Fitness First

This gym is in a really handy location for me as it's right near my work so I can pop by during lunch or force myself in after work! Studio is very small and you do need to book into classes 24 hours in advance - be warned, classes fill up really quickly. Can be queues for machines during busy times.

This branch of Fitness First used to be the gym I subscribed for before I changed to the nearby LA Fitness (which not only has a pool, but also has a student plan). It is certainly comprehensive enough in terms of equipment (except for the lack of a pool), but so will all other good gyms.

The price is the real issue, with my membership costing me 40 pounds a month, it wasn’t worth it. And this branch didn’t seem to want to given student memberships, as I’ve heard some branches do. Also, it isn’t open during the weekends. One good thing though is that it doesn’t get too full in the evenings.

Hidden behing Holborn tube station is Holborn Fitness First. A swith many London gyms, it is in the basement, so you go down the steps which lead to reception. The staff are friendly and helpful and always welcome you and say goodbye when you leave. They have a full time cleaner in the changing rooms, so the place is always spotless. Personal trainers are available. There is a selection of drinks available for members, including cola and tea and coffee. A slection of DVDs can be rented out using your membership card, though it is for 1 night only. There is a large gym floor with treadmills, cross trainers, rowing machines, bikes, steppers and two power plate machines. There is also a reasonable sized weights area with a variety of weights and a 'classes’ room where they do the classes. (See webite for details). Overall, I enjoy going to this gym and wish it was open at the weekend, as it is the best in the area.