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Ballard Health Club
Categories: Active Life Fitness & Instruction Gyms Active Life Fitness & Instruction Trainers Gyms, Trainers [Edit]
2208 NW Market StSeattle, WA 98107
Neighborhood: Ballard
(206) 706-4882
- Hours:
Mon-Fri 5:30 am - 10 pm
Sat-Sun 8 am - 8 pm
- Good for Kids:
- No
51 reviews for Ballard Health Club
51 reviews in English
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Review from Steve T.
Seattle, WA
9/22/2011
Two big thumbs up! I took the advice of other reviewers on Yelp and an so happy to have found BHC. You can't beat the rates--$35/mo which includes personal training and classes. I've lost 20 pounds since starting on a moderate fitness/strength training program with Matt A who is a great trainer.
The gym is small but only gets crowded after work on weekdays (you can reserve cardio equipment during these times). It has all the cardio equipment, strength machines, and free weights you need. No pool or squash court, just the basics. Child care is only $5 an hour while you are working out.
All the staff at the front counter are personal trainers so it's easy to get questions answered. They are all super friendly and the vibe of the gym is relaxed. No meat-market feel, and I heard that they kick people out for dramatically grunting and trying to show off!
I chose this gym because other gyms in the neighborhood offer skin cancer specials (i.e. tanning), or make you go to a long meeting where they measure your BMI with calipers before telling you the rates. Major turnoff. You can stop by for a tour and free workout. -
Review from John B.
4/21/2012 123 Check-ins Here
I find Ballard Health Club to be adequate, not amazing. I haven't taken advantage of any of the classes though and just use this place as a gym.
Pros
* Members are mostly friendly and clean the equipment after using it
* You can sign up with a trainer for free to learn some new routines/exercises
* Friendly employees, definitely a better breed than the sort of people you find working at a place like LA Fitness
* Not too expensive
* Few roided-out douchebags
* Lots of classes, but the hours of the classes don't fit my schedule and only seem accessible if you're either a) unemployed or b) work part-time
Cons
* Small, cramped, and lacks some basic equipment found at other gyms. They don't have a dedicated bench press anymore which is a real shame. Their sit-up machine is also kind of ghetto.
* The locker rooms are small and the men's locker room at least is kind of dingy. There are only a few showers and the setup there makes for an awkward showering experience.
* Only open until 10 pm on weekdays and 8 pm on the weekends.
* No windows
* No wi-fi or cell phone reception. This may seem like a strange complaint, but if I'm on the elliptical or stationary bike, I entertain myself on my phone or my Kindle. I like to be able to pull up Netflix or HBO Go, or just read the news. I used to be able to piggy back off of Starbucks' wi-fi, but now that they've moved it appears to no longer be available. -
Review from Stacey C.
Seattle, WA
5/14/2012
I used to be a member and enjoyed this plae for years. I only give it four stars though because I prefer the atmosphere at the local YMCAs which are cheaper and friendlier - at least in my experience.
Check it out if you live nearby but I also encourage you to explore the YMCAs as an alternative and then go for it.
Thanks, -
Review from Erika O.
Seattle, WA
11/16/2011 106 Check-ins Here
A really great little gym.
I definitely appreciate that BHC doesn't engage in high-pressure sales tactics when you join, or at any point thereafter. You can just go in, nose around a little, and join for the reasonable amount you're quoted; no muss, no fuss. BHC also keeps its equipment and locker room exceptionally clean; a must for me now that I can afford slightly better than the cheapest gym on the block.
I usually work out in the mid-morning and have not yet had a problem getting to use the equipment I want, although the stretching room can get quite full at any time of the day.
I prefer to do my own thing, so haven't yet taken advantage of the personal training included in the membership, but having that included is a great alternative to the usual sales tactics at most gyms. And it's nice to know that I can take advantage of it if/when I hit a wall in my training.
My only two complaints about the gym are, first, the lack of duplicates in some weight training equipment. Most notably, there's only one leg extension machine, while there are three leg curl and leg press machines. It works out that the leg extension machine is pretty much the only machine I ever have to wait for, so I can't complain too loudly, but it's just a little strange. Second, the gym can get quite warm and stuffy, especially in the summer, and it's only now that it's near/at freezing at night that the gym's temperature is reaching an ideal level for me. Certainly, no one's ignoring the problem by any means, there are fans everywhere, but it's definitely something to take into consideration if you prefer to work out in the afternoon. -
Review from Angela B.
