Crystal M.

When it comes to self-care not everyone’s first thought is visiting the athletic club.  For those who are unfamiliar, attending a high-end athletic club can have many benefits. From competitive sports programs to childcare there are so many hidden gems that you may not even be aware of. 

While the expenses may be outside of the range of your pocketbook, it’s time to start saving those coins because the expenses may prove to be beneficial to you and your family in the long run. Although people register for memberships at high end athletic clubs for different reasons, let’s take a look at some of the services and benefits provided that may have led to their decision.

1. The Amenities – While most athletic clubs provide access to free showers as an amenity to its members, one of the benefits of joining a more high-end establishment is the additional offerings.  Some of these offerings include waterfall showerheads, free towels and spa branded toiletries (i.e. -shampoo, conditioner, shaving cream, etc.).  Another great benefit is the spacious locker rooms, which sometimes will include a sauna, hot tub and walkway entrance to the pool.  And let’s not forget the elegant décor!   

In addition to luxury showers spa services are also included which sometimes offer hair, nails and massage as well as additional esthetician services on site depending on the location and size of the athletic club.  The esthetician services can include anything from waxing to micro needling.  It is not uncommon for larger clubs to even have a concierge service, food court and/ or a private business center onsite.  Literally, making it a one-stop shop!

2. Certified Instructors -The price of membership includes personal training as well as private and group classes with instructors and trainers who are experienced and highly certified. Many are certified in more than one area of specialty allowing them to teach a variety of classes and techniques.  While the class sizes can be large, the instructors still take the time to ensure that you are comfortable; with the offering of more personal attention and direction available upon your request.  The instructors strive to be the best of the best, providing a 5-star level of professionalism and expertise to all club members.

3. Child Care – High end athletic clubs have a lot to offer to families with children. Not only do they have children’s classes available, they also host special events, camps and other programs for kids to enjoy. During school breaks some of these clubs offer summer camps which can be very convenient for both kids and parents. 

The camps include field trips to local venues, crafts, games and activities for families to enjoy, like movie nights.  Some locations also have an individual wing just for kids, where they host a variety of classes.   Classes for younger kids may include anything from sensory lessons, games and reading.  There is also a wide range of classes available for older kids which can include gymnastics, swimming, dance and karate just to name a few. Class offerings vary by facility. 

Another offering for families is Parents Night Out; granting parents a few hours to themselves, while the kids hang out and have fun.  While the age range for child memberships also vary by athletic club, some accept memberships for children as young as 3 months old.

4. The Classes -Having a larger staff and campus, gives high end facilities the edge of having more to offer in terms of classes and other fitness activities.  Multiple studio spaces and an expansive fitness floor highlight a variety of options for its members. While individual trainings are an option, group fitness classes led by certified instructors are also available. These classes are set to challenge strength, endurance and stamina.

The options for studio classes can be quite impressive.  Offerings may include Barre, Pilates (complete with studio reformers), strength training, outdoor classes in the water, Cycling, various types of Yoga (heated and non-heated) as well as various forms of cultural dance (i.e.- Zumba, Cardio Dance, Bollywood etc.) just to give you an idea.  Some clubs also have specialized classes for members who are 65 years of age and older.

In addition to all of this, there are other activities available for leisure including basketball pickleball, swimming and tennis. Some clubs also offer challenges and leagues for some of these activities.  Chiropractic recovery sessions complete with massage chairs and private stretching sessions are also added amenities in the fitness areas.  Classes can begin as early as 5:00 AM and go on as late as 7:00 PM depending on the site.

5. Convenience – Some could say that a high-end athletic club is almost like a resort. The amenities provide comfort and peace of mind in knowing that everything that one would need is literally all in one place:  food, relaxation services, childcare, a quiet place for working and a generous amount of parking!  To add, many high-end athletic clubs have more than one location: some even across multiple states, making it convenient for travel whether it’s for business or for pleasure. Depending on the membership level that a person has, they may be able to visit locations across various geographical areas without having to pay additional fees or being limited in the services in which they are permitted to enjoy.

6. The Scenery – Needless to say, that when you step into a high-end athletic club the entire ambience is different.  From its spacious size to the cleanliness, to the diversity of its members the overall environment is like nowhere else. While these types of clubs are obviously a bit more prestigious, don’t be fooled into thinking that these facilities are only for the wealthy. Although the prices for membership may be intimidating, these clubs are generally affordable. Think of it as an investment!

When stepping into one of these clubs there is also a sense of security in knowing that you are amongst professionals who will provide you with guidance in multiple facets of health and wellness without trying to swindle you.  Like other athletic facilities, you must be a member or guest to enjoy its accommodations.  However, people of all backgrounds, ages and levels of class are welcome to join.  Dim lighting in the studio classes and focus on the fitness floor provide a positive atmosphere.

7. The People – Most will find that the members and staff of high-end athletic clubs are generally friendly.  The staff at these facilities are usually very polished, professional and courteous. Some even addressing you by name upon entry, providing a more personalized experience from the moment you walk into the door.  Mutual connections through classes and personal and/or professional relationships, often bring members together.  It’s not surprising that a lot of members become good friends. 

The frequency of the classes also contribute towards building a positive rapport between members and staff.  This makes for great conversations, comfort and overall, a positive vibe.   Although each member is on their own personal journey towards their mental health and fitness, there is a mutual level of respect.  No matter the person’s status, everyone is held to the same accord.

8. Technology -In today’s modern times, it’s no surprise that high-end athletic clubs are efficient with technology. These facilities often have state-of-the-art equipment in the fitness rooms.  Customizable lighting and effects, as well as plug and play audio features, provide a memorable experience for club members.

An array of large flat screen televisions that can be streamed directly to some of the fitness machines that are being used offer an additional level of convenience.  The fitness machines themselves:   treadmills, ellipticals, weight machines, bicycles and other equipment are usually customizable with their own unique features.  The machines also have the capability to connect directly to apps, watches and other smart devices.  This not only allows for members to register and attend classes virtually, but also provides the convenience of coordinating personal stats during workouts.

These high-tech capabilities also expand beyond the fitness floor.  Recovery areas also house massage chairs, as well as other pressurized recovery devices as a service to its members.  These add-ons are available to assist with fitness and recovery. However, they are so accommodating that sometimes members see them as an added treat! 

Weight management devices are also available which can assist with measuring an individual’s biometrics, right down to calculating the person’s Body Mass Index.  While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it’s available for any members who would like to take advantage of using it.

9. Special Events – Another added benefit of attending a high-end athletic club is the exclusivity of its events. Private special events are often hosted for its members.  These events are social and allow members the opportunity to network, mingle, and enjoy themselves. Some of these events may include happy hours, fitness activities with complementary snacks and beverages, dance parties and family nights.  During the holidays and particular seasons of the year, charity events and community fundraisers are also held.

10. The Pool – During the dog days of summer the pool provides the ultimate convenience.   Larger facilities often have multiple pools at their location:  an indoor pool and an outdoor pool.  Both pools are large, some even being Olympic sized.

The outdoor pools have cabanas, food service and additional amenities provided. Lifeguards are on duty for everyone’s safety.  Outside of the summer months, the indoor pools are open throughout the entire calendar year for members to enjoy at their leisure. 

Have you ever been to a high-end athletic club? I’d love to hear about your experience.