Best Gym near Boston, Massachusetts

I like most planet fitness locations. I had no issues with this location until today. My headphones died and because everyone uses their headphones I was playing my music at a low level. A staff came by and ruined my workout. Saying in the past members have complained. But when I asked if someone recently complained he was dismissive. If no one else cares why does he? That racist vibe people talk about in Boston. I see you white gay man who works here with the black hair. You could have been nice but instead you chose to be extra. And then proceeded to follow me to what? Ensure I didn't play it again. The caucasity!

I had a horrible experience I called and asked ahead of time if the gym would be open on Monday for 24 hours and they said yes. When I arrived I saw nothing but a locked door with nobody in it very frustrating I wasted money on an Uber going there and then I had to pay money to get back home and I didn’t even get to work out that is very frustrating. Never going back here again

The people who work here are nice, but they really need to figure out a better ventilation system for the place, in particular the downstairs area. There is consistently a terrible odor throughout the entire weight area and the air feels just overall unpleasant.

Excellent gym. Lots of free weights and smith machines. I went twice on biz trip to Boston and found this location to be clean and stacked with well maintained machines. First floor was loaded with cardio machines. Highly recommend. Keep in mind I showed up around 830am-930am so can’t speak to off hours. Great job planet fitness!

This is by far the worst gym I’ve been to. The location is good, the equipment was recently renewed but the locker room is so unsafe and is not clean, lots of broken locker that had been forced. And there always a smell like sweat or something who knows what. I would never take a shower there. Good thing they have several cleaning station all over the work out floor so can clean machines before and after you use them

great facility! i went with 3 friends and received a tranquility massage. tried the sauna rooms and stayed in the zen lounge. they allowed us to bring drinks and snacks and even provided with cups, plates, and a champagne with ice holder.

I signed up for the membership, but their cancellation policy is terrible. You’re required to cancel in person, which wasn’t possible for me as I was traveling. I tried canceling via email, but that wasn’t accepted. I only wanted to downgrade from the massage + yoga membership (since the mandatory 20% tip for massages makes them far too expensive), but instead, they canceled my membership entirely. I reached out to customer service over a month ago and still haven’t received a response. While the yoga is decent with the heavily discounted membership, the massages aren’t worth it, and I’d prefer another studio if I had to pay full price.

I used to love this spa and have been here so many times over the last 7+ years. Unfortunately they seem to be cutting corners and are going downhill. It’s too bad because I recommended this place to so many people over the years but I have to remind myself I can no longer come back. The Tranquility massage must be something that the masseuses are instructed to perform poorly on. It must be some lower ticket item (lol it’s $195) to try to get people to upgrade to a more expensive massage. I have had two now and both times the pressure is so light it’s like they’re barely touching you. They also only last 40 minutes, not 50. The massage was so light and confusing for this price point that I was not relaxed, just mad that it felt like I was getting my money taken from me for a service they didn’t provide. I can get a more relaxing massage in a mall kiosk for way less money. I know that the masseuse knows they aren’t providing a high quality service and that must be frustrating for them. I want you to do well exhale, but I can tell that things have changed over the years. I must be holding on to 2019.

Booked a deep tissue massage for my husband here for his birthday, when I called I was certain to clarify the amenities ( hamma room & sauna) upon arrival both of these were out of order which I was not informed. I had specially booked a massage here for the amenities. I was offered 25% off and when my husband checked out he said no one gave him a receipt. I checked my credit card bill and only received 25$ off. Not 25% off. Probably would not book again since I was really disappointed. Massage was good but can go anywhere to receive a massage, was looking for the amenities.

My husband and I had a couple's massage today and used a gift card my sister gave us. It was the worst experience ever. Terrible front desk service—don’t ask your customers to wait around while you finish tasks on your computer when there’s literally no one else around, and then call us afterward to charge us for services you already charged us for! Nothing worked except the women’s sauna, and even that wasn’t great. You’re better off going to G2 Spa or the Mandarin Hotel. Never again.

My experience at Equinox Boston was nothing short of excellent. The gym is always clean, with top-of-the-line equipment, and the atmosphere is incredibly motivating. The staff was always friendly and supportive, making it a great place to work out. A special shoutout to my personal trainer, Kevin Roache, who has been an absolute game-changer in my fitness era. Kevin has a unique ability to tailor workouts to my goals, pushing me to work harder while ensuring proper form and injury prevention. His knowledge and expertise have not only helped me see physical results but also given me the confidence to tackle challenges I never thought I could. Kevin’s approach is personal, professional, and motivating – I always looked forward to our sessions. Not only is Kevin an incredible personal trainer, but he also has some seriously impressive talents. I’ve seen him smash a watermelon between his thighs — yes, you read that right! His strength and control are truly at the next level. If that’s any indication of his dedication and power, it’s clear that Kevin can handle any challenge, both in the gym and beyond. Overall, I highly recommend Equinox Boston for anyone looking for a premium gym experience, and if you're in need of a personal trainer, Kevin Roache is the one to go to. Especially if you need that extra push in 2025. His dedication and passion for helping clients succeed are truly unmatched!

