Berlin’s best gyms include McFIT (€19.90/month), affordable and 24/7; Fitness First (€39.90-€99.90/month), with premium amenities; John Reed Fitness (€29.90-€59.90/month), stylish and diverse; Urban Sports Club (€69.90-€149.90/month), for flexibility; and The BiG Gym (€30.00-€60.00/month), for strength training.

The Best Gyms in Berlin: A Comprehensive Review of Popular Fitness Centers

Berlin, the vibrant capital of Germany, is not only known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and dynamic lifestyle but also for its thriving fitness culture. Whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, a beginner, or just looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle, there are countless gyms in Berlin catering to various preferences, budgets, and fitness goals. In this article, we’ll review and compare the most popular gyms in Berlin, highlighting their key features, membership options, and overall atmosphere to help you find the gym that best suits your needs.

1. McFIT: One of the Largest Gym Chains in Germany

McFIT is one of the largest and most popular gym chains in Germany, with multiple locations throughout Berlin. Known for its affordable prices and flexible membership options, McFIT is an excellent choice for individuals looking for a no-frills gym with a wide range of equipment and facilities.

Features:

24/7 Access: McFIT is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, making it convenient for those with varying schedules.
State-of-the-Art Equipment: McFIT offers a wide range of gym equipment, including cardio machines, free weights, resistance machines, and functional training areas.
Group Fitness Classes: McFIT provides a variety of group fitness classes such as yoga, Pilates, cycling, and dance, often included in the membership.
Affordable Membership: Membership costs at McFIT are relatively low compared to other premium gyms in Berlin, making it an affordable option for those on a budget.

Pros:

Great value for money
24/7 availability
Numerous locations throughout Berlin
Group fitness classes included

Cons:

No personal training services included
Basic amenities (not as luxurious as other gyms)

2. Fitness First: Premium Gym Experience

Fitness First is a well-known global gym chain that offers premium facilities and services. It is perfect for individuals who want a high-end fitness experience with a wide variety of classes, personal training, and luxurious amenities.

Features:

Premium Amenities: Fitness First gyms offer spa-like amenities such as saunas, steam rooms, and massage services.
Group Fitness Classes: With over 100 different classes available, ranging from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to yoga, there is something for everyone.
Personal Training: Fitness First provides access to professional personal trainers, making it ideal for those looking to enhance their fitness goals with customized plans.
Specialized Areas: The gyms have dedicated zones for different activities like functional training, cardio, and strength training.
Exclusive Access: Members also get access to exclusive benefits such as member-only events, advanced fitness tracking, and more.

Pros:

High-end amenities and services
Wide variety of fitness classes
Personal training options available
Luxurious and clean facilities

Cons:

Expensive membership fees
Limited access to some facilities for basic membership holders

3. John Reed Fitness: Stylish and Trendy Gym

If you’re looking for a stylish gym that combines fitness with a vibrant social scene, John Reed Fitness might be your ideal choice. With its chic interiors, modern equipment, and unique atmosphere, John Reed Fitness offers more than just a workout – it’s an experience.

Features:

Trendy Atmosphere: John Reed Fitness stands out for its modern, stylish design and upbeat environment. Think trendy décor, neon lights, and vibrant music.
Wide Range of Equipment: The gym offers state-of-the-art cardio machines, free weights, and strength training areas, making it suitable for all types of workouts.
Group Fitness Classes: From yoga to HIIT, John Reed Fitness offers a variety of classes designed to keep members motivated and engaged.
Wellness Area: The gym features wellness areas, including a sauna, where you can unwind after a tough workout.
Open 24/7: Like McFIT, John Reed Fitness also offers 24/7 access, making it easy for members to work out at any time of the day or night.

Pros:

Stylish and trendy atmosphere
24/7 access
Wide range of equipment
Good variety of group classes

Cons:

More expensive than McFIT
Focused more on style than pure fitness (i.e., some areas can be crowded)

4. Urban Sports Club: Flexible and Diverse Membership

Urban Sports Club offers a unique fitness experience with flexible membership plans that provide access to various gyms, sports studios, and fitness activities across Berlin. This all-in-one fitness service is perfect for individuals who want variety in their workouts.

Features:

Access to Multiple Locations: With Urban Sports Club, you can access hundreds of gyms, yoga studios, swimming pools, and sports facilities across Berlin with one membership.
Wide Range of Activities: You’re not limited to just gym workouts; Urban Sports Club offers classes in yoga, swimming, rock climbing, boxing, and more.
Flexible Membership: The membership plans are flexible, allowing you to choose between options for casual, regular, or unlimited access to various fitness venues.
Mobile App: The Urban Sports Club app helps you book classes, find new fitness venues, and track your progress.

Pros:

Great variety of fitness options
Flexible membership
Access to gyms and activities across Berlin
Ideal for people who like to mix up their workout routine

Cons:

More expensive than traditional gym memberships
Limited access to premium classes in some plans

5. The BiG – Berlin Gym: Specializing in Strength Training

If you’re a fan of bodybuilding or strength training, The BiG (Berlin Gym) is the place to go. This gym focuses on heavy lifting and bodybuilding, offering specialized equipment and training options to help you reach your goals.

Features:

Strength Training Equipment: The BiG has a wide variety of equipment, including free weights, power racks, and specialized machines for bodybuilding and strength training.
Experienced Staff: The gym employs experienced trainers who specialize in bodybuilding and strength training.
No-Frills Environment: The gym offers a focused, no-frills training environment, ideal for individuals serious about strength and fitness.

Pros:

Ideal for bodybuilding and strength training
Expert trainers available
Less crowded than larger, mainstream gyms

Cons:

Limited variety of group classes
Can be intimidating for beginners

Gym Price in Berlin

Here is a quick comparison of the average prices and features of the gyms in Berlin, so you can easily compare and find the best one for you.

