By: Anissa Reyes; Lindsay Garbacik By: Anissa Reyes; Lindsay Garbacik | June 25, 2023 | Lifestyle Community
So, you're ready to take the plunge and get serious about your fitness. There's only one problem: You don't know where to start!
Houston is home to some truly wonderful trainers and a thriving workout scene. Whether you're looking to lose weight or gain muscle, take a group class or get some one-on-one expertise, these 10 gyms in the Houston area have what it takes to pump you up and have fun doing it.
4444 Westheimer Road / Website
By now you’ve likely heard of celeb-loved fitness studio Equinox and its numerous member amenities. With luxe, aesthetically pleasing spaces, personal training, studio pilates, and a huge array of classes, including boxing and pilates, barre, yoga, kickboxing, and athletic training, among others, this fitness club offers a lot of options. All classes are included in the membership price, making it easy to schedule classes stress-free. Not near your home studio? No worries. Download the Equinox app for live-streamed and on-demand classes from certified instructors.
1501 Durham Drive / Website
The Houston gym has been in Houston for over 20 years and its community feel and seemingly endless rows of machines have made it a mainstay. There’s new equipment, each organized into zones of what it targets, a dedicated stretching room, a variety of group fitness classes, and massage therapy and tanning to really help you to become your ideal self. On the group fitness class schedule, find pilates, boot camp, TaeBo, Zumba, yoga, and more. Members get fit and gain a fitness-positive community at this gym.
9889 Bellaire Blvd. #124a / Website
Kinitro Fitness’ motto is #BeTheBeast with the belief that “fitness” is both a mental and physical game only you can conquer. Here, you will get stronger, feel better and move faster toward your fitness goals. The gym provides three membership options; open gym, unlimited and eight classes a month. During open gyms, members have unlimited access to strength and conditioning equipment including squat cages, barbells, sleds and more. The gym also offers personal training and fitness workshops. Being “The Beast” starts at Kinitro Fitness!
14690 Memorial Drive / Website
This community-focused fitness center prioritizes its members and trains all ages. Group fitness classes include warrior training, spinning, pilates, aqua fitness and Parisi speed training. Opt for a personal trainer to show you the ropes or explore the amenities on your own. For women, there’s a dedicated women-only gym located across the street, for a peaceful and spacious workout space, though members have access to both buildings. This family-friendly facility has been in Houston for over 30 years and truly has something for everyone.
4620 Center Street / Website
For fitness at any time of day, OAK Fitness is the place to be. The gym is open 24/7 for members, while non-members still have access during the day throughout the week. Find rows of weights, lifting machines, a boxing zone, cardio equipment, and all the fitness accessories in between. Group fitness classes are available to members, and include, HIIT, yoga, and boxings, as well as classes focused on legs, upper body and booty workouts. Perhaps the most unique feature of the neighborhood gym is its in-house sports medicine doctor. Members can seek therapy for workout injuries, and receive help with physical rehabilitation, and chiropractic services.
767 N Shepherd Drive / Website
Head to this truly massive, 35,000-square-foot fitness center to fulfill any of your fitness desires. The modern and high-tech facility features weight and cardio equipment, turf fields, boxing and MMA zones, a yoga studio, an outdoor volleyball court, and even a juice bar. In addition to this slew of amenities, members can take a variety of classes utilizing these unique spaces, or learn from personal trainers. There are also kids' fitness classes, like Brazilian jiu-jitsu. This is a great spot for trying new workouts.
16223 Moonrock Drive / Website
Check out Stone’s Gym for a laid-back and nutrition-focused workout experience. The gym takes an individualized approach, so each member learns a fitness routine that is beneficial for them. There is a slew of group fitness classes, including barre, pilates, yoga and cycling, as well as personal training and nutrition counseling available.
905 Reinerman Street C / Website
Short on time, prone to injury, or on a budget? Stronger Faster Strength & Conditioning believes in helping those in any circumstance reach their fitness goals. With a variety of programs including nutrition coaching, personal training and group training, the staff will help find a program that is right for you. To get started, book a free intro on the website, talk with a coach to make a personalized plan and start training.
3303 Audley Street / Website
Luxury lovers must explore this utterly pristine and peaceful fitness center– The Preserve Houston. With modern features, high ceilings, massive windows, expansive amenities, and tranquil nature surrounding the premises, this spot feels like a resort. Members enjoy pilates studios, indoor and outdoor weight rooms, group fitness classes, personal training, and a saltwater pool. There are a variety of cycling, pilates, yoga, and muscle-building-focused circuits offered daily.
3401 Gulf Fwy / Website
Ready to get your boxing on? This is the place to be. Amenities include a large MMA cage and mat area, punching bags, full sets of weights, and ample space for classes. Group fitness classes center around jiu-jitsu, boxing, kickboxing and grappling, with special kid-tailored courses. With multiple trainers available for both classes and personal training, 365 Fitness makes it easy and safe to explore boxing and MMA-related exercises.
Looking for more luxe stops in the city? Check out our picks for The Best Restaurants For Valentine’s Day Dinner In Houston.
Photography by: By ozgurdonmaz/Istock