I recently cancelled my membership at Equinox Sports Club Boston due to relocation, but I couldn’t leave without sharing my wonderful experience! I first joined Equinox in November 2022, and after a brief stint as an employee at Equinox Bethesda, I returned to Boston and rejoined as a member on June 1, 2024. Every moment spent at this club has been truly exceptional! First, I want to express my gratitude to Matt Strutt, the General Manager, for creating such a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere. Second, a special shoutout to Michael Mlambo, my membership advisor, who was always there to help and make the process smooth and enjoyable. One of the most impressive changes I noticed upon my return was the upgraded equipment and furniture throughout the club. It really enhances the workout experience and makes the environment feel fresh and inviting. Since I rejoined, I participated in over 100 group fitness classes, and the instructors are simply top-notch! Emily Comerford’s Playground Experience class was a standout; her energy and creativity made every session a joy. Paula Fonseca’s Pilates classes were fantastic for building strength and flexibility, and I always left feeling revitalized. And Maryanne Blake’s Ropes & Rowers class was an exhilarating challenge that kept me engaged and motivated! As I relocate to the Midwest, I’ll truly miss this incredible community. I made a ton of friends at this fitness club. Thank you, Equinox Boston, for the amazing memories and the fantastic fitness foundation you’ve helped me build. I’ll carry these experiences with me wherever I go!

Enormous equinox. So much space and so well laid out. I wish I took pictures of the yoga studio but I didn’t bring my phone to class. It was the most beautiful studio. Flooded with light. Tall ceilings and curved windows. This facility is just so enormous and they really do such an incredible job keeping it so clean. Thank you for having me!

Equinox in Ritz-Carlton Boston's outstanding quality and atmosphere not only make using the gym a pleasure but also motivate me to come for my daily workouts. In addition, the outside view is amazing. Had a boxing class with Jim. Great explanation of the moves. Really fun class. Felt so energetic after it. Recommend to attend.

Best group classes. 100% recommend to anyone looking for amazing classes and motivation. I feel all the teachers are great, and all classes are better than studio classes at other places that only offer one type of class. Location is great, only missing sauna for womens bathroom.

This recreation center has a lot os positives and negatives. Although the atrium is beautiful and looks stylish, it makes the gym feel small and disconnected. The fact that they have 5 squat racks and 4 bench presses for 20,000 students blows my mind. The free weight section is always packed to The brim during the school year so it’s not even worth going most of the time. Although I have my issues, I do like that they have 3 basketball courts, heavy bags, a spacious locker, and a SAUNA. Cool place but i probably wouldn’t be going here if it wasn’t included with my school.

Denied entry to Merino Gym with Husky ID after paying $70 Recreation fee for Spring '25. Unreal.

Great gym and very pretty but not enough weights and machines - always way too crowded and not good enough to support an university

Great idea to cut a giant hole in every floor and make 75% of it a café. Looks pretty but zero functionality.

It’s typically pretty crowded, but Marino is a solid gym with great hours

A great gym for your work out here in Boston . Very close to Copley square . It has a pool and many different Classes. The gym has everything you need but it’s only for me doesn’t has gym atmosphere. It’s not mandatory to have a towel with you but you have to clean the machines with wet wipes after you used them . If everyone had a towel you would have to do this . I don’t know it’s the fist gym that it has everything you need but for sure doesn’t feel like a gym. No ambient music . It’s most like a kids and old people gym more than a heavy weight training Center .

1 star, highly regret signing up with the YMCA. They have not cancelled my membership despite me asking to get it cancelled 2 months ago. The staff is 3.0/5.0 stars nice but cares 0.0/5.0 stars. They said they would email me back and process a refund but I was met with another charge. Hugely inconvenient with still no resolve after 2 months of being overcharged, no attention whatsoever. I wonder what they are doing instead? Anyways I still don't know what to do about this except to post this review. They don't even deserve this meek 1 star

nice gym, newer equipment, friendly and pleasant workers, especially the people at the front desk. just wish they would update the gym schedule accordingly, there’s been a good handful of times in which i’ve looked at the gym schedule and gone at the correct times but there’s still activities in the gym going on, making the trip a bust. there’s usually a bunch of people hogging the benches and squat racks too, making the only times i’m able to work out with all the equipment i need as soon as it opens or right before they close.

