Finding the right gym or fitness center for your needs can be intimidating whether you’re new to it or an experienced pro. While chain gyms can provide good services for some, the benefits of a locally-owned fitness center are significant.

Besides supporting small businesses and your local community, you can find an experience more tailored to you. If you’re in the Lexington, KY, area, here are just a few local gym options with great reviews.

1. Man O’ War Fitness: 175 West Lowry Lane #116

Man O’ War Fitness is an excellent option if you want a fitness experience crafted by a professional coach. Their coaches work with all levels of ability and with a wide range of personal goals so that your training better helps you achieve what you’ve set out to. Man O’ War Fitness also offers group classes, “boot camps,” and other specialized sessions focusing on community exercise alongside their one-on-one offerings. Their areas of expertise range from weightlifting and CrossFit to cardio and nutrition coaching.

2. YMCA of Central Kentucky: Various Locations

While YMCA gyms can be found across the country, what separates the YMCA from chain fitness businesses is its community-oriented, non-profit commitment to making fitness accessible for everyone. What’s more is that besides offering affordable plans for a wide range of visitors (and free guest visits for those curious to try their facilities out for themselves), the YMCA of Central Kentucky boasts four different locations in Lexington, as well as a YMCA in Frankfort and a facility in nearby Nicholasville. You can view these locations on their website and filter by amenities to see what each facility offers, with options like indoor pools, racquetball courts, and saunas. Their sites can be found in the Beaumont, Hamburg, and North Lexington areas, as well as their High Street location near the University of Kentucky and Transylvania University.

3. Lex Fitness: Various Locations

With two locations in the city, Lex Fitness lives up to its name by providing private personal training and customized gym memberships to the Lexington community. Depending on their needs, gym members can access one location or both, 24 hours a day, Monday through Friday. Visitors can also schedule a free tour and consultation to learn more about the facility, which has limited openings to ensure that gym members have the best experience possible. Their trainers cover several specialties, with the accompanying education, certification, and experience to help you meet your goals.

4. Proof Fitness: Various Locations

Proof Fitness is another top-quality fitness center with two locations in Lexington, one in the Tates Creek area and the other located downtown. Proof is offering to waive enrollment and activation fees for new members. Their facilities are known as ‘clubs’ and feature a range of services in all major fitness areas and physical therapy to help those recovering from injuries or dealing with painful conditions. Their extensive slate of personal trainers, amenities, and discounts for first responders, service members, and college students.

5. Wildcat Fitness: 4750 Hartland Parkway

Alongside their competitive membership pricing, Wildcat Fitness offers both one-day and one-week passes for those looking to try out their comprehensive, 24-hour facility before committing. Another bonus is their outside workout area, complete with turf, for the warmer months. Family, student, first responder, and service members– and even couples– memberships are available.

6. Lexington Community Centers: Various Locations

Another accessible option is Lexington’s various public community centers, many of which have services like weight rooms, basketball courts, outdoor activities, and pools. You’ll also find a wealth of classes and programs for kids, teens, and adults alike, such as walking programs, Zumba, and team sports. Plus, there’s something for everyone at community centers– while fitness is undoubtedly a significant aspect of many of these facilities, so too are afterschool programs, arts and crafts activities, and even homework tutoring. Additionally, there are multiple centers that provide services specifically for seniors.

Discover more than just fitness opportunities in Lexington and the greater Central Kentucky area. For those looking to explore the region, check out our article on “6 Cool Places to Visit in Central Kentucky” to satisfy your wanderlust. And if you’re preparing for a new academic term, don’t miss our guide on “4 Simple Ways to Start Your Semester Off Right.” Dive into these articles to fully embrace the spirit of Lexington and make the most of your time here.