David Lloyd has invested £2.3 million in refurbishing its Kingston club, but is the minimum £104 a month fee worth it?
What’s new?
The David Lloyd gym boasts cutting-edge fitness equipment, including new German technology, the EGYM and BioAge. The BioAge machine uses shock waves to measure your height, weight, BMI, metabolism, and body fat composition. This data is then transferred to the gym equipment, so when you scan your membership card all machines automatically adjust to your height.
Once you have completed your strength tests, the equipment then creates a personalised work out.
As well as the recently renovated gym, the club has a newly re-opened swimming pool which includes a citrus steam room, sauna, and hydro pool.
Members can also enjoy a holistic approach to fitness, with expert trainers available for personalised sessions and nutritional advice. The extensive class schedule covers everything from yoga and meditation to high-intensity interval training such as their exclusive class Blaze.
However, in comparison to other David Lloyd branches across the country, the Kingston branch is lacking a tennis, squash courts, a physiotherapy centre and restaurant.
Is it worth it?
While the amenities are impressive, the price for a membership is significant. The Kingston branch has introduced a tiered membership system. The lowest price ‘club membership’ costs £104 a month with limited access to facilities.
What’s the alternative?
For many families and individuals in Kingston, this is prohibitive. There are a variety of different gyms in the area that offer lower fees. The Gym Group Kingston is currently offering a nine month membership with a single payment of £229, this includes 24-hour access of the gym and is a great student contract covering you from September up until the summer break.
PUREGYM is offering 30% off the first six months with no joining fee for students. This membership gives unlimited access to classes, 24-hour access and no contract, meaning you can cancel at any time.
If you prefer being outdoors, there are popular cycling groups within the Kingston area. The Chevaliers Cycling club meet up weekly in Kingston, typically enjoying cycles through Richmond Park and Surrey hills. The club has a joining fee of just £20. If you are under the age of 22, or are unemployed, you can join the club free of charge. If you are new to cycling, they offer development rides to give you a kick start.