Here are some of the top gyms in Philadelphia, offering a range of fitness experiences from traditional workouts to specialized training. I have been a member of a few of these gyms over the years, so I have first hand experience.
1. City Fitness
- Why Go: “Voted the Best Gym in Philly” City Fitness is a chain of modern gyms in Philadelphia offering high-quality equipment, group fitness classes, and amenities like saunas and recovery lounges.
- Specialties: Group fitness classes, personal training, and top-tier equipment. Plus, hydromassage and juice bar.
- Locations: Currently with 8 locations (e.g., Center City, Fishtown, South Philly)
Back Story: The first City Fitness opened in 2007 at the corner of 2nd and Spring Garden Streets in Northern Liberties. Founder Ken Davies had an amazing vision of a gym that’s high class but affordable. His vision was City Fitness! Featuring a community of over 7,000 members and counting.
Website: City Fitness
2. RippedPHL
- Why Go: A boutique fitness studio that specializes in high-intensity interval training (HIIT) classes combining treadmills and strength training, RippedPHL is ideal for those looking for a full-body workout. Featuring personal training and nutrition this gym rocks.
- Specialties: HIIT workouts, Group classes.
- Location: 1519 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19102
Website: RippedPHL
3. Sweat Fitness
- Why Go: Sweat Fitness offers a variety of classes and equipment, as well as flexible membership options. With locations across the city, it's a convenient option for people with different fitness goals. They offer diverse equipment options and programming. Sweat Fitness offers a 21-Day Free Trial Pass
- Specialties: Group fitness, personal training, and open gym access.
- Locations: Multiple locations (e.g., Fitler Square, Queen Village)
Website: Sweat Fitness
4. Retro Fitness
- Why Go: Retro Fitness is known for its affordability while offering a wide range of equipment, classes, and amenities. making it a good option for those seeking a budget-friendly gym without sacrificing quality. Franchises around the United States Retro Fitness is a solid choice between Planet Fitness and City Fitness.
- Specialties: Full gym access, cardio, strength training, group classes. Featuring a smoothie bar and Zen Den.
- Locations: Various locations in the Philadelphia metro area
Website: Retro Fitness
5. Optimal Sport Health Clubs
- Why Go: This gym offers a well-rounded fitness experience with equipment, group classes, personal training, and spa-like amenities, including saunas and steam rooms.
- Specialties: Group classes, personal training, recovery services.
- Locations: 1315 Walnut St and 325 Bainbridge St
Website: Optimal Sport Health Clubs
6. Fit Academy
- Why Go: Fit Academy specializes in outdoor boot camps and high-energy group workouts that combine strength training and cardio, making it a great option for people who enjoy team fitness environments.
- Specialties: Outdoor fitness, boot camps, group training.
- Location: 1363 N 31st St., Philadelphia, PA 19121
7. Unite Fitness
- Why Go: Unite Fitness combines cardio intervals, strength training, and recovery in each workout. It’s ideal for those looking for a comprehensive, high-intensity fitness program.
- Specialties: Group training, HIIT classes, strength and conditioning.
- Location: 26 S 20th St
8. F45 Training Northern Liberties
- Location: 117 Spring Garden St, Philadelphia, PA 19123
9. 10 Hands Fitness + Fight Sports
- Location: 20th & Market St., Philadelphia, PA 19103 (Entrance to the right of Starbucks)
- Barry’s Bootcamp
- Location: 1911 Sansom St., Philadelphia, PA 19103
These gyms offer a variety of fitness programs, equipment, and training options to fit all types of fitness enthusiasts, from those looking for boutique experiences to those seeking more traditional or high-intensity workouts.