8/30/2011 1 Check-in Here
Major perk at this gym is the free personal training!!! It's a small gym which has it's pros and cons. Pros are that you can't get lost & that you don't feel like you're working out in an institution or giant building like Costco. Cons are that you might not get to use the equipment you want since there is just not that much equipment. I really wanted to use this cardio machine, which there were one 4 of & 1 was broken. In 1.5 hrs I never got to use it :(
Lockers are really nice! Zumba class was good & very popular. Liked the sauna.
Overall a very nice gym. -
Review from Aaron B.
Seattle, WA
4/28/2011 16 Check-ins Here
Wonderful staff -- not pretension -- great location and just a great place to go and get your workout on. The whole environment is relaxed -- definitely not a meat market atmosphere. It is comfortable and enjoyable to workout. The price is just right and the hours are pretty good, although I wish they opened at 5 AM rather 5:30 AM.
A great club! -
Review from Pony C.
Seattle, WA
1/27/2011 4 Check-ins Here
The first thing I noticed about BHC is that their rates are posted right on their website. Most gyms make you endure high pressure sales pitchs which are totally annoying and make you think twice about joining a gym. I've never seen a gym do that and I really appreciated it.
The other thing I love about this gym is that it doesn't feel like a meat market. It has a definite neighborhood atmosphere that seems to attract down to earth, non-pretentious members. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful and the fact that personal training is included in your membership is pretty amazing.
I can understand why some people don't like it. It is kinda small and the equipment isn't the super new but it all works. Despite it's size, it isn't as crowded as you'd think it might be. There's only been one or two times I've seen every cardio machine taken up. I've also heard some people complain about the whole windowless/underground thing which I can understand but it doesn't bother me.
My entire experience with BHC has been satisfying. From joining to working with the trainers to just day to day working out. I can't say enough good things about this place. -
Review from Anna B.
Seattle, WA
11/13/2011
Pretty much the best gym. Since I am not allowed to swim anymore for medical reasons, this gym now literally has everything I need for a workout. Memberships are very reasonable and offered in plain writing, without one of those insane sales spiels where you pay based on negotiation. You save some money on paying for a longer haul, but there are also monthly- and drop-in rates. Program set-up sessions with a trainer are available with membership. The staff are actually friendly and helpful, not snooty at all, and will remember your name if you come in regularly. While there's no a/c, it has honestly only ever bothered me once, a few years ago when it was 100F out for a long stretch of summer, as the gym is in the basement and there are plenty of fans moving the air around. I don't do classes, but the class teachers here seem universally liked.
Oh, and there's daycare available. Thumbs up for that.
The only problem I really have with BHC is the hours, they close at 8 PM in the weekends, which means that unless I go first thing in the morning, I am screwed for that day, but it really does bother me enough of a regular basis to bump the rating down from 5 stars. -
Review from Amelia B.
2/26/2011
I worked out here for a few months while I was in Seattle on a temporary basis, and it was exactly what I needed. It's so hard to find a gym nowadays that will give you a month pass--for $50 bucks (may have gone up since then), I had access to a gym for a month. Perfect.
Yes, there are no windows and its underground. A bit depressing to be honest. But I don't come to work out to look at the views. It's pretty small, but it never seemed to be very crowded (I was there early morning hours).
Decent selection of cardio equipment--not the newest, but they have arc trainers, ellipticals, treadmills, bikes. And a nice selection of magazines to pass the time, and TV's with plug-ins as well.
Great selection of free weights, but the stretching room can get a bit crowded, and is a bit smelly...
I never took a class here, but the class room is pretty small. There is no spinning, no pool, but you know that coming in.
All shapes and sizes here, which is a great thing. The staff was extremely friendly, even to a visitor like me who was only coming for a short period of time.
And one big plus--free parking with membership. That being said, the small lot can get full really quickly, but I never had a problem. -
Review from Shauna H.
