Riverside Day Nursery provides professional day nursery services for families in Reading, Berkshire. Located in Palmer Park, they offer quality […]
Whether you are a committed lifter, a class enthusiast, or someone just starting their fitness journey, Reading has a gym for you. The town's fitness scene has grown significantly in recent years, with everything from 24-hour budget gyms to premium boutique studios now competing for your membership. We have reviewed eight of the best gyms in Reading based on equipment quality, class timetables, value for money, and what actual members say about them.
1. PureGym Reading
PureGym on Forbury Road is one of the most popular gyms in Reading for good reason. It offers 24/7 access, a large free weights area, a solid range of cardio machines, and a packed timetable of group classes included in the membership. No contracts mean you can join and leave as you please, and prices start from around twenty pounds a month. The Reading branch is well-maintained and rarely feels overcrowded outside of peak hours. A strong all-round option for most fitness levels that balances quality with affordability.
Address: Forbury Retail Park, Kenavon Drive, Reading RG1 3HS
2. The Gym Group Reading
The Gym Group on Oxford Road is another budget-friendly 24/7 option that punches above its weight. The equipment is modern and well-maintained, with a good selection of resistance machines, free weights, and functional training rigs. There are no classes at most branches, but the trade-off is a very low monthly price, often under eighteen pounds. If you prefer training independently and just want reliable equipment and long opening hours, this is hard to beat in Reading.
Address: 228 Oxford Road, Reading RG1 7PJ
3. David Lloyd Reading
David Lloyd on Twyford Road is Reading's premium fitness option. The facilities are extensive: a large gym floor with top-end equipment, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, a spa, and a packed schedule of group classes. Membership is at the higher end, typically around eighty to one hundred pounds a month, but for families and those who want a full leisure experience rather than just a gym, it represents strong value. The kids' facilities make it particularly popular with parents across Berkshire.
Address: Twyford Road, Reading RG10 9NB
4. F45 Training Reading
F45 on King's Road brings the popular Australian franchise format to Reading, offering 45-minute functional group workouts that change daily. Each session is coach-led, high-energy, and designed to combine cardio and resistance training. It is ideal for people who struggle with motivation, as the community atmosphere and structured format keep you accountable. Membership is pricier than budget gyms but includes unlimited classes. Great for those who want to turn up and be told exactly what to do.
Address: 3 King's Road, Reading RG1 3AR
5. Rivermead Leisure Centre
Rivermead is Reading's flagship council-run leisure centre and offers fantastic value for money. The gym was refurbished in recent years with new equipment, and the centre also houses a swimming pool, sports hall, and a wide range of fitness classes. Pay-as-you-go options make it accessible for those who do not want a monthly commitment. If you are looking for variety beyond just weights and cardio, Rivermead delivers more than most commercial gyms at a fraction of the price. A top pick for families and casual gym-goers alike.
Address: Richfield Avenue, Reading RG1 8EQ
6. Nuffield Health Reading
Nuffield Health on Napier Road combines a well-equipped gym with an on-site health and wellbeing team, which sets it apart from most competitors. Members get access to health assessments, physiotherapy, and personal training advice as part of their membership. The gym itself is spacious with a good mix of free weights, machines, and a functional area. The swimming pool and group classes add further value. Membership runs around sixty to seventy pounds a month. A good fit for anyone who wants a holistic approach to fitness. If you are new to Reading, check out our guide to places to stay while you explore the town.
Address: Napier Road, Reading RG1 8DF
7. CrossFit Reading
CrossFit Reading operates out of a dedicated box-style facility and caters to those who want high-intensity, coached group training. The programming follows CrossFit methodology with Olympic lifting, gymnastics, and metabolic conditioning. Coaches are experienced and the community is tight-knit, which helps with consistency. Beginners are welcome and there is an introductory course to get you up to speed. Membership is typically around one hundred and twenty pounds a month for unlimited classes. Not for everyone, but transformative for those who commit to it fully.
Address: Unit 2, Paddock Road, Reading RG4 5BY
8. Anytime Fitness Reading
Anytime Fitness on Broad Street Mall is a compact but well-equipped gym that offers 24/7 access and a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. The equipment covers all the essentials, including a decent free weights section and functional training area. Personal training is available, and the staff are generally praised in reviews for being approachable and helpful. Membership is mid-range and includes access to any Anytime Fitness branch worldwide, which is handy for frequent travellers. A reliable gym that quietly gets the job done.
Address: Broad Street Mall, Reading RG1 7QE
How We Chose These Gyms
We evaluated these gyms based on Google review ratings, equipment quality and variety, range of classes, membership value, and feedback from local members. Our aim was to cover a range of budgets and training styles, from budget 24/7 access to premium leisure clubs and specialist studios.
FAQ
What is the best gym in Reading?
PureGym Reading offers the best all-round package for most people, combining 24/7 access, strong equipment, group classes, and affordable pricing. For a premium experience, David Lloyd Reading leads the field with its extensive facilities including pools, tennis, and spa.
Where is the cheapest gym in Reading?
The Gym Group on Oxford Road is typically the cheapest option in Reading, with memberships often available from under eighteen pounds a month and no contract required.