The 5 best gyms in Manchester that make getting fit easy
We all know “get fitter” somehow sneaks into your New Year’s resolutions every year… and then quietly disappears by February.
Here’s the thing—it’s not just about willpower. A big part of actually sticking to it is where you work out. A gym that has the right equipment, the right vibe, and makes you want to actually show up can turn your resolution into something you actually enjoy.
Our team’s already hunted down some of the best gyms in Manchester, so don’t wait until January. You have our list now, so maybe you can start visiting some of these spots and find the one that works for you.
How much does a gym membership cost in Manchester?
Gym memberships in Manchester usually start around £16 per month for budget chains, and rise to £25–£35 for mid-tier gyms. It can go over £50 for premium or specialist gyms.
1. Anytime Fitness Manchester Central
Address: 4A Piccadilly Pl
Phone: +44 161 526 4877
Business hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Anytime Fitness Manchester Central is just a short stroll from Piccadilly Station, and best of all, it’s open 24/7. So whether you’re a 6 AM riser or a midnight warrior, you can sneak in a workout without stressing about closing times.
The staff are genuinely friendly. They make you feel welcome whether it’s your first day or your hundredth.
We also noticed that the gym isn’t really that big, but it’s packed with everything you need: squat racks, smith machines, and plenty of free weights.
The machines are modern and integrate seamlessly with Apple Watch syncing and on-screen workouts. This way, tracking your progress or following a guided session is effortless.
Even when it’s busy, there’s rarely a wait. It’s perfect for those who want a smooth session.
The extras are where this gym shines. There are Theraguns, vibrating foam rollers, and even a body composition scanner that can track your progress.
There’s even a vanity area with Dyson hair dryers, straighteners, and deodorant.
That said, we’ve heard a few members mentioning persistent follow-up calls after signing up. It’s a little pushy for us.
Very good place to train with a nice atmosphere
“Great experience and friendly welcome from Will, who showed me around and shared plans for expansion in the coming months (more equipment). The gym is clean and tidy. Serves enough space to work out without feeling overcrowded. There are convenient amenities: water fountain, massage guns and electric rollers, body scan machine. Overall, a very good place to train with a nice atmosphere.”
Magdalena Mazurewicz, Google review
The equipment is always clean every day I get there
“This is the best gym I’ve been to in a while, it feels like the owner puts so much love into it, just how the place is presented and how the staff are so kind. The location is great as it’s right close to my job, so I can go straight there too, the equipment is always clean every day I get there, and again the staff are kind and very welcoming. If you’re getting into gyms, then I would fully recommend this one.”
Gabby Potter, Google review
2. The Gym Group Manchester Portland Street
Address: Bank House, 2 Faulkner St
Phone: +44 300 303 4800
Business hours:
- Monday to Sunday: Open 24 hours
Spanning two floors, The Gym Group feels like stepping into two gyms at once. There are machines duplicated upstairs and downstairs, so you rarely have to wait to get on your favourite equipment.
The gym isn’t just about the size, though. The layout feels thoughtfully planned as well.
There’s a dedicated dumbbell area upstairs that goes all the way up to 50 kg, and the downstairs handles lighter weights.
We found out that they recently upgraded their equipment. New power racks and a layout tailored for lifters and cardio enthusiasts alike make the space feel more functional.
One of the more unexpected things here is the variety beyond the standard weights-and-treadmills setup.
They offer Pilates classes, and from what we’ve gathered, the instructors make it easy for first-timers.
Personal trainers are available too. The general consensus is that they’re approachable, encouraging, and skilled.
That said, there are drawbacks, mainly around customer support. Membership cancellations apparently can be a nightmare, with reports of months-long billing issues and unresponsive support.
The gym is really great!
“Love this gym, it’s just had a revamp as well with lots of brand new machines. I was really hoping for a standing calf raise machine to be put in after this revamp; however, it still hasn’t. At every other gym group, there’s been one, and I think it would be a great addition and variation compared to just the seated calf raise machine. Other than that, though, the gym is really great!”
Yasmin Bates, Google review
Staff are all friendly and helpful
“Great gym, never too busy and staff are all friendly and helpful. Big shout out to my PT Ben Wearmouth, who has been teaching me and my mate Wing Chun for over a year now. If you’re interested in martial arts and realistic self-defence, Ben has the knowledge and skill, and it’s especially great for those looking for more focused sessions instead of a big class.”
Jai Singh, Google review
3. King Street Gym, Manchester
Address: Units 7 & 8, 55 King St
Phone: +44 161 641 5777
Business hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 6:30 AM – 10 PM
- Friday: 6:30 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM – 4 PM
King Street Gym hits that sweet spot between a traditional gym and a modern, functional training space.
It’s nearly 5,000 square feet of gym space, so there’s enough room to move without elbowing the person next to you.