Seattle, WA
5/7/2009 ROTD 9/30/2009
Dear Exercise,
I have never liked you. From our early days together in middle school gym class when I did anything I could think of to get away from you (like that time I actually got excited to take a surprise volleyball to the face because it meant getting benched for the rest of the hour - thanks, Wilson!) to more recent times when I thought having an exercise bike in my living room would encourage me to do something healthy while I zoned out on the Sopranos (though the bike did make a fantastic coat rack), we haven't really been "tight" for the last 29 years. So, what changed? Why do I suddenly eschew happy hour for 45 minutes on my favorite elliptical machine? Why is my iPod shuffle and its wealth of Ghostface songs suddenly seeing the light of day for the first time in years?
The answer: Ballard Health Club.
Last year, I started feeling gross. Tired more often than not, out of shape, and unhealthy - I was getting a cold every six weeks. I realized I had to do something and, since I'd tried aimless walking around the neighborhood a few times without ever sticking with it, I figured I'd try the old "Pay for a gym and you'll guilt yourself into actually going" trick. I didn't get around to joining until early this year, but after my first tentative steps on treadmill #6, I've never looked back. I hesitated a little before signing up, but after hearing about the free unlimited personal training, frequent yoga classes, and lack of weird gym-rat attitude combined with the super low monthly rates (around $35), I was left with no excuses.
Since I joined, I've gone consistently around 2-3 times per week. I have yet to attend a single yoga class or take advantage of the training, but the rhythm I've found with the machines has instilled in me a love of working out until I'm nearly wheezing. The fellow members are cool and stick to themselves for the most part, which I love, and the staff are also really nice and helpful if you ever have a question. I wear gross old clothes and turn red and end up covered in sweat and it's totally chill. I'd only take off one star for lack of a swimming pool and hot tub (which would be magical), sometimes tough parking, and limited hours - if it was open 24 hours, I'd for sure be there on those weird nights when I've had too much mate and can't get to sleep.
So, exercise, I guess you're not that bad. In fact, I think I... love you?
Eternally yours (unless I break something),
Shauna -
Review from Allison F.
Seattle, WA
1/16/2011
This gym is truly the best value in Seattle- only $35/month with classes and personal training sessions included! AND it's Market Street location is super convenient!
Beyond the pricing and location, the staff is extremely helpful and friendly, the facility is clean and inviting, and members are conscientious.
I used to be a member of a large, corporately-owned gym, but after feeling the positive energy inside Ballard Health Club I will never go back! -
Review from Katie S.
San Francisco, CA
Updated - 8/12/2009 1 photo
Still lovin' the BHC... the prices haven't changed since I started working out here years ago. The space had changed quite a bit since I started attending there (lots of wild and crazy colors) but that's okay... they still have all the same great machines, equipment, etc.
Free classes (yes, free yoga classes) and free personal trainers (yes, free personal trainers) available at all times. You just have to sign up.
I will be here as long as I'm in the Llard... which will hopefully be forever. i am, technically a 3rd generation Ballardite. Represent!Listed in: Extra Curricular
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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4/15/2007
"Load up the weights, Johnny. I'm about to have the squat of my life."
Nestled right next to WAMU and… Read more »
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Review from Jessica S.
Seattle, WA
8/12/2009
So, my 100th review is a big deal. I decided to review my 2nd favorite place to be in the world besides my house: the BHC.
Love it here! Yeah it's small, but it's cozy. They have everything and more. It has a lot of personality, clean, and the layout is great. I also love the staff-super friendly and helpful. The free hour of personal training once a month has really enhanced my workouts.
The prices are very reasonable. And parking is plenty. BHC has its busy times, but I'm not complaining. I would highly suggest this gym (and have!) as a place to get in shape and actually look forward to it. -
Review from Sophia W.
Seattle, WA
3/27/2008
I've worked out in dozens of gyms in a slew of different cities and counties-- once in India that was technically a "men's only" bodybuilders gym, and they all lifted barefoot with the moonson rain leaking through the roof! (that was an expereince!) But anyway...Ballard Health Club has become my favorite by far. I've been working out there for nearly a year and love it more and more with time.
The space is open and clean, with wood floors and a cool dance-studio feel. Just the right size for me. No unnecessary fancy machines, but never lacking in quality equipment. I'm a pretty serious mountain climber, runner, and training to become a Pilates instructor, so I have high expectations of what a gym should offer. Good ol' BHC hasn't let me down, and I've achieved a higher level of performance in various sports since I've started training there.
