SouthernWorldwide.com – A fitness expert has identified four gyms across the United States that he believes are excelling in providing the right environment and culture for their members. Kenny Santucci, a New York City-based fitness trainer, gym owner, and host of the “Strong New York” podcast, shared his insights on what makes a gym truly stand out.
Santucci’s evaluations come at a time when gym memberships have reached an all-time high, with the Health & Fitness Association reporting record numbers in 2025. This surge in popularity means consumers have more choices than ever, making it crucial to find a fitness space that aligns with their goals and offers a positive experience.
He noted that many modern fitness clubs and gyms come with hefty price tags, often costing hundreds of dollars monthly, depending on the amenities and access provided. However, Santucci emphasizes that the cost doesn’t always equate to quality.
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Santucci explained his criteria for a great gym. He stated that while many people are drawn to gyms with extensive amenities like spas and luxurious bathrooms, his focus is different.
“For me, a gym is a gym,” Santucci said. “I go there for the equipment, I go for the culture, I go for the look and feel of the place.”
He elaborated that an exceptional gym doesn’t necessarily need to be a high-end facility. “You can have an incredible gym that’s a garage gym, and you can have an incredible gym that somebody could have built for $10 million.”
Santucci regularly visits gyms nationwide, sharing his experiences on social media. His assessment prioritizes a blend of appealing aesthetics and high-quality equipment, but he stresses that “great people” are the key ingredient to a truly exceptional gym culture.
“I think you could go and get in a sweat or a workout anywhere — but if the people are great, that’s what creates that great culture,” he explained.
He also pointed out a common misconception among gym-goers, where the primary reasons for liking a gym are superficial. “If you ask the average person who goes to most big-box gyms, the things they tell you they love about the gym are, ‘Oh, I love the showers. They have really nice towels.’ It’s nothing that actually pertains to the gym,” Santucci observed.
Santucci believes that the purpose of a gym should be focused on personal improvement. “I believe that people should go to the gym to progress and get better,” he added.
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With these principles in mind, Santucci highlighted four gyms that he feels are “getting it right”:
Life Time Fitness
Life Time is recognized as a chain of upscale health clubs across the U.S., offering a wide range of amenities including indoor courts, swimming pools, saunas, and various group fitness classes.
Santucci specifically praised the gym’s founder and CEO, Bahram Akradi, for his hands-on approach. “Bahran’s mentality and belief system around the fitness space, I absolutely love,” he stated.
He further commended Akradi’s dedication, saying, “I give a lot of credit to the guys who are owners and operators. They’re in the space, they’re making sure things are going really well. I think if you’re going to be in the gym business, you should be one of those people.”
Anatomy Gyms (Florida)
Another gym that received a shout-out from Santucci is Anatomy Fitness, co-founded and co-led by Marc Megna in Florida. Santucci described it as a “must-visit space.”
“It’s an incredible culture there, and I think that’s what they really push at that gym,” he said.
Santucci highlighted the gym’s thoughtful design, cleanliness, and appealing aesthetics. “The way the gym’s set up, the cleanliness of it, the aesthetics – you walk in that place, and you want to train,” he commented.
He emphasized that these qualities are not easily acquired. “You have to live it, love it and be involved in the day-to-day operations.”
Powerhouse (New York/New Jersey)
More recently, Santucci has been impressed with Powerhouse Gym, with locations in New York City and surrounding areas. He mentioned visiting the gym “once or twice a week.”
“I really love the people and the culture,” he shared.
Powerhouse Gym is known for its focus on weight training and bodybuilding, featuring specialized areas such as a powerlifting room and a boxing rig at its facilities.
The Training Lab (NYC)
For those interested in group fitness and Hyrox training, Santucci recommends The Training Lab in New York City. Hyrox is a global fitness racing brand that also offers a structured training system through affiliated gyms.
“The guys over at Training Lab are incredible,” Santucci told Fox News Digital. “Another owner-operator who’s involved in the business, who partakes in everything. I think they’re another great gym.”
He concluded by saying, “If you’re looking for group training, Training Lab’s a great space.”
The Price of Wellness
Santucci acknowledged that while premium gym memberships can exceed $300 per month, he believes significant results can be achieved without such high expenditure, although it might offer a more “elevated experience.”
“We need to restructure the way we think about health and wellness,” he advised. “People aren’t going out as much anymore. They’re not spending as much on alcohol.”
He sees fitness as a personal priority. “It’s all what you prioritize. I prioritize fitness,” Santucci stated. “I belong to multiple gyms. I have a membership to TMPL Gym here in [New York City]. I have a membership to Renzo Gracie’s. That’s what I like to do with my money.”
The expert suggested that wellness has evolved into a “third form of hygiene.”
“It’s like you take a shower, you brush your teeth and you go to the gym,” he said. “I think those are three non-negotiables for almost everybody on a daily basis when it comes to your hygiene.”
