When it comes to choosing a gym, two major factors come into play – your budget and your preferences for amenities. Crunch and Equinox fitness chains cater to very different target markets, with Crunch providing a budget-friendly option focused on high value, while Equinox operates luxury boutique fitness clubs with premium pricing.
This article will compare and contrast these two gym chains across key categories to help you determine which may be a better fit.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Crunch | Equinox |
| Cost | $10 – $39 per month | $200+ per month |
| Facilities | Basic, budget-friendly | Luxury amenities |
| Equipment | Standard cardio and strength machines | Premium, high-end equipment |
| Classes | Included with membership, affordable | Additional fees per class, celebrity trainers |
| Personal Training | Available at additional cost | Elite trainers, specialized programs |
| Culture | Lively, energetic, inclusive | Upscale, professional, results-driven |
| Locations | 300+ nationwide | Under 100 urban locations |
| Contracts | No commitment required | No commitment required |
| Perks | Tanning, hydromassage, sales/promos | Spa, salon, towel service, retail discounts |
Overview Of Crunch And Equinox
Crunch is a nationwide budget gym chain with over 300 locations across the United States and Canada. Known for its low membership fees starting around $10 per month, Crunch aims to provide extensive equipment and classes at an affordable cost.
Their facilities include a wide range of cardio and strength equipment, some group fitness classes, personal training, and basic amenities like locker rooms and showers. The gyms have a fun, “no judgments” vibe with all types of members welcome.
Equinox, on the other hand, operates around 100 high-end fitness clubs in major metropolitan cities like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. The company focuses on luxury amenities, superior equipment, and star-studded group fitness classes. Equinox has an upscale vibe with luxe touches like eucalyptus towels, Kiehls products, and trendy juice bars.
Memberships start around $200 per month with additional charges for classes, training, and more. The typical Equinox member has high disposable income and is willing to pay more for elite fitness experiences.
Also Read: Comparison Between Blink Fitness And Crunch.
Detail Comparison Of Crunch And Equinox
Facilities and Amenities
Since Crunch caters to budget-conscious gym-goers, their facilities are more bare bones compared to premium gyms. You’ll find all the basics like treadmills, ellipticals, weights, resistance equipment, and functional training zones. Group fitness studios offer popular classes like Zumba, yoga, cycling, HIIT, and more.
Some locations feature pools, basketball courts, and other specialty areas, but amenities can vary. Most clubs have tanning beds, hydromassage beds, and basic locker rooms. You won’t find lavish touches like spas, salons, lap pools, and luxe lounges. However, the gyms are kept very clean and have all the necessities for a solid workout.
Equinox, on the other hand, goes above and beyond on features and amenities. Their multi-story clubs have massive state-of-the-art fitness areas with the latest cardio and strength machines. You’ll find plenty of dumbbells, squat racks, functional training equipment, turf areas, and more.
Group fitness is a big draw, with studios for hot yoga, barre, Pilates, cycling, boxing, and cross-training bootcamps. Most locations have beautiful indoor and outdoor pools, full-service spas, salons, juice bars, and luxury locker rooms reminiscent of a five-star hotel. Equinox clubs also provide towel service, WiFi, childcare, and member lounges with grab-and-go snacks and refreshments. The overall vibe is upscale, professional, and elite.
Classes and Personal Training
With boutique-style classes now popular, both Crunch and Equinox offer specialty group fitness options. However, Equinox classes are far more robust in terms of variety, instruction quality, and unique offerings. A standard Crunch location will have group classes like Zumba, yoga, bootcamp-style HIIT, spinning, and kickboxing.
Class schedules vary by location but are somewhat limited compared to premium gyms. You’ll find qualified instructors, but likely no “star” trainers with huge followings. The classes are fun, affordable, and accommodate beginners.
Equinox takes group fitness to an entirely different level with celebrity trainers, themed classes, unique equipment, and expert programming. You can take classes like BeatPlay with DJ coaches, Precision Run signature treadmill training, Rumble boxing, Pilates, barre, and high-intensity circuit training.
Some clubs have enormous group fitness studios bigger than most regular gyms! There are classes happening around the clock catering to busy schedules. You’ll pay extra for classes, generally around $35 per session. But the amazing instructors and elite, often performance-enhancing programming attract members.
Both Crunch and Equinox offer personal training, but again, Equinox’s programs are far more extensive. Crunch trainers must meet certification standards and can provide beginner, intermediate, or advanced strength programming. However, there are rarely any celebrity-level coaches.
Equinox trainers tend to be extremely experienced, skilled, and knowledgeable professionals that can address specific goals like improving athletic performance, pre/post-natal fitness, injury recovery, posture correction, and functional movement. But be prepared for high hourly rates around $150+ per session at Equinox.
