Founded in 1844 in London, the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) is the oldest operating wellness facility of its kind in existence. The original purpose of the organization (and its female counterpart, YWCA) was to provide low-cost housing in a safe Christian environment for rural young men and women journeying to the cities for work during the industrialization era. The YMCA combined preaching in the streets and the distribution of religious tracts with a social ministry. Philanthropists saw YMCA as a place for wholesome recreation that would help to deter youth groups from the temptations of alcohol, gambling, and prostitution. Today, YMCA programs throughout the world still hold strong to the values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility. These values continue to be taught in its facilities today to help teach children right from wrong. YMCA has since developed a culture of fitness and wellness at its locations communities with paid gym membership programs and fitness classes that promote healthy living. The association conducts many different types of outreach and social programs to raise awareness of its services, and currently serves over 10,000 neighborhoods across the United States.

Top Ranked Companies

#1 Planet Fitness

5.5 Overall Score

3.7

star star star star_half star_border

(460)

View Profile View Profile

#2 Vasa

5.3 Overall Score

3.6

star star star star_half star_border

(397)

View Profile View Profile

#3 24 Hour Fitness

5.2 Overall Score

3.9

star star star star star_border

(129)

View Profile View Profile

thumb_up

The Good

Price and contracts
No hidden fees
Cleanliness
Classes
Trainers and nutrition

Price and Contracts

The YMCA lists its membership prices upfront, which include a recurring monthly membership ranging from $47 to $55. For $90.00 a month, a family can join. This membership can be paid monthly, or annually in one lump sum. YMCAs across the globe also promote healthy lifestyles through fitness and nutrition by allowing their communities to access their exercise equipment and take group fitness classes for a very affordable rate. If you can't afford the monthly fee, you can "pay-as-you-go" for $10 for a full day pass. For $10, you can take any class for free or use any of the facilities' amenities, from the pool to the basketball court to the weight room. There are also special perks for seniors, who can get a free membership under the Silver Sneakers program offered through certain insurance plans. As a community center, YMCA also offers financial assistance for those in need. Applicants should bear in mind, however, that they would have to go through a full paperwork process, and provide information W-2s. Also, YMCA may disqualify anyone receiving public assistance-the demographic that needs this help the most.

No Hidden Fees

While many gyms we found had hidden fees, the YMCA does not. Pricing is pretty straightforward but a few members ran into additional fees with family memberships. Most gyms we reviewed have at least one or two "hidden fees" customers encounter after joining; but the YMCA does not seem to follow suit.

Cleanliness

The level of cleanliness at the YMCA depends on the specific location; however, most tend to be clean and well kept despite the caliber of neighborhood. Members are responsible for cleaning any equipment they use, and YMCA provides disposable paper towels to wipe the equipment down. Staff maintenance overall appears to be consistent at keeping the facility clean.

Classes

The YMCA offers an average of over 700 classes each week. This is the most out of almost any gym or fitness center we reviewed. Classes cover the broadest base of activities in the industry and are tailored for beginner, intermediate and advanced levels, so members can choose which level is best for them. Most national gyms do not offer levels, just one class for everyone. This can be problematic for a novice to take an advanced class and risk injury. The YMCA's classes include low-impact group exercise and chair classes, stretching and strength training, indoor cycling, boxing, boot camp, water exercise, tai chi, Couch to 5K Beginner Running, yoga, and X-PLODE Group Training. The YMCA also provides massage, pool, locker rooms (you have to bring your own key or pay for one), mind and body rooms, an indoor track (in suburban locations), and a full-length basketball court and skating rink.

Trainers and Nutrition

All YMCA locations offer one-on-one personal and group sessions with personal trainers. Members can purchase sessions in 1-, 5-, and 10-hour packages. YMCA's personal training sessions focus on goal setting, cardiovascular conditioning, muscle strength and endurance training, and overall body restructuring. Sport-specific training is also available. It should also be noted that the YMCA does offer programs for health and wellness, some of which incorporate some nutritional training. For example, they have a Chronic Disease Programs which offer nutritional consultations.

thumb_down

The Bad

Upfront Fees
Equipment
Other Available Amenities
Training limitations

Upfront Fees

The YMCA has one membership type: month-to-month. The enrollment fee is $100, which is expensive, though, occasionally the Y will advertise specials where this fee is dropped. Some of the other major gyms we reviewed had similarly expensive enrollment fees.

Equipment

The quantity and quality of the equipment at the Y varies from gym to gym. Facilities in inner cities are lacking updated equipment while locations in the suburbs have all the best machines. Quantity also varies according to facility location. Some YMCAs have less equipment than others.

