, especially with so many options available. Two popular contenders often top the list: LA Fitness and Anytime Fitness.
This comparison dives deep into the pros and cons of both, helping you determine which gym best aligns with your fitness goals and preferences. We’ll explore everything from equipment and amenities to pricing and accessibility. This will help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a seasoned gym-goer or just starting your fitness journey, understanding the differences between LA Fitness and Anytime Fitness is crucial. Get ready to uncover the details that will empower you to choose the perfect gym for your needs.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | LA Fitness | Anytime Fitness |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Locations | Large | Large |
| 24/7 Access | Limited | Yes |
| Group Fitness Classes | Yes | Limited |
| Swimming Pool | Yes | No |
| Basketball Court | Yes (select locations) | No |
| Personal Training | Yes | Yes |
| Cardio Equipment | Yes | Yes |
| Weight Training Equipment | Yes | Yes |
| Showers & Locker Rooms | Yes | Yes |
| Sauna & Steam Room | Yes (select locations) | No |
| Tanning Beds | Yes (select locations) | No |
| Childcare | Yes (select locations) | No |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Cost & Membership Options
- La Fitness: Offers a variety of membership options, often with initiation fees and tiered pricing based on access and amenities. Can be more expensive upfront, but potentially offers better value depending on usage. Pros include flexible options; cons include potential hidden fees.
- Anytime Fitness: Typically has simpler pricing structures with monthly fees, and often requires a key fob for access. Generally more affordable long-term, but might have less flexibility. Pros include 24/7 access; cons may lack some amenities.
- Winner: Anytime Fitness
Equipment Availability
- La Fitness: Generally boasts a wider range of equipment, including more machines, free weights, and specialized areas. Offers more variety for different workout styles. Pros include more options; cons include potential overcrowding.
- Anytime Fitness: Focuses on essential equipment, providing a core selection of cardio machines, strength training equipment, and free weights. May have less variety, but still sufficient for many users. Pros include essential equipment; cons may lack specialized equipment.
- Winner: LA Fitness
Hours of Operation
- La Fitness: Typically operates with extended hours, but not always 24/7. Hours vary by location. Pros include longer hours; cons are not always 24/7.
- Anytime Fitness: Provides 24/7 access to all members, allowing workouts at any time. A major selling point for those with unpredictable schedules. Pros include 24/7 access; cons may have less staff presence.
- Winner: Anytime Fitness
Amenities
- La Fitness: Often includes amenities like swimming pools, basketball courts, racquetball courts, saunas, steam rooms, and childcare services. Offers a more comprehensive experience. Pros include wider variety; cons include higher cost.
- Anytime Fitness: Typically focuses on core fitness with limited amenities like showers and sometimes tanning beds. Fewer extra features. Pros include simplicity; cons include fewer options.
- Winner: LA Fitness
Class Availability
- La Fitness: Features a wide variety of group fitness classes, including spin, Zumba, yoga, and more, all included in membership. Offers a great option to diversify workouts. Pros include class variety; cons include potential class overcrowding.
- Anytime Fitness: May offer limited group classes, or none at all, depending on the location. Often focuses on individual workouts. Pros include simplicity; cons may lack class options.
- Winner: LA Fitness
Location & Accessibility
- La Fitness: Has a large number of locations, but may be concentrated in certain areas. Accessibility varies based on location. Pros include wide variety of locations; cons include some locations may be crowded.
- Anytime Fitness: Has many locations, often in smaller, more accessible spaces, with a presence in many communities. Provides good accessibility. Pros include location diversity; cons include may be smaller locations.
- Winner: Anytime Fitness
Contract Flexibility
- La Fitness: Offers various membership terms, which can be long-term commitments. Cancellation policies and fees may apply. Pros include flexibility; cons include potential long-term contracts.
- Anytime Fitness: Usually offers shorter, more flexible contracts, and a more straightforward cancellation process. Pros include contract flexibility; cons include pricing can be higher.
- Winner: Anytime Fitness
Personal Training
- La Fitness: Provides personal training services with certified trainers, though pricing varies. A good option for personalized fitness plans. Pros include personalized training; cons include additional costs.
- Anytime Fitness: Provides personal training services, with certified trainers, with pricing that varies. Offers a good option for personalized plans. Pros include personalized training; cons include additional costs.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| 24/7 Access | Anytime Fitness |
| Group Fitness Classes | LA Fitness |
| Amenities (Pool, Basketball, Sauna) | LA Fitness |
| Convenience (Location & Hours) | Anytime Fitness |
| Overall Value | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Basic Equipment: Both gyms provide a foundation of essential workout equipment, including cardio machines and weight training tools, catering to a wide range of fitness goals. This common ground allows members to engage in fundamental exercises regardless of their specific membership.
- Personal Training: Both LA Fitness and Anytime Fitness offer personal training services, allowing members to receive guidance and support from certified professionals. This feature provides access to customized workout plans and expert advice.
- Showers and Locker Rooms: Both gyms provide shower facilities and locker rooms, allowing members to freshen up after their workouts. This is a crucial convenience for those who exercise before work or during their lunch breaks.
- Cleanliness: Both gyms generally maintain a level of cleanliness, ensuring a comfortable and hygienic environment for their members. This commitment enhances the overall workout experience.
- Membership Options: Both gyms offer various membership plans, including monthly and annual options, designed to cater to different needs and budgets. This flexibility allows members to choose the plan that best suits their preferences.
La Fitness Vs Anytime Fitness Buying Guide
Membership Costs and Fees
When considering membership costs, both La Fitness and Anytime Fitness offer various options. La Fitness typically has a higher upfront initiation fee but may offer more flexible membership tiers, including options with or without access to all locations. Anytime Fitness, in contrast, often has a lower initiation fee but relies on a more rigid contract structure, potentially with higher monthly dues. The best choice depends on your budget and how frequently you plan to use the gym. Evaluate the total cost over a year, considering hidden fees like annual maintenance charges or cancellation penalties before committing to either.
