Fitness First Access and Convenience for UK Members
Finding the right gym isn’t just about equipment and classes it’s also about accessibility, convenience, and fitting your workouts into a busy schedule. Fitness First, one of the UK’s longest-running health club brands, understands this.
Whether you’re an early riser, night owl, or weekend warrior, this guide provides an in-depth look at when and how you can access your local Fitness First.
Fitness First Opening Hours: When Can You Train?
Fitness First clubs across the UK generally offer extended opening hours to accommodate varied lifestyles, though exact times depend on the location.
| Day | Typical Opening Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday–Friday | 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Some flagship clubs, particularly in London, may open earlier or close later. Always check with your specific Fitness First location for precise times.
24/7 Access
While Fitness First does not offer 24/7 access across all clubs, select locations particularly in high-demand urban areas do provide 24-hour access for members with the right membership tier.
- Check your club’s profile online to confirm if 24/7 access is available.
- Note: 24/7 clubs often have security systems and limited staff presence during late-night hours.
Local Variations
Fitness First tailors access hours based on:
- Location demand (e.g., city centre vs. suburban areas)
- Facility type (express gyms, flagship clubs, women-only studios)
- Neighbourhood regulations on opening hours
Always refer to your home club’s official page for updates, particularly around holidays or special events.
Are Fitness First Open on Holidays and Weekends?
Weekend Hours
Most Fitness First locations remain open on weekends, although with reduced hours.
| Day | Opening Hours (Typical) |
|---|---|
| Saturday | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Weekend classes may also be limited in number, so book early via the Fitness First app.
Bank Holidays
Fitness First clubs are usually open during UK Bank Holidays, but expect reduced hours and limited class schedules. Members will typically receive notifications via email or in-app updates about any temporary schedule changes.
Off-Peak Hours: When Is the Gym Less Busy?
What Are Off-Peak Hours?
Off-peak hours vary by location but generally include:
- Mid-morning: 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- Mid-afternoon: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- Late evening: 8:00 PM until closing (non-24-hour clubs)
These windows are ideal if you prefer quieter workouts with less equipment queuing.
Benefits of Off-Peak Membership
Choosing an off-peak membership at Fitness First offers several perks:
| Feature | Off-Peak Membership |
|---|---|
| Lower monthly cost | Yes |
| Access to quieter times | Yes |
| Full gym access | Limited to off-peak |
Ideal for freelancers, retirees, students, or anyone with flexible hours, off-peak plans typically cost £10–£20 less per month than full access memberships.
Is Fitness First Truly a 24/7 Gym?
The short answer: not everywhere. While some Fitness First locations have adopted 24/7 access, most operate on extended but limited hours.
- 24/7 Clubs: Usually in city centres or major transport hubs
- Standard Clubs: Open early and close late, but not overnight
- Check availability: Find a Club Tool
If 24/7 access is essential, you may wish to explore other gym chains like The Gym Group or PureGym, which offer round-the-clock entry as standard.
Parking Availability and Public Transport Access
Parking at Fitness First
Parking availability depends on the club’s location:
| Location Type | Parking Availability |
|---|---|
| Suburban clubs | On-site or adjacent lot |
| City centre clubs | Limited or paid parking |
| Retail park gyms | Free parking often included |
Always check with your local club about parking rules. Some require member validation or time-limited access.
Public Transport Access
Fitness First clubs are typically located close to major transport links:
- City clubs: Near tube/train stations or bus stops
- Suburban clubs: Accessible by local bus routes or cycling paths
Consider using TfL Journey Planner to map the best route to your nearest club if you’re in Greater London.
Tips for Planning Your Gym Visits
- Download the Fitness First app – Check live class schedules, book ahead, and monitor club footfall if available.
- Go during off-peak times – Avoid busy weekday evenings (5–8 PM) and Saturday mid-mornings.
- Travel smart – Use public transport if parking is limited; look into park-and-ride if commuting.
- Plan holiday workouts early – Book classes in advance during Christmas, Easter, and bank holiday weeks.
Conclusion
Fitness First offers a high level of flexibility and convenience to suit diverse training schedules across the UK. While not every location is 24/7, most clubs open early and close late, ensuring even the busiest individuals can squeeze in a session. Whether you’re looking for quiet off-peak hours, public transport convenience, or weekend training, there’s a Fitness First option that fits.
Key Takeaways:
- Standard hours: 6 AM–10 PM on weekdays, reduced on weekends
- Select locations offer 24/7 access
- Off-peak memberships save money for flexible schedules
- Parking and public transport access vary by club
