The 5 best gyms in Canberra to power up your fitness journey
Finding the right gym can sometimes feel like more of a workout than the training itself.
With so many facilities scattered across Canberra, each offering its own programs, equipment, and styles of fitness, it can be hard to know which ones are actually worth your time and money.
I’ve taken a deep dive into local gyms, looking at their websites and what clients have shared in reviews, to figure out which gyms really stand out in the city. If you’re ready to sweat smarter, not harder, here are the gyms that deserve a spot on your radar.
How much do gym memberships cost in Canberra?
Most gym memberships cost $15 to $35 per week, depending on the facility, location, and extras like classes or personal training. Premium gyms with spa facilities or tennis courts can cost more, often up to $60–$80 per week.
1. Anytime Fitness Canberra City
Address: Level 1, Saraton Building
Phone: +61 2 6230 4555
Operating hours: 24/7 for Members
Staffed hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday, 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Anytime Fitness has become a go-to choice for Canberrans who need flexibility above all else. The Canberra City branch is open 24/7, making it easy to fit in a session regardless of whether you’re a morning runner or a night owl.
Membership includes access to all 500+ clubs nationwide, which adds serious value if you travel a lot.
Reviews often highlight the friendly staff and the variety of equipment, although some note that after work hours, roughly from 4 PM to 7 PM on weekdays, can feel cramped.
The gym’s smaller footprint compared to premium clubs is offset by affordability and convenience. Overall, this is a reliable option if you want a no-fuss workout hub in the CBD.
Highly recommended
“Anytime Fitness Canberra City is a very welcoming club. It is a gym suitable for everyone including novices and women. The have a great variety of equipment that is always well maintained, and clean bathrooms which is always a plus!! The beauty bar is a great new addition. All the trainers are so welcoming and helpful, and the classes are awesome too. Highly recommended if you want a gym that is there to support you! You’re not just another number here :)”
– Bree Whittaker, Google Review
I recommend it!
“Well laid out, spacious, great range of equipment, clean and well run. Was greeted and offered assistance a couple of times by friendly staff. Not sure the nearby parking is convenient or cheap, I chose to warm up and cool down by walking there from my hotel a few blocks away. Even though the gym was pretty busy, there was ample space. Anyway, I recommend it for visitors staying in town.”
– Ian L, Google Review
2. Fitness First Canberra
Address: Shop EL01, Canberra Centre, Bunda Street
Phone: (02) 6221 5901
Operating hours: 24/7 for Members
Staffed hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 5:30 AM – 8:30 PM
- Friday, 5:30 AM – 7:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Located in Canberra Centre, Fitness First offers an upscale experience that goes beyond the basics. Members enjoy state-of-the-art equipment, group classes, and personal training options.
Many reviews praise the gym’s spacious layout and the wide variety of programs, from yoga to high-intensity interval training.
On the flip side, the membership fees are higher than average, and some clients have mentioned long waits for certain equipment during peak periods (between 5:30 PM and 7:30 PM on weekdays, especially between 4 PM and 6 PM).
Still, for those who want both convenience and a polished fitness environment, Fitness First is a strong choice in the heart of the city.
Welcoming and helpful staff
“This is an excellent gym with a wide range of facilities and training lessons. Staff are welcoming and helpful. Environment is clean and tidy. There is plenty of open space, which is different from other packed gyms.”
– Haochen Yang, Google Review
Very good location
“One of the better FF gyms I have been to. Doesn’t get crazy busy even at peak times, good range of equipment (although could do with another cable machine), and very good location – nice and central.”
– Jacob Henry-Hayes, Google Review
3. Next Gen Canberra
Address: 1 Riggall Place, Lyneham
Phone: 1800 077 177 / (02) 6214 3000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Friday, 5:30 AM – 9:00 PM
- Saturday and Sunday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Next Gen Canberra is more than just a gym—it’s a lifestyle club. The facility boasts tennis courts, indoor and outdoor pools, and a spa, making it appealing for families and individuals seeking a holistic wellness space.
