Fitness First London Review 2026: Gyms, Prices, Classes & What Members Really Think

London Reviews has not received payment or sponsorship from Fitness First.

Last updated: April 2026 — Independently researched and written by the London Reviews editorial team.

Reviewed by: The London Reviews Editorial Team

Table of Contents

• At a Glance
• Why Fitness First London?
• London Locations & Getting There
• Facilities & Equipment
• Group Exercise Classes
• Membership & Pricing
• What Members Actually Say
• Who Is Fitness First Best For?
• How Fitness First Compares
• How to Join
• Frequently Asked Questions
• London Reviews Verdict
• Summary Star Ratings

At a Glance

Why Choose Fitness First London?

Fitness First is one of the UK’s most established gym chains, with over 20 clubs spread across central and inner London. Founded in 1993, the brand has built a reputation as a reliable mid-market gym option — positioned above budget gyms like PureGym but below the premium offerings of Equinox or David Lloyd. With over 20 years in the London fitness market, Fitness First clubs offer a solid combination of well-equipped gym floors, a diverse group exercise timetable, and professional personal training services.

In 2026, Fitness First continues to be a go-to choice for London workers and residents who want more than just a rack of dumbbells but don’t want to stretch their budget to £150+ per month. The inclusion of all group fitness classes within the standard membership fee is a key differentiator, and the brand’s investment in smart training technology and updated equipment makes it more competitive than its mid-budget rivals.

However, as we’ll explore in this review, Fitness First’s reputation is not without controversy. Issues with cancellation policies, inconsistent club standards, and variable customer service have generated considerable negative feedback online. Our aim in this review is to give you a balanced, evidence-based assessment of what Fitness First London is really like in 2026.

London Locations & Getting There

One of Fitness First’s greatest strengths in London is the sheer number of locations. With over 20 clubs scattered across zones 1 to 3, there’s a strong chance you’ll find a Fitness First within walking distance of your workplace or home. Notable London clubs include:

City & Central London

• Liverpool Street — The flagship City club, starting from £85/month. Well-equipped with premium facilities targeting financial district workers.
• London Bridge Cottons — Popular with Southwark and Borough workers; strong TripAdvisor rating of 4.4/5 (8 reviews). From £28.80 per session via Hussle.
• Canary Wharf — Ideal for Docklands professionals; large gym floor with dedicated functional training area.
• Holborn — Convenient for WC1 and EC1 workers.

North & East London

• Highbury — A popular north London club rated 4.3/5 by Hussle users (12 reviews). From £21.60/session on pay-as-you-go.
• Islington — Convenient for Angel and Upper Street locals.

West London

• Kensington — Upscale club serving W8 residents and professionals.
• Hammersmith — Serves the W6 corridor with easy tube access.

All central London Fitness First clubs are situated within 5–10 minutes’ walk from a London Underground or Overground station, making them convenient for commuters. The Fitness First website features a dedicated “Find Your Local Club” tool at fitnessfirst.co.uk/find-a-gym/london to help you locate your nearest branch.

Facilities & Equipment

Fitness First London gyms are consistently described as well-equipped, clean, and professionally maintained — particularly in the newer and recently refurbished clubs. Here’s what you can expect across most London locations:

Gym Floor

Each Fitness First club features a spacious main gym floor with clearly defined training zones for cardio, weightlifting, and functional exercises. Cardio equipment — including treadmills, rowing machines, cross-trainers, and stationary bikes — is typically plentiful and modern, with screens for entertainment and performance tracking. The free weights area offers a comprehensive range of barbells, dumbbells, and weight plates, supported by cable machines and resistance equipment.

Functional Training Zones

A significant investment in functional training areas sets Fitness First apart from budget alternatives. Most clubs feature dedicated functional zones with suspension trainers (TRX), battle ropes, kettlebells, and plyometric boxes. These areas support HIIT training, athletic conditioning, and circuit work, making the gyms suitable for both beginners and experienced athletes.

Swimming Pools

Not all Fitness First London clubs have a pool, but several locations — particularly in central and west London — include swimming facilities. If a pool is important to you, always check the individual club page before signing up, as this varies by location.

Group Exercise Studios

Most clubs have at least two dedicated group exercise studios — one for high-energy cardio classes (cycling, HIIT, boxing) and one for mind-body workouts (yoga, pilates, stretch). Studios are well-ventilated and equipped with mirrors, sprung floors, and appropriate equipment for the classes offered.

Changing Rooms & Showers

Changing rooms at Fitness First are a step above budget gym standards. Most London clubs provide individual shower cubicles, secure lockers, vanity areas, and complimentary toiletries. The upkeep of changing facilities varies between clubs, with newer or recently refurbished locations consistently rated higher by members.

Smart Training Technology

Fitness First has invested in smart training technology across its clubs, including body composition analysis, performance tracking tools, and the Fitness First app, which allows members to book classes, track workouts, and manage their membership. Smart zone heart-rate training is available at select clubs.

