I'm a Studio Pilates fan girl, so when a move saw me proudly claim my Northsider badge it was a…read morerelief to know that a newly opened Studio Pilates class awaited me nearby. Like other locations, the studio is clean, minimal and the instructors genuinely interested in helping you get the best from your class. The beauty of the studios all running the same rotation of classes and equipment is that you can move from one studio to another without having to get to know the equipment all over again and keep your workouts consistent. The class sizes I've been in lately have been max 5 people - great for getting your bearings and not being in a sardine tin. I will say that they are all individually owned so you will need to register specifically with Nundah if you've previously gone to other studios. Pro Tip: Park in the 3hour free park under the Circa building.

"T-Zone", "Table top", were two new things I learnt whilst doing my first ever Pilates Class. I'm…read moremore of a gym, weights, cardio, high-intensity-interval-training (HIIT), kind of person but was persuaded to give Pilates a go. This class in particular was a Pilates-Reformer class, so I was reassured that it involved resistance training. After arriving at Posture plus Fitness at 69 Byron Street Bulimba, I was impressed with the set-up in the studio. There was plenty of space, yet, it felt intimate. The room was very modern, simple, clean and open. It's well ventilated and cool. Big mirrors stretch along the wall as you walk in, which is used in the classes. There are 3 big reformer machines along the back of the room as well as other various equipment she has available to use. I liked the fact that it was really just the two of us in the class, along with Trish the instructor. No crowds, which makes for a more personalised session. Trish, is a very friendly and knowledgeable Pilates instructor, and I felt right at home. Trish explained all the movements and how to use the reformer, and was there from start to finish. I learnt that "T-Zone", is an area you squeeze, (your abdomen and pelvic floor) by placing your fingers on the hip bone. "Table Top" is a position you adopt by raising your legs (knees bent) so that it is parallel to the floor. In fact, we essentially had our own personal trainer in Trish. Pilates on the reformer machine was quite challenging, and resistance is increased using a set of springs. Each rep and movement is focused on a specific area of your body, your core, quads, abs, biceps, triceps etc and I worked out my whole body. The best way I can describe to the boys who love the gym and weights, is that Pilates on the reformer machine is like, going to the gym and doing weights, but you are using your own body weight as resistance, and ensuring your form is perfect as you complete each rep. It's quite challenging, but feels like a form of meditation too. I think it's a great way to compliment your gym sessions, and keep your weekly schedule interesting. It keeps your muscles toned, and maintains your strength. Each Class goes for an hour, and Trish is fantastic because unlike some gyms out there where some of my girlfriends had been to before, Trish works on each individual. I am hoping this doesn't ever change, but I'm sure that the more popular this studio becomes, this level of service will be hard to come by. The classes are also affordable, as I've signed up to do 3 more classes for $35. In today's world where we are all working longer hours with not much time for ourselves, with more stress in our lives, Posture Plus Fitness can be that one hour of escape where we are giving back to ourselves for our mind, body and soul. I highly recommend Trish and this studio. For more information on prices, classes and packages, visit postureplusfitness.com.au.

