Firstly, let me just say that this post ISN’T about shitting on big commercial gyms.
I just wanted to create an objective comparison between the two gym models, especially considering the customer point of view. However, I did have many years of experience in working in both a commercial gym and running my own small private studio. I think it’s important to say that none of these models are perfect and they cater for different types of clients.
I am going to break this down into different segments just like a customer would experience if they would enter both of these facilities.
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Entering the gym:
Big Gym: Parking for commercial gyms may mean a commercial paid carpark. Reception could be a tricky place to get through, and you may find an automated check-in system with minimal staff interaction or personalised engagement. Commercial gyms can be very busy, especially at peak times, and so navigating the large space as a new members can sometimes feel overwhelming. If you’re a member, you can easily book onto classes or attend anytime you want really, with most big gyms allowing people to do pay as you go too.
Small Gym: Parking is usually free of charge for most private gyms/studios. More often than not, you would be greeted by a trainer who knows you by name, offering a more intimate and community-oriented feel. Check in is straightforward and less people leads to lessened feeling of chaos and a calmer entry into your workout. If you’re new, you’ll likely receive a personalised tour and detailed guidance on where to start. Sessions need to be pre-booked or registered as there is limited availability – this could be a good thing and a bad thing too. It’s very likely a members only gym, meaning that no one else can do any training in the gym.
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Induction:
Big Gym: Inductions are common practice in commercial gyms. It basically means having an introductory session with a member of staff to show all the facilities in the gym, likely to include a tailored exercise program by a personal trainer. It’s a good starting point for most people, as it would cover the basic exercises, but the downside is that this could be too generic or there is little to no follow up with the client. Obviously, every gym is different. The more the trainers get to know gym members, the better they are able to help them.
Small Gym: The private gyms usually have different systems in place and they are more than likely to do a individual consultation with the client. This could be tailored around the needs of the client from an exercise standpoint, injuries, previous experience or any form of goal that the person might have. Good gyms will absolutely address the client nutrition and lifestyle, putting systems in place for the client to be successful with the program and hold themselves accountable.
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Overall Facilities:
Big Gym: Most commercial gyms have a wide range of facilities, from changing rooms, sauna, steam room or even swimming pools, to different exercise studios with classes, dedicated weight platforms, huge selection of free weights, cardio equipment, and loads of options for different types of exercises. Overall, commercial gyms have way more options when it comes to exercise selection. They have spaces dedicated to every type of workout, and often cafes too, however these can be crowded during peak times and you may have to wait for equipment or deal with a lack of privacy which may affect your workout experience.
Small Gym: Depending on the gym, smaller studios and gyms may not have the selection of equipment and / or classes available like big gyms do. However, they very likely do a few things really well with a focus on providing high-quality over a large variety. They use the space they have really well and don’t keep equipment they don’t need. Most of these gyms have their layout purposefully designed to their classes and for their programs. There’s less waiting for equipment and the atmosphere tends to be more relaxed and personal – great if you prefer a less crowded environment and don’t need to fancy extras. However, they would never be able to compete with the facilities provided by the big gyms.
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Classes & Timetable:
Big Gym: Bigger gyms offer a wide variety of different classes at various times throughout the day, however just like any gyms (big or small) there are peak times (mornings and evenings) where everyone wants to do their exercises. Classes need to be booked in advance at risk of not getting a spot, and the gym could be packed during peak times, resulting in classes feeling overcrowded – even though only a smaller percentage of members actually attend the gym. One thing about this peak time commercial gym experience is you could be waiting for some time to get to certain lifting platforms, or machines. So for those who prefer exercising alone, this could mean either waiting or adapting the program according to what is available.
Small gym: Since private gyms offer limited availability and pre-booked sessions only, every client should have their places pre-registered so there is no difficulty to get into classes or small group training sessions. Classes are often smaller and this means a more personalise instruction and attention for members. Paying a more premium price for gym and training means that there should be no waiting time and the customer experience is smooth with no friction of waiting, and the program can be adapted to suit the attendees. A smaller gym class can feel more rewarding if you appreciate getting real-time feedback and building a good rapport with your trainer.
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Customer experience:
Big Gym: The number one complaint I hear about big gyms is that most people don’t like them. They could certainly be crowded and overwhelming for some people, but it may be down to the lesser interaction with staff and a less personalised experience. I personally think it’s more to do with the way their classes are structured. For instance, in one class it could be between 10 to 20 people for one instructor. There are loads of instructors and trainers however who do amazing jobs nationwide to improve people’s lives, health and fitness day in and day out, and many people come together after exercising and enjoy the social aspect of what a club has to offer. I think that alone is the biggest feature that every big gym should look at leveraging, and see how they can do more and more social things for their clients.
Small Gym: On the contrary, in a typical small gym everyone knows everyone. People exercise in smaller groups and get to know each other more, which means supporting one another more. More often than not, you will receive check-ins on yourself and your progress, with more tailored advice to help you along. Achieving great results because they become the average of those 5 other fit people who they spend their time with. I’m not saying it’s not possible in the bigger gyms, however the environment in a small private gym is usually much more intimate, more welcoming and friendly. People know each other really well and often lifetime friendships are formed in these communities. This supportive, community environment makes the gym feel like a place that you belong, you’re part of the team, not just another client.
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Customer journey:
Big Gym: The customer is largely in control of their own fitness journey in a commercial gym. Most of your progress will depend on self-motivation, unless you hire a personal training or join specific programs as the level of individual attention and guidance is lower. You may find it harder to keep focus or be overwhelmed by the number of options without support.
Small Gym: Private gyms often have a more hands-on approach to your fitness journey, with frequent check-ins and guidance from trainers. These smaller gyms take pride in helping every individual member succeed through a more structure and personalised approach, making adjustments to your workout plan based on your progress. Feeling more guided in your fitness journey can help you achieve better results and a feeling of a more fulfilling experience.
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Memberships & Contracts:
Big Gym: Large commercial gyms usually offer a variety of membership options, including discounted rates for long-term commitments (12 or 24 months). While these can be cost-effective, the contracts often have restrictive terms and can be hard to get out of if your circumstances change. Commercial gyms also tend to have hidden fees or additional costs for specific services, like classes or premium facilities.
Small Gym: Month-to-month plans are common with smaller gyms, with typically more flexible membership options, and although they may be slightly more expensive, you aren’t locked into a longer term contract. This flexibility can be ideal for those looking for a stress-free membership without long-term commitments, and there are often no hidden fees with slightly more lenient cancellation policies.
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SO. Which gym is right for you?
Big Gyms:
If you value variety, a wide range of equipment and facilities, and lower membership costs (with long-term contracts), a big gym might be the better choice. It’s especially suited to people who enjoy group fitness classes and don’t mind a bit of crowding.
Small Gyms:
If you’re looking for a more personalised experience, with a community-focused environment, greater flexibility in memberships, and more individual attention – a small private gym could be the ideal fit. It’s particularly great if you prefer a quieter, more focused workout space where you can build stronger connections with trainers and fellow members.
Both options have their pros and cons, so the best choice depends on your personal fitness goals, lifestyle, and the type of gym experience that will keep you motivated and on track.
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