This gym only opened yesterday so these are just initial impressions.
The Pure Gym concept is quite simple. They've cut back on all the extras like cafes, saunas and swimming pools and focussed on the things that most people go to the gym for... cardio and weights. Because of this "no-frills" approach, they're able to offer membership for £16 a month.
The gym is also open 24/7 (changing rooms are closed from midnight to 5am) meaning that whenever you fancy hitting the treadmills, you can drag your bum down there. Entry is through PIN controlled turnstiles.
There are plenty of cardio machines and it's fun waving at the people in cars gawking at you as they drive past.
There were a few poseurs cluttering up the free weights area... why do they go just to sit on the benches and not actually do anything?! It's the same at gyms everywhere. Could they not just make a mirrored room for them to sit in and admire themselves?
The PIN system worked really well and I like the fact that it's on the toilets too (you'll be forced to remember your PIN if you're busting for a wee!). Padlocks for the lockers cost £3 but you can take your own.
And for all the car drivers, watch that speed bump in the middle of the car park... we were going dead slow and still heard a scrape on the bottom of the car.
Initial impressions are very good but I get the feeling that the cheap monthly fee is going to attract some characters! read more