Geelong cost of living series reveals cheaper gym options

For day two of its cost of living series, the Geelong Advertiser looked at where residents can get the most affordable gym experience. Here’s what was found.

The rising cost of living in putting pressure on essential spending with Geelong locals

wanting to keep more money in their back pocket.

For many, an essential weekly expense is a gym membership to stay healthy and active.

A Geelong Advertiser analysis found that of those surveyed QuickFit Health Clubs, located in East Geelong and Armstrong Creek, have the most affordable membership rates.

QuickFit memberships are $13.95 a week for a no lock in contract, while a 12 month

membership is $10.45 a week.

Gym goer Darcy Looker, who attends QuickFit Health Clubs in East Geelong, said there are a number of things he would happily give up as the cost of living rises before he cancelled his gym membership.

“It’s a no-brainer for me, I’m very much a fitness enthusiast and love staying fit … it’s good for the mind and the body,” the 26-year-old said.

Some smaller boutique studios, including Upstate, charge up to $55 per week for unlimited classes.

Quick fit Newcomb owner Darren Lawless said gym membership fees rarely hold people back. Picture: David Smith

Co-founder and operations manager of QuickFit Linda Allen said she has seen customers switching from pricey group fitness studios to commercial gyms like QuickFit to save money.

“We have seen a significant increase in new members coming from group class facilities who

are charging $50+ a week for their memberships,” she said.

By making the most of the extras that gyms offer, such as workout app and group classes, Ms Allen said members can still maintain their fitness without hefty membership fees.

“New members are realising they can get the same workout experience for less than half

the price,” Ms Allen said.

QuickFit East Geelong and Armstrong Creek owner, Darren Lawless, says the price of a

membership rarely holds people back from joining but his franchise tries to keep their rates

less than a daily cup of coffee.

“We do what we can to provide an inviting and friendly space that motivates people to keep

working at their goals,” Mr Lawless said.

The Geelong Advertiser is investigating the impacts of the rising cost of living in a series to continue this week.

The cheapest options for some of the most popular items and experiences in Geelong will

be revealed.

Originally published as Geelong cost of living series reveals cheaper gym options