The atmosphere is relaxed, but still with enough activity and energy to help you concentrate and get you really psyched up enough to challenge yourself. The staff is awesome! Always friendly, and they offer FREE personal training. I can't reccommend Jade Dahle's classes highly enough. AbLab (M/W/F @ 5pm) and Butt&Gutt (wed. @ 5:30pm) are both upbeat and fun, with GREAT music. Jade has whipped my tummy into six-pack shape in a way that not even Pilates has!
Definitely check them out. -
Review from Christine S.
Seattle, WA
Updated - 11/21/2008
I'm keeping them at four stars, but has anyone noticed that Belltown is missing all it's douchebags, and they seem to be at my gym? DBs - Belltown misses you, go home!
Hugs and kisses and still loves her gym (just not all the other people there lately),
CStan1 Previous Review: Show all »
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1/31/2008
I give them only four stars because if they have too many five star reviews more people will join… Read more »
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Review from Katelyn H.
Seattle, WA
8/28/2010
Ballard Health Club is one of my favorite places in Seattle: they've got all the goods: many cardio machines, lots of free weights and machines, areas for stretching, a variety of inspired classes, fantastic staff, sauna!--, but perhaps most importantly, it's what they don't have that I most appreciate... Namely, pretension, snobbery, or strutting beefcakes.
Ballard Health Club offers a variety of interesting fitness classes, all of which are included in the very low cost to join. The yoga classes are especially fantastic and are offered every day of the week! One of the best perks about BHC is that all of the staff members are trainers and will give one-on-one advice and instruction whenever requested... and they do it with genuine enthusiasm and excitement for what they do. -
Review from Kristen e.
Seattle, WA
11/25/2007
My love affair with my husband's cooking, and all the great places to eat and drink in the neighborhood, requires that I also have a dependable and pleasant place to work off the multitude of calories I consume. I've been an off again, on again member of the Ballard Health Club for eight or nine years and there are so many things that I appreciate about them that I've gleefully jotted down the top ten things that bring me the most joy.
First, I LOVE that the staff are not paid to assault customers with tanning/ supplement/ merchandise malarkey as they come in the door. This is an assault free zone.
Second, the monthly rate and joining fee are always the same, so you don't feel like a schmuck for joining in this month instead of that other one.
Third, it's pretty much been the same steady core of awesome staff members since my first visit back in the 1900's.
Fourth, towel service for five dollars a month - all the towels you can possibly need for a whole person are included. I'm not sure about partial people...hmmm
Fifth, you can pause your membership for up to three months each calendar year - I've taken advantage of this a few times and they never "forget" to stop the auto-withdrawal from my checking account; and they never "accidentally" charge me the joining fee when I come back.
Sixth, the equipment is new, kept in good shape, and well selected for the size of the gym.
Seventh - even at busy times, on my first choice machine pretty quickly.
Eight, no creepiness. No meaty-market vibe. No kids. (There is childcare, though, if you have little ones in tow.)
Nine, they have a parking lot, and during non-banking hours you can use the WAMU lot as well.
And ten, they never, ever make me feel bad when I've been away - and they always greet me warmly when I come back. -
Review from Mary Lou H.
Seattle, WA
1/7/2011 11 Check-ins Here
I LOVE the Ballard Health Club. I rewarded myself with a membership on Sept 1, 2010 and I have never looked back. There is no 'tude when you walk down the stairs...instead, a friendly HELLO and a welcoming smile. I love everything about it; it is my happy thought when I go to work out. The trainers I've worked with are all awesome. Most recently, MJ, who understands my "inner athlete." She knows I won't do something if I don't enjoy doing it...and she works with me on that! Great yoga classes too.
THANK YOU BALLARD HEALTH CLUB! =An adoring fan= -
Review from Lily S.
2/15/2007
I've been going to Ballard Health Club as a drop in for a few weeks now - basically I've been cheating on the place I teach fitness classes at and I have to say that I really like little ole BHC. It's close to where we live and not a complete meat market. I say "complete" b/c I haven't been there during primetime to see if it would be considered a smarmy hookup gym. The handful of times I've gone, I've been able to get my workout in and leave w/o being stalked or chatted with. I LIKE IT.
And now I must try to teach there. Goodbye corporate health club, hello neighbourhood gym! -
Review from Olin B.
