Is Nuffield Health Gym Worth It? (Review + Pros & Cons) - Trusty Spotter (2023)

If you’re a citizen of the UK who’s looking for an all-under-one-roof health and wellness hub — rather than just another big box gym — then you need to check out Nuffield Health’s Gyms.

With Fitness and Wellbeing Centers across the UK, there’s bound to be a facility near you.

But before you rush out to sign up, let’s answer the big question on everyone’s mind:

Is Nuffield Health gym worth it? Here’s a full review.

Is Nuffield Health Gym Worth It? (Review + Pros & Cons) - Trusty Spotter (1)

Nuffield Health offers top-notch gyms, with exceptional facilities, equipment, and elite amenities like pools, spas, and childcare. The only real downside to joining Nuffield is the price, marking it as one of the more expensive gym options in the UK. However, if it’s a high-end health experience you’re looking for, Nuffield Health gyms are definitely worth it!

Let’s take a closer look at Nuffield Health prices, equipment, amenities, reviews, pros, and cons!

What Is Nuffield Health Gym?

Nuffield Health is the largest healthcare charity in the United Kingdom.

They operate 31 Nuffield Health Hospitals along with an impressive 114 Fitness and Wellness Centers.

The objective of the charity is to:

advance, promote and maintain health and healthcare of all descriptions and to prevent, relieve and cure sickness and ill health of any kind, all for the public benefit.

Nuffield Health

Nuffield Health believes that optimum well-being is achieved by balancing physical and mental fitness.

Many of their centers include a gymnasium, GP services, health assessment, physiotherapy, and personal training services under one roof.

How much does Nuffield Health Gym cost?

Is Nuffield Health Gym Worth It? (Review + Pros & Cons) - Trusty Spotter (2)

Nuffield offers a range of membership options.

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A standard membership starts at around £80 per month depending on location. This provides full access to the club’s workout and wellness facilities as well as all amenities.

The cost also includes access to all of the club’s fitness classes.

You can also access all 114 clubs with your membership. However, Nuffield requires that you use your home club at least 50 percent of the time.

Now, if that seems steep, you might have a couple of options to get a better rate:

Nuffield often offers a 20 percent discount for students on the production of a valid student ID.

Lower rates are also available for those who visit the club during off-peak hours. Off-peak hours may vary between locations. The off-peak rate usually starts around £60-70 per month.

A joint member discount provides savings when a couple joins together and pays through a single debit account. There are also corporate discounts available, discounts for NHS employees, and more.

In addition to all of these discount options, Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Centers also regularly run specials.

As of this writing (June 2022), you get the first two months free when you join a Nuffield gym.

Nuffield Health Gym, Features & Amenities

Nuffield Health isn’t the cheapest gym around.

So is it actually worth the money? Let’s take a look at everything your membership gets you.

Equipment

Is Nuffield Health Gym Worth It? (Review + Pros & Cons) - Trusty Spotter (3)

Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Centers are large and very well equipped.

You will find a full complement of:

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  • strength training machines
  • barbells
  • free weights
  • dumbbells
  • and functional training gear at every location.

There is also an extensive cardio area that includes all of the usual suspects.

In addition to their premium workout facilities, Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Centers also provide a range of sports facilities, including squash courts. There are also member lounge areas.

The luxury changing rooms at Nuffield gyms are a step above what you will experience in most gyms. All of their facilities and areas are also very clean, with a multi-daily cleaning regimen being adhered to.

Health Assessment

Your experience with Nuffield begins with a comprehensive health assessment.

This involves a lot more than you would get at your run-of-the-mill gym. The assessment includes a 12-point health screen that covers:

  • Height
  • Weight
  • Body Mass Index
  • Waist to Hip Ratio
  • Blood Pressure
  • Aerobic fitness – VO2 max
  • Resting heart rate
  • Total Cholesterol
  • Blood Glucose
  • Hydration
  • Alcohol & Caffeinated drinks
  • Sleep

Evaluating these gives you a great head start on your fitness journey and helps you track progress that actually matters.

Group Fitness Classes

All 114 Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Centers provide a full timetable of fitness classes.

They cover all fitness goals including weight loss, endurance, and strength training.

Here’s a sampling of some of the classes that are most popular:

  • Zumba
  • Body Attack
  • Body Balance
  • Body Combat
  • Body Pump
  • Clinical Pilates
  • Get Movement
  • Grit
  • Group Cycle
  • Kettlebells
  • Legs, Bums & Tums
  • Les Mills Barre
  • Les Mills Tone
  • NuCycle
  • Pilates
  • Small Group Training
  • SwimFit
  • TRX
  • Vipr
  • Yoga

Child Care / Child Minding

Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Centers provide an awesome child minding service. The prices and services differ from gym to gym.