Membership Costs
One of the biggest differences between these two brands comes down to cost. Crunch proudly advertises “gymtimidation” free facilities and extremely reasonable rates. Their standard no-commitment membership rates start as low as $10 per month for access to basic amenities.
Pricing goes up to $30+ per month for upgraded memberships that may include guest passes, tanning, hydromassage, and other perks depending on location. Even at higher membership tiers, Crunch still offers excellent value for budget-minded people. They frequently run special offers like no enrollment fees, free t-shirts, and contest giveaways as well.
By contrast, Equinox commands premium pricing more akin to a luxury product. Their standard membership fee is $200 per month with no contracts, but rates vary by location and amenity access. You’ll pay extra for classes, spa services, training sessions, and more. Equinox also offers corporate packages and memberships for college students or teens.
Despite the extremely high price point, Equinox still attracts urban professionals with high disposable income who view fitness as a critical lifestyle element worth investing in. The member experience at Equinox is truly elevated and focused on results. But you have to pay up for the privilege.
Vibe and Culture
With its playful branding and budget pricing, it’s no surprise Crunch gyms have a fun, welcoming, and lively vibe. The culture celebrates inclusivity for all fitness levels and encourages members to set and achieve their own goals without judgment.
You’ll see a wide demographic mix at Crunch in terms of age, body types, ethnicities, and more. People tend to socialize and chat before or after classes. The atmosphere is energetic but not over-the-top intense. You can work out at your own pace or join group activities depending on your needs that day.
Equinox members exude upscale professionalism and serious focus when it comes to performance and results. You’ll see more business professionals, executives, celebrities, models, and affluent individuals who have the means to invest heavily in self-care.
Conversations tend to revolve around elite fitness goals, hectic careers, travel plans, and wellness practices versus small talk. The vibe is luxurious yet discreet. Equinox clubs reflect this in sleek natural design featuring stone, wood, and muted tones. The overall energy is active, balanced, and results-driven.
Also Read: Is Tmpl Better Than Equinox?
Pros And Cons Of Crunch And Equinox
Crunch Pros
- Nationwide locations provide accessibility
- Extremely affordable membership rates from $10/month
- Welcoming, non-judgmental “No Gymtimidation” culture
- Classes included with membership (no add-on fees)
- Flexible no-commitment memberships
- Fun group fitness options like Zumba
- Basic amenities meet practical needs
Crunch Cons
- Facilities and equipment are bare essentials, not deluxe
- Limited class schedules and offerings compared to boutiques
- Lacks luxury amenities like spas, salons, cafes
- Can get busy during peak times
- Spotty hours with some locations closing earlier
- Quality and experience of trainers varies
Equinox Pros
- Luxury facilities more akin to spa, not just gym
- Premium equipment and amenities overall
- Celebrity trainers and specialized group classes
- Enhanced performance and bespoke goal support
- Upscale professional culture raises the bar
- Convenient locations in major metropolitan cities
- Comprehensive spa services and beauty offerings
- Impressive service, details, and programming
Equinox Cons
- Very expensive membership and add-on fees
- Intimidating for beginners or casual gym-goers
- Need disposable income for high monthly rates
- Additional charges for classes, training, spa, etc.
- Limited nationwide presence – mostly urban locations
- Can be pretentious culture in some clubs
- Long waitlists common for popular classes
Also watch the review of Crunch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
No, Crunch aims to provide flexible membership options without tricky cancellation policies. You can cancel at anytime with no penalties by submitting written notice. Some locations may require 30 days notice, but there are no early termination fees.
Crunch became popular by catering to budget-conscious people looking for affordable gym access. Their fun culture, low membership fees around $10-$30 per month, and regular promos attract members. Classes, amenities, and equipment provide solid value at reasonable rates without expensive commitments.
Both Crunch and Blink cater to similar demographics with affordable gym memberships around $15-$25 per month. Blink gyms are slightly more compact.
For the best value, choose the location with the most convenient hours, preferred equipment and classes that match your goals. Evaluate trial offers to determine which gym suits your needs.
While both are budget gyms, Crunch and Planet Fitness do have some differences. Planet Fitness caters more towards casual gym goers, while Crunch courts general fitness enthusiasts looking for classes, community, and solid facilities without the frills.
Planet Fitness bans heavy weight lifting and discourages intense workouts, unlike Crunch. Overall gym environment will ultimately determine the better choice.
Also Read: Choose Between HOTWORX And OrangeTheory Fitness.
The Bottom Line
Determining between Crunch and Equinox comes down to your budget tolerance and personal preferences around amenities, culture, and fitness approach. For an affordable gym option with lively social vibes, Crunch delivers excellent value.
Equinox provides luxury facilities and programming for committed fitness devotees pursuing elite results.
But be prepared to pay premium pricing well over $200 per month. Think critically about your health goals and financial considerations to choose the gym best aligned with your lifestyle needs and values. With knowledge of these key differences, you can confidently select either Crunch or Equinox.