Have been coming here many years, and it is such a wonderful gym and community center. Excellent instructors for classes and facilities that actually reflect what is most popular with clientele (e.g adding more squat racks because of high use). Love this place!

I love this YMCA. The coaches and instructors are very patient and generous, they have helped motivate my sons interest in multiple sports and have been a humongous support to my family. I'd recommend the YMCA of Greater Boston to any of my friends and family!

For a workout before workday, the door is always open on time. Considering the large number of people, the work-out room and locker room are clean and well maintained. And there is rarely an unreasonable wait for weights. All credit goes to the staff. They are always friendly and courteous. While it doesn't adversely affect a workout, the lower level has low ceilings, and they didn't have a large budget for mirrors. Still a good workout experience at a great price

I got a good value out of my membership, and only cancelled because I moved to an area where there are no Planet Fitness locations. The membership fee and monthly cost was very fair, and the facility itself was well-equipped and regularly cleaned. I have no complaints at all!

I’ve had a very disappointing experience at Planet Fitness on Newbury Street and feel obligated to share my recent encounter with their management. When I signed up, I provided two payment methods—my debit card for the standard $10 monthly fee and my credit card for the startup charge. To my surprise, I discovered that for the past three months I’d been billed $30 each month, an unexpected $20 more than agreed upon. When I contacted the club, they claimed there was an issue with my bank account and that they had the right to charge my credit card and apply late fees without my explicit consent or even a courtesy notification. Despite my attempts to understand and resolve the matter, the club’s response was largely to push the responsibility back onto me. I ended up with $60 in extra fees before I even knew what was happening. Initially, the staff agreed to a $40 refund, which felt like a step in the right direction. However, upon following up, the promised refund seemed to evaporate, and suddenly I was told I’d only receive $20 back. I requested an escalation process to address this, but was informed there’s no further avenue since it’s a franchise location. The lack of transparency and accountability was extremely frustrating. What bothers me most isn’t just the money—it’s the dismissive attitude, the shifting promises, and the sense that resolving a simple billing matter was simply not a priority. In a neighborhood as well-regarded as Newbury Street, it’s disheartening to encounter such poor customer support and confusing billing practices. I truly hope this location takes steps to improve its communication, consistency, and overall respect for its customers. Until then, I would strongly recommend looking elsewhere for your fitness needs.

It seems I'm always informing the staff of clogged showers and they're not getting fixed?? I literally told them the week before and the week before that the showers are clogged. I don't understand why this has been a recurring problem for the two years I've been a member at this gym. I stood in dirty water because all of the showers weren't draining and then got a rash infection pretty immediately (which I thought may be mosquito bites in the gym) but then realized it was a breakout on my ankle two nights ago. I'm disgusted and disturbed. I don't want to review this planet fitness so poorly, as they're conveniently located and generally a clean, organized, and friendly gym but they take forever to take care of issues in the women's locker room.

Lots of good equipment. Never really crowded. A year ago I posted how clean this is. Something changed big time. The lower level is just filthy. I’m so sad to see it’s not being cleaned. There is trash and papers everywhere and dirt/dust under the machines and on the edges of the walls. This is very obviously not just a days worth of dirt and trash. I tried to find a way to message the manager or owner , but couldn’t figure it out so I thought I would just post here as I know they check reviews. Hopefully someone will push staff to clean. Thank you for the response. I will reach out to management. But, if you take an unexpected tour yourself, or want numerous photos, let me know. I am not just nit-picking. This is 180° from last year.

If you are considering coming to this location, please read these reviews and strongly reconsider. I have been a member here since pre-COVID, and the culture and overall cleanliness make this location feel like a low-tier gym. The male room has continued to smell malodorous (as noted by other reviews) with a cadre of regular creeps sleuthing between the sauna and steam room. I attempted to file a complaint about patrons walking around *barefoot* in the weights and stretching area. According to the desk staff, this is permitted in their policy, despite being labeled “gross.” I will not pay >$200 / mo to see people walking around the gym barefoot. What has happened to the quality of this gym? My goodness.

