Welcome to the ultimate guide for finding your ideal gym in Ottawa! From the exciting boxing classes at The Rig Boxing to the friendly atmosphere at Where I Thrive, there’s something for everyone.
We’ve picked 12 of the best gyms & fitness centers in Ottawa, and each one has something special to offer. They’re all about building a community, embracing a healthy lifestyle, and helping you thrive.
So, if you’re ready to find your new fitness home, check out our list!
1. Where I Thrive
Where I Thrive is a fitness center that really lives up to its name, giving everyone tons of chances to get active and feel good.
Recently, the gym has been updated with a bigger workout area that’s full of natural light and has a wide range of exercise equipment.
And if you want some extra guidance, personal trainers like Leonardo Pineda can help create a fitness plan just for you.
One of the best things about Where I Thrive is the awesome variety of classes. For instance, the "Lift with Leo Series" mixes weight training with a fun, social atmosphere.
New moms can check out the "Mom & Baby Series" and the "6-Week Barre Series for Mamas," which offer gentle exercises that let you include your baby in the fun.
The sense of community here is strong, with a friendly and supportive vibe that encourages everyone to get moving.
But it’s not just about working out. The gym also hosts different events and provides osteopathy treatments for those who need some extra care.
After a good workout, the café inside is a great place to recharge. They offer a variety of drinks and snacks, including vegan options, making it a cozy spot to relax and chat with other fitness fans.
2. Iron North Studio
Iron North Studio in Ottawa is a friendly and inclusive gym that’s great for anyone who wants to start or improve their fitness. The place is clean and well-kept, making it a popular spot for locals of all fitness levels.
The main focus at Iron North is on endurance coaching, which is available for everyone from newcomers to experienced athletes.
The coaching helps you build your stamina gradually, keeps things interesting, and helps avoid injuries. Each program is personalized and managed online, so you can get support whenever you need it.
Iron North offers a ton of different classes, like strength training, running, yoga, spinning, and high-intensity workouts.
The classes are fun and varied, so you won’t get bored, and you can push yourself in a safe environment. Because the classes are small, instructors can give more attention to each person, helping you with your form and techniques.
If you're curious about Iron North, they have a 30-day introductory pass for new visitors, so you can try any class whenever you want.
In addition to classes, Iron North provides special services like metabolic and VO2 max testing, which gives you detailed information about your health and fitness. This can help you create a diet and exercise plan that aligns with your goals.
They also offer personal training, open gym times, and wellness services like acupuncture and massage therapy, making sure you have a complete fitness experience.
3. MOVATI
Movati Athletic in Ottawa is a fantastic place for fitness lovers, offering a wide variety of classes and great facilities.
If you like to keep your workouts interesting, Movati has something for everyone. They have everything from group training sessions to Pilates Reformer classes, so there’s always something fun to try.
During holidays, they even have themed workout classes, making it a special way to celebrate events like Halloween or Thanksgiving while staying active.
Members can choose personal training, which can be one-on-one or in a group for a more social experience.
The Pilates Reformer classes are especially popular, and there are different pricing options to fit everyone’s needs.
And, every membership comes with a free Game Plan Session (GPS) to help create a personalized fitness plan.
The facilities at Movati Athletic are really impressive. With high-quality equipment and stylish studios, it feels more like a relaxing retreat than just a gym.
The changing rooms have a spa-like vibe, and there are lounge areas where you can chill out after your workout.
If you’re into shopping, the pro shop has seasonal workout gear, and the café offers tasty treats like the Pumpkin Spice Mocha Shake.
4. Bodiesbyphil
Right in the center of Ottawa, Bodiesbyphil is making waves with a fresh take on fitness. This gym feels more like a hangout with friends than a place you dread going to.
It focuses on making workouts enjoyable and effective through four main ideas: Fitness, Nutrition, Accountability, and Community. This means you can build muscle and burn fat while also learning how to eat healthier.
What’s really cool about Bodiesbyphil is the wide range of classes they offer. They’re open every day, so there’s always something going on. New members even get to join their first class for free!
The trainers are not just knowledgeable, they also motivate you and adapt workouts to fit your needs, making sure everyone feels safe and supported.
The vibe at Bodiesbyphil is another great thing about it. It’s a friendly place where everyone feels like part of a team.
For those ready for a challenge, their 6-week program is a fantastic way to kick off your fitness journey. Many people have had amazing results, like losing weight and getting stronger.
