Compare 5 Local Gyms’ Personal Trainer Rates in One Guide
Finding a fitness club near you that matches your goals and budget starts with understanding personal trainer rates and what drives them. Most U.S. gyms charge per session and require an active membership, so your true monthly cost includes both training and dues. Below, we compare five popular chains—LA Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Equinox, Anytime Fitness, and Planet Fitness—so you can see hourly rates, membership fees, and key tradeoffs at a glance. For quick orientation, the average in-person personal trainer rate in the U.S. sits around $65 per hour, with big-city and specialist coaches priced higher, and package deals lowering per-session costs over time, according to this national overview of trainer prices and savings strategies (TrainWithKickoff). Use this guide to match price to value, then confirm specifics with your local club.
Overview of Personal Trainer Pricing at Local Gyms
A personal trainer rate is the per-session or hourly fee a certified coach charges for individualized instruction—either one-on-one or in a small group.
The U.S. average for in-person personal training is about $65 per hour, with typical ranges from $40 to $100+ depending on location, gym, and coach credentials (TrainWithKickoff). Independent cost trackers also report similar ranges and location effects (Thumbtack personal trainer cost guide).
Prices vary because of:
- Gym model and amenities: premium clubs cost more.
- Trainer experience and specialization: advanced credentials and niches command higher fees.
- Urban vs. suburban/rural location: big metros trend higher.
- Membership rules and session length/package discounts.
Gyms covered in this guide: LA Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Equinox, Anytime Fitness, Planet Fitness.
Quick-reference comparison
| Gym | Typical PT rate (per hour) | Base membership (monthly) | High-level notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| LA Fitness | $40–$60 | $40–$50 | Value-focused, broad trainer pool (TrainWithKickoff). |
| Gold’s Gym | $60–$100 | $50–$60 | Strength-forward culture; seasoned coaches (TrainWithKickoff). |
| Equinox | $100+ | $200–$382 | Luxury facilities and specialist trainers (TrainWithKickoff). |
| Anytime Fitness | $50–$100 | ~$41 | 24/7 access; pricing varies by franchise (TrainWithKickoff; Anytime Fitness). |
| Planet Fitness | n/a (limited PT) | $10–$25 | Minimal in-house training support (TrainWithKickoff). |
Note: Rates and dues vary by location; confirm with your nearest club.
LA Fitness Personal Trainer Rates and Features
Expect approachable pricing and solid trainer variety. Typical hourly rates land around $40–$60, and memberships commonly run $40–$50 per month (TrainWithKickoff).
What sessions look like
- Standard 60-minute one-on-one sessions; many clubs also offer 30–45 minute options.
- Packages are commonly discounted versus single sessions.
- Scheduling is typically handled at the training desk; many gyms now use apps to manage bookings (FitResults on gym programming apps).
Tradeoffs
- Value-forward offering with fewer premium amenities than high-end clubs.
- Wide trainer pool suits most goals; specialists may be limited by market.
Pros
- Budget-friendly for beginners.
- Frequent package deals and promotions.
- Broad equipment and class access with membership.
Cons
- Amenities and recovery options are basic.
- Quality and availability vary by club and time of day.
Gold’s Gym Personal Trainer Rates and Features
Gold’s Gym is a strong fit if you prefer a strength- or bodybuilding-focused environment. Trainer rates typically range from $60–$100 per hour, with memberships around $50–$60 per month (TrainWithKickoff).
Training options
- One-on-one and small-group training commonly available.
- Package pricing is typical; some locations offer promotional intro sessions.
- Strength equipment depth and lifting culture are a draw.
Pros
- Excellent for strength, hypertrophy, and lifting-focused goals.
- Trainers often have experience with barbell and bodybuilding programming.
- Energetic, goal-oriented atmosphere.
Cons
- Can be pricier than mid-market chains for PT.
- Environment may feel intense for absolute beginners at busy times.
Equinox Personal Trainer Rates and Features
Equinox is built for premium facilities and high-touch coaching. Trainer rates often start at $100+ per hour, with memberships ranging from about $200 to $382 monthly depending on the market (TrainWithKickoff).
What you get for the price
- Luxury amenities (spa-like locker rooms, towels, recovery and studio spaces).
- Access to highly experienced trainers; advanced certifications and specializations are common.
- Strong recovery and performance services; extensive class schedules.
Pros
- Top-tier coaching depth and specialization.
- Best-in-class facilities and recovery amenities.
- Holistic training ecosystem and service.
Cons
- Highest total cost of ownership (dues + PT).
- May exceed needs of budget-focused users.
Anytime Fitness Personal Trainer Rates and Features
Anytime Fitness emphasizes convenience and community with 24/7 access. Trainer rates typically run $50–$100 per hour, and average membership is around $41 per month, but both vary by franchise (TrainWithKickoff; Anytime Fitness).
What to expect
- Session structures range from 30–60 minutes; one-on-one and small-group options.
- Franchise variation means pricing, packages, and trainer availability differ by club.
- App-enabled access and scheduling are common.
Pros
- 24/7 access is ideal for variable schedules.
- Neighborhood feel; many clubs offer friendly, goal-based support.
- Good balance of cost and flexibility.
Cons
- Pricing and quality vary by location.
- Amenities and class variety differ across franchises.
