Despite the fact I swore my money would never pass through the hands of Fitness First again, here I…read moream starting my "new financial year resolutions" with a new fitness regime and with a gym that isn't that bad. In the five or so years since I was last a member it seems they've scrubbed up and pulled their socks up. You can have as much or as little guidance as you like and classes like boxing, body balance (a lot of Les Mills) and more should keep boredom at bay.

This is easily my favourite Fitness First in Brisbane - there is no better way to shed those kilos…read moreand feel fantastic than at Fitness First in Toowong. The reception staff always offer perky greetings and on Fridays, a bowl of fresh fruit for those post-workout munchies. Having never braved a personal training session of fear I may in fact hyperventilate, pass out, or worse, embarrass myself in front of the muscley trainers, there are plenty of them, and friends rave about how good their sessions are. Good for them. Personally, I'm a massive fan of gym classes - the RPM instructors are packed with ridiculous amounts of energy, and motivate you to the point where you think your lungs are actually going to explode out of your chest. They introduce themselves to each individual rider every session - and if you're a regular, watch out because they will shout out your name if you aren't keeping up! Despite being an Australia-wide chain, this particular Fitness First really adds a personal touch to their operations, and as a result, is always buzzing with fitness freaks and health-seekers. They also offer a child-minding service, complete with a large playroom which is supervised by the staff.

Really awful service. Was told upon joining I would have no…read morecancellation fees as it was the only way my roommate and myself would sign up that day and they are now making me stay in the contract and refusing to talk to the person that signed me up about it. So I either have to pay $245 to leave or continue paying for a total of around $600. They are basically calling me a liar even with a written statement from my roommate

Today I joined Goodlife in Ashgrove. Even though I just wanted to pop in, sign up, and get to work,…read moreI liked that they sit down with each newcomer to understand why you are joining, what you are trying to accomplish and explain a bit about all that the gym offers. Its like the beginning of a beautiful friendship... with a gym. The group classroom is massive and they have a good number of cardio and exercise machines - however they are missing a few of my favorites that were available at my past health clubs. I think I can make a few recommendations. I will report back on my thoughts on classes after I have had a decent sample. There is a discounted rate for Bupa members (and other private health insurance I assume) if there are any other expats in the crowd!