Lovely staff and great location. Unfortunately the gym is often overly busy and there isn’t enough space to accommodate the number of guests. The gym has become a little tatty and needs upgrading, it often feels unclean even though there are often cleaners around. As others have noted in other reviews, the pool is pretty disgusting and people just go straight from sweating in the stream room / sauna into the swimming pool to cool down. It’s a shame as the gym has good potential - it just seems far too expensive for what you’re getting.

The gym tries to be a bit more premium by having a sauna, steam room, pool. But it lacks the essentials that budget gyms have such as enough equipment for the demand, enough weights, etc. The equipment they do have is old school and feels like good quality, it just needs a lot more. I feel like the membership price warrants more than just one lat pulldown machine and a single (that I could find) 5kg plate. Come on!

A little disappointing... I joined when I first moved to London in August last year after trying out a couple of gyms in the area. At first, it seemed to have a good range of equipment and was definitely a step up from where I was before. I was happy for the first month or so, but over time it just doesn't seem to live up to the price point for the membership. The gym is overcrowded and you often have to wait a long time for equipment. Everything just feels a little run down, and things definitely seem to have gotten a lot worse in the last month or so. I've tried the spin classes a couple of times, but had to keep changing bikes as the foot grips are broken on many of them. The screens on lots of the bikes are also faulty meaning, when a class is full, many people aren't able to track their progress or even use the pedals properly. For a premium gym I wouldn't expect this to be the case. They've always had towels available on the door when you arrive, but have recently started running out because they've sold too many memberships. Last week, I'd come in to use the pool so had to go home when I found out they had no towels left. The staff didn't give any explanation and no apology, which was frustrating as I'd wasted my time coming in. Overall, there's nothing that bad about the place. I had just hoped for a lot more based on the price of the membership. I'm feeling disappointed to be locked in for a year of this.

This is my regular gym, and I love the fact that it's so central with a towel service. The pool is quite small, and you need to complete several rounds, which is not ideal. Considering the space problem in central London, I cannot complain.

A thugs' gym, unfortunately. The facilities are good but there were a large number of very loud men in the sauna. When I asked them to be quiet (they didn't think that another person entering the sauna was a good reason to show some respect) they refused and started being rude. They tried to intimidate me and they also tried to engage another man who had just walked in. A member of staff, Hamza, came to attend the situation but he did basically nothing. He said that "this" (being loud, disrespectful and intentionally trying to intimidate in a shared public space) was normal. Hamza was unprofessional and also seemed to lack awareness of UK social norms and etiquette. Same as the offenders. I found it impossible to carry on with my session (I had paid £30 for a day pass) and I asked for a refund, which I was told I would get. However, when I went to reception I was told that they cannot approve a refund. It became clear that there have been multiple episodes and complaints about these men in the sauna. At least another person who tried to use the sauna in the meantime went straight back out when the same men that shouted at me tried to shout at him as well. Staff have completely lost control of this gym and at least one is of the same mind as them. They have offered me another free session, which I could only decline. I left this place with worse backpain than when I walked in and I didn't feel safe. I would not recommend this gym to anyone other than thugs, who are well tolerated here. Please, only get in touch if you intend to refund me.

Awful place,lazy reception without skill. Layer they sell the sauna services and I paid for it, was broken,every week the different receptionist said next week is available,never I saw available it. I choose the the option one month no contract,I guess it not like this,they said to me you pay every month. The clean is so rude ,every time she complain in the change room, the place was dirty. They stop my membership before finish a send a complain never answered to me.

Extremely overcrowded. At no point have I seen more than half of the cardio equipment being used while I constantly need to queue for weights. I am considering moving flats just so I can be closer to a different gym. 2 stars instead of 1 as staff are nice

Too many memberships have been sold, it’s often far too busy and there is not enough space or equipment. It’s gotten fairly tatty now and needs some work - the changing rooms often smell really bad. There is a sauna and a steam room, and it’s become a bit of a joke that there’s always one of them that is out of order. The equipment itself is fine, slightly older but does the job.

Good size gym, but it needs better management and full time cleaning staff and newer equipment. For the cost of the membership (very very expensive!) it’s just such a shame. When I first joined 7 years ago, it was clean and well maintained... now it’s just Bleh! Also, don’t join if you are a swimmer... there are constant children’s classes in the pool (which are noisy and shut down one of the lanes) and more often than not it’ll be closed because of accidents! The sauna is often broken and the steam room is never steamy... such a shame for such an expensive gym.

