Gold's Gym in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota Review

Situated in the former Life Time Fitness location, the Brooklyn Park Gold's Gym opened in January 2007. It is conveniently located in a small strip mall and offers ample parking. The facility is small, but adequate, especially for those simply looking for a place to run on a treadmill, lift weights or participate in a group fitness class. Unlike other area health clubs, this gym doesn't experience the extremely busy after-work crowds, making it an excellent facility for those who don't want to wait to use an exercise bike or weight machine.

The equipment is a little outdated--most of it was left over from the old Life Time Fitness and appears to be at least 7 to 8 years old. The equipment is adequate and works, but some machines are quite squeaky. Equipment seems to break down frequently, and when it does, members experience wait times of several weeks for repairs. The indoor running track loops around the cardio area and the weight area is stocked with a range of dumbbells and barbells, squat racks and bench presses. Plenty of weight machines are also available. TVs hang from the walls throughout the facility and offer radio-station tuning. The entire facility is dimly lit--those used to the more bright and airy facilities might have difficulty getting used to this location.

Group fitness classes are available, but this location only offers a limited selection of classes. Classes include Zumba, Silver Sneakers, bootcamp and spinning. Most classes are offered after 6 p.m. on weekdays.

Personal training is offered for an additional fee. New members receive one free personal training orientation session.

Child care is available for children ages 6 weeks to 13 years old. The Gold's Gym Kids Club has plenty of activities, toys and play equipment to keep children entertained during your workout.

Although Gold's Gym is typically seen as a hotspot for serious bodybuilders, the Brooklyn Park location's membership is made up of all-ages and fitness abilities. Those new to fitness shouldn't be intimidated of this gym--everyone from senior cities to teenagers work out here.

Bottom line? I'd pass. I visited the gym on a guest pass and was beat over the head with a nonstop sales pitch the minute I presented the pass. I was completely turned off by this and would never join this gym. The membership fees vary--from a $10-$25 monthly rate or a $250 yearly rate. All memberships are paid via monthly checking account deduction. Memberships are difficult to cancel and many members report having to fight with the staff to cancel the membership. Members must sign a 12-month contract upon joining. Proceed with caution!

Gold's Gym is located at 7970 Brooklyn Boulevard, Brooklyn Park, MN 55445. Call the gym at (763) 515-4650.