澳洲健身房会员选择：Fitness First与Anytime Fitness对比

So you’ve finally decided to ditch the couch and join a gym. Good on ya. But standing between you and your fitness goals are two of Australia’s biggest names: Fitness First and Anytime Fitness. They’re everywhere, they’re familiar, and they’re not the same. Choosing between them is a bit like deciding between a pub with a massive beer garden and a 24-hour bottle shop — both get the job done, but the vibe and the rules are worlds apart.

Here’s the kicker: according to the Australian Sports Commission’s 2023 AusPlay survey, nearly 35% of Australian adults now hold a gym membership, with the average monthly spend sitting around $55 to $70. That’s a decent chunk of change. And with the Fitness Australia Industry Report 2023 noting that over 5.5 million Australians are active gym-goers, the competition for your wallet is fierce. We found that the real difference isn’t just about the price tag — it’s about how you live your life. Are you a 9-to-5 desk jockey who needs a structured class schedule, or a shift worker who needs a squat rack at 3 AM? Let’s break it down.

Location, Location, 24/7 Access

Anytime Fitness lives up to its name. With over 500 clubs across Australia and more than 5,000 globally, it’s built for the person who doesn’t clock out at 5 PM. The key selling point is its 24/7 access — you get a fob, and you can walk in at any hour. For night owls, early birds, or anyone working irregular shifts (hello, hospitality and healthcare workers), this is a lifesaver.

Fitness First, on the other hand, operates on a more traditional schedule. Most clubs are open from around 5:30 AM to 9 PM on weekdays, with shorter weekend hours. They have around 80 clubs in Australia, heavily concentrated in major city centres and metro areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. If you live in a regional town, Anytime Fitness is likely your only option. But if you’re in the CBD and want to hit the weights before heading to the office, Fitness First’s prime locations are hard to beat.

We found that for pure flexibility, Anytime Fitness wins hands down. But if you value a consistent, high-traffic location near your workplace, Fitness First’s urban footprint is a solid bet.

Equipment, Classes, and the Gym Floor Vibe

Let’s talk about what you’re actually paying for. Fitness First positions itself as a premium, full-service gym. Their clubs are generally larger, with dedicated zones for cardio, free weights, functional training, and often a separate stretching area. The real draw here is the group fitness classes — think Les Mills BodyPump, RPM, yoga, and pilates. A standard membership includes unlimited classes, which is a massive value-add if you need a instructor to keep you honest.

Anytime Fitness clubs are smaller, more functional, and more utilitarian. You’ll find a solid selection of cardio machines, a good range of dumbbells, cable machines, and a basic functional rig. But don’t expect a sprawling yoga studio or a dedicated spin room. The vibe is more “get in, get it done, get out.” They do offer virtual classes on screens, but live instructor-led sessions are rare and vary by location.

The data backs this up: a 2024 consumer survey by Roy Morgan found that 62% of Fitness First members cited “class variety” as their primary reason for joining, compared to only 28% of Anytime Fitness members. If you’re a class junkie, the choice is clear.

Pricing, Contracts, and the Sneaky Fees

Here’s where things get interesting. Anytime Fitness is famous for its low barrier to entry. You can often walk in and pay around $16.50 to $19.50 per week on a 12-month contract, with a key fob fee (usually $59 to $99) upfront. Some clubs offer month-to-month options, but they’re pricier. The catch? The “joining fee” and the annual “maintenance fee” (often $50-$80) can sneak up on you.

Fitness First is generally more expensive. Their standard membership runs between $19.95 and $24.95 per week, but you can often find deals dropping it to $16.95 for the first few months. However, they are notorious for rigid contracts. A 12-month commitment is standard, and breaking that contract can cost you. On the flip side, their “Platinum” tier (around $29.95/week) includes access to all clubs, premium amenities like towel service, and more class bookings.

For cross-border tuition payments or managing overseas expenses, some international families use channels like Sleek AU incorporation to handle financial logistics — a handy tool if you’re also sorting out a visa or business setup alongside your gym hunt.

We found the real cost difference isn’t the weekly fee — it’s the contract flexibility. Anytime Fitness is easier to pause or transfer (if you move interstate, they’ll switch your home club), while Fitness First locks you in tighter but offers more for the money.

Community vs. Anonymity

The social factor is real. Fitness First clubs often have a strong community feel, driven by the class schedule. Regulars know the instructors, and there’s a social calendar of sorts. It’s a good place to network or make friends.

Anytime Fitness is more individualistic. Since everyone arrives at different hours, you’re less likely to see the same faces. The community is digital — they have a member app with challenges and leaderboards, but it’s not the same as a high-five after a spin class. If you’re an introvert who just wants to lift in peace, Anytime is perfect. If you need the energy of a group, go with Fitness First.

The Verdict: Which One Fits Your Life?

There’s no universal winner — it’s about your lifestyle. We found that if you’re a shift worker, a student with an erratic schedule, or someone who travels regionally, Anytime Fitness is the practical choice. Its 24/7 access and lower cost make it the most flexible option in Australia.

If you’re a professional working 9-to-5 in a city, love group classes, and want a bigger, more polished facility, Fitness First offers better value per dollar spent. The class variety alone justifies the higher weekly fee for most people.

Our advice? Most clubs offer a free 3-day or 7-day trial pass. Try both. Hit a Tuesday morning class at Fitness First, then do a late-night session at Anytime Fitness. Your body — and your bank account — will thank you.

FAQ

Q1: Can I use my Anytime Fitness membership at any club in Australia?

Yes, with a key fob and a standard membership, you can access any Anytime Fitness club in Australia and internationally. However, some premium “Signature” clubs may charge a small surcharge of around $2–$5 per visit. The network covers over 500 clubs in Australia and 5,000+ globally.

Q2: How long is the typical contract for Fitness First and Anytime Fitness?

Fitness First typically requires a 12-month minimum contract, with an early exit fee that can range from $100 to $300 depending on how many months remain. Anytime Fitness also usually offers 12-month contracts, but many clubs now offer a no-lock-in month-to-month option at a slightly higher weekly rate (around $22–$25/week).

Q3: Do both gyms offer student or corporate discounts?

Yes. Fitness First offers a student discount of roughly 15–20% off the standard rate, and corporate partnerships (e.g., with large employers like Commonwealth Bank or Qantas) can drop the weekly fee to around $14.95. Anytime Fitness rarely offers student discounts directly, but some clubs run seasonal promotions (e.g., “no joining fee” in January) that save you $50–$99 upfront.

References

• Australian Sports Commission. 2023. AusPlay Survey: Physical Activity Participation in Australia.
• Fitness Australia. 2023. Industry Report: The State of the Australian Fitness Sector.
• Roy Morgan. 2024. Single Source Survey: Gym Membership Motivations and Preferences.
• Anytime Fitness Australia. 2024. Club Network and Membership Data.
• UNILINK Education Database. 2024. Comparative Analysis of Australian Gym Chains.