1. 24-Hour Fitness

Multiple locations; www.24hourfitness.com

The second largest fitness club in the U.S. understands that exercise, in one form or another, is essential to mental well-being as well as physical well-being. How you use your time in the gym is critical to that exercise.

Because of that, the company’s 287 clubs across 11 states are roomy and welcoming, with top-line equipment for strength and cardio workouts — such as free weights, machines and turf zones — as well as functional training. Classes are available for all levels, including studio and cycle classes. Personal trainers or coaches are readily available for members as well as digital and virtual classes.

Members with the 24GO app can check in, then find the right classes, or talk with an available coach. The app also features on-demand workouts, custom plans and virtual classes.

Silver memberships allow members access to weights and cardio at the club of their choice. Gold memberships also allow members access to studio classes and the pool. Platinum memberships give members access to all services at any of 24-Hour Fitness’ clubs.

“It’s really clean and everyone is super friendly, says Natalya J. on Yelp. “Even during rush hour you can always find a machine and/or workout station.”

Andy P. likes that “it’s clean, people are respectful, and the staff is welcoming … and I’ve noticed the staff going around checking on the equipment.”

— Shawn Price

2. LA Fitness

Multiple locations; lafitness.com

LA Fitness’ mission is plain and simple: good health. Founded in 1984, the fitness center continues seeking innovative ways to enhance the physical and emotional well-being of a diverse membership base. With a wide range of amenities and trained staff, LA Fitness offers fun and effective workout options to family members of all ages and interests.

Its list of class offerings include aqua fit, body works plus abs, boot camp conditioning, cardio jam and core, plus cycle, hip hop, kickbox cardio, mat Pilates, power circuit, senior fit, step sculpt and Zumba.

LA Fitness also offers Pro Results personal trainers who can help design a customized workout plan while providing ongoing motivation and support. It is ideal for all fitness levels and backgrounds. Certified personal trainers can help add variety to your workout routine while also helping you learn new exercises and proper form.

3. Esporta Fitness

Multiple locations; www.esportafitness.com

Fitness International, owner of LA Fitness, launched the more value-priced offshoot Esporta Fitness just before the pandemic in 2020. It was a smart move for both the company and its customers.

The slightly smaller gyms still offer plenty of options to keep members on track with whatever fitness plan they have. Cardio machines as well as weights and resistance training machines are available. And when it comes to weights, a full selection — including dumbbells, barbells, free weights and benches — are available to help sculpt, shape and tone.

For others, a variety of classes as well as basketball leagues and racquetball tournaments are available. A junior Olympic size pool with three lanes is available for lap swimming or for Aquafit classes; afterwards, there’s also a spa and sauna.

“Honestly, not a bad gym especially for the price you pay,” says a Yelp review. “It’s always kept pretty clean and I rarely see machines out of service.”