Other Available Amenities

As with any fitness facility, the complaints and issues will vary from gym to gym. The majority of reviews for YMCAs across the United States are positive, but there are quite a few complaints about a lot of children in the fitness area. Many fitness clubs have rules against bringing children into the fitness area of a gym. Because YMCA offers family passes and are very family-oriented, the majority of the complaints are about the number of children present at the gym throughout the day. In addition, the YMCA's many amenities are not consistent across all locations.

Training Limitations

Prices for training programs at the YMCA depend on the branch you are a member of and are not advertised; rather, they require in-person consultations with YMCA personnel. This is less favorable than some gyms that offer their pricing packaging upfront. YMCA's personal training programs do not seem to be as holistic as other gyms' in terms of nutrition and exercise training. We also found the YMCA doesn't offer nutritional plans for one-on-one training.

gavel

The Bottom Line

The YMCA has been in business for longer than any other wellness center on earth. It also offers youth outreach programs, affordable rates, family passes, and free childcare (in most locations). And with over 700 fitness classes per week, YMCA provides one of the longest lists of fitness classes and programs anywhere. Seniors also benefit as members, with free membership under their insurance's Silver Sneaker's program. The downside to the YMCA is that amenities vary with each location. Nicer neighborhoods have better amenities while poorer neighborhoods have poor facilities. Most locations, however, are clean and maintained. The YMCA's $100 enrollment fee is expensive for a community gym, making membership enrollment expensive. Membership fees, however, are relatively affordable ranging from $47 to $55/month, depending on location. If you're looking for a place to unwind after work and enjoy a quiet, kid-free workout, you will want to look further than your local YMCA. If you have children, or don't mind children being present at your gym, then YMCA might be a good fit for you.

Was this content helpful?

thumb_up Yes thumb_down No

border_color Write a Review

User Reviews

Star Rating

4.3

star star star star star_half

154 Reviews

Review Breakdown

5 grade

60%

4 grade

24%

3 grade

2 grade

1 grade

Sentiment Criteria

Value

star star star star star_half

Quality

star star star star star_border

Service

star star star star star_half

Trustworthiness

star star star star star_half

cancel

star star star star star

Mandi Colorado Springs, CO

The YMCA is a great option for both a fitness club and for local sports and youth activities. My kids were on volleyball teams through the Y and the value of the membership was obvious. You can pay reduced rates on youth sports with the memberships which are nice. The Y often has a long list of classes you can participate in without paying extra fees. The membership also includes free body mass testing so that you can develop a weight loss plan that gets you healthy instead of focusing on just the scale alone. When I moved and had a credit on my account they allowed me to turn it into a donation to the location instead of receiving a refund which was nice.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Kaylee Gay Columbia, MO

I love the tradition of the YMCA, which has been one of the oldest gyms in existence and still going strong. I also love that YMCA is not only about gym membership and wellness but that there are outreach and social programs for the local community. I love how community-based it is and it's all about caring for one another. Since YMCA is based on the community that also means there are options for all ages from the youngest to the oldest.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Beverly Schacher Long Beach, MS

We used the Y for youth volleyball. The quality of coaches and the facilities were excellent. We did not use the fitness equipment or have a fitness membership but could not help but notice that the areas were very clean and spacious and the equipment was plentiful and well maintained. They have all kinds of programs available to children, families, adults and seniors. The restrooms, showers and locker areas were very nice.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Rika

I've been a member of the Berkeley YMCA since 1989! I love the facility and the community, most of all the women's fitness center. With my Berkeley membership I can also go to the SF YMCA and to the Oakand YMCA, I also go to the YMCA in Maui. The variety of classes is fabulous, and the price is right. I love the sauna and steam room.From young woman, through raising children ( child watch, family night, swim classes, birthday celebrations at the Y, to now entering elderhood, the Y was always right for me, kept me active and loving it!h

7 years ago

star star star star star

Jaelyn Morris Tallahassee, FL

Working out at the YMCA is great for children and adults. I like how they are involved in their community and offer programs for children year round. I love working out at the YMCA because it has such a community feel and I never feel uncomfortable.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Dougie D Harold, KY

Cost is low to free. Equipment and pool is well maintained and clean. They even have free shower times for the homeless to get clean! Soo many don’t care for the less fortunate I love how they try to look out for the down and out! Friendly staff!