Group Exercise Classes

One of the strongest selling points of a Fitness First London membership is that all group exercise classes are included at no additional cost. The weekly timetable at most clubs is extensive, typically offering 50–80 classes per week across multiple formats:

High-Intensity & Cardio Classes

• HIIT — Full-body high-intensity interval training; typically 45–60 minutes.
• Cycling / Spin — Indoor cycling classes set to music; ideal for cardio fitness and fat loss.
• Boxercise & Boxing Fitness — Non-contact boxing training for cardio conditioning.
• BodyCombat (Les Mills) — Martial arts-inspired group class for full-body cardio.
• BodyAttack (Les Mills) — Sports-inspired aerobics class for fitness and agility.

Strength & Conditioning

• BodyPump (Les Mills) — Barbell-based strength class targeting all major muscle groups.
• Functional Fitness — Circuit-style training using functional movement patterns.
• Core Strength — Targeted abdominal and core stability work.

Mind-Body & Flexibility

• Yoga — Various styles including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin yoga.
• Pilates — Mat-based pilates classes for core, posture, and flexibility.
• Stretch & Mobility — Dedicated flexibility classes for recovery and injury prevention.

Classes can be booked online via the Fitness First website or app, with priority booking available to Premium members. Classes are available morning, lunchtime, and evening, seven days a week at most clubs.

Membership & Pricing

Fitness First London offers flexible membership options designed to suit different budgets, commitment levels, and usage patterns. Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to pay in 2026:

Standard Membership

Standard membership at London Fitness First clubs starts from approximately £49/month at outer London locations, rising to £85/month at premium central London clubs such as Liverpool Street. This includes unlimited gym access, all group exercise classes, and use of the Fitness First app.

Premium Membership

Fitness First Premium is an enhanced membership tier that adds the following benefits on top of standard access:

• HealthHero Access — Personalised health and wellbeing support including GP consultations, mental health coaching, and nutritional advice.
• Priority Class Booking — Book popular classes before general members, reducing the risk of missing out on peak-time sessions.
• 2 Guest Passes per Month — Bring a friend or family member to enjoy the gym with you at no additional cost (worth up to £100 in complimentary visits within the first 30 days).

Contract Options

Fitness First offers flexible contract lengths to suit different needs:

• 1 month (rolling monthly — highest flexibility)
• 3 months
• 6 months
• 9 months
• 12 months (typically the lowest monthly rate)

Contract availability varies by club, and a joining fee may apply at certain locations. It is strongly recommended to confirm all pricing and contract terms with your local club before signing up.

Pay-As-You-Go via Hussle

If you want to try Fitness First without committing to a contract, you can access select clubs through the Hussle platform. Day passes start from £21.60 per session at some locations, with Hussle Monthly+ passes costing from £108/month for multi-gym access including Fitness First clubs.

What Members Actually Say — Review Analysis

We analysed over 2,000 member reviews from Google, Trustpilot, and Hussle to give you an honest picture of the Fitness First London experience. The overall Trustpilot rating stands at 2.8/5 from 1,692 reviews, which is below average — however, patterns in the feedback reveal specific strengths and weaknesses.

Positive Themes

• Well-equipped gym floors: A large majority of positive reviews specifically praise the quality and variety of equipment. Members consistently highlight clean, well-maintained gym floors with good cardio and weights equipment.
• Great instructors: Fitness First group exercise instructors receive frequent praise, particularly at clubs like Highbury and London Bridge. Members describe classes as energetic, motivating, and well-structured.
• Convenient locations: The extensive London network is repeatedly cited as a major advantage, particularly for members who need to switch between clubs due to work locations.
• Class variety: The breadth of the weekly timetable — including Les Mills formats — is highly valued. Members appreciate having yoga, cycling, strength, and HIIT all included in one membership.
• Clean facilities: Newer and recently refurbished clubs receive consistent praise for cleanliness and maintenance standards.

Areas for Consideration

• Cancellation difficulties: The most common negative theme across all review platforms relates to challenges cancelling membership. Multiple members report difficulties exiting contracts, unexpected continued charges, and poor customer service when attempting to cancel.
• Inconsistent standards: Club quality varies noticeably across the London network. Some older clubs receive complaints about ageing equipment, tired decor, and inadequate maintenance.
• Price increases: Several reviewers note that membership fees have increased significantly in recent years — one TripAdvisor reviewer specifically noted a £20 price increase in January 2024. Members on long contracts report being subject to price rises mid-contract.
• Peak-time crowding: Popular city centre clubs, particularly those near financial districts, can become very crowded during the 7–9am and 5–7pm rush hours, with waits for equipment and classes booking out quickly.
• Customer service: The overall standard of front-desk customer service is frequently cited as inconsistent, with some clubs receiving praise and others drawing criticism for unhelpful or unresponsive staff.

Who Is Fitness First London Best For?

Fitness First occupies an interesting middle ground in the London gym market. It is best suited to the following types of members:

London professionals and commuters who want a gym near their workplace with flexible access across multiple zones of the city will find the network size genuinely useful. The ability to use any London club on one membership is a notable convenience.