And, the gym offers extra resources like nutrition education, so members have everything they need to succeed.
With spacious, well-equipped locations, including a new one in Kanata, and an upbeat atmosphere with great music, Bodiesbyphil is a perfect choice for anyone who wants to get fit and enjoy the experience.
5. The Rig Boxing
Located in the lively areas of Hintonburg and Nepean, The Rig Boxing gym is a great place for everyone.
This gym, owned by women, focuses on creating a friendly atmosphere where everyone can feel comfortable while getting a good workout.
At The Rig, boxing is just the beginning. They offer heavy bag workout classes that combine strength training, jumping exercises, and agility drills.
These sessions are great for anyone wanting to improve their fitness. One unique feature is their water-filled, teardrop-shaped punching bags, which add a fun twist to regular boxing workouts.
People love the lively vibe at The Rig. The upbeat music, cool lighting, and energetic instructors make each workout not only effective but also enjoyable.
Joining The Rig is easy, with different membership options that suit various schedules and commitment levels.
If you're not ready to commit, they offer a great deal: three classes for just $18, which is a fantastic price!
Just remember to bring your own gloves and wraps, although they do have some available to borrow or buy if you forget.
6. Anytime Fitness
Located in Ottawa, Anytime Fitness is a great spot for anyone looking for a friendly and encouraging place to work out.
The gym has recently been updated, featuring modern equipment and amenities that make each visit enjoyable.
Upon entering the clean space, all necessary items are readily available—from advanced workout machines to basics like hair dryers and body wash in the showers.
One of the best things about Anytime Fitness is how they focus on personal fitness journeys.
Additionally, you can enjoy up to three months of Apple Fitness+, which allows access to workouts whenever and wherever you want.
The trainers are skilled but also super friendly, ensuring you get the most from your workouts. The staff is always there to help out, creating a real sense of community.
Convenience is a big deal at Anytime Fitness, as it's open 24/7, so you can fit your workouts into your schedule whenever it works for you.
It's usually not too crowded, so you can enjoy your workout without having to wait for machines. And, their mobile app makes it easy to check when the gym is busy, what the hours are, and explore different workout plans.
7. Savage Mode Fitness
Savage Mode Fitness is a popular gym in Ottawa where people go when they really want to get fit and feel comfortable.
The gym has a friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel like they belong. When you walk in, you'll see a clean and spacious area filled with all kinds of equipment for weightlifting, cardio, or just getting a good workout.
Elias, the owner and head trainer, is super passionate about fitness. He and his team work hard to help you succeed by creating workout plans and giving you nutrition advice that fits your needs.
They want to push you to do your best while cheering you on. Also, you can email them anytime for help, get suggestions for supplements, and have weekly check-ins to keep you on track.
People love the exciting classes and the personal attention during training sessions. The goal of the gym is simple: to help you reach your fitness and health goals while making sure you feel good mentally and physically.
With its positive vibe and professional staff, this gym is a favorite for anyone in Ottawa who wants to get healthier.
8. GoodLife Fitness
If you’re looking for a great gym in Ottawa, GoodLife Fitness is a top choice, especially for women who want a friendly and encouraging place to work out.
The gym has special areas just for women, which helps create a positive vibe for everyone on their fitness journey.
They offer a mix of group classes and personal workout spaces, plus a relaxing area called the MindDEN where you can chill out.
They have different membership options, from basic to premium, so you can find one that fits your lifestyle.
Members get access to over 200 gyms, top-notch equipment, squash courts, and even online workouts.
Also, there's the GoodLife Rewards Program, where you can save up to 30% on popular brands, which is a nice bonus for your fitness journey.
There are tons of options, with over 120 classes in categories like Cardio, Strength, Mind & Body, and Cycling, so you’ll never run out of new things to try.
People love GoodLife in Ottawa because the staff is super friendly and keeps the gym clean and welcoming.
They have a wide range of machines, including special equipment for calisthenics, and the gym is open 24 hours, making it easy for everyone to fit workouts into their day.
9. Soungui Fitness
Located in the center of Ottawa, Soungui Fitness is the perfect spot for anyone wanting to step up their workout routine.
If you're looking to move better and stay injury-free, their mobility training program is a great choice.
If you’re up for a challenge, try the Speed & Plyometric Training, which focuses on speed and explosiveness to enhance your athletic skills.