When I first walked through the doors, I thought wow, this is a very simple gym compared to other…read moregyms I've been to in the past. I did walk around and think to myself, "I don't think I'm going to like it here" but how I was wrong. The people are what makes this gym work so well, the staff are terrific and are always genuinely happy to see you walk through the doors. They are up for a chat and catch up like long lost friends and make you feel welcome from the very moment of arriving. There is no segregation between Men & Women, everyone works out in the same weights room, the same cardio room and they have a small workout room. I thought this would bother me, as I have put on a couple of kg's and didn't want people staring, but not here.. Everyone is so polite, just minding their own business, doing their own workouts, but if you need a had moving something looking for particular weights ect there is always someone on hand to help. I was totally blown away by this whole experience. I've been to many gyms in the past few years and I haven't see the variety of equipment as I have seen here, I haven't felt as welcomed and not just a number as I do here, it is really good to see it is a real gym for real people. All of the trainers have a story of their own to tell and for a few of the it was their own weight loss journey, and working out at ME that has inspired them to become the trainers now working at ME. I am not a fan of any gym really, but I am really glad a friend of mine who spoke so highly of the people and lovely atmosphere take me in for a walk through and a 7 day trail, I am now hooked. There is a variety of classes but not the usual "Les Mills" choreographed classes. The classes here are fun, crazy, full of hard work and different each and every time I step in. ME has won me over, if you are looking for a gym that carters for real everyday people that want to get the most out of themselves without having to watch over your shoulder to see who s watching, then this is the place to go. Don't get me wrong, there is some uber fit people training here, but they're there to workout too, not to walk around looking good. ME is the most comfortable gym I have ever been in, (& I've been to quite a few in my time)

The PURE Health Clubs located right in the heart of Brisbane's CBD is unlike most gyms I've…read moreattended - in fact, the PURE Health Club is decidedly different from most gyms. Upon entering the Pure Health Club you may notice a large manifesto posted on the wall stipulating that this "health club" (not gym) endeavors to make your work-out is a positive, fun, experience and insists that members leave their ego, vanity, pretentiousness and general gym-like attitudes at the door. The gym itself isn't like those chic, stainless steel 'exercise domes' so many of us have become accustomed to. Rather, the walls are bare, there are virtually no mirrors and there is a distinct absence of bulky machines that no one understands or uses. Instead the gym is filled with reasonably attractive everyday people with smiles on their faces, working-off that cheeseburger which they don't really feel that guilty about eating. Upon my sisters advice I attended the "Bounce" class. "Bounce" is a cardio class in which all members are asked to perform a series of aerobic like moves atop of miniature trampolines. Twenty minutes into the class I was puffing, drenched in sweat and cautious about not falling off my trampoline for the third time - but unlike most exercise classes I've been to, I was enjoying myself! At times I found myself making eye contact with other strangers in the class, sharing a look that clearly said, 'don't we look stupid', before mutually jumping harder once the track changed to the 'Venga Boys'. The PURE Health Club is definitely unlike other gyms. Even as a visitor to the club I was under not pressure to join or sign on to some discretely expensive trial program. I simply came in, tried it out and left without a fuss. Will I join the club anytime soon? Not sure. Do I want to return to the PURE Health Club? Without a doubt. IMPORTANT! Unfortunately they're closed on weekends - but how many "Health Clubs" have trampolines? Seriously.

I've been a member of Pure for almost 2 years now so they must be doing something right to have…read morekept me for so long. There is a good variety of classes, and some classes you won't find at other gyms, however the city gym is a little tired and rundown and could use refreshing. The Coorparoo and Newstead studios are essentially brand spanking new, which may make the city seem a little shabby in comparison. I suggest popping in and picking up a free class pass, or one of the 5 days for $5 passes when they have that promotion running to see if the gym is the right fit for you because I don't think it's for everyone. There isn't a huge variety or amount of equipment (6 treadmills, 3 of which I wouldn't run on because the mats slip, only a handful of bikes, and not much in the way of weights) so it's probably not going to suit macho weight lifting men or cardio addicts who don't like classes and can only attend in peak periods. If you like variety of classes especially pilates (both mat-work and reformer) and trying new things like bounce class (jumping on mini trampolines, harder than it sounds) or hiphop, or a new class that's coming soon that involves hula-hooping, then Pure may just be the right fit. They also offer Pilates training accreditation, regularly run 10 week challenges, have some great personal trainers, and run a clean eating program, which seems to be popular.