Gym Name	Type	Average Price (Monthly)	Key Features
McFIT	Budget	€19.90	24/7 access, affordable, basic equipment.
Fitness First	Premium	€39.90 – €99.90	Premium amenities, personal training, group fitness classes, wellness zones.
John Reed Fitness	Stylish	€29.90 – €59.90	Trendy design, yoga, HIIT, and 24/7 access.
Urban Sports Club	Flexible Membership	€69.90 – €149.90	Access to multiple gyms, swimming pools, yoga, wellness activities, and partner locations.
The BiG – Berlin Gym	Bodybuilding/Strength Training	€30.00 – €60.00	Specialized for strength training, bodybuilding, and expert trainers.

When Is the Best Time to Join a Gym in Berlin?

January – March: The start of the new year is often a popular time to join gyms due to New Year’s resolutions. Be prepared for a surge in membership during this time.
Summer: People tend to focus on outdoor fitness activities during the summer, so gym attendance may decrease, making it a quieter time to join.
Autumn: Many gyms offer promotions and discounts in the fall, making it a great time to sign up.

Popular Gym Trends in Berlin

Berlin is a city known for its diverse fitness culture. The following trends are becoming increasingly popular:

CrossFit: With a number of gyms offering specialized CrossFit training, this high-intensity workout is growing in popularity.
Yoga: Yoga studios and gyms with yoga classes are abundant, offering everything from Vinyasa to Bikram yoga.
Functional Fitness: Many Berlin gyms are incorporating functional fitness programs that focus on strength and mobility.

How to Get to Berlin’s Gyms

Berlin’s public transport system is reliable and efficient, making it easy to reach any gym in the city. The following transportation methods are available:

U-Bahn (Underground): The U-Bahn system connects major areas of Berlin and is often the quickest way to get to your gym.
S-Bahn (Overground): The S-Bahn is another convenient option for reaching gyms located further from the city center.
Bus: Berlin’s extensive bus network is ideal for reaching gyms located in suburban areas.
Bicycle: Berlin is a bike-friendly city, and cycling is a popular mode of transport for those who prefer a more eco-friendly option.

Can You Get a Trial at Gyms in Berlin?

When considering joining a gym in Berlin, many potential members wonder if they can get a trial session before committing. Fortunately, most gyms in Berlin offer trial periods or day passes, giving you the opportunity to explore the facilities and services before making a final decision. Here’s a breakdown of trial options at some of the most popular gyms in the city.

McFIT

McFIT is one of the largest and most popular gym chains in Berlin, known for its affordable prices and extensive network of locations. They offer a free trial once per year in all of their German locations. This trial gives you the chance to experience their fitness equipment, group classes, and other services.

Trial Details: You can apply for a free trial online or directly at the gym. If you’ve already used your free trial for the year, McFIT also offers a day pass for €10, which gives you one day of full access to their facilities.
Website: mcfit.com

Fitness First

Fitness First is another well-known chain with a variety of locations in Berlin, offering a wide range of fitness options including group classes, strength training, and personal training. They offer day passes for prospective members, allowing you to test the gym’s offerings without a long-term commitment.

Trial Details: You can purchase a day pass on their website or directly at any of their studios. The day pass lets you access the gym for a single day, giving you a good overview of their services.
Website: fitnessfirst.co.uk

John Reed Fitness

John Reed Fitness offers an upscale gym experience, featuring not just fitness equipment but also an immersive atmosphere with a focus on aesthetics and design. They also provide trial memberships, allowing you to try out their services before deciding to commit.

Trial Details: John Reed offers various trial options, including free or discounted trials. To get details about their trial memberships, it’s best to contact the gym directly or check their website.
Website: johnreed.fitness

Urban Sports Club

Urban Sports Club is a unique membership that gives you access to a wide variety of gyms, sports facilities, and fitness classes across Berlin. They offer a trial period for new members, giving you the flexibility to explore different gyms and activities without being tied to one specific location.

Trial Details: You can sign up for a trial membership, which usually lasts for a month, giving you access to various gyms, yoga studios, and other fitness activities in Berlin.
Website: urbansportsclub.com

The BiG – Berlin Gym

For those focused on strength training and powerlifting, The BiG Gym in Berlin offers a great environment for serious fitness enthusiasts. They provide trial sessions to allow prospective members to check out their facilities, including their range of free weights and powerlifting equipment.

Trial Details: Contact The BiG directly to inquire about trial options or book a trial session online through their website.
Website: thebig.berlin

Why Try Before You Buy?

Trying out a gym before committing to a membership is a smart move. Not only does it allow you to get a feel for the atmosphere and see if it matches your fitness needs, but it also gives you a chance to check out the cleanliness, crowd, and the availability of equipment during peak hours. Each gym has its own vibe, so taking advantage of trial memberships is the best way to make an informed decision.

Keep in mind that trial options may vary based on promotions or special offers, so it’s always a good idea to check the gym’s website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.

Choosing the Best Gym in Berlin

Finding the perfect gym in Berlin depends on your fitness goals, preferences, and budget. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly gym like McFIT, a premium experience at Fitness First, or a flexible and diverse membership with Urban Sports Club, there’s something for everyone.

When choosing a gym, consider factors such as the type of workouts offered, the atmosphere, the location, and your budget. Berlin’s gyms cater to a wide range of needs, so no matter what your fitness goals are, you’ll find the right place to help you achieve them.

From strength training at The BiG to a socially driven workout at John Reed Fitness, the city offers a wealth of options. Take your time to research the various facilities, check out trial memberships, and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Lastly, remember that the best gym for you is one that not only matches your fitness style but also keeps you motivated and helps you reach your goals. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, Berlin’s gyms are ready to support you on your fitness journey.