Seattle, WA
7/24/2009
One of the greatest aspects of Ballard.
Not a lot of options in terms of extras (no pool, basketball courts, etc.), but that means you aren't paying for them either. It's also not open 24 hours a day, but I don't workout at 3am. It's small but I've never had to wait longer than a few minutes for anything to open up.
For under $40 a month I get access to the gym and as many sessions with the very friendly personal trainers as I care to sign up for, probably the best deal in the city. I wish there were gyms like this in every neighborhood. -
Review from Ian C.
6/22/2011
The perfect Gym for me. I suppose I'd like one of two tv's down on the machine floor, instead of in front of each treadmill, but that's s pretty minor issue. I appreciate that now that it's sunny, I can put the member ship on pause for three months and use it later!
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Review from Tim R.
San Francisco, CA
8/16/2008
I didn't realize how gym-spoiled I was until I moved away, and had to give up my membership at the BHC.
This place is damn near the platonic ideal for a gym: low-key, remarkably clean, balanced (neither too many meatheads, nor an excess of pilates princesses), and amazingly affordable. I never used the free classes or trainers, but it was nice to have the option. And the fact that I was never once subjected to a hard-sell for upgrades or an annual membership? That alone was worth giving them my business.
The only gripe I have (and it's fairly minor) is that the place can get too hot sometimes -- but for $35 a month, it's hardly worth noting (where I live now, it seems that you have to pay twice as much just to get a gym without the delightful background odor of raw sewage.) Besides, a little sweat never hurt anyone.... -
Review from Anyong N.
Seattle, WA
4/5/2011
I'm givin' it 5 stars because my quibbles require specialized gyms.
Love this gym. Why?
1. It's clean. (ok, the stretching room is a little smelly, but I'm not here to smell roses and perfume)
2. Everyone seems interested in doing their business and not being all up in mine.
3. Most people are doing cardio. Even so, I very rarely see the treadmill area totally full.
4. I liked the two yoga classes I went to.
5. As long as you go to the gym, best gym value around Ballard. Don't lie to yourself, pay for a membership and then not go!
6. The employees are friendly. I've yet to ask them questions such as "Where did the rings go?"
7. Someone said it's cozy. I agree. Who cares that there are no windows? If you need to see outside, I recommend doing your cardio outside.
What I'd like to see there:
1. More squat racks, less machines. There are two racks and a Smith machine. One of the racks is generally open or I can entertain myself until then.
2. A little sad there's no Ashtanga yoga here. Yes yes, I understand why. -
Review from Natalie W.
Seattle, WA
3/22/2007
After going to the hellhole that is Pure Fitness in Westlake, I can say that this club is a dream. Yes, it's small, simple, and the building's a little dingy...but it's also clean, not that crowded (even at peak times), and totally unpretentious. There are no fashion queens, bodybuilders, or psycho treadmill sorority girls here. It's the local crowd, and it's very chill. Staff is friendly. Classes are great.
Conversely, Pure Fitness was pushy, always trying to make the hard sell on their supplements. It smelled like moldly feet, the staff were annoying, trainers uncertified, overly crowded, and had frequently broken equipment (hello, 2 working ellipticals???) It also had lots of shiny shaven men oogling women in the weight room. EWWWWW! In all, this gym made me fell dirty. But Ballard Health Club is my home away from home. Just don't crowd up the classes, OK? -
Review from Laura S.
Seattle, WA
1/1/2009
I admit that I go to a health club mostly for the cardio equipment, and when I'm in the mood, to use some of the machines.
I like Ballard Health Club for the following reasons:
-no-nonsense pricing, up front, nothing hidden
-reasonable pricing scale - including a no-contract monthly deal for under $40/mo
-variety of cardio equipment that's often available in off-peak hours, with a sign-up sheet for peak hours
-very few machines, if any, out of order
-friendly, personable staff that don't pressure you into buying crap you don't want or need
-clean, well managed locker rooms, showers and sauna
It's not a super-fancy, top-of-the-line place. They do offer a variety of yoga and exercise classes as well as personal training, but they don't have a pool or jacuzzi or anything. It's homey, comfortable, and filled with a wide variety of shapes, sizes and ages of people. Definitely worth the trip to Ballard, if you are not a local. -
Review from cathy g.