Parents must have a valid membership and be on-site during the period that the child is in care.

All creche staff are fully qualified. Children between the ages of 6 weeks and 16 years of age can attend the creche. Activities for children include arts and crafts, messy play, team games, and soft play.

Children over the age of 8 can attend instructor-led fitness sessions on the gym floor.

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Children and teens aged 12-13 can attend the gym with a parent or guardian if they have a gym membership. Children aged 14+ can attend the gym by themselves with a membership.

Spas, Saunas & Pools

Is Nuffield Health Gym Worth It? (Review + Pros & Cons) - Trusty Spotter (4)

Nuffield Fitness Centers provide members with saunas and spa pools at nearly every location. These are of the highest quality and very well maintained.

Each facility also features a full-sized heated swimming pool. SwimFit fitness classes are offered on a daily basis.

Nuffield is committed to helping people learn to swim. They offer an excellent learn to swim program at every gym. Instruction is based on the Swim England Learn to Swim format.

Classes are held for children at various ages as well as for adults.

Swimming lessons are charged additionally to gym membership, with rates varying between facilities.

Personal Training

Personal Training is offered at every Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Center.

Training is available one-on-one, as well in small group settings. You can purchase personal training packages in different amounts depending on your budget and schedule.

When you and a partner take on personal training together, you can get a 25 percent discount. Perfect for couples looking to get in shape together.

All Nuffield Personal Trainers are qualified through the Chartered Institute of Management for Sports and Physical Activity (CIMSPA).

What Real People Are Saying (Nuffield Health gym reviews)

Online reviews for Nuffield Health gyms are mixed, which is pretty common for even the best commercial gyms.

It is of note, though, that all of the negative comments related to specific customer service experiences. With 114 gyms across the UK, it is impossible to be on top of every customer encounter.

The positive reviews universally mentioned the great facilities, cleanliness of the gyms, and fantastic pool areas.

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Here’s a summary of pros and cons according to real Nuffield Health gym members.

Pros:

  • Lots of top-quality strength training equipment
  • A good range of cardio gear
  • Cleanliness
  • Spas and swimming pools

Cons:

  • A few negative customer interactions
  • Somewhat expensive compared to other gyms

Alternatives to Nuffield Health Gym

If you’re just not quite sure if Nuffield is right for you, here are some of the best alternatives in the London area.

1Rebel

1Rebel is a very popular gym that is built around high-energy classes. The most popular offerings are Ride (spin cycle), Reshape (HIIT using the treadmill and benches), and Rumble (boxing).

1Rebel has gyms in Oxford Circus, Holborn, Angel, St Mary Ax, South Bank, Bayswater, Victoria, and Broadgate.

Performance Ground

Performance Ground is an excellent weight training gym. It provides premium gear and decor. As well as training they also offer nutrition programs to help you achieve your goals. They are known for offering the latest sports science to help clients reach their goals.

Pure Gym

Pure Gym has more than 60 centers around London. Most of them offer 24-hour access all year round. These gyms provide all the strength and cardio gear you need to get a great workout. You won’t find pools, spas, or saunas but there are more than 50 classes weekly on offer.

Pure Gym memberships start at £14.99

Wrapping Up

Nuffield Health and Wellness gyms are really impressive.

The facilities are clean and spacious, with great equipment and generally friendly staff. The amenities, too, are unrivaled — pools, child care, sporting courts, group classes, and more.

However, Nuffield Health may be out of reach for some budgets. In that case, there are plenty of more affordable options all throughout the UK. But if you’re open to a serious investment in your health and fitness, Nuffield is at least worth a visit.

Check out your nearest Nuffield Fitness and Wellness Center here, and for more, don’t miss:

  • Pure Gym review
  • Speakeasy Fitness review
  • David Lloyd Clubs review

Hope this helps!

FAQs

Can you get out of Nuffield gym contract? ›

To cancel your Nuffield Health membership, you'll need to give notice to the manager of your home club in writing (email or post). Alternatively, complete a cancellation form at your home club. You'll only be able to cancel if you fulfil one of the reasons outlined in clause 11.3 of their terms and conditions here.

Is paying for the gym worth it? ›

You'll have to fork over a monthly fee, but a gym membership gives you access to more machines, equipment and space than you have at home. Most gyms also offer extra perks we can't fit or can't afford in our own homes, such as tanning beds, swimming pools and steam rooms, that make a membership even more worthwhile.