For sports fans, they offer specialized coaching in football, hockey, or basketball, with experienced coaches ready to help you improve.
The Youth Athletic Training Program is perfect for those 14 and older, combining personalized nutrition plans with training to develop the next generation of athletes.
Membership options are flexible, starting at $100 a month, but existing members can enjoy a discounted rate of $50.
Soungui Fitness is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm, giving you plenty of time to get your workouts in. The main entrance is easy to find, located at the back near the parking lot, marked by a bright red door.
People love Soungui Fitness for its welcoming and clean atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home.
With features like gender-neutral washrooms and customized training programs, every detail at Soungui Fitness is designed to foster a supportive environment.
10. Underground Strength and Conditioning
If you’re checking out fitness options in Ottawa, Underground Strength and Conditioning is definitely worth considering.
Located on Gladstone Avenue, this gym is more than just a place to lift weights, it's about building a supportive community too.
When you first arrive, you can enjoy a free introductory session, where you can explore the gym and talk about your fitness goals with an experienced coach.
The gym offers a wide range of programs, including Group Strength & Conditioning, Group Olympic Weightlifting, Personal Training, and even Online Training for those who prefer working out at home.
What really makes Underground Strength and Conditioning special is its friendly atmosphere. People love how welcoming it is, making everyone feel like they belong to a fitness family.
The coaches are skilled and professional, and they customize workouts to fit everyone’s needs, ensuring that even those with disabilities can join in comfortably.
The gym emphasizes not just physical strength but also building connections within the community. With a flexible class schedule and an easy booking system, members can easily find classes that fit into their busy lives.
The workouts are fun and designed to challenge everyone, no matter their fitness level, while also focusing on safety and proper technique.
Members really enjoy the variety of workouts, the attentive coaches, and the positive vibe that makes each visit enjoyable.
11. Unified Fitness
Unified Fitness is a personal training studio that can help you reach your fitness goals, no matter if you're just starting out or if you’re already an experienced athlete.
What makes Unified Fitness special is their all-around approach. They also help you with nutrition, which means they teach you how to eat well while you get fit.
Each training plan is designed to improve your strength, endurance, and heart health. They even offer special sessions for stretching and mobility to keep you flexible and prevent injuries.
If you’re busy or prefer to work out at home, they have virtual training options too! This means you can still get personalized help and expert advice without leaving your house. It’s like bringing the gym to you.
The trainers at Unified Fitness are known for being professional and knowledgeable. They understand how the human body works and can create plans that consider any injuries or physical challenges you might have.
Clients love the welcome atmosphere and the results they see. They experience better strength, flexibility, and healthier food choices.
Everyone at Unified Fitness is dedicated to helping you succeed and cheering you on throughout your journey.
12. Free Form Fitness
Located right in the center of Ottawa, Free Form Fitness is a gym where everyone feels welcome, it's perfect if you’re just starting to work out
This gym has a special vibe that combines personal attention with fitness services, making it a great spot for anyone wanting to feel better physically and mentally.
At Free Form Fitness, they want everyone to feel supported and encouraged. Their motto is to move better, eat better, and live better, and you can see this in their custom workout plans.
You can choose to work out in person or online, and they have plenty of options to fit what you need. If you’re curious about personal training, they have a special deal where you can try 8 sessions for only $96.
The workouts are quick but effective, lasting just 30 minutes. No matter how fit you are, you’ll find a friendly community here that celebrates every little victory.
The trainers are certified and experienced, so you can trust that you’re in good hands. They pay special attention to each person and build strong relationships with their clients, which helps keep you motivated.
Many clients have noticed great improvements in their strength, balance, and overall fitness. They value the support and guidance from their trainers, who are fully committed to helping each person succeed.
To Sum It All Up
As we finish our tour of the "12 Best Gyms in Ottawa," it’s clear that this city has a gym for everyone! From the friendly atmosphere at Where I Thrive to the action-packed boxing classes at The Rig Boxing, each gym has something special to offer. We picked these gyms so that there’s a choice for everyone.
Check out these gyms, and see which one feels right for you! Going to the gym can be a fun adventure, and you might discover your new favorite place to hang out.
For more cool ideas on things to do in Ottawa, don’t forget to visit ActiviFinder Ottawa. Get out there, stay active, and keep exploring all the awesome things your city has to offer!