Seattle, WA
11/23/2008
Excellent little gym tucked away in Ballard, and tucked away is really a description. Parking is catch as can.
The yoga instructors are excellent. The sauna and steam room is fine.
I woudl give it 5 stars except an unreturned phone call.."I promise I will get back to you in 2 days" leaves me... oohhh dangling. How long is 2 days?
I shall continue to go on occasion until I join probably the new Hollywood Fitness. -
Review from Paul F.
Seattle, WA
4/26/2009
Conclusion: Ballard Health Club is a great, affordable, basic gym for North Seattle area residents.
I just graduated from the UW, and have found that in the real world, gyms are expensive, and not nearly as large or modern as a university's standard temple of health.
After visiting University and Anytime Fitness, which are both closer to my apartment, I found Ballard Health Club to my liking. I firmly believe that weight training is important to an efficient workout routine, and those other gyms were just lacking. I also appreciate how affordable Ballard Health Club is. About 35 a month with an hour of free personal training. In the few weeks I've been coming I've found the staff very affable and making a serious effort to learn their patrons names. It's a nice environment.
Parking has never been a problem for me, but I come early, around 7 in the morning on weekdays. At that time there is a second parking lot, the WaMu(Becoming Chase!) next door. But even if everyone was there in the morning, I'm sure I could find street parking. That street parking would be free at that time too.
I asked a staff member what time was busiest and he said it was 4-6 on weekdays. I can imagine that time being pretty bad. There's only one parking lot open, as the WaMu one isn't open until 6:30 at night and that's when people are getting off work. So maybe if that's the only time you have to come work out and you must drive, this might not be the gym for you. But if you like making it out in the morning and enjoy a laid-back, simple exercise experience, come to Ballard Health Club! -
Review from Michelle B.
Seattle, WA
6/2/2010
I LOVE BALLARD HEALTH CLUB!!!!
- Price is stupidly awesome.
- Staff is absolutely stellar.
- Personal training and classes included in already low price? YES PLEASE.
- Not too busy.
- Parking is convenient.
If I could change one thing I'd have them be open later, but minor detail considering all of the other amazing things about it! -
Review from Gene R.
Seattle, WA
1/9/2008
500 Watts in Pilates Class
Went to pilates on Saturday. Loved it. Dim lighting. Relaxing.
Went back on Wednesday. Overly bright lights drove me from the workout area and the staff could offer no reasonable explanation for why the lights could not be dimmed as they were on Saturday. I was prepared to buy a membership but I was told that the bright light scheme was the new policy for the club. It is impossible to achieve the stress relief that pilates provides under the glare of these lights. Management would not offer any accommodation. -
Review from Heather R.
Seattle, WA
7/9/2010
After belonging to mega-gyms like 24 hr Fitness, this place is such a breath of fresh air. It is unpretentious and personal. The staff is awesome (always genuinely friendly and interested, supportive, and really happy), the facility is clean and unpretentious, the yoga classes are really good, and the fellow gym members are real people just doing their thing. For the price, this place is soooo worth it. I have never loved a gym before, but I do now.
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Review from Cary R.
Seattle, WA
5/2/2009
I've been a member since early this year here and there's really nothing bad u can say about Ballard Health Club. The staff is always friendly, it never seems to be crazy crowded, the steroid abusing gym rats who grunt during each rep are scarce and the prices are reasonable. I must admit though, I would surely switch to Olympic Athletic Club in a heart beat if they didnt charge so damn much, just for the indoor basketball court access which is my true passion....grrr!
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Review from Sarah E.
Seattle, WA
2/16/2010 6 Check-ins Here
BHC is super down-to-earth. Very little pretense, good energy, great staff--all are SUPER friendly and helpful, and other members are also pretty laid-back. I come in on a regular basis and never feel out of place or unwelcome. I've worked with Brandon on a personal training program, and despite some temporary disability obstacles I have for the next month, he was able to get me started on a nice solid yet short and effective routine. The price is right, and, yeah, it's not a super-fancy club, but dance, yoga and other classes as well as on-going PT sessions are included in the $35 per month charge. And, there's always equipment and space available to work out. BHC has been my only good experience with a gym; I love it. Definitely a fan!
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Review from Kandice K.
