Other branches of Gymbox in London:
Covent GardenGymbox reviews
Firstly, beware of all the 5 star reviews below - they are so obviously fakes. I joined this gym a few years ago and had a great experience but then had to cancel due to work commitments. I joined again last January and what a change. Kit routinely remains broken for weeks and most of the showers are faulty.
My wife had a baby in June and I informed Gymbox that I needed to cancel, for obvious reasons. They said the only way I could get out was to put my membership on hold (which costs £10 a month) and when the 12 month period was up I would pay a final month's fee then leave. So surprise surprise, today I called and the receptionist claimed never to heard of this policy and insisted that I have to complete my 12 month contract.
The gym is fine if you have no problems, but once you want to cancel you realise that the staff are arrogant and self absorbed twats whose only concern is signing the next member. Pity really, because I liked the place...
by mrjohnson, 19 Jan 2010
My wife had a baby in June and I informed Gymbox that I needed to cancel, for obvious reasons. They said the only way I could get out was to put my membership on hold (which costs £10 a month) and when the 12 month period was up I would pay a final month's fee then leave. So surprise surprise, today I called and the receptionist claimed never to heard of this policy and insisted that I have to complete my 12 month contract.
The gym is fine if you have no problems, but once you want to cancel you realise that the staff are arrogant and self absorbed twats whose only concern is signing the next member. Pity really, because I liked the place...
by mrjohnson, 19 Jan 2010
I'm having a great time at Gymbox. I read all these reviews before I joined and grilled the sales guy before I finally decided to join. I have been a member for 3 months and joined on a flexible membership that allowed me to cancel. I am now going to opt for the 12 months membership. The only reason I am taking the time to write this is I almost didn't join because of the reviews.
I think it's a great club - I'm loving the classes and the reception team are amazing, remembering my name, and a lot of fun after a bad day at work... Forget the haters Gymbox, you're doing great!
by mwalshe777, 26 Oct 2009
I think it's a great club - I'm loving the classes and the reception team are amazing, remembering my name, and a lot of fun after a bad day at work... Forget the haters Gymbox, you're doing great!
by mwalshe777, 26 Oct 2009
I was a member of Gymbox 07/08. Actually I liked the gym and it was well located, although the staff were rather aloof and unhelpful.
The problems started almost immediately as their sales agents are, in my view, dishonest and misrepresent the deals/contract and then try to get you to pay more later to get what you thought you were signing up to at the start.
When I relocated I fell prey to the same tactic as quite a few others who have posted reviews. I cancelled, in writing and with notice. However, they used a record of my card number to do a 'card holder not present' manual transaction. I told my bank this was not authorised and Gymbox claimed that I had not cancelled and that when I joined I agreed to this procedure if my payment 'failed'. I sent a second letter confirming my previous cancellation, but they denied knowledge of both letters despite the fact that I handed them both to their reception staff. As a barrister, I told them to sue me in a civil court if they thought I owed them money but instead they continued to debit my card AFTER I told them they did not have my permission to do so. Barclays bank were also useless and said it was a contract issue. To stop them I had to close my bank account! GO ELSEWHERE!!!
by bigjackcarter, 06 Sep 2009
The problems started almost immediately as their sales agents are, in my view, dishonest and misrepresent the deals/contract and then try to get you to pay more later to get what you thought you were signing up to at the start.
When I relocated I fell prey to the same tactic as quite a few others who have posted reviews. I cancelled, in writing and with notice. However, they used a record of my card number to do a 'card holder not present' manual transaction. I told my bank this was not authorised and Gymbox claimed that I had not cancelled and that when I joined I agreed to this procedure if my payment 'failed'. I sent a second letter confirming my previous cancellation, but they denied knowledge of both letters despite the fact that I handed them both to their reception staff. As a barrister, I told them to sue me in a civil court if they thought I owed them money but instead they continued to debit my card AFTER I told them they did not have my permission to do so. Barclays bank were also useless and said it was a contract issue. To stop them I had to close my bank account! GO ELSEWHERE!!!
