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The Best 5 Gyms in Brighton & Hove!

As busy professionals and active adults over 40, we understand how valuable your time and energy are. Committing to a fitness routine is a significant step towards a healthier, more vibrant life. But with so many options, how do you find a gym that truly supports your goals and fits seamlessly into your lifestyle?

Here at Transform Personal Training, while we offer a highly personalised and supportive environment tailored to your unique needs, we often get asked by our clients about other great fitness facilities in the Brighton & Hove area. We understand that sometimes, a gym membership is the right complementary step on your journey, or simply the environment you prefer.

Our philosophy at Transform Personal Training champions a realistic and sustainable approach to fitness. We believe your chosen fitness environment should empower progress over perfection. That’s why we’ve taken the time to review some of the top local gyms, focusing on what matters for long-term health and well-being.

1. The Underground Gym (Portslade)

Known for its expansive layout, The Underground Gym in Portslade offers an impressive space for serious training. If you appreciate a wide variety of equipment and a vibrant atmosphere, this could be an excellent choice for you.

  • Pros: Over 10,000 sq ft of floor space, the largest free weights and machines section in Sussex, group HIIT-inspired classes, combat area, boxing ring, and convenient free parking. Their staff and personal trainers are highly knowledgeable.
  • Considerations: It can get quite busy during peak hours, and popular classes tend to fill up quickly.
  • Approx. Monthly Cost: From £34.99

2. Cheetahs Gym (Hove)

As one of Brighton’s longest-serving gyms, Cheetahs Gym in Hove has built a strong reputation. Spread across four floors, it offers diverse training zones to cater to different preferences.

  • Pros: Extensive facilities including separate cardio and ladies-only gyms, dedicated combat and stretching rooms. They have friendly, knowledgeable staff and personal trainers, plus a juice bar offering a range of protein and carbohydrate drinks.
  • Considerations: Parking is paid between 8 am and 8 pm, which is worth considering for those driving.
  • Approx. Monthly Cost: From £20

3. Change (Hove)

Change in Hove offers a budget-friendly option with a strong focus on group exercise, providing a community-centric approach to fitness.

  • Pros: Very competitive pricing, an extensive timetable of 100 group exercise classes each week, a good range of cardio machines, free weights, and resistance machines. Facilities also include a sauna, Powerplate, and parking. The staff and personal trainers are knowledgeable and supportive.
  • Considerations: You’ll need to bring your own padlock for lockers, though they are available to buy at reception. Towel hire is £1, and small sweat towels can be purchased for £3.
  • Approx. Monthly Cost: From £25

4. Fitness First (Brighton)

Conveniently located beside Brighton station, Fitness First is a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded gym experience with easy access to transport links.

  • Pros: A good range of free weights, machines, and cardio equipment. They also offer various group exercise classes and a relaxing sauna room.
  • Considerations: There is no parking available, and while the equipment range is good, some rooms can feel a little compact. Please note there is no pool at this location.
  • Approx. Monthly Cost: From £32.99 (off-peak)

5. The Gym Group (Brighton)

For those who value flexibility above all else, The Gym Group provides 24-hour access, 365 days a year, with two locations in Brighton.

  • Pros: Enjoy round-the-clock access at both their Madeira Drive and London Road locations. They offer a huge amount of machines, free weights, and cardio equipment.
  • Considerations: Parking at Madeira Drive is paid (free from 8 pm to 8 am). They offer fewer classes compared to other gyms, and the facilities are largely unmanned.
  • Approx. Monthly Cost: From £20

Choosing Your Fitness Partner for Sustainable Habits

Selecting the right gym is a personal decision, and it’s essential to consider what truly aligns with your lifestyle and fitness goals. Think about factors such as location, cost, parking availability, specific facilities, and the overall atmosphere. Our aim at Transform Personal Training is to help you build sustainable habits that lead to lasting results, and your gym choice plays a big part in that.

We highly recommend taking advantage of trial periods – most gyms offer anything from a day to a week free. This allows you to experience the environment firsthand and ensure it feels like the right fit for your unique fitness journey.

Call 01273 610609 or email contact@transformpthove.co.uk

Rob Callow