It’s like Netflix for your workouts. For one monthly fee, Fitset promises members access to hundreds of group fitness classes at gyms across the city. (Undoubtedly you’ve already been bombarded by the ads in your newsfeed.) To find out if the Canadian startup is worthy of the hype, I laced up my running shoes and took the subscription service for a test drive.
The Good:
For $99 a month, Toronto Fitset members gain entry to almost 60 gyms in Toronto, including some Moksha Yoga locations, Paul Brown Boxfit and Madonna’s Hard Candy Fitness. There are dozens of daily classes featuring everything from Muay Thai to simulated surfing, so there’s something for everyone. Toronto members also have access to gyms in Fitset’s Montreal network, which is a great perk if you’re a frequent traveller. As a bonus, members pay month-by-month, with no contracts or membership cancellation fees.
I tried the Warrior MetCon class at Transcend Health on Yonge Street. “Warrior MetCon” turns out to involve flipping giant tractor tires and slamming medicine balls (it’s actually a great stress-reliever). The classes at Hard Candy Fitness were also a new experience. Perhaps unsurprisingly, they feature an in-house DJ spinning club beats during your workout.
The Bad:
Members can only attend three classes per month at any given gym, which can be frustrating if you find one class you really love. Plus, some high-profile classes at peak hours are reserved for that gym’s members. Finding your way around new facilities can also grow a bit tiresome — I had to start budgeting an extra 15 minutes to find the ever-elusive change rooms and sign the waivers. After spending the day reviewing prospectus disclosure, the last thing I wanted to do was wade through a disclaimer.
The Ugly:
All classes must be booked at least three hours in advance — a tall order for busy professionals who often make game-time workout decisions. Cancelling after 11 p.m. the night before or a no-show will also result in a hefty $20 penalty.
The Bottom Line:
Fitset is a great option if you’re adventurous and like to mix up your routine, but only if you don’t mind being the newbie and you’re prepared to commit to workouts in advance.
Breann Kirincich is the vice president of legal & compliance at BlackRock who maintains an active blog on the side. She enjoys cereal, Pinot Grigio and making dated SNL references, in that order.
Image courtesy of Fitset