Is Nuffield a good company to work for? ›

Nuffield Health has an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5, based on over 852 reviews left anonymously by employees. 57% of employees would recommend working at Nuffield Health to a friend and 46% have a positive outlook for the business. This rating has been stable over the past 12 months.

What do Nuffield Health do? ›

*Nuffield Health is a Registered Charity. Our objective is to advance, promote and maintain health and healthcare of all descriptions and to prevent, relieve and cure sickness and ill health of any kind, all for the public benefit. Registered Charity Numbers 205533 (England and Wales) and SC041793 (Scotland).

How do I quit Nuffield? ›

To cancel or terminate your Nuffield Health Account please contact us by telephoning our customer support team on 0300 123 5084 (Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm) or by e-mailing us at onlinesupport@nuffieldhealth.com.

Why are gym contracts so hard to cancel? ›

"Gym club contracts are drafted in such a way as to not allow a person to quit without suffering a penalty," says Reischer. He explains that gym club contracts are legally binding, and can only be breached when the terms of the contract are unconscionable or otherwise specifically prohibited by law.

Which gym membership is most worth it? ›

The 7 Best Gym Memberships of 2023
  • Best Overall: Crunch Fitness.
  • Best on a Budget: Anytime Fitness.
  • Best for Strength Training: LA Fitness.
  • Best Value: Blink Fitness.
  • Best for Luxury: Equinox.
  • Best Boutique Gym: Orangetheory Fitness.
  • Best for Amenities: Life Time.
Jan 28, 2023

Who should not go to gym? ›

Due to the rapid loss of water, the fever can worsen as well. In addition to this, health reports say fever already weakens muscle strength and endurance, and working out during this time makes the muscles prone to injury and might take more time to recover. Therefore, do not go to the gym when you have a fever.

What month is best to join a gym? ›

"You get a better deal in December going into early January," says Keightley. Gyms are making more money in January, so they're more likely to have members pay a lower monthly fee leading into the New Year when business is slow and have people commit by January 1.

What is the Nuffield review? ›

The Nuffield Review is an independent review of all aspects of 14-19 education and training: aims; quality of learning; curriculum; assessment; qualifications; progression to employment, training and higher education; provision of education and training; governance and policy.

Who owns Nuffield? ›

We are funded primarily from income generated from the Nuffield Trust's own endowment – this guarantees the independence of our research and wider activities. The endowment was given to the Nuffield Trust in 1940 by Viscount Nuffield.

Which is the best company to get a job? ›

Here are the top 10 companies to work for in India.
  • Flipkart (Walmart) | Internet. ...
  • Amazon | Internet. ...
  • Oyo | Hospitality. ...
  • One97 Communications (Paytm) | Digital Payments. ...
  • Uber | Cab Aggregator. ...
  • Swiggy | Food Delivery. ...
  • Tata Consultancy Services | IT Services. ...
  • Zomato | Food Delivery.

Why choose Nuffield? ›

Our quality and safety

We have built a reputation for high standards of care, professionalism and expertise in delivering health services, and we aim for continuous quality improvement in everything we do.

Can you use all Nuffield gyms? ›

As a Nuffield Health member, you can access loads of gyms and swimming pools around the country, so that when you're out of town, you don't have to give up on fitness. As a member, you will gain access to your home centre (the one you select on joining) as well as many more gyms around the country*.

What is the Nuffield promise? ›

*** The Nuffield Health Promise means we will provide you with follow up advice, treatment or care that is clinically required if you experience a complication of your treatment/surgery. Your treating consultant will determine what is clinically required as a direct result of your procedure.

Why do people quit gym memberships? ›

Two of the top reasons people cancel their gym memberships are that they lose motivation or that they're not seeing the results they expect.

Can you freeze Nuffield membership? ›

The best way to freeze or cancel your membership is to visit your local gym and fill in the relevant form. Please check the terms and conditions of your membership for further information. Alternatively, you can write to your centre – their address can be found on the gym's webpage.

Is it OK to quit the gym? ›

If you get anxiety because you don't know what you're doing in the gym, get a trainer or an app—and maybe, quit the gym, too. If you're paying that much to work out, it should be an environment conducive to your personality and individual needs. If the gym is something you dread, it's likely time to give it up.

Why do so many gyms fail? ›

“Other than being under-capitalized, the biggest reason we see for health club failure is lack of business know-how and lack of proper implementation of sales and marketing strategies,” points out Thomas. “Another common misconception that many new gym owners have is that the gym will sell itself.”

Can you cancel a gym membership if you have a contract? ›

Most gym contracts have a termination fee that will allow you to cancel your membership. This fee may decrease as you near the end of your contract. It may be worth it to end your contract and pay the fee, especially if you no longer want your gym membership.