I was hoping for the price point and facilities available to have a better experience on my trial day here. The facilities seem good and there is everything you need despite being very overcrowded and a little run down in some areas. However the clientele in the gym really let the place down and have put me off getting a full membership. The pool area, sauna and steam room were chaos to put it lightly. The men in the gym are extremely rowdy and disrespectful of the fact that it’s a space for everyone to use, it almost felt like a kids club but with grown men. They were in and out of the sauna and steam room non stop, talking extremely loudly, shouting at times, taking phone calls and just generally treating the place like their own social club. It’s really disappointing that the culture within the gym hasn’t been set up to be a place where people can come and work out and enjoy the facilities in peace. Not worth the membership price I’d sooner go back to a budget gym where people respect the space and the people around them. Unfortunately some of the staff only seemed to egg the behaviour on and multiple people left the area visibly frustrated while I was there too.

I used class pass to use the pool. The gym is really run down to the point where the sides of the pool are coming away from the wall and there is mould growing. The pool was full of screeching children having a lesson which obviously would not normally be an issue but there is no timetable or warning on their website stating the times of lessons so they can be avoided by those sensitive to noise. Having spent 5 mins in this horrible pool I decide to leave. The floor was filthy and I fell over (I am 9 months pregnant so this was obviously quite distressing for me). Went to speak to the woman at reception to say that the pool area was slippy and she had the audacity to tell me that I should be more careful when walking by the pool rather than getting someone to just clean the area. Awful service, dated gym and certainly not worth £80pm if you were to join, I'd recommend the Better gym nearby at Clissold. Honestly astounded at how bad this was.

Small pool with strong urine like smell sometimes, free weights area very small, not great range of equipment so have to wait even when there's few people and they're old and worn out. Tried to use a vocational discount for the monthly membership but when cancelling it after a few months they charged me full price for all the months which was 80£/month. It does the job if you're close and you go off-peak times but certainly not worth £80, at best £30 for very limited equipment and not been refurbished in a while.

Similar to the other reviews: it's just a bit grim and there is not enough equipment for how busy it gets. I gave up swimming in the evenings here as there was usually stuff floating in the pool after it's heavy daily use. Shame as it used to be a lot better / could still be so great.

Disappointing! Had been here a few years ago and was impressed but after joining it seems the gym has lost its spark over time. Really limited equipment and facilities, never enough free weights (especially two of the same weight) and the ones they do have are all SUPER heavy which isn't that accessible for females wanting to use lighter weights. Did a spin class and had to move bikes twice as they were broken. For the price you pay as a new member you'd expect a more premium experience but it's really not worth it compared to other gyms at the same price :/

Leg extension machine has been broken for a month, and it's the only one. The staff are super nice and kind but they don't know when it will be fixed as they're not getting replies - i guess from higher up the foodchain. It's a bit nuts that they only have one of most machines and if that one breaks it doesn't get fixed quickly.

I advise you to steer clear of Fitness First, which engages in some shady business practices and whose customer service team is only available via email and then takes days to respond to queries or complaints. In my instance, the company breached their contractual agreement by levying a charge a day earlier than my contract stipulated. They did not deny this, but were unwilling to resolve it. Take your business elsewhere, or risk similar treatment.

Located inside the previous Arsenal Stadium, whether we like it or not, this is the best fitness in this region. I agree with certain members that improvements could be made in terms of basic cleaning (mostly dust), general health and safety (certain showers, toilets or water fountains look from another age) and enhancing respect among members and good manners through specific communications via small posters (e.g, reminding members to put back weights where they found them, or discharge equipment, try to keep it low when discussing in sauna or steam rooms (sometimes you'd think you were at Billingsgate Fish Market (without the fish)), that the pool is actually not a bath where to clean sweat and prefer a proper shower before that, and finally avoid scrubbing dead skin in these rooms, or anywhere in the premises). Finally I would appreciate if the sauna/steam rooms were not « out of order » for other reasons than for maintenance - com’on I know energy prices skyrocketed, but you are a Platinum Fitness First - and kept at the temperature they should be right now which is great btw (100 degrees Celsius for sauna). Appart from these points, I sincerely love to go there, staff is helpful and welcoming and there is a good sportsmanship there! Definitely recommend it!

Could be a great gym, the staff were nice & friendly. However, the equipment and gym itself were just not clean. There's barely any cleaning stations around, so no-body is wiping anything down after use. The kit also seems old and outdated. This was my first visit and I doubt I will be back unfortunately.

Phone signal bad so no Internet and the WiFi does not have enough IP adddreses for when it gets busy. This makes working out a nightmare when you just want to focus on your training. Machines are poorly mentained and in some cases you need to put your joints in precarious positions just to get the exercise going. There are differences in level around the floor and if you are not careful you will brake your back.

