Comparing the Local Fitness Clubs

Getting in shape and staying in shape is something everyone should do. There are so many positive benefits to being physically fit. Improved sense of well-being, healthier heart, increased energy, and more easily coping with stress are just a few of the many bonuses.

Most people prefer to be in shape than out of shape. New Year's resolutions constantly include the idea of trimming down or shaping up. But why wait until the winter months? There is never a better time than now to start an exercise program. Locally we have a bevy of good gyms to help you meet your fitness goals.

Local Gym Options:

Powerfit — 10 Enterprise Drive, Suite E, Rohnert Park.

Hours: Monday-Thursday 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. & 3 p.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Features: Personal Training! Powerfit is a unique gym that provides efficient and changing workout programs with  "One half-hour session is all you need" ethos. You can be part of a group program with a trainer who works with the group and perform a circuit. Also one-on-one training is available with custom programs to fit your needs and goals.

Cost: Group Training rates are $129 per month with a minimum one year contract. Individual training is based on a contract with a specific trainer and is dependent on that trainers' fees.

University of Sports - 555 Rohnert Park Expressway, Rohnert Park.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 5 a.m. to 11 p.m., Saturday from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sundays from 7 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Features: Uof S is a very large gym with a lot to offer. They have a full selection of machines and free weights as well as a ton of cardio equipment. They offer numerous classes in yoga, spin, Zumba and many more. They also have an indoor sports field and hardwood courts for basketball, volleyball and soccer. They also provide personal training. Additional features include  corporate memberships, spa, sports camps, kids area (daycare) and a cafe.

Costs: Single Membership starts at $44.93 for full access or $24 for Thursday thru Sunday per month with other plans available for couples, family or single with a child.

Anytime Fitness - 939 Golf Course Drive, Rohnert Park.

Hours: 24 Hour Access, 365 Days a year.

Features: A true 24 hour fitness club, Anytime Fitness also has tanning options, classes (cardio types), cardio machines, free weight and weight machines. They also provide personal training. With your membership you can access any of the other Anytime fitness centers (1600 of them). Also it is a newer gym with current equipment and machines. Billed as a smaller 'neighborhood' club.

Cost: $40 per month for unlimited use (including classes) with a $40 start-up fee (key deposit).

Callinan Fitness Center - 5405 Snyder Lane, Rohnert Park.

Hours: Monday-Friday 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sat & Sun 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Features: Callinan is a city-run facility. They have a recently remodeled free weights and fitness center with newer machines and cardio equipment, cardio classes, racquetball, basketball & volleyball, sauna, limited childcare, personal training and free lap sessions at the city pools.

Cost: Single Adult is $24 per month with prices of $14 teen & senior or family rate for $55 per month.

Planet Fitness - 6599 Commerce Blvd., Rohnert Park.

Hours: Monday-Thursday 5 a.m. to 12 p.m., Friday 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday & Sunday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Features:  Full array of newer machine and free weights, plenty of cardio options, and tanning. Personal training is also available.

Cost: $20 per month with a  $29 start up fee gets you use of all Planet Fitness locations along with unlimited guest/tanning/massage chairs  privileges. There is also a $10 per month with a $39 startup fee unlimited fitness use at the local location.

Myles Ahead - 121 Southwest Blvd., Rohnert Park.

Hours: Only open during group or individual training sessions Monday to Saturday

Features: Serious weightlifting and personal training. If you are looking at power lifting or need to train for high level sports then you might want to talk to Myles Ahead.

Cost: Rates are based on either group rate or individual and then based on the number of days training per week. The least expensive option is $80 per month for training one day per week.

21st Century Health Club - 680 East Cotati Ave, Cotati.

Hours: Monday from 3 a.m. to Friday at 10 p.m., Saturday & Sunday from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Features: Newer exterior but the interior facilities are in need of an update. Plenty of Group X classes (such as spin, Zumba, Core, Step, Yoga, and more), free weights, weight machines and cardio machines. They also offer personal training, a kids club (day care) and an indoor pool.

Cost: Package deals with lower rates require one to two year contracts or $40/month on a month to month basis. Special offers may be given after completing a tour of the facilities. Other lesser plans available for limited hours access.

Try it before you buy. If you go to the gym websites you will find that most have an offer for 6 to 10 days free as a free trial. Take full advantage when you know you have the time to use it. That way you will get a lot of time inside to have a feel for the facilities, the staff, and the other members. Make sure to try and go when you would normally go to see how crowded it will be when you are there.

What works best for you? In the end the gym you choose will need to meet your needs. Do you have kids that need care so you can work out? Is a swimming or basketball your favorite activities? Perhaps you just need a gym open all the time. Or maybe monthly costs is all that matters. In the end, the right gym for you is going to depend on you. We are just here to help.