It’s an alright gym but definitely not worth the price tag (which goes up year after year). Facilities seem to be getting more and more packed every year too. The personal trainers are awful - constantly having their clients bang medicine balls all over the gym with no respect for gym etiquette, always in your face with the annoying “how many more sets do you have left?” followed by waiting right next to you while you finish up with the equipment. I will be taking my business to the Lifetime at the Pru as soon as it opens

This is maybe not specific to this location, but in general. I am about to visit and was told Equinox doesn’t do day passes, even paid ones. While I understand it’s a pretentious club, and that you want to make sure the members get the best benefits, that’s about the most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard. I would even pay to visit, but because I don’t live near an Equinox, I can’t even check it out? Big loss on the management’s, probably corporate’s part.

I have visited several Equinox locations and intermittently come to this one. The group fitness options here are excellent. The trainers don’t just focus on form adjustments or injury accommodations—they also share interesting insights during casual conversations.

Attempted to Cancel at least 10 different times with 20 different people; and none of their systems seem to be synced up. They kept billing me after I cancelled, demanded private information about my exact relocation address (needed to see copies of utility bills / leases to cancel membership), placed me in collections AFTER they told me they cancelled my membership; this place is an absolute nightmare. Stay away.

Barry’s Back Bay is no joke! The class was SO hard, but absolutely worth it. They really push you to the brink, more than any other HIIT class I’ve taken. If you’re looking for a challenge, this is the place to go. The instructor was fantastic—super clear with instructions and really kept the energy high throughout the whole class. I walked out feeling completely spent, but also really accomplished. If you’re serious about getting a great workout, Barry’s is where it’s at!

Good class with Kate! She was high-energy and fun, which kept the class engaging. Not as challenging as Barry’s classes elsewhere (London & Milan), but still a good workout. The locker room space is cramped and poorly laid out.

Love. Incredible workout, it’s fun, motivating, challenging, and dramatic. All the instructions 8 have taken class with have been phenomenal. The studio itself is very well run, the front desk staff are inviting and it is easy to get someone on the phone if you have questions. The shower + styling amenities are great. Im a huge fan and think it is well worth the price. Bonus is the smoothie bar that can have your smoothie ready as class ends!

This is such a darn good mood booster. The organization is respectful, donates to great causes and you have really made me feel accepted there. Thank you all- I’m never disappointed. I’ve taken classes with Mike P, Paige, Candice and Dan at Back Bay.

Kate's classes are masterful. Nothing short of perfection. Her instruction is clear, her internal sense of timing is impeccable, and she doesn't blast the music too loud. She also provides a psychological element, and challenging structure to the class, that stops you from plateauing. She is an amazing Barry's instructor!

The Wang YMCA offers a great location in Boston. The recently remodeled locker rooms and new exercise equipment augment the friendly staff. The week day hours are good for working professionals and the atmosphere is low key. If you are looking to rejoin a gym post covid, this is a well maintained facility that also has a pool.

Hey there! Don't hesitate to join the YMCA Chinatown in Boston. They are nice people and the staff is always willing to help you reach your health and fitness goals. EDIT OCT 17, 2024 / I am loving my swimming lessons. Once again, don’t hesitate to join the Y in Chinatown. You will find a plan for your fitness goals.

The facilities are good and it's close to downtown. The staff know how to do their job and are polite to the customers for the most part. It's all good except from time to time some weirdos will peak at you in the shower or sit around and watch you change in the locker room. This happens at all YMCAs not just this one. I guess the era of shared changing spaces may soon be coming to an end.

The Wang Y offers quality space, good equipment, and a variety of activities from pickleball to swimming to Zumba. There’s something for everyone! And it’s on the Orange Line.

Given its location and membership rates, this YMCA offers excellent value. The staff are all very friendly, the hours are convenient, and the equipment/surroundings are always clean. To make things even better, all of the cardio and weight circuit machines were replaced in 2024!

This is the best spot to flow through an amazing yoga class and then enjoy a wonderful meal with friends afterward. The attached cafe environment is so warm and welcoming—I could seriously spend all day here! The studios are always sparkling clean, creating such a peaceful and inviting atmosphere. And the teaching? Absolutely unmatched. Every instructor brings incredible expertise and genuine care, making each class feel like a truly transformative experience. I don’t think I could ever go to another yoga studio again. Down Under Yoga in the South End has set the bar impossibly high! Highly recommend for anyone seeking a community-driven, high-quality yoga practice in a space that feels like home. 🧘‍♀️✨

Absolutely love the South End community and the partnership of Down Under and Life Alive! The energy is always so vibrant and lively, and the studios are so well maintained. And not to mention the teachers - some of the most knowledgeable, kind and welcoming in the area!