When should I cancel my gym membership? ›

A major sign that it's time to cancel your gym membership is if you aren't going to the gym and your bank account is suffering from the membership fees. It is essential to pay bills and rent before any subscriptions, especially if you don't use them.

Which gym is better to join? ›

Best Overall Gym Membership: LA Fitness. Best Value Gym Membership: Planet Fitness. Best Gym Membership for Beginners: Crunch. Best Gym Membership for Travelers: Anytime Fitness.

What is the most popular gym in America? ›

Most used gyms in the U.S. as of April 2022

Overall, 26.6 percent of surveyed gym members claimed to exercise at Planet Fitness the most often.

How often should I go to the gym to get my money's worth? ›

Before investing in a gym membership, make sure you have time in your schedule. Experts say you should visit the gym at least three days a week. If you go less, it's not worth the money.

What to avoid doing at the gym? ›

7 Common Workout Mistakes To Avoid
  • Overtraining. ...
  • Using improper form. ...
  • Not warming up … or cooling down. ...
  • Sticking to the same workout. ...
  • Skipping strength training. ...
  • Not stretching out. ...
  • Not taking time to rest and recover.
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Is it better to go to the gym or walk? ›

This is not only a cheap option, but is also easier on your joints. While running and gymming are also intensity-based work outs that target muscle groups, studies say it is walking that beats all else.

Is it better to go gym in the morning or at night? ›

Your physical performance might improve: Research shows that most people function better, physically speaking, later in the day. Muscle strength, flexibility, power output and endurance are all better in the evening than they are in the morning.

What is the most unpopular time to go to the gym? ›

If you're training at a 24-7 gym, anything after midnight till about 5am is prime time for absolute piece and quiet. It appears that night owls and early rises are the ones who can benefit from quiet gym times. For the rest of us, avoiding the peak 4pm-7pm band will ensure you don't get stuck with the crowds.

Is it better to go to the gym in the morning or afternoon? ›

Morning workouts are ideal for burning fat and losing weight, but afternoon workouts may give your performance a boost, since you'll have eaten a meal or two by the time you get going. “Any time you eat, your blood sugar levels rise,” Hackney says.

How good is the NHS Nuffield Trust? ›

Overall, our analysis shows that the NHS performs neither as well as its supporters sometimes claim nor as badly as its critics often allege. Compared with health systems in similar countries, it has some significant strengths but also some notable weaknesses. Its main weakness is health care outcomes.

Can you self refer to Nuffield? ›

Q: Do I need a referral to come to a Nuffield Health hospital? A: In some cases your GP will need to refer you to our hospitals. For treatment such as Cosmetic surgery you can refer yourself. Give us a call on 0845 004 7611 if you have questions about getting a referral.

Are Nuffield Health and Nuffield Trust the same? ›

The Nuffield Trust is entirely independent of the other charities and organisations bearing Viscount Nuffield's name. It therefore has no connection to those organisations, including Nuffield Health.

What did Nuffield used to be called? ›

July 2008, heralded the re-brand of Nuffield Hospitals, Proactive Health and Cannons to become Nuffield Health.

How much does the CEO of Nuffield Health earn? ›

In addition, staff and related costs increased more than £20m to more than £337m, including a year-on-year salary increase of about £90,000 for Steve Gray, the chief executive, to between £930,000 and £939,999.

Does Nuffield Health make a profit? ›

Nuffield Health is a not-for-profit organisation limited by guarantee, without share capital.

What is the most reputable job site? ›

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  • CareerBuilder.
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What is the happiest job to work at? ›

The 10 Happiest and Most Satisfying Jobs
  • Dental Hygienist.
  • Physical Therapist.
  • Radiation Therapist.
  • Optometrist.
  • Human Resources Manager.

What should I wear to Nuffield Health Assessment? ›

Due to the nature of some of the tests that are completed in the health assessment, we recommend wearing loose fitting clothes or ideally bringing sportswear to change into. We strive to be able to provide a chaperone during all consultations, however in some instances this may not be possible.

What is body balance Nuffield? ›

What is BODYBALANCE™? BODYBALANCE™ is a unique workout which incorporates Yoga, Tai Chi and Pilates to help improve flexibility, build strength and leave you feeling relaxed and calm. The class will help you learn how to control your breathing and focus your mind.

What is Body Pump Nuffield? ›

What is BODYPUMP™? This popular class will help you transform your body shape using the proven BODYPUMP™ formula, known as THE REP EFFECT™. This is a revolutionary form of resistance training which focuses on low level weights but high repetition volume, helping you burn through calories whilst gaining strength.

