Join CSI Ballly at Jian Wai Soho. I don't care what people say about big chain gyms, I like this one. I usually go after 7:30pm on weekdays and late afternoons on weekends, never found it crowded. It's bright and spacious. Clean fluffy towels everytime you check in at the front desk. Well maintained locker room (two janitors all the time). Very friendly staff. A wide variety of classes, from Yoga to Pilates to kick boxing to belly dance. The personal trainers might be little pushy when it comes to sales, but you don't have to buy any classes, just use up the 4 free ones and say no thank you. It's 5188 for one year and 7988 for two, single location. I was comparing Bally and Evolution (see my previous thread on this subject), and I eventually joined Bally, and I am very happy with it. You'd think Bally is paying me for promoting their club, but I do think it's the best bang for your buck in the Guomao area. Actually, when I think about it, I do have a week long free pass I can give to you, if you sign up, I think I can get two months free!! PM me if you are interested. Sweeeeet.

Hi,

Have been considering joining a gym, and am interested in Jianwai Soho as we live close. Was tempted by your offer of some free passes to get a good feel of the place before handing over the money. Let me know if your offers are still available.

Many thanks,

tkdobro.

I've been a member of Fitness First for the last five years. It offers everything (including a 25m swimming pool) but is looking quite dated. Annual subscription fees are between RMB 3,500 - 4,500.

I've just joined Powerhouse Gym in the LG Towers (at Yong An Li, one stop west of Guo Mao) as it is closer to my work. It is due to open at the beginning of March and so has lots of good introductory offers. I paid RMB 3,400 for one year and got a second year free.

Powerhouse links:

http://www.thebeijinger.com/directory/Powerhouse-Gym

http://www.cityweekend.com.cn/beijing/listings/sports/gyms/has/powerhous...

http://www.powerhousegym.com.cn/