Reviews often highlight the resort-like vibe, though some note that the higher price tag reflects the added amenities. It’s not just about fitness but also community, with social spaces and family-friendly programs.
Members also report that it tends to be busiest after work on weekdays, especially between 5:30 PM and 8:30 PM, when people are squeezing in workouts or classes before the club closes at 9 PM.
This gym is perfect for those who want a premium, all-in-one fitness and leisure experience, though it may not suit those who just want a simple weights-and-cardio setup.
Excellent gym
“I have been a member of Nextgen for over 5 years. Very helpful and supportive instructors, trainers and staff. Also very friendly class members! Full range of modern, well-maintained gym equipment. Extensive range and number of group fitness classes available, suitable for all ages. Overall, an excellent gym. Don’t forget there is free parking.”
– Clem Jones, Google Review
The best!
“I love this gym so much. I have never liked a gym before, and here I’m always looking forward to going. It’s a great community and I’m always bumping into (or making new) friends. Definitely a lifestyle club, not just a gym. Especially big shout out to the instructors that run the aqua classes. They are the best!”
– Vanessa Ericson, Google Review
4. Club Lime Braddon
Address: 13 Lonsdale Street, Braddon
Phone: 02 6242 3950
Operating hours: 24/7 for Members
Staffed hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Friday, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Saturday, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Club Lime has made a name for itself as a Canberra-based fitness brand, and the Braddon location reflects its reputation for affordability and variety.
This gym offers 24/7 access and a solid range of equipment, making it popular with young professionals in the area. Reviews often mention its convenient location in Braddon’s lively district and the clean, well-maintained environment.
However, being one of the busier branches, it can feel crowded at peak times (after 5 PM until about 7:30 PM on weekdays; mornings between 6-8 AM).
Overall, Club Lime Braddon delivers strong value, especially if you’re after flexible membership options without the extras that drive up costs.
Fantastic
“Everything is fantastic about this gym; equipment, location, and staff! Please just change the music playlist… I hear the same stuff every day! Cheers :)”
– Will James, Google Review
A great local gym
“I enjoy working out here. Isn’t busy at all from the times I have been here, and the equipment is looked after well. It’s greatly spaced and the atmosphere is nice. There isn’t any unique machines that you could find at some gyms, but it still has everything you need to workout. Furthermore the lighting is pretty great and its location is convenient for a lot of people, myself included. I will find myself coming back here in the future, it’s a great local gym.”
– Asher, Google Review
5. THE DEN Canberra
Address: 70 Kent Street, Deakin
Phone: 0405 415 187
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, 5:00 AM – 7:30 PM
- Friday, 5:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday, 6:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Sunday, 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
THE DEN Canberra is a boutique strength and conditioning facility that blends small-group training with personalised coaching. Its focus on functional fitness and community makes it stand out for those who want more than just access to machines.
Based on client feedback and class schedules, peak hours for THE DEN are generally during weekday early evening — about 5 PM to 7 PM, when many members attend after work. Morning sessions (5 to 7 AM) also fill up, especially on weekdays.
Many reviews also highlight the supportive atmosphere and knowledgeable trainers who ensure sessions are challenging but safe. On the downside, the limited hours may not suit night owls, and the smaller size means space can be tight.
Still, if you are after a gym that feels personal and community-driven, THE DEN is one to consider.
Never felt out of place
“I needed to get into shape but was “not a gym person” until I went to The DEN. The DEN is just what I needed, really friendly and helpful support staff (Nicole, Mick, Lucy and the team), who know their stuff. Pushing you when they see you can take it, through to helping you with the correct technique. I love the vibe as it is down to earth, good fun, all ages, and has lots of variety from independent weight and cross training through to group sessions with and without equipment. Most importantly, I have seen/felt the results, never felt better or stronger, and never felt out of place. Love the place, now I am a gym guy!”
– Euan Thomas, Google Review
Love The Den!
“Love The Den, the classes push you beyond what you think your body can achieve! The 20/10 class structure changes weekly starting with the Friday mega! Love the pressure to perform well and the health competition to see your score on the wall!”
– Vanessa Prout, Google Review