Are you considering joining Equinox, one of the most prestigious luxury fitness chains in the United States? If so, you’re likely wondering about the costs involved and what you get for your investment. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down Equinox’s membership options, pricing structure, additional fees, and how it compares to other high-end gyms.
We’ll also provide insider tips to help you make the most of your Equinox experience.
Membership Options and Pricing For July 2024
Equinox offers several membership tiers, each providing different levels of access to their clubs. Here’s a breakdown of the options as of July 2024:
| Membership Type | Monthly Cost | Access |
| Select | $195-$252 | One home club |
| All-Access | $315-$345 | Over 80 clubs in US and Canada |
| Regional | $267-$287 | All clubs in a specific region |
| Destination Worldwide | $405 | All 107 Equinox clubs worldwide |
Select Membership
- Lowest-priced option
- Unlimited access to your chosen home club
- Digital classes included
- Prices vary by location (e.g., $195/month in Philadelphia, $252/month in downtown LA)
All-Access Membership
- Access to over 80 clubs across the US and Canada
- Includes your home club
- Higher pricing for larger Equinox Sports Clubs
- Destination tier (excluding Hudson Yards and Century City) at $345/month
Regional Membership
- Access to all clubs in a specific region
- Examples: Boston ($267/month), Southern California ($287/month, excluding Century City)
Destination Membership Worldwide Access
- Premium tier with access to all 107 Equinox clubs worldwide
- Includes E Clubs, Hudson Yards, and Century City locations
Tip: Consider your travel habits and workout preferences when choosing a membership tier. If you frequently visit different cities, the All-Access or Destination Worldwide memberships might offer better value.
Annual Fees and Commitments
All Equinox memberships require a 12-month commitment. Here’s a breakdown of the annual costs for each tier:
| Membership Type | Annual Cost |
| Select | $2,340 – $3,024 |
| All-Access | $3,780 – $4,140 |
| Regional | $3,204 – $3,444 |
| Destination Worldwide | $4,860 |
Tip: Before committing to a full year, ask about any ongoing promotions or trial periods that might help you test the waters without a long-term obligation.
Personal Training Costs
Equinox offers personal training sessions at an additional cost:
| Number of Sessions | Cost Range |
| 1 session | $175 – $225 |
| 5 sessions | $825 – $1,050 |
| 10 sessions | $1,600 – $2,000 |
New Member Benefits
New members receive:
- A complimentary fitness assessment
- One free personal training session
- One free Pilates session
Tip: Take advantage of the free sessions to get a feel for Equinox’s training style and to establish a baseline for your fitness journey.
The Optimize by Equinox Program
In July 2024, Equinox launched a premium program called “Optimize by Equinox” in partnership with Function Health.
Program Details
- Annual cost: $40,000 ($3,000/month on top of base Equinox membership)
- Program includes:
- Biannual lab tests assessing 100 biomarkers
- Semiannual fitness evaluations
- Three weekly personal training sessions
- Individual consultations with a nutritionist, sleep specialist, and masseur
Perspective: The Optimize program cost is equivalent to 67% of the average American’s yearly earnings (based on Q4 2023 average annual income of $59,384).
Tip: While the Optimize program offers comprehensive health and fitness support, carefully consider whether the benefits justify the significant investment for your personal situation.
Membership Price Increases
Equinox has implemented several price increases in recent years:
- August 2023: $12/month increase
- April 2024: Additional $17/month increase
- Some members reported a 25% increase over 5.5 years (averaging 6.25% annually)
Tip: When budgeting for your Equinox membership, factor in potential annual price increases to ensure long-term affordability.
Cancellation and Freezing Policies
Cancellation
- Contact your local club manager in person, by mail, or email to cancel your membership
- Be aware of any early termination fees if canceling before your 12-month commitment ends
Freezing
- Members can freeze their membership once per year
- One-time $50 fee applies
- Freezing is available in one-month increments
Tip: If you anticipate a period where you can’t use your membership (e.g., extended travel or recovery from an injury), consider freezing your account to save money while maintaining your membership status.
