Written by Imane Dodo
Image Equinox, St James
There’s nothing more cringe than an overcrowded gym with old equipment and even older changing rooms that make you wish you had just stayed at home. The good thing is that London has some of the most luxurious gyms to offer housing next-gen equipment, exclusivity, and diverse facilities that are both lush and clean whilst featuring changing rooms with luxury body care products and appliances. They house all the necessary amenities that not only align with the “lifestyle” but help to ease the blow of working on your summer body in the unbearable winter which sometimes takes more endurance than many of us have to offer! So if you’re serious about building those abs but won’t compromise on your high standards, let’s get into what these luxe gyms have to offer.
Best overall – Third Space
Third Space is often referred to as one of the best gym chains. It caters to all fitness needs from swimming to combat studios, a hypoxic chamber (to simulate high altitude conditions), and a climbing wall.
They also have premium offerings such as facilities that include on-site medical services and a creche. As the name suggests, Third Space is where you go to reconnect with yourself. All their gyms feature spacious and modern changing rooms stocked with Cowshed products, amazing shower, sauna, and steam rooms. An honorary mention to the Soho and Tower Bridge venues, which are arguably their most luxurious spots, although their new Islington branch also takes the “lifestyle” to a whole new level.
Third Space Locations: Soho, Tower Bridge, Canary Wharf, Islington
Best for classes – Equinox
In brief, everything you desire from the gym of your dreams can be found here. Imagine a luxurious, exquisitely designed open-plan fitness playground featuring marble pillars, stylish leather armchairs, and every piece of equipment and class you can think of. Founded in the US, this swanky gym has the widest range of classes including dance, various iterations of yoga, Pilates, and boxing. You name it, they do it.
Their exquisite attention to detail extends beyond its high-quality tech equipment, and personalized Woodway treadmills to well-thought-out luxuries such as eucalyptus-infused towels, laundry valet, state-of-the-art changing rooms, fresh coffee, and bathrobes you’ll want to slip into your bag on your way out. Grab a healthy (but yummy) meal or post-workout shake at the restaurant after your fulfilling session.
Locations: Kensington, Bishopsgate, St James street
Best for holistic health: KX
Pronounced “kicks”, KX is a members-only club that houses some of the best gym amenities in the city (Prince Harry and Gwyneth Paltrow can testify!) This state-of-the-art gym has built its reputation as a center of excellence in holistic health, providing tailored and customised wellness services, a relaxing spa, and a restaurant. Every membership includes a complimentary Wellness assessment including lifestyle, exercise and nutrition analysis, blood health, cellular stress, body composition tests, and movement screening. Their changing rooms have nothing on your favorite 5-star hotel with dry shampoo, bathroom slippers, and robes, make-up removers, perfume, and all the hairstyling tools you’ll ever need.
Locations: Chelsea
Best boxing gym – BXR
Supported by boxing champion Anthony Joshua, this gym is far from your average boxing gym. Its spectacular 12,000 sq. ft space with high ceilings provides the perfect balance between luxury and athletic authenticity. The gym has a dark industrial vibe, but the changing rooms feature gold instagrammable aesthetics with backlit mirrors, Malin & Goetz products, Bottega-inspired design cues, and braided leather ropes with made-to-measure Di Nardo boxing gloves for members. Non-members can also enjoy SWEAT boxing class, on a pay-as-you-go basis.
Locations: Marylebone
Best hidden gem – The Berkeley Hotel Gym
The heated rooftop pool alone is a good reason to give them all of your coins. The panoramic views of the London skyline provide members with a full escape from the city within seconds. Not a water person? This gym has you covered with the latest equipment and a scenic view overlooking Hyde Park. In need of refreshments? They offer complimentary fresh fruit juices and Nespresso coffee shots. Members also have access to dry cleaning, Bamford beauty products, and various spa treatments. This is one of the most exclusive gyms in London and rumor has it that your favorite celebs may just be regular members.
Locations: Kensington