4 years ago

star star star star star

Elisabeth Kinghorn Nakhon Sawan, 60

I have always enjoyed my experiences with YMCA, especially with the variety of amenities available to use. The weight room is very nice and has lots of different equipment. I also love the basketball court! Finally, I love the atmosphere there and how friendly and chill it is.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Kaysha Love Las Vegas, NV

YMCA is a great company! This is the place to enjoy great summer days, clubs, classes, and gyms. What I really enjoy about the YMCA is the fact that they have so many classes for anyone and everyone. Which makes it perfect for people to enjoy this gym.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Christyan Bennett Kenner, LA

I attended multiple YMCA’s such as the one in Spring Valley, California and enjoyed having a membership there. They have many things such as a gym, basketball courts, and even an indoor heated pool. This place is highly recommended and offer so many benefits for adults, teens, and children.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Debby Nash

I have worked at the Dunigan Ymca for 13 years our service is excellent we take care of our members their way once and dislikes we help we have childcare where are excellent and swimming lessons and workout classes of all different levels we have indoor and outdoor tracks with a huge green sport still

7 years ago

star star star star star

Mia Tallahassee, FL

There is always very nice employees here who love to help and talk to you. The classes that they offer here are very entertaining and with the best workout instructors. The gym is always clean and there is plenty of equipment so even if it is busy you typically do not have to wait for a machine, or you do not have to wait long. The prices for a membership here are not bad, and you definitely get your money's worth.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Rachel F Salt Lake City, UT

I love the YMCA. We were members in Minnesota, Arizona, Florida, North Carolina, and Illinois. Everywhere we lived I loved it and the childcare, kids sports programs, and environment. When I was in school I would go here and study for an hour or two while my kids played in the kids care. I also love how they have a graduated pay rate based on income. Such a great asset to any community.

6 years ago

star star star star star

kristin Gneiting Pleasant Grove, UT

The YMCA is a great treasure for every community. It provides a place to go for people of all ages to enjoy working out or helpful classes on bettering your life or just on interesting topics. They house youth leagues that help our youth to grow not only athletically, but also learn to push themselves and be part of a team. YMCA brings out the best in people.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Connor Smith Palm City, FL

Love being a member of the YMCA, it’s a family membership. I like how they have many sports available for my kids and how as adults we have many classes and weights for us to workout.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Ashley Nicole Jacksonville, FL

I really enjoy having a membership here. The facilities are always nice and up to date. The staff is always pleasant. Also, my gym's view is amazing and makes working out so much more enjoyable.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Luke Swierczynski Troy, MI

Depending on where you live I feel like these can be hit or miss from my experience traveling, but the one near me has everything from a pool, gym, pick up sports games etc. Great value as well.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Belle Pierdon Willoughby, OH

YMCA is a great place to workout. Brought my son there many times to swim and use the equipment as well as myself. very reasonable price and a nice experience. I disliked nothing during my time using the YMCA.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Amy Stewart Gilbert, AZ

I have been a member of the YMCA for many years. I love that they give a family discount and have daycare available for your children to be watched while adults go and do there workouts.

8 years ago

star star star star star

Alex Murphy Reno, NV

I grew up playing basketball at the YMCA. They offer great programs for kids to get out and play sports in a safe environment. They are ran by high school and college students many times so the staff isn't the most helpful.

8 years ago

star star star star star

Kiara Howard Tallahassee, FL

Growing up, I would look forward to my family and I’s trips to the Y. Being able to run laugh and play is something I can always look back on and appreciate. Even today I still use there gym and I truly appreciate how kind their workers are

6 years ago

star star star star star

Alice Chun Durham, NC

I appreciate the services that the Y provides for the local community. I both received some of the Y's services as a part of the swim program and also worked for the Y for a bit. They are doing much good for the community by promoting wellness and even offering financial accommodations for those struggling financially.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Renee King Baltimore, MD

I absolutely love going to the Y!! So many different group exercise classes, swimming lessons, rock climbing, and the latest gym equipment are just a few of the reasons to join. The facilities are neat and clean and the staff warm and friendly. My absolute favorite class is Yoga......namaste!!

6 years ago

star star star star star

Eric Salt Lake City, UT

I have been a member at several YMCAs throughout my life. Each location varies in the amenities and cost, but invariably I have had a good experience. The price is always reasonable and I like the fact that they will adjust the price for those who have difficulty paying. I also like their focus on building their surrounding communities.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Mary Clarks Summit, PA

We have had YMCA memberships in 2 different states and I liked the one in Washington state better than here in PA. I liked the programs they had available and how my kids had something to do while I was working out as well. Clean and convenient.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Anonymous

we have an annual family membership at the y, my mother is retired and when she is local she enjoys there yoga palaties and swim classes my son and I use the pools year round. our Y also just upgraded to a family bathroom with some amazing showers bathroom the works they also upgraded the hot tub love it at Dunmore.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Amy Decker Bloomington, IN

We love the family membership at the YMCA - it’s the best value for a family gym membership. They offer plenty of activities for everybody in the family, with a lot of variety. We love their available hours, and the assistance they offer.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Campbell Blair Phoenix, AZ

My boys have loved attending the YMCA to play basketball with their friends. Respectful and positive place and I know that they can have fun and not take the game too seriously. Great equipment options too for working out! The lockers are absolutely clean and amazing.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Brittney Anderson Provo, UT

I love the YMCA. They create such a wonderful network of family and friends. I love all the activities and fun runs the YMCA provides. Not to mention the great coaching and people running everything. I’ve had a great experience being coached in track and field.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Chad Edgar Wentzville, MO

YMCA is awesome it's got a basketball court all awesome weight equipment even the workers help spots you sometime also a pool is a very family-orientated place

4 years ago

star star star star star

Kent Harris Smyrna, TN

Very friendly staff. Plenty of equipment and classes help to get you into shape. Love it. Plus it is right across the street from where I live. Easy peasy.

