Maintaining fitness should be within everyone’s reach, and yet it often becomes one of the most demanding and costly habits for anyone to adopt. If you’re a student who is eager to improve your health but are unsure about where to begin, you’re in the right place. In this post I’ve compiled a list of gym memberships that are ideal for students on a budget:
Gold’s Gym
Gold’s Gym has been a pillar in the fitness community for many years. The brand has long been associated with bodybuilding and weightlifting. But they are also a suitable place for beginners who are just getting started on their fitness journey. Some Gold’s Gym locations even offer student discounts of as much as 50%.
As a member you will have access to the entire gym and use its facilities like their boxing and yoga studios, basketball courts, and unlimited group fitness classes.
What are the Gold’s Gym Hours?
The hours of operation for Gold’s Gym differ by location, but most open around 4AM or 5AM and close either 9PM or 10PM.
How much is the Gold’s Gym membership?
EFT 12-month membership: $39.99/month with a $59.99 club enhancement fee.
One year upfront: $499 plus tax
Monthly, no contract: $54/month
HOTWORX
HOTWORX is great for those who need flexibility in their schedule. They’re open 24 hours and have a range of classes you can choose from like yoga and cycling. These classes are conducted in small infrared saunas that accommodate up to three people at a time.
Students can enjoy reduced rates at HOTWORX though they vary by location. I suggest you contact your local HOTWORX to confirm pricing and available discounts.
What are the HOTWORX Hours?
While the studio is open 24/7, staffed hours are usually from 11AM to 7PM Mondays to Saturdays.
How much is the HOTWORX membership?
A standard membership costs $59/month for unlimited studio access while an upgraded membership is $79/month with access to all HOTWORX locations worldwide. No contracts needed.
Anytime Fitness
Anytime Fitness is one of the largest gym franchises worldwide and often have promotions for students including waived enrollment fees and a free seven-day trials.
What are the Anytime Fitness Hours?
Anytime Fitness is always open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
How much is the membership cost at Anytime Fitness?
Almost all Anytime Fitness locations offer student discounts although the specifics can vary:
- Flat Monthly Rate: No enrollment fee
- Student Discounts: Dependent on your school
- Payment Plans: Bi-weekly payments averaging $29.50 for annual plans or $27.50 for two-year plans
24 Hour Fitness
For students with erratic schedules, 24 Hour Fitness is a good fit. It’s open around the clock and caters to those who prefer weightlifting and powerlifting. Membership includes a free three-day trial and access to multiple locations.
What are the 24 Hour Fitness Hours?
True to its name, 24 Hour Fitness is open 24/7.
How much is a membership at 24 Hour Fitness?
Student discounts for 24 Hour Fitness vary by location:
Some locations do not offer student discounts, with prices ranging from $20 to $40. Others offer rates as low as $9.99/month.
YMCA
The YMCA has been in many communities for years offering excellent exercise facilities and networking opportunities. Students under 29 years old who are currently attending school can access all facilities but may need to pay around $50 in enrollment fees.
What are the YMCA Hours?
Most YMCA locations are open around 5AM on weekdays but may open a bit later on weekends. Closing hours are usually 8PM or 9PM.
How Much is the YMCA Membership Cost?
Typical student membership is around $39 per month but some schools do get better rates.
Other Gyms That are Best for Students
Many gyms cater to students’ financial constraints, schedules, and workout preferences. Here are other budget-friendly gyms for 2024:
Planet Fitness
Cardio and strength equipment, 30-minute circuit station, small group fitness training
Join for as low as $10/month
Laid back atmosphere, affordable, no contracts
Vasa Fitness
Cardio deck, free weights, Olympic lifting area, strength training machines, group fitness classes, pool, sauna, steam room, basketball court, fitness cinema
Memberships for as low as $9.99/month (promotional)
Wide range of equipment, affordable entry-level prices
EōS Fitness
Cardio and strength equipment, turf yard, swimming pool, sauna, steam room, basketball court, group cycling and fitness classes, personal training
As low as $9.99/month
Open 24/7 in many locations
Affordable memberships, extensive workout equipment
Crunch Fitness
Cardio and strength equipment, functional fitness equipment, group fitness classes, live video classes, personal training
As low as $9.95/month
Other Student Discounts and Privileges
Aside from discounts for gym memberships, students also get discounts at restaurants, cinemas, and more. Select Chick-fil-A locations give a free drink to students while some McDonald’s locations offer 10% discount if you show your school ID. AMC also offers a student discount with perks like a 25% discount on tickets and $5 combos.