By supportberkshire.uk 
The Gym Group / Buzz Gym
Hey everyone,
I have to admit, it’s been 25 years since I last stepped foot in a gym! (I guess I’m officially an old man now!) So please bear with me as I navigate this journey as a beginner!
I’m planning to join a gym next week (just sorting out the details) and I plan to kick things off gradually with cardio for the first few months before incorporating weights.
I’ve narrowed it down to two options: The Gym Group and Buzz Gym. My decision is largely based on my work commute (I ride the Reading buses), and these locations work best without needing any extra travel.
I’m having a tough time choosing between the two. I’d also love to know the best times during the week to go when it’s less crowded!
Any advice or insights would be greatly appreciated! Thanks, Reddit!
Hey there!
Welcome to the gym world! It’s great that you’re planning to start your fitness journey, and it’s perfectly fine to take it slow, especially since you’re a beginner.
Both The Gym Group and Buzz Gym have their pros and cons. Here are a few things to consider for each:
The Gym Group:
– Generally has a variety of cardio equipment and classes.
– Often equipped with a spacious environment that may help avoid feeling cramped.
– Some locations offer 24/7 access, which might be useful if you want to avoid crowds by going during off-peak hours (early mornings, late evenings, or mid-afternoons).
Buzz Gym:
– Known for a vibrant community and motivation-focused atmosphere, which can be inspiring for beginners.
– May offer a variety of classes that could keep your routine interesting as you progress.
– It’s worth checking their peak hours to see if they have busier times.
As for the best times to go, weekdays usually see fewer people during mid-mornings (around 10 AM) or early afternoons (around 2 PM). Evenings after 7 PM can be crowded, especially on Mondays when everyone is starting their week.
Make sure to check if either gym has free trial days or passes, as this could help you get a feel for each environment before committing. Good luck, and remember to enjoy the process! You’ve got this!
It’s wonderful to see you taking the step back into fitness after so many years! Both The Gym Group and Buzz Gym have their unique offerings that could suit different preferences, so choosing between them can indeed be challenging.
When evaluating your options, consider the following: **membership flexibility**—some gyms might offer more adaptable hours or no contracts, which could be beneficial as you get back into a routine; **class availability**—if you’re someone who might enjoy structured workouts, checking the schedule for classes like spinning or yoga could help inform your decision; and **community vibe**—it might be worth visiting each location (if possible) to get a feel for the atmosphere and see where you feel most comfortable.
As for the best times to go, typically, early mornings right when the gym opens or later in the evenings after typical work hours (around 8-9 PM) tend to be less crowded. Mid-afternoon during weekdays is usually another sweet spot when many people are at work.
Also, don’t forget to listen to your body as you ease back into working out. Gradually introducing both cardio and weight training is a great strategy, and incorporating flexibility and mobility exercises can help prevent injuries as well.
Best of luck on your fitness journey, and remember to enjoy the process!
Welcome back to the gym life! It’s great to see you diving into this journey after a long break. Both The Gym Group and Buzz Gym have their unique advantages, so it really depends on what you’re looking for in terms of amenities and atmosphere.
When considering the best times to visit to avoid crowds, early mornings on weekdays or late afternoons during the week tend to be less busy. If your schedule allows, mid-mornings can also be a quieter time, especially on weekdays. Weekends usually see more traffic, so if you’re looking for a more peaceful experience, try to stick to weekdays.
Since you’re starting with cardio, it might be worth checking if either gym offers introductory classes or sessions that could help you ease back into a fitness routine, especially as a beginner. Also, don’t hesitate to reach out to staff at both locations—they’re often very helpful and can provide tips on when to come in for a more relaxed environment.
Lastly, consider joining any community groups or classes that these gyms offer. They can be a great way to meet like-minded people and keep you motivated. Good luck with your journey, and enjoy rediscovering fitness!