David Lloyd is the 5 star hotel of the gym world. It is all about appearances and the polished wooden parquet flooring and immaculate squash courts look like they will not tolerate their patrons in anything but designer gym gear and the latest trainer. Well, thats me shot then- I am quite happy pumping some iron in my velour tracksuit bottoms from Primark that have seen better days and my faded Superman vest top, but this will not do at David Lloyd, oh no!
The receptionists here are a little scary, they remind me of my Home Economics teacher at school who would take no-nonsense from anybody and gym members give audible sighs of relief when they get past these formidable gatekeepers. The gym itself is gorgeous and the facilities are unparalleled. There are 8 indoor and 4 outdoor tennis courts, 4 badminton courts and 3 squash courts, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and a kids' splash pool. The gym is large and full with the latest gym equipment but I find its open plan layout slightly intimidating. You almost feel like a dressage pony on display as you battle the stepper but you can distract yourself with the tv screens dotted around. The wet facilities are superb and I have to admit, I will work out for 30 mins but spend three times as long in the lovely steam room, sauna and whirlpool jacuzzi.
David Lloyd is all about the changing rooms; totally gorgeous and clean, they have hairdryers and you don't have to risk electrocution or embarrassment by sticking your head underneath an awkward hand dryer. This is not just a gym, it is a day out! The restaurant is great and you can undo all your good work and have a tasty sandwich or larger lunch if you fancy. There is an internet cafe and a tv lounge to relax in, and a hair and beauty salon- this is a posh home away from home. There is a great creche with lovely staff to mind your cherubs( for a fee of course) and I would totally endorse it.
There has to be a but though hasn't there? The "but" here is the membership fee- it is a pricey deal here and I will not lie that you can go abroad for the same amount as the gym's annual fee. My quote for full membership was nearly £900 a year and although there are several levels of membership packages- a useful 3 month flexible membership has caught my eye- you are over paying for the privilege of this place. Posers paradise, stunning sauna, cracking changing rooms and amazing atmosphere is David Lloyd in a nutshell. read more