I've been coming here about five years, on and off. (I have a medical condition that means there are a lot of "off" periods.) I've recently returned after a six-month break.
I'm undecided about the refurbishment - while the showers and spa area are much better, it would have been so nice if they'd put a jacuzzi / whirlpool tub in. I can live without a swimming pool, but a jacuzzi is kind of a staple in most gyms these days, even city ones. (They had one here, years ago - though I don't think it was a Fitness First back then.) Aside from that, I really like the new spa area, especially the loungers. It could be kept a few degrees warmer - it's a bit nippy when you get out of the sauna / steam room - but it's very nice and peaceful, and the loungers are super-comfy.
The new gym itself, I'm not sure about. It looks much more macho and serious now, with all that black and gray and rubber, and I find it much less relaxing than the airy white and purple spaces that we had before. I guess serious athletes will approve of this, but I liked the old, light, unintimidating atmosphere.
A big yay on the rebounders, and the new hairdryers in the ladies' changing - they are a HUGE improvement on the old heavy ones.
Overall, it's still a great place to come, for a small city gym. Staff are friendly, professional, and know their stuff. It's always clean, and I've never had any problems with theft or harassment from guys the way I have in London. At some point I probably will want to find somewhere with a pool (especially since the new pool at Westminster is so small and crowded), but for now it's a fine place to come, and monthly fees are reasonable. read more