5 years ago

star star star star star

Alexander Johnson Burbank, CA

I miss the y. Didn’t always have all the newest equipment but you got it done and it’s a nice community always. Generally nice ppl go to the y to work out

6 years ago

star star star star star

Benjamin LeBlanc Dallas, TX

The YMCA fitness center has to be one of the best fitness center options out there. The price of the experience isn’t bad at all and the quality of the machinery and implements are outstanding.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Alyssa Hansel Tallahassee, FL

I love the YMCA!! Super great fitness classes offered, including water aerobics, Zumba, and cycling! I love it. The community and staff are also friendly, and they even have child care-with so many toys!

6 years ago

star star star star star

Tyler Oskaloosa, IA

The YMCA is perfect for all of your fitness and fun needs. It’s a great place to get a workout and make some friends. Everyone if family here at the Y and that’s truly what it feels like.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Brayden Ibert Houston, TX

I love the YMCA. Everything that they stand for I love. I have a membership and I go once a week at least. They have a variety of machines and the staff is amazing. The facilities are perfect.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Renee King Baltimore, MD

I love my membership at the YMCA! The facility is clean and inviting. There are so many classes and fitness to choose from and not importantly the whole family can participate!!

6 years ago

star star star star star

Jacob American Fork, UT

YMCA is where I used to play basketball as well as many other sports and attend camps. Their customer service is great and its a fun way to motivate kids to play sports and improve their skills.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Mellissa Greeneville, TN

I loved working out at the YMCA. I actually met my husband there 7 years ago. We definitely need to get back into the gym. Sometimes it can be hard due to price and having child care

6 years ago

star star star star star

taylor Miami, FL

i have a membership to this gym at home and couldn’t be happier. the facility is very clean, trainers and employees are upbeat and nice, and the atmosphere is very energetic and uplifting.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Sarah Watters Quinlan, TX

Always clean and up-to-date facilities. I feel good about giving them my money because of their mission to help young boys and girls who are at risk. And their annual Turkey Trot is super-fun for the whole family!

7 years ago

star star star star star

Nicole LeBaron Provo, UT

I love the YMCA. They have a great pool to swim laps. They have a gym and a weight room but it’s a little small. They also have great opportunities to help volunteer as well.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Lori Fletcher Saratoga Springs, UT

I loved YMCA when our family lived in Oregon! I wish more states had them! Family Friendly and big enough. Never felt crowded and the employees were happy people! Day care was high quality as well.

7 years ago

star star star star star

August Moulton Lehi, UT

I loved the Y as a kid. I’m disappointed there isn’t one in my area. My sister(in another state) is always taking her kids and they have such a great time. Love the youth programs they offer for the community.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Matthew Carbaugh Herndon, VA

The fitness equipment area, pool and locker rooms are always kept clean. Always greated by a welcoming smile when checking in lifts my spirits before a work out and is very much appreciated!

7 years ago

star star star star star

Fernando Delgado Tempe, AZ

Used to go to YMCA to work out the price is very cheap compare to other fitness and very clean. However, i move from the area and had to find a new place to work out otherwise i would still be going to YMCA.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Melanie Kinslow Buda, TX

For the monthly fee, the Y is about as good as it gets. They have so many classes, lessons, designated swim lane times, daycare, gym equipment and fitness help that rivals any regular gym.

7 years ago

star star star star star

Kristin G Pleasant Grove, UT

The YMCA has a great program for younger boys to get involved with recreation basketball leagues. We joined a league for our boys when we lived in Las Vegas and had a wonderful experience!

8 years ago

star star star star star

Abigail Land Tallahassee, FL

Great staff and trainers. There is a large variety of exercise classes availiable. Facilities are clean and worth the price.

4 years ago

star star star star star

Daniela Garcia Miami, FL

The YMCA in Miami is a great organization. A little expensive ($60), but they offer the community experience and great fitness classes.

6 years ago

star star star star star

Karen Torino Tallahassee, FL

The YMCA has been a great place to get fit with others, get involved in sports, and help others start their journey into fitness. I love the YMCA for working out.

6 years ago