Planet Fitness Personal Trainer Rates and Features
Planet Fitness is the low-cost membership leader with minimal in-house personal training. Expect trainer rates to be n/a, with memberships generally $10–$25 per month (TrainWithKickoff).
Training support includes
- Basic orientations or circuit guidance may be available.
- Not a fit for structured, one-on-one personal training needs.
Membership vs. personal training availability
| Membership (monthly) | In-house PT availability | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| $10–$25 | Minimal to none | Good for low-cost access and simple routines; not for ongoing 1:1 coaching. |
Key Factors That Influence Personal Trainer Costs
- Trainer experience and specialization: Coaches with advanced credentials or specialties (e.g., rehab, athlete performance, older adults) charge more.
- Club type and amenities: Luxury clubs add cost; boutique strength or performance gyms can also price above average.
- Membership status: Most gyms require active membership to book training.
- Location: Urban, coastal, and high cost-of-living cities run higher. Specialized trainers in Los Angeles can exceed $200 per hour (5Lion Fitness on LA pricing).
Regional price patterns (estimates)
| Region/market type | Typical in-person hourly range |
|---|---|
| Major coastal metros | $85–$150+ |
| Mid-size cities | $60–$100 |
| Suburban/smaller metros | $45–$80 |
| Rural areas | $40–$70 |
Independent market trackers consistently show location-driven variance and $40–$100+ national ranges (Bark personal trainer cost guide).
Comparing Membership Fees and Additional Charges
Use this table to gauge total cost. Most gyms require membership to access trainers; add membership dues to your training budget.
| Gym | Base membership (monthly) | PT hourly rate range | Common extra charges |
|---|---|---|---|
| LA Fitness | $40–$50 | $40–$60 | Enrollment fee; annual fee (varies by club). |
| Gold’s Gym | $50–$60 | $60–$100 | Enrollment fee; annual fee (varies by club). |
| Equinox | $200–$382 | $100+ | Enrollment fee and premium add-ons (varies). |
| Anytime Fitness | ~$41 | $50–$100 | Enrollment fee; annual fee (franchise-specific). |
| Planet Fitness | $10–$25 | n/a | Enrollment fee; annual fee at many clubs. |
Quick definitions
- Enrollment fee: A one-time charge when you join; varies by club and promotions.
- Annual fee: A once-per-year maintenance fee; amount and timing vary by brand and location.
Rule of thumb: At the U.S. average rate of $65/hour, one weekly session costs about $260/month—before membership dues (TrainWithKickoff).
For family and multi-person membership ideas, see our guide to the best fitness clubs near me for membership deals.
Training Formats and Session Options at Local Gyms
Common session types
- One-on-one training: Individual attention and tailored programming.
- Group training (2–5 people): Shared session lowers per-person cost.
- Hybrid/virtual: Mix in-person with app-based or video coaching for flexibility.
Scheduling and programming
- Many gyms and trainers use apps like Mindbody or Trainerize to handle plans, messaging, and scheduling (FitResults on gym programming apps).
How session length affects price
- 30-minute sessions cost less than 60-minute sessions, though the per-minute rate may be slightly higher.
- 45-minute sessions often split the difference on time and cost.
Typical price ranges by format
| Format | Common duration | Typical per-person price |
|---|---|---|
| 1:1 in-person | 60 minutes | $60–$100 |
| 1:1 in-person | 45 minutes | $45–$80 |
| 1:1 in-person | 30 minutes | $30–$60 |
| Small-group (2–5) | 45–60 minutes | $20–$45 |
| Hybrid/virtual | varied | $30–$65 |
These ranges reflect national cost snapshots and location-driven variance (Thumbtack personal trainer cost guide).
Tips for Choosing the Best Personal Trainer Based on Rate and Value
- Compare total monthly cost: membership plus your expected sessions.
- Ask about intro or trial sessions, package discounts, and cancellation rules.
- Verify certifications, years of experience, and any specialty focus that matches your goals.
- Confirm app-based support (programming, form checks, messaging) is included or priced clearly.
- Evaluate convenience: commute, parking, crowding, and trainer availability during your preferred times.
How to Save Money on Personal Training Services
- Book packages (5, 10, or 20 sessions) to lower your per-session rate.
- Choose 30–45 minute sessions when appropriate.
- Join small-group training to split costs while keeping coaching quality.
- Ask for off-peak pricing or new-member promotions.
- Combine monthly in-person check-ins with lower-cost digital coaching to stretch your budget (WodGuru on trainer cost strategies).
- Reassess frequency: 1–2 high-quality sessions plus independent workouts can be cost-effective.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical hourly rate range for personal trainers at local gyms?
Most local gyms charge $40–$100 per hour for personal training, depending on the gym brand, location, and trainer experience.
Do gym membership fees affect the overall cost of personal training?
Yes. Most gyms require an active membership to access personal trainers, so add monthly dues to your training budget.
How do training packages or session lengths impact per-session rates?
Packages and shorter sessions usually reduce your per-session price compared with single, full-hour bookings.
Are group training sessions more cost-effective than one-on-one training?
Yes. Small-group sessions typically cost less per person and can make regular training more affordable.
What should I consider when comparing trainer qualifications and experience?
Look at certifications, years of experience, and specialties; higher credentials can cost more but may deliver faster, safer results.