What’s the Real Cost of Anytime Fitness? 7 Shocking Membership Fees Unveiled!
If you’re thinking about joining Anytime Fitness, you’ve probably asked yourself: What’s the real cost? Is it affordable? Is it worth it? You’re in the right place! In this post, we’ll break down the actual membership fees and uncover seven surprising facts you probably didn’t know.
1. The Basic Membership Fee Varies by Location
One of the biggest questions people have is: How much is Anytime Fitness membership? The answer isn’t so straightforward. Unlike some gyms that have a standard price, Anytime Fitness pricing depends heavily on the location. On average, you can expect to pay anywhere from $30 to $50 per month, but this can go up or down depending on the city or country you’re in. More upscale areas tend to charge higher prices.
So, make sure you check with your local gym to get the exact cost.
2. Initial Signup Fees Might Surprise You
Here’s something a lot of new members aren’t expecting—the initiation fee. Anytime Fitness typically charges a one-time enrollment fee when you first sign up, which can range from $50 to $100. It’s not something that’s talked about much in ads, but it’s important to know before you walk through those doors.
Good news? Some locations run special promotions where they waive the enrollment fee, so keep an eye out for those!
3. You May Need to Pay for a Key Fob
Anytime Fitness operates 24/7, which is awesome! But to access the gym at any time, you’ll need a key fob. That’s right, an electronic access key is usually required, and it comes with a price tag of $25 to $35. It’s a one-time fee, but it’s something you should factor into your budget if you’re planning to join.
4. Hidden Cancellation Fees
This is one of those things nobody really likes to talk about, but it’s crucial: cancellation fees. Anytime Fitness contracts can sometimes lock you in for 12 to 24 months, depending on the plan. If life happens and you need to cancel early, you could be hit with a cancellation fee ranging from $50 to $200, depending on your location and contract.
Make sure you fully understand the contract before you sign up, so there are no surprises down the road.
5. Personal Training Isn’t Cheap
If you’re looking to take your fitness game to the next level, Anytime Fitness offers personal training. But be warned—it comes at an extra cost. The price for personal training sessions can range from $30 to $100 per hour. Some gyms offer package deals that bring the price down a bit, but it’s still an extra fee to consider.
If you’re on a budget, you might want to check out their group training classes instead—they’re usually a more affordable option.
6. Discounts Are Available, If You Know Where to Look
Here’s a little hack: Anytime Fitness offers discounts! Yep, you heard that right. Some employers offer corporate memberships that lower your monthly fee. Additionally, health insurance companies sometimes partner with the gym to offer lower rates, or even reimburse a portion of your costs. Seniors can also check if they qualify for discounted memberships through programs like SilverSneakers.
Always ask your local gym about potential discounts, because they’re not always advertised.
7. Is It Really Worth the Price?
After considering all the fees, is Anytime Fitness worth it? Well, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you love flexibility and need access to a gym anytime, anywhere, then Anytime Fitness is a solid option. With over 4,000 locations worldwide, you can work out wherever you go. The facilities are generally clean, well-equipped, and not overly crowded, which is a big plus.
That being said, if you’re on a tight budget and don’t need 24/7 access, other gyms might offer cheaper monthly rates without the additional key fob or initiation fees.
What Do You Get for Your Membership Fee?
While the cost of joining Anytime Fitness might feel a little overwhelming at first, it’s important to understand what you’re getting for your money. Beyond just a place to work out, Anytime Fitness offers a few key perks that may make it worth the investment:
1. Access to All Locations
One of the biggest benefits of an Anytime Fitness membership is that you can use any location around the world. That’s right—your key fob works globally, so whether you’re on vacation or a work trip, you can still hit the gym. This is perfect for frequent travelers who don’t want their fitness routine disrupted.
2. 24/7 Gym Access
Unlike traditional gyms that operate on set schedules, Anytime Fitness is open 24/7, meaning you can work out literally any time—whether it’s at 3 a.m. or noon. This flexibility makes it ideal for people with busy or unpredictable schedules.