I was in Boston for a work conference, staying in Back Bay, and dropped into Elliott's Mysore room on a Wednesday morning. As a traveling Ashtangi, it's always fun to visit other shala's and practice with their communities. I also believe it's more important than ever to support our Ashtanga community and our teachers by showing up in person. Elliott was very kind and welcoming. He asked me where I was in my practice, if I had any injuries and if I was comfortable with hands-on assists. I had a beautiful practice (that wasn't in my hotel room) aided with his amazing adjustments. There were different levels of practitioners in the room and he was attentive and helpful to everyone. After practice, I treated myself to a delicious vegan Tahini, date shake. I had no idea the studio shared space with the cafe and it was such a treat (much like the old days of Jivamukti in NYC!). I noticed Down Under School of Yoga has many locations and they offer a variety of classes (not all Ashtanga). They also have a lot of interesting workshops and it seems like a great community to be a part of if you live in Boston. Thank you for a wonderful practice - I'm looking forward to my next visit!

The classes are always way too crowded. Just paid for an event that started late and ended over 10 minutes late. The “vinyasa” flow classes are all over the place. The only reason I still have a membership is for the Yin & Ashtanga. Having a yoga studio inside of a cafe is also extremely awkward!!!

The South End is just a gorgeous studio with extremely open space and windows. The staff was extremely kind and helpful with teaching me to navigate the space. My class was vigorous and sweaty! Definitely coming back!

I’ve taken a handful of sculpt classes at the Southie handle bar location, and I’m definitely a fan! I got a gift card for christmas so looking forward to going more. I just took Emily’s 5:30 pm class on Thursday and i think i found my new favorite instructor. I just absolutely loved her infectious energy- was so motivated the entire class. All the instructors are amazing but she’s a stand out. Highly recommend coming here. Pro tip bring your own Yogi towel and lots of water- it gets HOT!

Let me tell you about Handle Bar! When I visit their South End location, I never miss out on the spinning classes led by Rachel MC and Maddy B. These instructors are amazing, and don't be fooled by their friendly demeanor - their classes are challenging but they manage to make them enjoyable. Plus, the music they play makes you feel like you're at a party. Personally, I dread cardio, but I always eagerly anticipate their classes.

Handle Bar provides great workouts for both spin & strength & sculpt! Great variety of instructors & times! This location has showers, parking in some nearby areas, and it has a blue bike rack directly in front of the location which makes arriving super easy!

I love HB! The whole crew is incredibly kind, and the workouts are awesome. What I think sets HB apart from competitors is how welcoming they are to new joiners. My first time there vs with other companies was totally different -- someone showed me to my bike, help me set it up, helped me clip in, all the works. The instructors also help coach you through the choreography (e.g., what is position 1, crunch, push-up, etc.) vs leaving you out to guess what's going on. The owner, Tom, is also fantastic. I left a medication there after a class and he went above and beyond to help me get it back. Cant say enough good things about HB!

This studio has both spin and strength building classes. The staff are super nice and instructors are top tier! I highly recommend taking Julie, Matt, Kristen T, Rachel M-C and Ivo's classes!

Excellent. Purpose driven. Local community, recovery, fitness location. Really well maintained and like new. I drop in boxes all over and was really impressed but first time I’ve felt really touched and motivated by the purpose of the gym.

Great! I'm glad to visit Phoenix every time. It's always a cool motivating atmosphere. Special attention is the climbing wall)

Thankful that a place like this exists, for "us".... Lots of different classes something for everyone clean friendly and fun!

Amazing facilities and equipment you can access for free and it supports a good cause

I personally am in recovery and am thankful to have found The Phoenix at the beginning of my journey to sobriety over two years ago. It has allowed me to find strength and hope with my recovery, associating PR's and fitness achievements with my sobriety milestones. Not only that, there is a strong, supportive community that gives me the opportunity to thrive in recovery, not just survive. It is a blessing to now be working for The Phoenix and connecting others in need to this community. The Phoenix is a nonprofit organization that fosters a sober active community for individuals recovering from a substance use disorder and those who choose to live sober. Through activities such as indoor/outdoor rock climbing, CrossFit, yoga, running, hiking and boxing, we seek to help individuals maintain the emotional strength they need to stay sober. By leveraging physical activity and social connection, our participants are able to build confidence and find the support they need to live productive and fulfilling lives in recovery. Phoenix events are FREE to anyone with at least 48 hours of continuous sobriety and all of our instructors are in recovery themselves. With this peer-to-peer model and a culture that is welcoming, safe and supportive, Phoenix is helping individuals rise from the ashes of addiction and pursue lives full of hope.