GreenLake Fitness — Local services in Seattle

STAY AWAY FROM THIS GYM!!! I've gone to gyms across the world for the better part of two decades. This was the strangest, and one of the most unpleasant experiences I've ever had in a gym. First, I received unsolicited gym etiquette advice from one of the trainers. I took a 25lbs plate from a flat bench rack, NOT THE BAR, the rack. He tells me I should ask before using a RACKED weight. All this while he was working with a client on a super-set! He and the client are taking two pieces of equipment, which is a clear violation of the most basic of gym etiquette, when there are a numerous customers training on the floor. I can only deduce that this tiny man felt threatened. I go to the gym to exercise and leave, this gym is filled with a core group of members and trainers that feel as though the gym BELONGS to them. 10 minutes later, another trainer, friend of the first trainer, asked me if I was finished with the universal bar on the strong man rack. Since the bar was empty, as I re-rack my weights and clean the equipment I previously used, I thought the answer was obvious, but she need clarification. I replied to her question with, "Yes, ma'am." (I just completed 22 years in the Army, being respectful is a bad habit of mine.) She took great offense to the 'Ma'am' I gave her. I turned my headphones off, but kept them on my head so I could listen. The first trainer is now engaged in an in-depth conversation with no less than five other customers regarding the proper use of 'Ma'am' vs. 'Miss.' I could only roll my eyes and leave. STAY AWAY FROM THIS GYM!!! There is a strong clique and if you arrive and appear to be somewhat in shape they will find cause to hassle you! I went to war four times and this gym visit STILL tops the list of strangest experiences I've ever taken part in. STAY AWAY FROM THIS GYM!!! Not to mention the goofy layout and...

I've been a member for over two years now. Super duper uber convenient to where I live, which is a huge bonus/plus for me. Overall it has been very positive, but like any place there are going to be pros and cons:

Pros: Wide range of equipment (cardio, weights, mats, etc), spread across a good number of square feet. Wide variety of classes offered, price is included in membership (which is why the cost is higher than some, I believe) Friendly staff, generally very positive vibe. 30 minute personal training session included in membership each month! Great way to have a 'check in' and have some accountability without paying extra. They solicit feedback regularly, though it isn't very transparent on how they actually act upon it. Parking is included in membership (though I've never used it). There's a sauna! They try to participate in local events, promote local businesses.

Cons: While some equipment is new (appears to be the more "trendy" types), a few groups feel neglected. There is really only one good Stair Master (out of three), and only one rowing machine (the other two are a joke - one doesn't have a computer and the other is an ANCIENT wooden water-resistance model). Neither of these two types have been upgraded or fixed in the last two years (despite my regular requests). The wide variety of classes often take place during the day (between 9 and 5), which makes it hard for desk-jobs like me to take advantage. Would love to see more...

My wife and I joined this gym because they connect with both the Silver Sneakers and the Silver and Fit programs. Admittedly, there is no charge for our membership. I have never wanted to join a gym, preferring to work out at home. I must say, though, that I and my wife are loving this gym. It is smaller and more intimate than the larger, factory style gyms, and we have found the people to be very friendly and helpful. There is always equipment available for us and I have been able to work cardio, upper and lower body with a variety of machines and weights. My wife has a personal trainer, and he has been wonderful. She has problems with her knees, and he is very attuned to her specific needs.

The gym is kept at a nice cool temperature which is perfect for workouts. They provide lockers, showers, and a dry sauna, as well as rooms for stretching, a track, and lots of classes. I also really like the looseness at the gym. I could not imagine feeling more comfortable in such a space, and when needed, the people there, both workers and other users, are...