3. Clean, Well-Maintained Facilities
No one likes working out in a dirty, cramped gym. Thankfully, Anytime Fitness locations are generally well-maintained, with modern equipment, clean locker rooms, and a friendly atmosphere. If cleanliness and comfort are high on your priority list, this is a great advantage.
4. Virtual and In-Person Training
Whether you prefer personal training or online workouts, Anytime Fitness gives you options. Their mobile app offers on-demand workouts, nutrition guidance, and a way to track your progress. If you’re more into face-to-face interaction, they offer personal trainers and small group training sessions as well.
Is There a Free Trial?
Before you commit to a membership, many Anytime Fitness locations offer a free 7-day trial. This is a fantastic way to test out the facilities, check out the equipment, and see if it fits your workout style. If you’re on the fence about joining, it’s definitely worth asking your local gym for a trial pass.
During the trial period, make sure you use the gym at different times of the day to see how busy it gets. It will give you a better idea of when the best times to visit are.
What to Ask Before You Join
Before signing on the dotted line, here are a few questions you should definitely ask your local Anytime Fitness:
- Are there any hidden fees? (Think: cancellation fees, annual maintenance fees, etc.)
- What are the contract terms? (Is it month-to-month, or are you locked in for a year or two?)
- Are there any discounts or promotions? (Sometimes, all it takes is asking!)
- What is included in my membership? (Do you get group classes? Towel service? Access to personal training?)
This way, you’ll know exactly what you’re signing up for and avoid any surprise charges later.
How to Get the Best Deal on an Anytime Fitness Membership
While Anytime Fitness is generally affordable, it’s always a good idea to look for ways to save money. Here are a few tips to help you get the best deal:
- Sign up during promotions – Anytime Fitness often runs promotions like waived sign-up fees or discounted first-month memberships. Keep an eye out for these offers, especially around the New Year or back-to-school seasons when gyms try to attract new members.
- Ask about student, senior, or corporate discounts – If you’re a student, senior citizen, or your company partners with Anytime Fitness, you might qualify for a reduced rate. It never hurts to ask!
- Negotiate – Believe it or not, gym membership fees are often negotiable! If the enrollment fee feels too high, or if you’re on a tight budget, try negotiating with the manager for a better deal. Some members have reported success in reducing their monthly fees just by asking for a discount.
Is Anytime Fitness Right for You?
At the end of the day, whether Anytime Fitness is worth the price comes down to your personal fitness needs. If you value flexibility, a clean and welcoming environment, and access to gyms across the world, it’s definitely a solid choice. However, if you’re just looking for a budget-friendly gym without the bells and whistles, there may be cheaper options out there.
Ask yourself these questions:
- Do I need 24/7 access?
- Will I take advantage of the global gym access?
- Is personal training or virtual coaching important to me?
If you answered “yes” to most of these, then Anytime Fitness could be a perfect fit for your lifestyle. But if not, you may want to explore other gyms that better align with your budget and needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Anytime Fitness Membership
If you’re still unsure about joining Anytime Fitness or want more clarity on some of the costs and benefits, let’s address some frequently asked questions that could help you make your decision.
1. Can I Pause My Anytime Fitness Membership?
Yes, many Anytime Fitness locations allow you to freeze or pause your membership if you’re going to be away for an extended period, or if life circumstances temporarily prevent you from hitting the gym. However, this varies by location, so it’s essential to ask about the freeze policy at your specific club. Typically, there may be a small fee associated with freezing your membership.
2. Are There Any Contract-Free Options?
While many memberships come with a 12- to 24-month contract, some Anytime Fitness locations offer month-to-month memberships for those who don’t want to commit long-term. These contracts are generally more flexible, but they might cost a bit more per month. If you’re someone who likes flexibility, this might be a better option.
3. Is There a Family or Couple Discount?
In some locations, Anytime Fitness offers family or couple membership plans. These plans can reduce the overall cost per person and are perfect if you’re signing up with a partner or other family members. Again, it’s best to ask your local club about these options because discounts may vary.