by bigjackcarter, 06 Sep 2009
Do not go here! Their sales people are dishonest and their management is just as bad. You have MANY gyms to choose from, don't go to one where you will get ripped off. I find the 'excellent' reviews here very suspicious - they don't look like normal reviews.
by flagshipraider, 21 Aug 2009
by flagshipraider, 21 Aug 2009
Gymbox is one of the best gyms I've ever been to. I had a great tour from one of the sales guys at Bank, James. He was very friendly, genuine and answered all my questions. I've been a member at the gym since last year and it's so good. Well done Gymbox!
by Alex07, 14 Aug 2009
by Alex07, 14 Aug 2009
Gymbox has two rates for membership. It is MUCH cheaper to join online (and very annoying to be try and sold something more expensive when you've taken the time to go and see the place).
by millergram, 20 May 2009
by millergram, 20 May 2009
As a member of Gymbox for over a year, I would have to say that this is one of the best gyms in London. The classes are fun and exciting with plenty to choose from, the opening times are great and staff are lovely and friendly.
There was a mix-up with my membership, which was promptly rectified. Organisations make mistakes; what's apparent with Gymbox is that they will do their best to rectify it, which matters. I think they are brilliant.
by maryann.s.lambert, 23 Apr 2009
There was a mix-up with my membership, which was promptly rectified. Organisations make mistakes; what's apparent with Gymbox is that they will do their best to rectify it, which matters. I think they are brilliant.
by maryann.s.lambert, 23 Apr 2009
I recently joined Gymbox after a stint away from the gym, which I can only put down to sheer laziness. I have to say so far I couldn’t be happier with the level of service I’ve received. The gym is clean, contemporary and unintimidating. The staff are always friendly and helpful and appear to actually enjoy it there, which really helps keep the atmosphere upbeat. The main reason I joined Gymbox is the vast choice of classes available and at convenient times throughout the day. So far I’ve done Urban Street Dance, Fightklub and Reggaeton, all of which have been great fun and kept me going regularly – maybe too regularly, as my thighs will testify!
I’m disappointed to see the negative reviews on here because I have to say my experience so far has been excellent and with all the variety I’ve been kept motivated to continue the good work. So far I wouldn’t be able to comment on the cancellation process, but like everything you sign up to I would suggest reading the small print. It’s only a shame that the reviews on this website have proven the rule that people are more likely to make their voice heard when there is a complaint rather than a compliment.
by Ang1079, 22 Apr 2009
I’m disappointed to see the negative reviews on here because I have to say my experience so far has been excellent and with all the variety I’ve been kept motivated to continue the good work. So far I wouldn’t be able to comment on the cancellation process, but like everything you sign up to I would suggest reading the small print. It’s only a shame that the reviews on this website have proven the rule that people are more likely to make their voice heard when there is a complaint rather than a compliment.
by Ang1079, 22 Apr 2009
BEWARE: they are a bunch of crooks. I cancelled my membership a few months ago and also cancelled my direct debit with my bank, but they have been manually taking money from my bank account! Trying to resolve the issue has been difficult as they just keep palming the problem off on other people without actually dealing with it.
by andrewpgoodwin, 08 Apr 2009
by andrewpgoodwin, 08 Apr 2009
Guys, get real! Gymbox is pretty good. I don't get why there are so many unsatisfied customers. Let's put things straight...
a)It's a big space and they've got a lot more free weights than the average gym.
b)IT'S CLEAN! So important. I used to be a member at other gyms around Holborn and Covent Garden and they were pathetic!
c)Staff are really helpful throughout and they don't have attitude like they do at some other gyms.
d)I find people are friendly as well. You can share the machines with others or ask other people about exercising and they will definitely help you.
e)It has lots of cardio machines although not many weights machines - just like any other central London gym.
f)100s of funky classes where they train you a lot (i.e. you're not just jumping around).
g)The crowd isn't full of arseholes showing off how fit they are. There are definitely lots of fit people down there but they seem grounded and friendly.
h)They have a DJ. The music is good and loud enough but not annoying.
Overall, I think Gymbox is one of the best gyms I've been to. Friendly and attitude-free, the trainers are really good and can make you bulk up fast. I'm already feeling the great effects of my training from yesterday!
