7 Best Cheap Gym Memberships You Should Consider If On a Budget

Did you know you don’t have to spend a fortune to stay fit? That’s right, there are plenty of budget-friendly gym memberships that offer great facilities without draining your wallet. Whether you’re looking for basic workout equipment, group classes, a swimming pool, or 24/7 access, there’s an affordable option for you.

Let’s dive into the seven best cheap gym memberships worth considering if you're trying to stay fit on a budget.

1. Planet Fitness

Cost: $15/month (Classic Plan) or $24.99/month (Black Card)
Annual Fee: $49
Why It’s Great: Planet Fitness is known for its judgment-free atmosphere, making it a great option for beginners. The Classic membership gives you access to one location, while the Black Card membership includes access to all locations, guest privileges, and even massage chairs.

2. Anytime Fitness

Cost: Around $38/month (varies by location)
Annual Fee: $49 (Varies by location)
Why It’s Great: If you need flexibility, Anytime Fitness is a solid option. It offers 24/7 access to over 4,000 locations worldwide, making it perfect for travelers or those with unconventional schedules.

3. Crunch Fitness

Cost: $9.99/month (Base Plan) to $34.99/month (Peak Results Plan)
Annual Fee: up to $89 + tax
Why It’s Great: Crunch Fitness provides a mix of affordability and variety. Their base plan gives you access to standard equipment, while the higher-tier plans offer group classes, tanning, and hydro massage.

4. YouFit Gyms

Cost: $9.99/month (Basic) to $24.99/month (Premium)
Annual Fee: $36 (varies based on location)
Why It’s Great: YouFit is another great low-cost gym with a focus on personalized training and group fitness. If you’re new to working out, their personal training services are some of the most affordable in the industry.

5. 24 Hour Fitness

Cost: Around $24.99 - $49.99+/month (varies by location and plan)
Annual Fee: Around $49
Why It’s Great: As the name suggests, 24 Hour Fitness allows you to work out any time of the day. They offer a range of equipment, group fitness classes, and even virtual coaching for those who need extra guidance.

6. Blink Fitness

Cost: $15/month (Orange Membership), $28/month (Blue Membership), $39/month (Green Membership)
Annual Fee: $56
Why It’s Great: Blink Fitness stands out with its clean facilities, friendly staff, and high-quality equipment. Their basic plan is a steal at just $15 a month, and you can upgrade to access multiple locations.

7. LA Fitness

Cost: Around $29.99/month - $49.99/month
Annual Fee: $59
Why It’s Great: While slightly more expensive than others on this list, LA Fitness offers great value with full-service amenities, including pools, basketball courts, and a wide variety of fitness classes.

How to Choose the Right Cheap Gym Membership

Still not sure which gym is right for you? Here are some key things to consider:

• Location: Choose a gym that’s close to home or work to ensure you stay committed.
• Amenities: Do you need just basic equipment, or are you looking for extras like classes or a sauna?
• Hours of Operation: If you have a busy schedule, look for a gym that offers 24/7 access.
• Hidden Fees: Some gyms charge initiation or annual fees, so be sure to read the fine print.

Other Free or Affordable Fitness Options

You don’t need a gym to stay active and fit! There are plenty of free or low-cost ways to get a great workout without ever stepping foot inside a gym. Here are some excellent alternatives:

• YouTube Workouts: Free workout videos from trainers like Chloe Ting, Fitness Blender, and Pamela Reif make it easy to exercise at home.
• Walking & Jogging: One of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay active, requiring nothing but a good pair of shoes.
• Hiking: A great way to get outdoors, improve endurance, and enjoy nature.
• Cycling: Whether on a stationary bike or riding through your neighborhood, cycling is an excellent cardio workout.
• Pilates & Yoga: Apps like Down Dog or free YouTube videos offer guided sessions to build strength and flexibility from home.
• Community Fitness Centers: Many local community centers offer free or low-cost fitness programs and exercise classes.
• Outdoor Workouts: Parks often have workout stations, running trails, or even free group fitness meetups.

By choosing one (or a mix) of these alternatives, you can stay fit and healthy without ever paying for a gym membership!

Final Thoughts: Choosing a Cheap Gym Membership

Getting in shape doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune, or even signing up for a gym at all. There are plenty of free and affordable ways to stay active, from at-home workouts to outdoor activities. However, if you prefer the structure, equipment, and motivation that a gym provides, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to choose from.

Whether you’re looking for a basic gym or one with extra perks, you can find a membership that fits your needs without breaking the bank. The key is to choose a gym that aligns with your fitness goals, budget, and lifestyle to ensure you stay committed in the long run.

FAQs

1. What is the cheapest gym to join?

Planet Fitness and Blink Fitness both offer memberships starting at just $10 per month, making them some of the most affordable gym options.

2. What to do when you can’t afford gym?

If you can’t afford a gym membership, there are plenty of budget-friendly ways to stay active:

• Use Free Workout Apps & YouTube – Platforms like Nike Training Club, FitOn, and YouTube offer guided workouts for all fitness levels.
• Try Outdoor Workouts – Walking, jogging, hiking, and cycling are great (and free) ways to stay in shape.
• Use Household Items as Equipment – Water bottles can substitute for dumbbells, and a chair can be used for step-ups and dips.
• Join Community Fitness Programs – Many local parks and recreation centers offer free or low-cost fitness classes.
• Do Bodyweight Exercises – Push-ups, squats, lunges, and planks require no equipment and can be done anywhere.

Staying fit doesn’t have to be expensive, you just need creativity and consistency!

3. Do cheap gyms have good equipment?

Yes! Many budget-friendly gyms still offer high-quality equipment, though they may not have the same variety or advanced machines as premium gyms.

4. Are there any hidden fees with cheap gym memberships?

Some gyms charge annual fees, startup fees, or cancellation fees, so it's always a good idea to read the fine print before signing up.

5. Can I use multiple locations with a budget gym membership?

Some gyms, like Planet Fitness (Black Card) and Anytime Fitness, allow access to multiple locations, but it depends on your membership level.