4. What Equipment and Amenities Can I Expect?
Anytime Fitness gyms are well-equipped with cardio machines, free weights, and strength training equipment. Most locations also have treadmills, ellipticals, stationary bikes, and weight machines. Some gyms even offer group fitness classes like yoga, Zumba, or cycling. Be sure to check with your local gym to see what specific amenities they offer.
5. Can I Transfer My Membership to Another Location?
Yes, your Anytime Fitness membership is usually transferable to any other location worldwide. If you move or are traveling frequently, this flexibility can be a huge plus. There may be some limitations if you switch between countries with significantly different membership fees, so it’s always good to clarify this with your current gym.
6. Is There a Student Discount at Anytime Fitness?
While not all locations offer it, many Anytime Fitness gyms provide student discounts. If you’re a student, make sure to bring your student ID when you inquire about membership. You could save a decent chunk off your monthly rate with this discount.
7. What Happens if I Don’t Use the Gym?
This is a common concern for many members—what happens if you sign up but don’t go? Unfortunately, you’ll still be billed monthly regardless of how often you use the gym. If you think there’s a chance you’ll struggle with consistency, it might be worth starting with a short-term membership or trial period to test your commitment before diving into a long-term contract.
How Anytime Fitness Compares to Other Gyms
You might be wondering, How does Anytime Fitness stack up against other gyms? Well, here’s a quick comparison to give you a better idea:
Anytime Fitness vs. Planet Fitness
While Planet Fitness is known for its super affordable pricing (as low as $10 a month), it doesn’t offer 24/7 access at all locations, and it lacks the comprehensive equipment selection that Anytime Fitness provides. Anytime Fitness, on the other hand, offers a more well-rounded gym experience with global access, which makes it ideal for frequent travelers or those needing flexibility.
Anytime Fitness vs. LA Fitness
LA Fitness generally has larger facilities with more equipment and amenities, like swimming pools and basketball courts. However, LA Fitness memberships tend to cost more, and they don’t offer the 24/7 access that Anytime Fitness provides. If you’re more focused on having a variety of fitness options under one roof, LA Fitness might be worth it, but if flexibility and global access are priorities, Anytime Fitness is the way to go.
Anytime Fitness vs. 24 Hour Fitness
Both Anytime Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness offer around-the-clock access, but 24 Hour Fitness gyms are often larger, with more classes and amenities like saunas and steam rooms. That said, 24 Hour Fitness doesn’t have the same global reach as Anytime Fitness, so if you’re a traveler, Anytime Fitness gives you more flexibility.
Maximizing Your Anytime Fitness Membership
Once you’ve signed up, the key to getting the most out of your Anytime Fitness membership is consistency and commitment. Here are a few tips to help you stay on track:
- Set realistic goals: Whether it’s weight loss, building muscle, or just staying active, having clear, measurable goals will keep you motivated.
- Take advantage of personal training: If you’re new to the gym or want to fine-tune your routine, a few sessions with a personal trainer can go a long way. They’ll help you create a personalized workout plan that fits your goals.
- Explore the Anytime Fitness app: The Anytime Fitness app is loaded with on-demand workouts, challenges, and fitness tracking. It’s a great way to stay motivated when you can’t make it to the gym.
- Utilize all the amenities: Don’t just stick to the treadmill—mix it up! Use the free weights, try out the resistance machines, and join group classes if they’re available at your location.
The Bottom Line
Anytime Fitness provides a lot of value, especially for those who prioritize flexibility, 24/7 access, and global gym options. While there are fees that can add up—like the enrollment fee, key fob charge, and possible cancellation fees—if you take full advantage of what they offer, it could be worth every penny.
Ultimately, your decision should come down to your fitness goals, budget, and how much you value flexibility and convenience. If these factors are high on your list, then Anytime Fitness could be the perfect gym for you.
Have you had any experiences with Anytime Fitness? Or are you thinking about joining? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!