So, give it a chance and then decide for yourself.
by fitoxfordstudent, 01 Apr 2009
a)It's a big space and they've got a lot more free weights than the average gym.
b)IT'S CLEAN! So important. I used to be a member at other gyms around Holborn and Covent Garden and they were pathetic!
c)Staff are really helpful throughout and they don't have attitude like they do at some other gyms.
d)I find people are friendly as well. You can share the machines with others or ask other people about exercising and they will definitely help you.
e)It has lots of cardio machines although not many weights machines - just like any other central London gym.
f)100s of funky classes where they train you a lot (i.e. you're not just jumping around).
g)The crowd isn't full of arseholes showing off how fit they are. There are definitely lots of fit people down there but they seem grounded and friendly.
h)They have a DJ. The music is good and loud enough but not annoying.
Overall, I think Gymbox is one of the best gyms I've been to. Friendly and attitude-free, the trainers are really good and can make you bulk up fast. I'm already feeling the great effects of my training from yesterday!
So, give it a chance and then decide for yourself.
by fitoxfordstudent, 01 Apr 2009
Gymbox is great. I enjoy all the Muay Thai classes from the Tieu brothers. David and Phil are fab, I just wish they could be around more at all gyms most days. Keep up the good work.
by lucyphung, 01 Mar 2009
by lucyphung, 01 Mar 2009
Notice to all Gymbox members: when cancelling your membership with the club, double check a week before the end to ensure they have cancelled it. I was warned by my work colleagues that they do not honour your cancellation but keep the direct debit going. Sure enough, when I double checked they had no record of it. I produced my cancellation form (copy of the one submitted 5 weeks before) and they cancelled it. They are losing so many members, they are trying this stunt. Keep your cancellation form and double check or they will keep taking your money.
by knowitall, 18 Jan 2009
by knowitall, 18 Jan 2009
I can't believe some of the reviews on here, but I suppose everyone is entitled to their opinion...
Firstly, the cancellation process is pretty clear. I expect that the people writing about that signed for 12 months and then found they couldn't fulfill it.
Secondly, the extra £15-20 you pay at Gymbox compared to other 'commercial' gyms isn't just for a better atmosphere. At Fitness First when I was there they had 26 classes a week, whereas Gymbox has over 80. It's great to spice things up and the free weights and cardio equipment stands head and shoulders above what I have come across before.
Lastly, the guy that signed me up was very nice and didn't hard sell (the gym sells itself really), unlike FF where they literally won't let you leave. The reception staff always have a laugh and joke with me whenever I go in. I suppose you have to be a certain kind of person... who knows. All I can say is, Gymbox is my 3rd gym in London and the one I have visited the most regularly by far. Which says what?
by Gym_Veteran, 17 Dec 2008
Firstly, the cancellation process is pretty clear. I expect that the people writing about that signed for 12 months and then found they couldn't fulfill it.
Secondly, the extra £15-20 you pay at Gymbox compared to other 'commercial' gyms isn't just for a better atmosphere. At Fitness First when I was there they had 26 classes a week, whereas Gymbox has over 80. It's great to spice things up and the free weights and cardio equipment stands head and shoulders above what I have come across before.
Lastly, the guy that signed me up was very nice and didn't hard sell (the gym sells itself really), unlike FF where they literally won't let you leave. The reception staff always have a laugh and joke with me whenever I go in. I suppose you have to be a certain kind of person... who knows. All I can say is, Gymbox is my 3rd gym in London and the one I have visited the most regularly by far. Which says what?
by Gym_Veteran, 17 Dec 2008
I have no idea why Gymbox has got such bad reviews as, in my experience, it is by far the best gym in London. I would recommend it to any serious gym bunnies or people who are bored of normal mundane health clubs. I only hope my job is safe and I don't get moved away from Holborn. Keep up the good work Gymbox and ignore the Playa Haters.