Can you bring guests to Nuffield? ›

22.1 If you are aged 18 or over, you can invite guests to your home centre. Each guest will have to pay a fee to be entitled to enter that centre and to use the facilities.

Does Nuffield gym have a sauna? ›

You can perfect your lengths in the 20m pool, relax in the spa pool and sauna, or join friends in one of the many group exercise classes: 20m swimming pool. Personal trainers. Sauna/steam room.

How many people have a gym membership but don't use it? ›

What Percentage of Gym Memberships Go Completely Unused? According to a survey run by Statista in 2021, about 18% of U.S. gym members never attend.

How does Nuffield Health work? ›

We provide services to people who pay us directly, including members at our fitness and wellbeing gyms and the people access our other clinical services and medical treatments. Our self-pay option gives people the choice to access procedures or treatments without waiting lists or the need for an insurance policy.

How do I leave Nuffield Health? ›

To cancel or terminate your Nuffield Health Account please contact us by telephoning our customer support team on 0300 123 5084 (Monday to Friday 8am - 5pm) or by e-mailing us at onlinesupport@nuffieldhealth.com.

How do I cancel my membership at Nuffield gym early? ›

The best way to freeze or cancel your membership is to visit your local gym and fill in the relevant form. Please check the terms and conditions of your membership for further information. Alternatively, you can write to your centre – their address can be found on the gym's webpage.

How can I get out of my 12 month gym contract? ›

You'll normally have to pay the full cost of your contract if you want to cancel a gym membership early. For example, if you cancel a one-year contract after 6 months, you'll usually have to pay for the remaining 6 months. Check your contract for details to find out how much you'll have to pay if you cancel early.

How can I get out of my gym contract without paying? ›

Most gyms include a clause that allows you to cancel if they stop offering all the services listed in the contract. Did your favorite hatha yoga class get cut from the only time slot you had free to take it? That might just be grounds for legal termination, without paying any fees.

Can you cancel a gym membership contract? ›

Most gym contracts have a termination fee that will allow you to cancel your membership. This fee may decrease as you near the end of your contract. It may be worth it to end your contract and pay the fee, especially if you no longer want your gym membership.

What happens if you cancel gym? ›

Within the first weeks: The body starts to undergo biological changes in muscle size that can lead to weight gain. Over the long-term: Physical inactivity can lead to greater risks for major health problems, from heart disease and diabetes to early death.

What does freezing gym membership mean? ›

Whether you are going on holiday or returning from injury, freezing means you don't need to cancel and pay a Joining Fee when you come back – so it's a great way to help you save! How do I freeze/unfreeze my membership?

Can gyms take you to court? ›

If you simply cancel a Direct Debit and refuse to pay fees owed, a gym can pursue you for unpaid fees and send your account to collections. These debt management firms take responsibility for recovering unpaid fees and will take Court action if necessary.

What do you say when you quit your gym membership? ›

Acknowledge the gym's cancellation policy and your adherence to it (are you within your right to cancel, will you pay the cancellation fee or are you eligible for a waiver, etc.). "I am writing to inform you that I intend to [cancel or not renew] my gym membership on [enter date]."

How can I pay less for gym? ›

  1. Ask for end-of-the-month deals or discounts. Waiting to sign up until the end of the month can guarantee you a better deal. ...
  2. Pay cash or in advance. Cash is king when joining a gym -- especially a smaller gym. ...
  3. Look at other options and compare prices. ...
  4. Ask about off-peak hours. ...
  5. Look for family, friend or corporate referrals.
Jun 14, 2022

Can you negotiate gym contracts? ›

At most gyms it's 100 percent negotiable, according to Tom Holland MS, CSCS, former gym owner and author of Beat the Gym. Holland told TODAY the easiest time to negotiate is in the summer when fewer people are signing up.

What happens if you stop paying gym contract? ›

If you stop paying your gym fees, the gym can deny you access to the gym. If the cancellation of services doesn't convince you to pay your bill, the billing company has to find another way to convince you to pay. Normally, they will send you letters informing you of your delinquent account.

Is a gym membership legally binding? ›

Are gym memberships legally binding? Yes, when signing a contract with your gym, you are signing into a legally binding agreement. The only way the contract wouldn't be legally binding is if the terms are unfair.

What is the easiest way to cancel a gym membership? ›

The best way to begin the process is to send a letter via certified mail informing the gym of your desire to terminate your membership with as much information as possible. Your name, address, payment information, and account information should all be included, along with your reason for canceling.

Does Cancelling a gym direct debit affect credit rating? ›

Generally, cancelling a direct debit will not affect your credit rating.

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