Seattle, WA
8/4/2008
Okay, I'm that girl who drives her ass all the way across town to go to this gym. Why? It feels like home. Not my home, cause my home isn't filled with low key cute guys. And I swear I'm not checking them out, because that would ruin the thing I love about BHC. It's just a bunch of quiet hipsters doing their thing. Oh yeah, great membership deals and AMAZING classes. Real pilates, not that crappy aerobics teacher pretending to teach pilates kinda stuff.
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Review from Jen P.
Seattle, WA
9/7/2009
I miss Ballard Health Club! SOOO reasonable are the rates, great classes (belly dancing! butt n' gut!), wonderful location in downtown Ballard, friendly staff...I moved to another neighborhood, but Ballard Health Club remains close to my heart.
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Review from Victor T.
Seattle, WA
11/5/2007
I've been a member here since 2004. Although most of my reviews contain things that pertain to drinking, smoking, and other ill shit, I do have to counteract some of my despicableness with exercise. If you find yourself in a similar boat, then get your chunky fanny down to BHC and sweat out the weekends regrets with the rest of us.
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Review from Lyca F.
Seattle, WA
12/24/2009
EASY GOING. The prices haven't changed throughout the recession yet... Got a lot of competitors offering cheaper prices lately...but still I like it better there....
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Review from Brian H.
Seattle, WA
11/26/2010
Best gym value in Seattle. The friendliest staff of the nine gyms I've belonged to. Never too crowded, free classes, eclectic mix of members.
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Review from Rebecca W.
Seattle, WA
3/25/2009 4 photos
I am so impressed with this gym. The staff is genuine and relaxed and they actually care about the customers rather than some sales quota. They have free personal training, not as a gimmick to get you to buy something, but to help you meet your fitness goals. It may not be a slick, brand new gym but it's clean and the equipment is in good condition, and slick new gyms tend to come with slick, sleazy sales staff. I'll pick BHC over that option any day! Oh, and the hours are great and dues are low and uncomplicated. I give it four stars simply because I wish it had a pool.
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Review from Elisabeth J.
Seattle, WA
4/4/2010 5 Check-ins Here
Reasons I love BHC:
- The price! Under $40/mo., including classes and personal training
- The machines are very well-maintained; I don't think I've seen any go out of service for more than a few days at a time
- Good selection of cardio equipment, weight machines, and miscellaneous free-weight-type-stuff
- *Super* friendly staff, every one of them a personal trainer, always happy to answer my odd exercise questions ("Is there a way I can do upper-body weights without gripping anything with my hands?")
- Wonderfully clean, well-maintained locker rooms
- Lots of TVs in the cardio area, and they're always happy to let you pick the channel
- Generally a nice selection of magazines on a rack in the cardio area too (cardio can get kind of boring if you do enough of it, y'know?)
- I dig what they've been doing with the new paint job and other touch-ups
- Other members are generally considerate and nice to work out around
Plus, as a friend of mine (also a BHC member) puts it, this is Ballard's gym for "regular-ass people" - not too many grunty muscleheads, machine-hogging anorexic teenagers, or leering old men. Actually, virtually none of all of the above. So much nicer than some other gyms I've been to!
The only things you might miss:
- There is no pool, and there are no basketball courts (I use neither regardless, so I don't care)
- It is in a basement, which means no natural light (but also nobody outside watching you sweat, and no need to see the rain when it's gross out)
Oh, and one other quirk (I'm not sure whether it's positive, negative, or neither): going in, there is a strong smell of fresh bread. It's probably because Great Harvest is right upstairs. Sometimes it torments me. -
Review from Krisanne C.
Oakland, CA
4/20/2007
No frills, nothing fancy, but there's a reason I've been a member for four years now. Ballard Health Club is extremely friendly, with fantastic staff that are always welcoming and encouraging. The place is comfortable for people of all shapes and sizes and ages and fitness levels; it's not a place where you need to look perfect or already be in fantastic shape to fit in. Come to BHC and focus on your health and fitness in a way that works for you.
I love it for its proximity to my home, and the fact that it's open till 10 on weeknights - I like the 830-10 time frame for working out. There's a lot of great classes and instructors, plenty of equipment (especially for such a small space!) and it's generally in very good repair. It's definitely one of the best values in Seattle.