Cardio? You’re spoiled for choice with more treadmills, bikes, and cross trainers than you can shake a sweat towel at. Free weights and resistance machines are all here too.
There are dumbbells up to 50 kilograms, multiple squat racks, and adjustable benches. Fancy pin-loaded machines are also present.
But honestly, the best part here is the people. Trainers like Ellis and Lee actually care. We’ve heard that they adapt workouts, cheer you on when you’re struggling, and somehow make exercise feel fun instead of a punishment.
There are also their amenities: a pool, sauna, and steam room to balance out all that sweaty chaos. It’s perfect for cooling down after a tough session.
However, we noticed that there was some old equipment hanging around here. Post-5 PM, it can also get busy, so sometimes you have to wait for machines.
This is such a great gym!
“This is such a great gym! I especially love the classes and how everyone who works there is really friendly. They offer morning, lunch and evening classes in a wide variety, which has been really great for me as I can fit in workouts around my working hours. We are moving at the end of the year, and I’m devastated to leave! Special shout out to Ellis, M, Lee and Harry!”
Rachel Ellis, Google review
The facilities are top-notch, with a great range of equipment
“King Street Gym is absolutely fantastic! The facilities are top-notch, with a great range of equipment, spacious workout areas, and everything kept spotless. You can tell they take real pride in maintaining a clean and welcoming environment…”
Amina Ahmed, Google review
4. JD Gyms Manchester
Address: Bridgewater House, 58-60 Whitworth St
Phone: +44 161 241 5222
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM – 8 PM
JD Gym’s space is immediately impressive. There are tons of machines and free weights, a dedicated functional training zone, and a sprint/sled track that’s not something we see at every gym.
For anyone who takes their lower-body day seriously, they even have a glute kit that makes it exciting.
Add luxury changing rooms, saunas, and personal trainers, and we can say they’re really aiming for that full-service and high-quality gym experience.
We also love how the trainers here really care about your goals. They tailor plans to individual needs, whether that’s building muscles or weight loss.
The memberships are simple and flexible too. Standard gives you access to peak and off-peak times for a decent price. The Plus, on the other hand, opens up over 90 gyms and JD Spots discounts.
However, there were some reports that some showers in the men’s changing rooms struggled with water pressure and temperature.
The music can also feel like a nightclub if you’re not in the mood.
I feel much more comfortable with my workouts now
“I’ve really enjoyed training with Naomi! She helped me build a lot of confidence in the gym and took the time to teach me how to properly use the equipment, making sure my form is correct. I feel much more comfortable with my workouts now and can see real progress. Highly recommend her sessions to anyone looking to improve their fitness and feel more confident in the gym.”
B Wilcox, Google review
Loads of space, great equipment, and a really welcoming atmosphere
“JD Gym Manchester is a brilliant place to train, loads of space, great equipment, and a really welcoming atmosphere. I’ve been working with Naomi Armstrong as my PT, and she’s fantastic. Naomi really knows her stuff, pushes you to improve in the right way, and makes every session enjoyable. I’ve already seen such a difference thanks to her guidance.”
Abigail Merrill, Google review
5. Federation Gym
Address: Unit 2, 60 Spear St
Phone: +44 7564 762844
Business hours:
- Monday to Friday: 6 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday to Sunday: 8 AM – 8 PM
Federation Gym feels so intentional and curated for people who take their training seriously. There are dumbbells up to 70 kg, plates, and Eleiko bars in the powerlifting section.
There’s even a dedicated posing room with perfect lighting. Bodybuilders can flex, check their form, or snap a selfie without bumping into anyone here.
We also noticed that the energy here comes from the members and coaches as much as the machines.
There’s a culture of respect. You won’t see weight left lying around, and the space feels alive yet disciplined.
The coaches are approachable, knowledgeable, and genuinely invested in helping you improve too.
Their programs also add another layer: mobility workshops, squat technique sessions, and even rooftop yoga bring variety and depth to training.
On top of that, having on-site physio and lockers makes it very practical for serious athletes. There are also protein bars, meal prep, and supplements that can add even more ease to your training routine.
That said, there are a few things to consider. The gym doesn’t have separate changing rooms, which might be awkward for some.
Everyone there is good vibes
“I want to gatekeep because it’s hard to find a good gym. Federation hits the sweet spot between old school bodybuilding gym and premium fitness. The equipment range is amazing, and it all works, and it’s never too busy to get onto. Everyone there is good vibes. Worth it.”
Quin Smith, Google review
Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to take their training seriously!
“Best gym I’ve ever been too, lovely staff and owners. Top equipment, posing room and doesn’t get too busy. Been going here for almost a year and genuinely never had to wait for any equipment. Never had any issues with anything or anyone, it truly is a family vibe, everyone is always happy to see each other. Would definitely recommend to anyone who wants to take their training seriously!”
Anabel Iakovleva, Google review