Our 6 Favorite Gyms (& Why Locals Love Each One!) in Pierce County
We're entering the season of food too good to pass up! If you're looking to combat the effects of that delicious food, you’ll find tons of fitness inspiration and workout opportunities in Pierce County! From gyms with addictive CrossFit programs to more laid-back workouts (and more!), there’s a little something to suit everyone’s style—if you know where to look!
We asked locals where they love to go and work out. Here is a look at our 6 favorite gyms and workout areas in Pierce County:
Located at 1144 Market St. Tacoma, WA 98402
Hours: 4:45am-9:45pm Monday-Thursday; 4:45am-9:30pm Friday; 7:00am-8:00pm Saturday; 9:00am-6:00pm Sunday
If you’re looking for fitness with a strong community, check out the local YMCA. “I love the Downtown Tacoma YMCA,” says Madison Basham. “They have a lot of great classes to choose from and a nice pool, hot tub, and steam room!”
Trish Stone seconds this pick, noting that “it breaks the weights and machines into different areas [and] some cardio machines wrap around the basketball court so you can watch live action or live classes while you sweat…”
Krista Osborne is particularly a fan of the atmosphere: “The YMCA is such a lovely environment,” she says. “Whether it be at the crack of dawn with the same regulars that have been Y attendees long before me, or at lunch time and in the evenings when there are little bursts of light and energy here, there, and everywhere (little kids) bringing inspiration and reflection on days gone by. The YMCA is a community-based group that invites the young and 'seasoned' to thrive at their own pace through swimming, racquetball, weight lifting, spin class, gymnastics, judo… you name it.”
Trish also mentions that “...the 15 y/o and older rule here makes it an adult only facility for a calmer, quieter vibe if the family-style gym isn't your thing but [you] like the Y atmosphere.”
Located at 3201 Jahn Ave. N.W. #200 Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Hours: 5:00am-8:00pm Monday-Friday; 7:00am-2:00pm Saturday; closed Sunday
Whether you’re looking to shed some pounds or recover from an injury, the trainers at The Club at Gig Harbor are there to help: “[The Club at Gig Harbor is] customized to each individual to meet their specific goals…[with] experts in all areas giving personal attention,” says Marisa Merritt. “[It’s] super clean, always new top-of-the-line equipment, and I love the small intimate environment! My friends I've met there are now like family. [It’s] unlike any other gym in the area.” From specialized exercises to nutrition plans and more, the Club is the place to go if you’re ready to get serious!
Located at 5206 S. Tacoma Way Tacoma, WA 98409
Hours: 6:00am-8:00pm Monday-Friday; 9:00am-12:00pm Saturday; closed Sunday
Ready to find some passion in your fitness journey? Then stop by Armor Athletics. “Armor Athletics in south Tacoma… is a CrossFit and Olympic Lifting Gym,” notes Jim Swanson. “The owner is a physical therapist. It is not for everyone, but should you choose to try it, you might be hooked.”
Their programs range from bootcamp to nutrition consulting and the classes are quick and effective. “You cannot get a better workout without taking way more time out of your day,” Jim says. “An hour is all it takes to get in and get out [here]. There are no weight machines, [only] barbells, kettlebells, pull-up bars, and other CrossFit gear. I can say without a doubt it’s the best workout I can get and the health benefits are amazing. It’s not just working out. You can learn all about nutrition too. I am approaching 4 years at this gym.” Ready to get into the best shape of your life?
Located at 625 River Rd. Puyallup, WA 98371
Hours: Open 24 Hours
Known nationally as the home of the “Judgement Free Zone,” Planet Fitness is the best place to get into shape your way. Short motivational sessions allow you to move at your pace to reach your goals. As an added bonus, Patti Connolly notes that Puyallup’s Planet Fitness is “...right next to the Loose Wheel so you can stop in for a nice cold glass of water when you're all done (Yup...water. Ice is just water in frozen form. Goes good with whiskey and wings. I hear Wednesday's are the best day for wings there. You're welcome!)!” Thanks for the pro tip, Patti!
Located at 3201 Jahn Ave. N.W. Gig Harbor, WA 98335
Hours: 9:00am-9:00pm Monday-Friday; 9:00am-12:30pm Saturday; 9:00am-10:30am Sunday
Taking the workouts that keep professional fighters fit and bringing them to you, iLoveKickboxing is a gym that guarantees fast results. “iLoveKickboxing is a great workout,” Paige Schulte shares. “High intensity, 60 minutes, and structured. I also love that they have a flexible punch card option and locations in Tacoma and Gig Harbor.”
For a head-to-toe regimen that lets you burn calories, relieve stress, and regain your confidence, iLoveKickboxing is a must-try workout!
Washington Trails Association Site & Trailblazer Mobile App
In addition to some fantastic local gyms, there are so many great local outdoor hiking spots that can keep you just as fit and healthy as any indoor facility (and without the cost of a monthly gym membership!).
When it comes to finding the best locations, Rachael Cabral checks out the Washington Trails Association. “I always go on there and research what the conditions are of surrounding hiking destinations,” she shares. “The equivalent app is Trailblazer. I always save hikes I want to check off my list in ‘my backpack’ and then you can report and post pics on your experiences. Other hikers will advise on conditions and even the bug count!”