by anonngym, 16 Dec 2008
by anonngym, 16 Dec 2008
I am a 28-year-old female member of Gymbox in Holborn, and I love the vibe of the gym! As I'm quite small I wanted to learn how to take care of myself, and have recently signed up with one of the female trainers to learn how to kickbox. Since being there my confidence has grown, I have lost weight and toned up immensely, and made a lot of friends. I'm not looking to cancel any time soon so can't really comment on that, but I've had a quick read through my contract after seeing these comments and it seems pretty straightforward. Just read before you sign...
by hoobacious, 14 Dec 2008
by hoobacious, 14 Dec 2008
I joined Gymbox a few weeks ago on the basis my membership should start on the 1st Dec. I attended my induction a few days after my membership started and was deeply disappointed. Reception staff were rude, I was left waiting 15 minutes for my appointment and they had to ask several times who I was and what I was there for, the ladies' changing room was dirty – mud and rubbish everywhere, and certain male members of staff were extremely intimidating whilst I was waiting for my appointment. I voiced my concerns that afternoon via email and was told I cannot cancel my membership even due to an unsatisfactory service and being intimidated by staff.
Having been a member of several central London gyms before, I can honestly say Gymbox is by far the worst in terms of customer service. And what’s the £1 per towel about?!
by anonclub, 11 Dec 2008
Having been a member of several central London gyms before, I can honestly say Gymbox is by far the worst in terms of customer service. And what’s the £1 per towel about?!
by anonclub, 11 Dec 2008
Gymbox Bank! My recommendation would not be to join. I signed up for a £40 fee after being pressurised by their sales tactic. Understandable. Anyway, I decided against joining on the 1st Dec and cancelled, giving more than two weeks' notice. I have started getting missed payment emails and they tried to bully me into getting someone else to take up my membership when the membership hadn't commenced. Stay away from them.
by scorpi, 06 Dec 2008
by scorpi, 06 Dec 2008
I was a member at Gymbox. Some of the equipment is good, but they've got these 'techno gym' crap machines, which are not the cheapest but one of the cheapest. They've got a horrible cancellation policy. They wanted me to pay for the full year, even though I only used the gym for three months. In the end I paid for another 3 months even after I had cancelled - i.e. they robbed me of around £170. 90% of the trainers and members are not in shape, the attitude from the receptionists is terrible, there's no atmosphere when you train and it's not a very friendly gym.
by mfit (2 reviews), 02 Dec 2008
by mfit (2 reviews), 02 Dec 2008
God, there are some whingers on here! I joined the new Bank gym in September '08 when it opened and have to say I'm very impressed with the place. I'm going in a couple of times a week and it has top-notch gym equipment and excellent boxing/martial arts bags. I've always found the instructors very friendly, to be honest, and not pushy at all in trying to sell training sessions.
One of the instructors told me last week they've had a lot of people sign up in September who have still not been in the gym yet! One assumes that includes some of those who've been reviewing the place on here. The question is, what do some of these whingers want from a gym? Somebody to do the training for you?!
All gyms try to have a leaving notice policy. David Lloyd Leisure are the same for sure, and have a 3-month notice period. Anyway, just read the contract before you sign and note that you need to give them a month's notice before leaving. It's very clear!
by Trev9999, 20 Nov 2008
One of the instructors told me last week they've had a lot of people sign up in September who have still not been in the gym yet! One assumes that includes some of those who've been reviewing the place on here. The question is, what do some of these whingers want from a gym? Somebody to do the training for you?!
All gyms try to have a leaving notice policy. David Lloyd Leisure are the same for sure, and have a 3-month notice period. Anyway, just read the contract before you sign and note that you need to give them a month's notice before leaving. It's very clear!
by Trev9999, 20 Nov 2008
What can I say? I've tried Gymbox in Holborn and Covent Garden. First point: what kind of gym makes you pay £10 for a trial? Outrageous. However, if you paid your £10 you would have saved yourself a lot of trouble. This is the worst, biggest waste of overpriced space in London. The weights are poop, the boxing ring is unused. I basically think it should be shut down. Even the free gloves you get when you sign up are plastic. Hey you guys, don't do it!!
by t_derrig, 19 Nov 2008
by t_derrig, 19 Nov 2008
Have we missed a great gym in London? Let us know.
Photograph © Gymbox