Went to this gym whilst I lived in the area. Was ok….a lot of equipment is rusty and old, general changing room areas were always a bit gross, smelt of sewage. Felt like the personal trainers just sat around and did nothing / super loud. The sauna was never the right temperature and steam room was always out of use. Wouldn’t recommend to friends, not worth the £69 a month fee

It has the bones of a good gym but equipment is out of order and selections are limited. For example, there is only one flat bench for an entire gym, and the leg extension machine was broken for many weeks on end. The pool is lovely and recently refurbished, but it hardly makes up for the inability to get on specific pieces of equipment. For £70 a month I would expect better.

Me and my sisters attended the pool using a Classpass and the service from Ama on the desk was second to none - she is really welcoming and informative. The gym was well looked after with good facilities. Me and my sisters will certainly be returning.

Have been a member for 18 months, all staff and trainers are very helpful and friendly. Equipment is good and everything you need to have a well rounded workout. Generally kept very clean.

The overall ambiance at Fitness First is commendable, and the access to both the sauna and steam room facilities enhances the experience. However, it’s crucial to address a recurring issue with a male member over 40 who continues to use exfoliating gloves inappropriately, specifically in the sauna and steam room areas. I’ve heard other members expressing similar concerns, indicating that this problem is affecting multiple individuals. Despite previous complaints, the issue persists, creating discomfort for members and impacting the quality of the facility. I hope the management takes proactive measures to promptly resolve this matter, ensuring a pleasant and sanitary environment for all members in the sauna and steam room areas.

I have been going here for about 2 weeks now. I haven't taken full advantages of all of the gym yes but, so far so good. The staff are all very friendly and happy to help, they gym its self is maintained very well and everything is very clean. No complaints whatsoever.

2 weeks into my subscription with fitness first, facilities are great, staff are fantastic, love the fact I can use 30+ gyms with my membership. However, towel service was suspended for the last week and the steam room is not working at Highbury or angel and I believe many more, maintenance needs to improve or I will go somewhere else .

Great facilities, staff members are friendly, accommodating and helpful. I love going there because the space is very clean and organized.. Always being cleaned and put back together when others don't clear up after themselves. I enjoy the atmosphere whether I go there. My personal Trainer Q, is also great. Always encouraging and supporting me through my workout and eating habits/ choices Thank you x

management is appalling! They were like robbery, one month charge twice. They then refuse to give you this money back and force me stay one month, Absolutely shocking service and It’s like the staff choose not to have customer service skills. DONT WASTE YOUR MONEY HERE!

Staff are friendly however Sauna is never remotely near sufficient temperature. Incredibly inadequate operating at 80 degrees Celsius. Should be 95+, minimum 90. Making matters worse, this is deliberate as if you complain, they turn it up (by the end of your session when you are leaving). Stop cutting corners Fitness First. Clearly, staff have likely been told to turn this into a budget gym to save costs while at the same charging customers more. Hard to find a Fitness First Gym now whose facilities aren't suffering from a decline in quality and service.

The swimming pool is same depth all along its length. I didn't like this but my friends love it. Water is clean but not crystal clean. The really like they have sauna and steam rooms. I got muscle pulled while swimming which get immediate relief when stretching in steam room.

I’ve been a member here now for 8 months and can’t speak highly enough of the staff, all super friendly and accommodating. I also have PT sessions with Kai and couldn’t recommend him more highly, incredibly passionate about what he does and has succeeded in regularly hitting my goals

Huge credit to one of the trainers, Bernard, for keeping me on the straight and narrow for so long - 1 taster session, followed by more than three years of weekly training. Knows his stuff, and really makes an effort to make every session entirely personal - creative in working around injuries and restrictions, helpful with food / nutrition advice, and has worked wonders in completely changing my mindset towards how and why to work out. Game changer.

Top tier gym I love coming here. Its very welcoming with super friendly staff and members. Can be busy at times although everyone is happy to work in with you. Very clean and has everything you need.

I’ve been here for one week and the staff have been so helpful and supportive. Great customer service and great personalities working here.

Did PT with Bernard, he was amazing from start to finish. Helped me figure out what goals I was working towards, held me accountable, and overall helped me get crazy strong. Highly recommend, you don't find a PT as dialed in as Bernard.

Fitness First provides a comprehensive and motivating environment for those seeking to improve their health and wellbeing. With an extensive array of equipment, group classes, and dedicated personal trainers, the gym caters to the diverse needs and fitness goals of its members. The staff are welcoming and knowledgeable, fostering a supportive atmosphere that encourages progress and success. Whether you're new to the world of fitness or an experienced athlete, Fitness First offers the resources and inspiration needed to help you achieve your personal best.

