The first step into any fitness endeavour is always the most challenging – whether you are completely new to exercise or looking for a change in routine.

For starters, there is a dizzying array of gym and class options, each with their own price structure, to contend with. And then there are concerns about navigating a new gym environment, unfamiliar equipment and the community – all before even stepping into the space.

Gym chain 24/7 Fitness wants to alleviate these concerns by providing an inviting gym experience with a tight-knit community. One of Hong Kong’s biggest 24-hour fitness brands, 24/7 Fitness entered the Singapore market after acquiring GymmBoxx in May this year.

There are currently 11 conveniently located branches in Singapore, and most of which are in the heartlands, such as Ci Yuan Community Club, Keat Hong Community Club and Vista Point. Before the year ends, 24/7 Fitness has plans to open three more gyms in shopping centres The Cathay, Seletar Mall and Elias Mall.

What will set the gym experience apart from its competition, is “the quality and maintenance of the equipment, the positive vibes created by the like-minded community, and upholding gym etiquette to ensure a respectful and motivating environment”, says Mr Lee Wei Hao, business development manager of 24/7 Fitness Singapore.

“We believe in delivering a gym experience that prioritises the essentials, making every workout session enjoyable, effective and tailored to our members' needs,” he adds.

Taking the guesswork out of the equation

What does this look like for those who just want to sweat it out in the gym? For one, no more getting surprised by hidden fees in the gym membership as 24/7 Fitness boasts a clear and transparent price structure. There is no joining fee or prepayment, which means that what you see on the menu is what you get.

Membership is priced at $98 per month for 12 months, $128 per month for six months, and $178 for a month’s membership. There is a one-day trial at a gym of your choice if you wish to try out the equipment and facilities.

For those looking for personal training, a package of 51 to 100 sessions costs $85 per session. It is $95 per session for a package of 21 to 50 sessions, and $105 per session for a package of 20 sessions or less.

With the gym membership, members get access to all 24/7 Fitness gyms in Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Taiwan and Macau – over 150 branches – with no additional fees required.

This all-access perk is a big plus point for 24/7 Fitness member Nigel Pang, who enjoys being able to keep up with his workouts, even when he is travelling. “Having one membership to gain access to multiple locations around the region is a convenience that is unmatched,” he says.

A seamless gym experience

Heading into the gym late at night after work, or squeezing in an early morning workout before you head to the office? Checking in is a breeze, no matter what time of the day, thanks to 24/7 Fitness’ smart face recognition terminal. It verifies the identity of each guest against photos taken during registration – no key fob or access card required.

When you arrive at the gym, simply stand in front of the designated camera and the system will quickly recognise your face to grant access.

Once in the gym, the well-equipped space ensures that all your workout needs are met. While the facilities vary from outlet to outlet, all 24/7 Fitness gyms are fitted with a cardio area, free weights, premium strength machines and power racks. Staff will be around during staffing hours to address any concerns you might have or to provide guidance if you are unfamiliar with the equipment.

In some of the bigger gyms like the one at Bishan Community Club, there is even an outdoor zone for any functional training purposes or if you would like a change in environment. Access to lockers, gym showers and vending machines means all you need with you is a towel for your workout.

The attention to detail extends to the choice of a cheerful tiffany blue as the gyms’ main hue – a colour that the team at 24/7 Fitness hopes will help to dispel the notion that gyms are intimidating and unwelcoming spaces.

For regulars like Mr Jayden Heng and Ms Leandra Bay, the camaraderie of the community was also what helped them stay committed to their workout routine at 24/7 Fitness.

Mr Heng, in particular, says that thanks to the “welcoming environment, top notch equipment and staff members who genuinely care”, the gym “is more than just a place to exercise – it has become his second home”.

“It may feel intimidating stepping into the gym at the start, especially for women. But at 24/7 Fitness, there is no fear of getting judged regardless of your fitness level or physical size,” shares Ms Bay, who had previously considered going to a ladies-only gym.

“I can always ask for a spot from fellow gym members when I’m bench pressing, or even pointers on how to improve on my training. It is a very friendly environment at the Keat Hong Community Club gym and I’ve never regretted my decision to join 24/7 Fitness,” she adds.

Bigger plans in the pipeline

Members will soon enjoy even more gym locations, including its biggest gym at Pacific Plaza. The official opening will be on Sept 14.

Spanning 929 sq m, this outlet in Orchard is equipped with two functional training areas to cater to circuit training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and mobility drills, and a free weights area with industry-leading Life Fitness and Hammer Strength plate-loaded machines.

These machines are designed not only to help achieve optimal muscle growth, power and endurance, but also reduce the risk of injury thanks to their biomechanically-correct design to mimic natural movements.

Even better news for frequent travellers: The gym’s expansion plans in the region means committing to a regular workout routine will be even easier.

“Our goal is to establish a presence in major cities across Asia,” says chief executive officer of 24/7 Fitness Ingrid Wong.

“We aim to bring our unique and comfortable fitness experience through our 24/7 Fitness centres that offer the same high standards of equipment, service and convenience that our members have come to expect. In Singapore, we aim to open 40 outlets in the next three years.”

Ready to up your fitness game? Find out more about 24/7 Fitness here.

24/7 Fitness is also open for franchising opportunities in Singapore. Interested franchisees can keep an eye out for the Franchise Open Day during the launch of its upcoming gyms.