Beacon Hill Athletic Club

Elite '08

5

59

pete k.

Newton, MA

I almost don't want to write this review, because I don't want more people to know about this gem. But, oh well.. its good for business. I have been a member of several gyms in the area over the last several years, and none have come close to BHAC. Why? Because its totally chill - its not full of oil-coated self-lusters in the weight room, nor is it full of loose-screw-makeup-coated treadmill-nazis.

It costs a bit more (which keeps out some of the gym-raff) than lesser gyms, and its worth it for the serenity it provides. I go after work, and the last thing I want to do is compete for equipment. I like to run and lift, and that's it. I don't want to make friends and I don't want to hang out at a juice bar to suck down choco gluten soy protein whey malt goo.

BHAC has great staff, and all the right machines - all of which are well maintained, as well. Plenty have mini TVs for your viewing pleasure. XM radio is overhead, which once or twice a week is a curse since they mix it up, and there are days where it ends up being rip-your-earlobes-off-light-70's-muck (aka, Neil Young, my audible nemesis). Its a very clean place with a constant flow of clean towels.

The members are very respectful of the place, as well - generally cleaning as they go and not leaving sweat drenched machines behind. There are classes, though I can't get to most since I usually arrive after 6 - the staff will even tell you the main clientele is stay at home mom's - not so much the young professional crowd. Fine with me! More room for us at night then.

Parking can sometimes be tough - but you can just park on Washington of even *gasp* sneak a spot at Trader Joes. Come on - you know you'll be swinging into Tjoes afterwards anyway. Probably the only negative of this BHAC - its too easy to go to Tjoes after working out, thus you buy more food than you could possibly need.

4/3/08 - quick edit.. did I mention they have tissues? Seems silly but man, that's alot better than crunchy paper towels on your nose. I only noticed since I recently had a cold and was shocked to find tissues at the front desk and in the locker room. Definitely have never seen that in a gym before.

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Elite '08

49

159

holly m.

Newton, MA

Honestly, I have always hated going to the gym...  but this gym has changed it all for me.  The employees are friendly and helpful.  The people that go there are unpretentious and generally quite nice.  Finally a place to call "my gym" and not worry about what I look like when I'm there....cause seriously, I don't.  No big bicep guys in the corner grunting away, no waiting for sweat covered machines, and usually no issues with parking.  
I'm here almost 5 days a week and it is great!

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11

179

Megan B.

Newton, MA

This is a great gym, friendly, low key. The staff is helpful and supportive. The rates are low, there are few frills, but do you really need them?  A wide range of classes, great spinning, pilates and yoga. No child care but a comfortable place for those who don't live in spandex.

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23

17

Jean N.

Newtonville, MA

I agree with Megan B. as this is a great gym, with friendly and knowledgeable staff. The mornings are a great time to work out, very little spandex or full blown makeup at that time of the day. Best of all, if you start work at 7 am, you can still work out at the gym, shower, dress, and get to work with minutes to spare. The hours are great as they open at 5 am, making it hard to have an excuse not to work out every day.

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