GoodLife Fitness is a large Canadian chain with big clubs, many group classes and set staffed hours. Anytime Fitness is a franchise of smaller clubs with 24/7 key-fob access and a more personal feel. The right choice depends on your schedule, how you like to train and what is close to you.
- GoodLife suits people who want classes and lots of equipment.
- Anytime suits early, late and shift-work schedules.
- Always compare current local prices and contract terms before signing.
These are two of the most common gym brands Canadians compare. Both can work well; they are built around different experiences. Here is how they differ, so you can choose with confidence. Prices and promotions change often and vary by location, so treat this as a guide to what to compare rather than a price list.
At a glance
| GoodLife Fitness | Anytime Fitness | |
|---|---|---|
| Ownership | Canadian company, founded in London, Ontario in 1979 | International franchise, locally owned clubs |
| Club size | Usually large | Usually small to mid-sized |
| Hours | Long staffed hours; some extended-hour locations | 24/7 member access with key fob |
| Group classes | Extensive, often included in membership tiers | Limited or none at many locations |
| Equipment | Wide range of cardio and strength | Solid basics; varies by club |
| Staff | Staff on site during opening hours | Staffed hours limited at many clubs |
| Travel access | Access across many Canadian clubs depending on tier | Reciprocal access to clubs in many countries after an initial period |
| Budget option | Fit4Less (lower-cost sister brand) | Pricing set by each franchise |
Who GoodLife suits
- People who love group fitness: cycling, strength, dance and mind-body classes
- Those who want lots of equipment and space
- Members who like having staff around
- People who travel within Canada and want access to many clubs
Large clubs can be busy at peak times, typically weekday evenings, and some members find them less personal.
Who Anytime Fitness suits
- Shift workers, early risers and night owls who need 24/7 access
- People who prefer quieter, smaller gyms
- Those who train independently without classes
- Frequent international travellers
Smaller clubs may have fewer squat racks or specialty machines, and staffed hours are limited, so check that the equipment fits your programme.
For serious lifting
If your training centres on barbell lifts, check the number of squat racks, platforms, bumper plates and deadlift-friendly spaces at the specific location. Neither brand is designed around powerlifting, and some independent strength gyms may suit you better. See gyms for weightlifting and powerlifting.
Contracts and fees
Before signing with any gym, ask about:
- Initiation or enrolment fees
- Annual maintenance fees
- Minimum contract length and cancellation terms
- Price increases after promotional periods
- Freezing your membership for travel or injury
- Key fob or card replacement fees
See hidden fees at gym chains and how to cancel a gym membership.
Other options to consider
Depending on where you live, other chains, municipal recreation centres, YMCAs, independent gyms and specialty studios may suit you better than either brand. Recreation centres often include pools and skating at low cost; YMCAs offer family programmes and financial assistance; independent gyms often have better strength equipment and coaching. Comparing three or four options in your area, including at least one non-chain gym, usually gives the best picture of value.
Think about how your needs might change: a new job with different hours, a move, or a shift from classes to strength training. A month-to-month membership keeps your options open while you work out what suits you.
How to decide
- Visit both nearest locations at the time you would usually train.
- Ask for a free trial or day pass.
- Check the equipment you use most, and how busy it is.
- Get the full price in writing, including all fees.
- Read the cancellation terms before signing.
Convenience matters more than features: the gym closest to home or work is the one you will use most. See finding an affordable gym and how to choose a gym.
Questions to ask on a tour
When you visit, ask how busy the club is at your usual time, how many squat racks or class spots there are, whether there are towel and locker services, what the parking situation is, and whether trainers are available for a free orientation. Ask to see the change rooms and check cleanliness, which says a lot about how a club is run.
Frequently asked questions
Is GoodLife or Anytime Fitness better?
GoodLife suits people who want classes and large clubs; Anytime suits those who need 24/7 access and prefer smaller gyms.
Is Anytime Fitness really open 24 hours?
Most locations offer 24/7 member access with a key fob, but staffed hours are limited.
Does GoodLife have a cheaper option?
Yes, its sister brand Fit4Less offers lower-cost memberships with fewer amenities.
Photo: Shixart1985, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0).
General information only. Gym features, prices and policies change and vary by location; confirm details with each club. Brand names are used for comparison only.
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