Comparing Equinox to Other Luxury Gyms
Equinox is positioned at the higher end of the luxury fitness market. Here’s how it compares to other high-end clubs:
| Gym | Monthly Cost | Notable Features |
| Equinox | $195-$405 | Nationwide locations, premium amenities |
| Detroit Athletic Club | Up to $400 | Historic club, social atmosphere |
| East Bank Club (Chicago) | $170 + $500 initiation | Extensive facilities, including outdoor areas |
| Madison Square Club (NYC) | ~$2,167 ($26,000 annually) | Ultra-exclusive, celebrity clientele |
| New York Sports Clubs | Up to $225 | More locations, varied pricing |
Equinox Differentiators
- Consistent luxury experience across multiple locations
- State-of-the-art equipment and facilities
- Wide range of group fitness classes
- Focus on wellness and lifestyle beyond just workouts
Tip: When comparing gyms, consider factors beyond just price, such as location convenience, class offerings, and overall atmosphere to find the best fit for your fitness goals and preferences.
Student and Corporate Discounts July 2024
While Equinox’s standard pricing is on the higher end, there are opportunities for discounts:
Student Discounts
- Vary by location; not a standard policy across all clubs
- Some clubs may offer discounts if a school has a contract with Equinox
- Previously offered 10% discount to full-time students (availability may vary)
- Some locations may offer 3-month memberships for college students
Corporate Discounts
- 10% discount available for employees of companies with Equinox corporate partnerships
- Discount may extend to individuals sharing an address with eligible employees
Tip: Always inquire about available discounts when signing up. If you’re a student or work for a large company, check if there are any special rates or partnerships available.
Hidden Fees to Consider
Beyond the base membership costs, be aware of these potential additional fees:
- Initiation fee: Typically $250 or more (sometimes waived during promotions)
- Annual maintenance fee: $750 or more, usually billed in January or February
- Guest fees: Around $50 per guest (limited complimentary passes included annually)
- Childcare: $10-$20 per hour at select locations
- Parking: Daily fees of $10-$20 at some clubs
- Specialty studio class packages: Additional cost for classes like Pilates or SoulCycle
Tip: When budgeting for your Equinox membership, factor in these potential extra costs to get a true picture of your total investment in your fitness journey.
Tips for Maximizing Your Equinox Membership
Take advantage of complimentary services:
- Attend the free fitness assessment and personal training session
- Try the complimentary Pilates session to explore new workout styles
Explore all amenities:
- Use the saunas, steam rooms, and lounges to enhance recovery
- Try the Kiehl’s products provided in locker rooms
Attend group fitness classes:
- Diversify your workouts and meet fellow members
- Try signature Equinox classes like “The Cut” or “Pure Strength”
Use the Equinox app:
- Book classes and training sessions easily
- Access on-demand workouts when you can’t make it to the club
Consider off-peak hours:
- Some locations offer slightly discounted rates for memberships with restricted hours
Bring guests strategically:
- Use your complimentary guest passes during slower times to avoid crowds
Stay informed about promotions:
- Keep an eye out for seasonal deals or referral bonuses
Engage with trainers:
- Even if not booking regular sessions, ask floor trainers for quick form checks or workout tips
Participate in Equinox events:
- Attend member socials or wellness workshops to get more value from your membership
Provide feedback:
- Share your experiences with management to help shape and improve club offerings
Conclusion
An Equinox membership represents a significant investment in your health and fitness. While the costs are higher than many standard gyms, the premium amenities, expert trainers, and luxurious atmosphere can provide substantial value for those who prioritize a high-end fitness experience.
By understanding the full range of costs and benefits, and using the tips provided, you can make an informed decision about whether Equinox is the right fit for your fitness journey and maximize the value of your membership.