Gyms seeking the #1 spot need to pass the vibe check and consider a 24/7 model, consumers say
In a crowded market, reputation is everything—and EoS Fitness has emerged as the #1 favorite gym, according to a new analysis by Chatmeter that has ranked the top ten gyms based on customer reviews.
The results highlight that a gym’s atmosphere is crucial, with EoS Fitness, Snap Fitness and Crunch Fitness all ranking highly for friendly, helpful staff and a welcoming environment.
Overall Ranking:
1. EOS Fitness
2. Snap Fitness
3. Crunch Fitness
4. Anytime Fitness
5. Planet Fitness
6. Golds Gym
7. Life Time Fitness
8. LA Fitness
9. Equinox
10. 24 Hour Fitness
While EoS Fitness stood out for its clean facilities, new equipment, welcoming vibe and cheerful staff, members also expressed appreciation for its unique fitness programming, namely its cardio theater.
If consumers haven’t heard of the high-value, low-price (HVLP) fitness chain, chances are they will soon. The amenity-rich EoS Fitness has burst into 2025 with Will Power, an endearing and meme-worthy mascot that will be featured on billboards and various media channels.
This year, Eos Fitness plans to open more than 30 gyms and has over 175 locations open or in development, with long-term growth ambitions set for Georgia. The entry point to join Eos Fitness begins at $9.99, while other tiers are available for those who desire access to premium amenities (such as a CryoLounge, a recovery space, outdoor workout areas, swimming pools and more) that vary by location.
Following EoS Fitness is Snap Fitness, a Minnesota-based franchise that scored high for its convenient 24/7 member access – which nearly one in five respondents say is their top priority. The gym brand has shown considerable growth in 2024, opening 20 new locations worldwide and signing 43 franchise agreements in the first half of the year. The chain underwent a rebrand in 2021, which included adjusting the layout of its gyms, investing in its member app and introducing recovery zones at select locations.
“We are a few years into this process and the results are speaking for themselves, with membership numbers up more than 18% on pre-COVID averages and more interest from people wanting to become a franchisee than ever before,” Snap Fitness CEO Ty Menzies told Athletech News last September.
Crunch Fitness secured the third spot, credited for its community feel and group fitness classes. The HVLP leader just hit the 3 million member mark and has kicked off Crunch 3.0, a new design template that includes new equipment and group fitness enhancements.
Other noteworthy findings from Chatmeter’s analysis reveal that consumers are increasingly seeking value, with over half (62%) of those surveyed feeling that most gyms are overpriced. In line with this, price is the top consideration when selecting a gym, and 54% of respondents said they are not willing to pay more than $19.99 a month for a membership. On the other end of the spectrum, 5% would pay more than $50 per month.
When it comes to amenities and gym features, 24/7 access is the top priority for 57% of those surveyed when considering joining a gym or health club. Entertainment ranked second (39%), followed closely by a pool (35%), open spaces for workouts (33%), personal training (32%) and fitness classes (30%).
Perks such as complimentary towels and recovery options like saunas, hot tubs and steam rooms are also attention-grabbers when selecting a gym.
Another key consideration for gyms looking to make it in the top three is cleanliness, as Chatmeter found that 29% of consumers cited dirty facilities as the number one reason for canceling their memberships.
Lastly, fitness consumers seeking a new gym want a free trial or day pass (64%), and 47% shared that they read online reviews from members. Notably, 55% of Gen Z consumers consult social media.
