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These posts haven't seemed to get much response previously, but I figured I'd give it another try. I'll be moving to the North Asheville area in May, and was wondering if anyone had recommendations for a fitness center or gym.
I'm more interested in a place with free weights, cardio machines, and weight machines. Saunas, classes, and other bells and whistles aren't necessary.
I've seen recommendations for Biltmore Fitness, but was curious if anyone here went to places like Rush Fitness or anywhere else. Any help would be much appreciated. Thanks!
Not sure I'd exactly recommend the place... for it is what it is and serves the purpose of shear convenience for me, but I have a Rush Fitness membership.
Unless you sign-up for the whole package, keep in mind that it will be location exclusive. I go to the Hendersonville Road (south AVL) location in the early morning hours 5 days/week before the rest of my family is up. Getting in/out for a few mi run and my weight lifting in is never a problem for me.
North Asheville is painfully short on fitness center options. The Y is probably the most convenient, but it's crowded, and the weight room (machines and free weights) is a joke...unbelievably small for the number of members.
The Y has opened the Woodfin facility up past Beaver Lake. It's a temporary facility in an office building, and it feels temporary. But it does have good equipment, and the staff is very nice.
Biltmore Fitness is lacking something. It has a lot of equipment (mostly old), plenty of space, and no big crowds to contend with. But I don't enjoy working out there. Maybe it's the lack of natural lighting, or the fact that I feel like I'm working out in an auto repair garage. The men's locker room seems like an afterthought, and the location is not ideal for those in N. Asheville. I might mention that it's not in great financial condition right now.
The Rush on Patton is about the only other choice. Lots of good equipment, pool, steam, sauna, and other of fitness options. However, the decor is a deterrent for many. Bright, electric colors and gang-graffiti type signage all over the place! It looks like it was designed to appeal to the under 18 crowd. Some can overlook that. I couldn't.
OP, if you go with Rush, I suggest you carry an iPod at all times. The music they endlessly loop is equally horrible as the decor. The one and only time I forgot mine, I didn't even bother going in. Just cursed myself out and went back home.
Good stuff, guys. Thanks. I was curious about the YMCA, and you're kind of confirming my reservations about Rush Fitness.
How about Anytime Fitness, also on Patton Ave.? Anyone reading this have any experience there?
It's quite small without all the bells and whistles of Rush, but more reasonably priced and less hectic. If you're just interested in the basics -- free weights, cardio, and some classes -- then it's perfectly suitable. No pool/sauna, basketball court, or the latest weight machines or anything.
The YMCA on Woodfin St. is also an option (nice bball courts, swimming pool, sauna etc.).
I should mention that there is the Grove Park Inn Fitness and Tennis center. It has a full weight room, including machines (Paramount), a cardio room, aerobics classes, indoor tennis courts and pool. Locker rooms are a good size, but there's no steam or sauna. It also pricey with a $150 membership fee and then around a hundred bucks a month.
Just wanted to thank you guys for your input on this thread. I joined up with the YMCA on Woodfin, after giving every place a look. The location works best for me, and I like the facilities.
Just wanted to thank you guys for your input on this thread. I joined up with the YMCA on Woodfin, after giving every place a look. The location works best for me, and I like the facilities.
Good choice . . . I wish I had joined the Y on Woodfin St. instead. I might actually be able to get on the basketball courts every now and then.
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