Group fitness enthusiasts who want access to a broad class timetable — including Les Mills formats — without paying premium gym prices will find Fitness First’s all-inclusive class model compelling. The variety and frequency of classes rivals more expensive operators.

Mid-budget members who want more than a basic budget gym (PureGym, The Gym Group) but aren’t prepared to stretch to Equinox or Virgin Active pricing will find Fitness First a reasonable middle ground, particularly outside of Zone 1.

Fitness First may be less suitable for those who prioritise luxurious changing facilities, swimming pools at every club, or who have had negative experiences with gym membership cancellation policies and want a more member-friendly operator.

How Fitness First Compares to Other London Gyms

How to Join Fitness First London

Joining Fitness First is straightforward. You can sign up online via the Fitness First website at fitnessfirst.co.uk, where you can browse available London clubs, compare membership options, and complete your registration. Alternatively, you can visit your chosen club in person — most clubs offer free taster sessions or day passes for prospective members before committing to a membership.

When signing up, be sure to:

• Confirm the exact monthly price for your specific club (prices vary significantly across the London network)
• Clarify whether any joining fee applies
• Understand the minimum contract term and cancellation notice period before signing
• Ask about the cancellation process in writing — this is particularly important given the cancellation issues reported by members

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a Fitness First membership in London?

Fitness First London memberships start from approximately £49/month at outer London clubs and rise to £85/month at central Zone 1 locations such as Liverpool Street. Prices vary by club and contract length — longer contracts typically offer lower monthly rates. Always confirm the exact price with your local club before signing up.

Are classes included in a Fitness First membership?

Yes — all group exercise classes are included in the standard Fitness First membership at no additional cost. This includes Les Mills formats such as BodyPump, BodyCombat, and Cycling, as well as yoga, pilates, HIIT, and more. Priority class booking is available to Premium members.

How many Fitness First gyms are there in London?

As of 2026, Fitness First operates over 20 gyms across London, spanning zones 1 to 3. Notable locations include Liverpool Street, London Bridge, Highbury, Canary Wharf, Kensington, and Hammersmith. The full London club list is available on the Fitness First website under Find a Gym.

Can I cancel a Fitness First membership?

Fitness First memberships are available on 1, 3, 6, 9, or 12-month contract terms. To cancel, you must provide notice in accordance with the terms of your specific contract — this is typically 1 month’s notice for rolling memberships. A significant number of member complaints relate to the cancellation process; it is strongly recommended to document all cancellation requests in writing and retain confirmation from Fitness First.

Does Fitness First have a pool?

Some Fitness First London clubs include swimming pool facilities, but not all. If swimming is important to you, check the individual club page on the Fitness First website before choosing your gym or signing up for a membership.

Can I try Fitness First before joining?

Yes. Most Fitness First London clubs offer free taster sessions or trial days for prospective members. You can also access select clubs on a pay-as-you-go basis through the Hussle platform, starting from £21.60 per session. This is an excellent way to experience the gym before committing to a membership contract.

Is Fitness First good value in London?

Fitness First represents reasonable mid-market value for Londoners who want a comprehensive class timetable and well-equipped gym at a price point between budget gyms and premium operators. However, members should be aware of price increases and the potential for difficulties cancelling contracts — both of which have been widely reported by existing and former members.

How does Fitness First Premium membership differ from Standard?

Fitness First Premium membership adds HealthHero access (personalised health, GP, and nutrition support), priority class booking, and 2 free guest passes per month on top of the standard gym and class access. It is typically priced higher than standard membership; the exact premium is available from your local club.

London Reviews Verdict

Fitness First London occupies a legitimate and useful position in the city’s gym market. With over 20 clubs, an all-inclusive class timetable featuring established Les Mills formats, well-equipped gym floors, and flexible contract terms, it offers genuine value for Londoners seeking a mid-budget option that goes beyond the basics.

The brand’s main strength is its network size and class offering — for professionals who commute across multiple parts of London, or who rely on group exercise as their primary form of fitness, Fitness First delivers a credible package. The Premium tier, with its HealthHero wellbeing access and priority booking, adds real differentiation for those willing to pay a slight premium.

However, prospective members should go in with eyes open. The volume of negative feedback around membership cancellation processes is too consistent and widespread to ignore, and club quality varies meaningfully across the network. If you’re considering Fitness First, we recommend visiting your nearest club in person first, trying a pay-as-you-go session via Hussle, and ensuring you fully understand the cancellation terms before signing any contract.

For the right member — budget-conscious, class-oriented, based near a good Fitness First club — it can be a smart and satisfying choice. For those prioritising luxury, consistent standards, or maximum flexibility, operators like Virgin Active, Gymbox, or Nuffield Health may better serve your needs.

Summary Star Ratings

Disclaimer: This Fitness First London review is independently written by the London Reviews editorial team. London Reviews has not received payment, sponsorship, or any incentive from Fitness First UK. All pricing and membership details are based on publicly available information and may be subject to change — always confirm current pricing directly with your local Fitness First club before joining.