Quincy has completely changed my approach to training. He not only trains the body but trains the mind. A lot of my development has been my mentality and he's coached me to gain self belief in what my body is capable of. He makes full use of the equipment available and our sessions are efficient and productive. Since starting training with him, I feel and look stronger, leaner and have gained self confidence. I'd without hesitation recommend his services to anyone look to change their life.

Great gym with awesome staff that are very helpful and friendly at all times! I’ve been training with Quincy for a few months now. I couldn’t recommend him enough. Not only physical but I have received mental guidance from him which has helped me gain confidence to be back at the gym. I now know what I’m doing and why I’m doing it thanks to Quincy! My abilities are endless thanks to him!

Great equipment and even better staff. Highly recommend!

Great gym. Lovely staff. I’ve been working with Quincy, a PT at this gym for the past 6 months. I can’t recommend him and the gym enough! Quincy really knows his stuff and has managed to keep me motivated since day 1. And the equipment we get to use is brilliant. There's everything anyone could want. My body has gone through a big transformation during my time working at this gym with Quincy. Put in the effort with him, he’ll match it and help you achieve your goals. Great gym set up. Ask for Quincy to help make the most of it :)

Very welcoming staff and professional. The gym is very clean and organized very well to keep as safe. Always happy to be there. I have been in many gyms Fitness First but this gym is by far my favourite. Thank you so much to the staff for making us so welcoming and for taking care of the place so well.

Been using the gym for over 4 years now and the place is always spotlessly clean and the staff helpful and friendly as are the other users. For the last couple of months I’ve been working with one of their PT’s Quincy, he has taken me from barely able to walk through rehab and out the other side, now smashing through intense sessions, can’t rate him highly enough!

Very good. Nice gym equipments. Clean place and nice atmosphere. If you like swimming, they have a very good swimming pool. Sauna decent size. The steam room is big as well.

Friendly staff, it is not crazy busy in the evenings like other gyms in the area. To improve: the steam sauna doesn't work, according to some other members it's been broken for a month with constant promises of repairs. Also bear in mind at the moment the swimming pool is freezing cold (it seems the heating system is broken as well).

Today it was the first time I went there as I missed my class in my home gym. I was pleasantly surprised even it was ten minutes walk from the station. I attended a studio class and enjoyed the class except the studio was freezing cold and triggered my hives during the workout. It didnt need to be this cold!

They never have towels, the steam room is always broken. One lane at the pool is always booked for kids lessons. So not worth the price

Very often have no towels, steam room has been broken for around 2 months, in short all the things you will be told about when being sold the club, are often not on offer.

Amazing gym, amazing staff. Pool, sauna, plenty of workout areas depending on what’s your thing! They will make you become passionate about fitness if you’re not!

I loved my visit to this club! The team were so friendly, the PTs were very knowledgeable and so much kit to work out. I highly recommend and they have a swimming pool and sauna too.

Love this gym! Spacious and hs everything you need for a great workout!

Had a great time at this gym. Staff are always helpful and the pool and the facilities are kept clean. Would always recommend!

Worst gym ever… Super overcrowded, no equipment available for people to train, very poor management if you have a problem better to contact the head office because no one is going to help you out, equipment broken and very poor hygiene… also no internet connection and very bad wi fi…. For 79£ per month you can get much better then that…. STRONGLY NOT RECOMMEND THIS GYM

This is a very good gym. It has most of the facilities you could wish for - weights area, sauna, steam room and swimming pool. The staff are all very friendly and it feels like a nice small community between staff and members. Sometimes you have to wait to use some of the equipment in the main weights area as it’s not the biggest but it’s not a massive issue and it wouldn’t stop me from recommending this gym to someone looking to join

It's worth the money. Brilliant location, quiet, huge gym with all the accessories you need, seemingly never a struggle for space to do what you need, startlingly refreshing attention to cleanliness - the hoover is always on, bathrooms always clean, and the general vibe is healthy, which is what a gym should be.

I joined this gym in February after transferring from harringay. The staff are lovely and the facilities are excellent. Its a friendly environment with great personal trainers always on hand to give sessions or advice if needed. I highly recommend training here.

I was a member but I had to cancel because I moved. However, I still commute for my training sessions with Bernard. Thanks to him, I believe that sky is the limit when it comes to growth and more precisely physical strength. It is hard to explain Ben’s coaching style in words, but hopefully this one may illustrate a part of his work: he detects the imperfections in the movement pattern (squat for instance) which are likely to be responsible for a pain or a plateau, he makes sure that the body makes the correct adjustments and then growth becomes the norm ! Thanks Ben 🙏