If you’re looking for a way to stay active but don’t know where to start, West Michigan has a wide range of options.
It’s much more than a gym or a trainer (though there are great options there too). Everyone’s body is different, and everyone’s fitness goals are different. That means you need to find the fitness that works for you. The best exercise is one that you actually feel motivated to do, and there is no one-size-fits-all exercise.
Here are some ideas to get you started, no matter who you are.
variety and community
MVP Sportsplex
multiple locations | mvpsportsclubs.com
Whether it’s swimming, running, weightlifting, machines, group fitness or court sports, MVP has it all. You can do it all on your own, take a class, work with a trainer, or whatever works best for you. This is an all-in-one package with a large community and multiple locations around West Michigan.
Don’t have enough time?
body 20
2845 Thornhills Ave. SE, Grand Rapids | body20.com/cascade
If your main problem with exercise is that there aren’t enough hours in the day, try BODY20. This fitness studio is incredibly unique, utilizing an electrical muscle stimulation suit that causes the body to experience “150 times more muscle contractions than traditional training.” Doing her 20 minute session with a trainer will give you great results in a short amount of time.
Unique yet effective
CKO kickboxing
820 Monroe Ave. NW, Grand Rapids | ckokickboxing.com
This kickboxing spot has gained a lot of fans thanks to its intense yet fun training sessions. Sign up for a free trial class today and learn what kickboxing is all about, from big bag punches and kicks to jumps and planks. It’s a great way to let off steam without judgement, and it’s guaranteed to make you break a sweat.
great person
friction grand rapids
2640 Burlingame Ave., Wyoming | frictiongrandrapids.com
Those who join Frixion quickly fall in love with it, thanks to the top-notch people who are trying to build the community, including both trainers and members. A gym focused on functional fitness, with personal training, group training, and nutrition all available. Simple, focused, and effective muscle building will help you get stronger and feel better.
Life/work balance
Life Addicts Studio
2427 Eastern Ave. SE, Grand Rapids | lifeaddictsstudio.com
If you’re a “high performer” who always has a full schedule and needs a way to develop healthy habits, you’ve come to the right place. Life Addicts’ mission is to exercise often, eat well, be involved in our community, and enjoy our lifestyle. If your least favorite part of working out is being seen working out, you’ll love the intentionally dimmed lighting to keep everyone focused on themselves.
Improving athletic performance
Coachman Strength & Conditioning
7780 Clyde Park Ave SW, Byron Center | coachmantrainingsystems.com
If you like the idea of training like an athlete (or want to go back to your college athletic days), try Coachman at the Byron Center. The coaches here specialize in adult programs, athlete performance, and online his programming. Their health-focused community is focused on helping you achieve one goal: a sustainable fitness lifestyle.
functional fitness
Valeo Sports & Fitness
109 S River Ave., Netherlands | valeotraining.com
Valeo focuses on functional fitness, which aims to mimic everyday movements. No matter your age, size or current ability, Valeo can help you become stronger and more active with practical methods that help you every day. Their team offers group fitness classes or one-on-one personal programs.
For the “Lost Cause”
Body by selection
4070 Lake Dr. SE, Grand Rapids | bodybychoicetraining.com
If you think you’re not an “athletic person,” Body By Choice will prove you wrong. This personal training studio is dedicated to helping you become healthier, stronger, and more confident with personalized plans, no matter where you are on your journey. For those who are shy, there is also online training available.
get crossfit
Day 8 Gym
130 Market Avenue, Grand Rapids | 8thdaygym.com
Call it CrossFit, call it functional fitness, call it whatever you want. Know that you will get results. 8th Day Gym is one of Grand Rapids’ most successful gyms that utilizes natural, functional movements using everyday objects. In their words, “We teach you how to move your body as designed, then challenge that movement with variables such as weight, speed, and duration.”
strong aerobic exercise
lunar cycle
601 Michigan Street NE, Grand Rapids | lunarcyclestudio.com
There are a lot of stellar cycle spots in West Michigan, but we love that Lunar Cycle is completely locally owned. A welcoming attitude, immersive atmosphere, and unforgettable playlist are the core driving forces of our spin classes, keeping you energized and motivated for an intense workout.