Large Franchise Gym v Small Training Facility

WORDS FROM B Meyer Intern

It might be easier to sign up at one of the large franchise workout studios all over the place, but is that really the best place for you? It very well might be, but I want to look at the pros and cons of both a large gym and a small facility.

 The greatest pro to a large franchise gym is its diversity. A large gym will have more equipment because it has more square feet to fill and more money to spend. They have more staff members, so you are sure to find a trainer that fits your style. A large gym also tends to offer diverse classes at multiple times every day to fit each person’s needs and schedule. If you are a person who constantly needs to change your style of workout (ex. Swimming, kick boxing, yoga, biking, weights) a large gym may be what you need because they offer a magnitude of choices. However, at a large gym, you are basically left on your own to make all your workout choices, and most of us don’t have a clue how to navigate through all the massive amount of information thrown at us everyday regarding fitness and nutrition. 

At a small training facility, the staff has the time to sit down and talk with each member and answer all the questions they may have. Whether an athlete trying to improve their performance or a Mom wanting to improve her fitness level and knowledge, a trainer with the knowledge and time to help is key. They can form a workout fitted to each member’s needs and abilities, and a large gym just doesn’t have the resources and time to do that with every member.

At a large gym you might be there for an hour and not speak to a single staff member. At a smaller training facility, everyone knows everyone. You walk in the door and feel like part of the family. I would compare it to the TV show Cheers, “

What is best for your needs and wants?  You should be able to tell within 5 minutes if your choose is the correct one.  Don't be afraid to ask questions to trainers and staff.  This is your place to workout and you should take time with your decisions.  Best of luck with your fitness adventures.


Intern T