Just joined this week and have really enjoyed this gym so far. Joining up was a bit of a hassel as…read morethey are only staffed in the morning and late afternoon, but the gym is open to members 24-hours a day. Since I've joined though, it has been great. When I've been there during staffed hours, the staff have been warm and helpful. The gym is very clean and nicely maintained. If you're in Morningside, I'd recommend checking it out. There is a free week trial on their webpage, but again you would need to go during staffed hours to get sorted. Note: I usually go in the afternoon or late night, so I can only comment on my off-peak time experience.

I've been a member of Snap Fitness for about two or three months now. As its the first gym I've…read morebeen a member of I don't think I can really objectively compare it to others. The price seems very affordable compared to other gyms in the area and has the benefit of offering a pay as you go contract rather than a lock in 6 or 12 month commitment. The facilities all look quite new and well maintained and the gym always looks clean. Some of the machines even have a TV and headphone jack so you can watch the tube while you work out, which is pretty cool. The staff are friendly and you get a free appointment with a fitness instructor when joining which is really good if gyms a foreign territory (they were to me). I usually go during the day time when it is quiet, but on the few times I've been at around 6 or 7pm the place can be packed. It's no problem if you aren't picky about which machine you use but if you've got a set workout waiting continuously for a machine to free up could get annoying. My main complaint however would be that at certain times some staff members put the music up to almost ear bleeding levels. When it happens its so bad that its impossible to listen to your own music through headphones because their music drowns it out. But this has only happened a few times. But overall, good facilities at a good price so Id recommend it.

Anytime Fitness Brisbane City is an awesome club. Always a…read morefriendly smile from the club manager Donna who always stops for a chat when she can. A great group of PTs who are more than happy to answer questions . And plenty of equipment for you to get your heart and muscles moving. Im a big fan of the virtual spin classes too.

I definitely don't do not do cross fit. But there was a cafe and I definitely cafe…read more I believe the set up was for the people that belong to the club, but they do offer coffee to the public. Classic coffees, various protein filled goods and specials were on display which is great. If you're ever passing by it's fine for a quick bite or a bad coffee if you're desperate. The lady serving was lovely and happy to help, but for commercial high demand coffee this isn't the place to stop by. More of a local scene which is perfect for the atmosphere of the place. The fitness I witnessed was insane though. So I'm going to suggest that you'll feel slightly bad about yourself then almost instantly better because you have a coffee in your hand. That's the way I roll anyway. 4/5 for customer service. That really does it for people, hey.

If you fancy flinging yourself seductively around a pole in front of a bunch of strangers than pole…read moredancing lessons are probably for you - unfortunately I don't have the figure to pull this off and felt extremely uncomfortable during my recent pole dancing class. Perhaps if lots of wine was added it may have been a more enjoyable experience. Don't get me wrong - I am by no means a prude, I just think you need a lot of confidence (or a lot of alcohol) to enjoy this experience! Pole Fitness at Everton Park run classes, private lessons and host special functions such as hen's nights. I think if you were with a group of friends and the bubbles were flowing this could be a pretty fun evening - I didn't really enjoy it and have since purchased myself Carmen Electra's "Fit to Strip" DVD - so I can still impress my man, but learn my new skills in the privacy of my own home.

Spinning around a pole in high heels may not sound like exercise, but your screaming muscles the…read morenext day will sure tell you otherwise. The bruises left on one's upper thighs are perhaps not so appreciated but no pain, no gain right? As an added bonus, you will be a hit at your next party when you've had one to many beverages and you're spinning around the parking sign out front. Pole Fitness Australia offers five week pole dancing courses as well as casual classes for $12.50 (which you can surely make up in tips on your next night out). All sorts of girls come to the classes-all ages and all body types-so don't be shy. You don't even have to get the stripper heels out if you feel uncomfortable though you do have to put on some teeny shorts so those muscular thighs can grip the poles. Each student gets a pole of their own in the classes and there are classes to suit all levels, from beginner to I'm-so-amazing- I-should-be-a-professional stripper. The teachers are really nice and very patient and supportive of newbies. Find your inner pornstar and get on a pole!