Equipment and Amenities
La Fitness generally provides a wider range of equipment and amenities than Anytime Fitness. Their facilities often include basketball courts, swimming pools, saunas, and a broader selection of cardio and weight training machines. Anytime Fitness focuses on providing core equipment and 24/7 access. While they may have fewer amenities, their convenience is attractive. Consider what activities are important to you; if you enjoy diverse workouts, La Fitness is better. If you prioritize convenience and basic equipment, Anytime Fitness is a good choice.
Location and Accessibility
Anytime Fitness prides itself on its widespread presence and 24/7 accessibility. This makes it a convenient option for those with irregular schedules or who travel frequently. La Fitness has a significant footprint, but it may not be as ubiquitous, and its hours can be more limited. Consider the proximity of locations to your home, work, and other frequently visited places. If 24/7 access is crucial, Anytime Fitness is preferable. If location is less important, and you prioritize a broader range of options, La Fitness can be better.
Contract Terms and Flexibility
Contract terms and flexibility are crucial to consider. La Fitness often has more flexible membership options, including month-to-month memberships and shorter-term commitments, although these may come at a higher cost. Anytime Fitness typically uses fixed-term contracts, which can be beneficial in terms of pricing but may be less accommodating if your circumstances change. Review the cancellation policies carefully. Ensure you understand the terms, including any potential penalties for early termination. Choose the gym that matches your needs.
Personal Training and Classes
Both gyms offer personal training services and group fitness classes, but the scope and quality can differ. La Fitness usually has a wider array of classes, from Zumba to yoga to spin classes, and might have a larger team of certified personal trainers. Anytime Fitness offers personal training, but class options are limited. Assess your interest in these services. If you want a wide variety of classes, La Fitness is preferred. For basic training, Anytime Fitness can suffice. Consider the pricing of these add-ons.
Overall Atmosphere and Community
The atmosphere and community feeling can significantly impact your gym experience. La Fitness often has a more vibrant, social environment, especially during peak hours, with a larger number of members. Anytime Fitness gyms are generally smaller and quieter. This can be great if you prefer a more private workout setting. Visit both gyms to experience the atmosphere firsthand. Consider your preference for a lively or a more intimate workout environment, as it can influence your motivation and enjoyment.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy LA Fitness If…
- You want access to a wider variety of amenities like swimming pools, basketball courts, and childcare.
- You prefer a gym with a more extensive group fitness class schedule.
- You value having access to additional features like saunas, steam rooms, and tanning beds (at select locations).
- You are looking for a gym with more expansive facilities and a broader range of equipment.
Buy Anytime Fitness If…
- You need 24/7 access to a gym.
- You prefer a gym that is conveniently located and offers a more intimate workout environment.
- You travel frequently and want access to gyms in different locations.
- You prioritize a gym that is straightforward and focuses on the core elements of fitness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary differences in membership costs?
La Fitness often has higher initiation fees but can offer more flexible membership options, including month-to-month plans, potentially making it suitable for those seeking short-term commitment. Anytime Fitness usually has lower initiation fees, but their memberships typically involve longer-term contracts. Always compare the total costs over a year, including any hidden fees or penalties, to determine the best value for your needs.
Which gym offers a wider range of equipment and amenities?
La Fitness generally provides a wider array of equipment and amenities. They often have basketball courts, swimming pools, saunas, and a more extensive selection of cardio and weight training machines. Anytime Fitness focuses on providing essential equipment and 24/7 access. The choice depends on your preferences and the activities you want to engage in during your workouts.
How accessible are the gyms, and what are their operating hours?
Anytime Fitness is known for its 24/7 accessibility, making it convenient for people with flexible schedules. La Fitness has a significant presence, but its hours are usually more limited, typically opening earlier and closing later than Anytime Fitness. Consider your daily routine and preferred workout times when evaluating the accessibility of each gym’s locations.
What are the contract terms like for each gym?
La Fitness often offers more flexible membership options, including month-to-month plans. Anytime Fitness typically uses fixed-term contracts. Review the cancellation policies carefully, paying attention to any penalties for early termination. Understanding the contract terms and flexibility is essential to ensure the gym aligns with your needs and circumstances.
Does either gym offer personal training and group classes?
Both La Fitness and Anytime Fitness offer personal training services and group fitness classes. La Fitness generally has a wider variety of classes, while Anytime Fitness offers personal training, but class options are more limited. Consider your interest in these services and the range of class types offered. Evaluate the pricing for these add-ons.
Which gym has a more social atmosphere?
La Fitness typically has a more vibrant, social environment, especially during peak hours, with a larger number of members. Anytime Fitness gyms are generally smaller and quieter, which can be preferable for those who prefer a more private workout setting. Visit both gyms if possible to experience the atmosphere first-hand, and choose the one that aligns with your preference.
How do I determine which gym is right for me?
Consider your personal fitness goals, budget, schedule, and preferences for equipment, amenities, and community. Visit both gyms if possible to get a feel for the atmosphere and evaluate the equipment. Compare the contract terms, cancellation policies, and the availability of personal training and group classes. Read online reviews. The best gym is the one that best suits your individual needs.
Final Verdict
Both La Fitness and Anytime Fitness offer distinct advantages. La Fitness provides a wider range of amenities and class options, ideal for those seeking a comprehensive fitness experience. Anytime Fitness excels in convenience with its 24/7 access and widespread locations, perfect for individuals with busy schedules. The best choice depends on individual priorities, budget, and fitness goals.
Winner: La Fitness