How to find the right ‘gym’ for you.
As we get older, finding the right gym can feel harder than ever. Walk into most commercial gyms and it can seem like they are built for athletes, bodybuilders, or twenty-somethings chasing personal bests.
But the truth is, there is a place for everyone in fitness, and the right gym does exist for you.
At Square One, we believe in making fitness feel “cool” for people in their 40s, 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond. You may not need to be training for a competition or chasing an intense transformation. You just need a space that helps you move well, stay strong, and feel confident in your body.
What kind of gym do you actually need?
Think of commercial gyms like renting equipment. If you already know what you are doing, you are disciplined enough to get on with your training, and you are happy to work alone, then a standard gym with plenty of machines might suit you perfectly.
But for most people, that setup does not work for long. We are not born knowing how to train ourselves, especially when it comes to strength training. The reality is that most of us need a bit of guidance, accountability, and a supportive environment to stay consistent.
That is where small group personal training comes in. It gives you the structure and personalisation of coaching without the high cost of traditional one-to-one personal training. You still get expert eyes on your form, a plan that fits your needs, and a group of like-minded people who actually make training enjoyable.
What to look for (and what to avoid)
Green flags:
✅ Coaches who take the time to learn about you - injuries and goals.
✅ Structured programmes that build strength and confidence.
✅ Welcoming community where you feel comfortable.
Red flags:
🚩 No onboarding or movement screening before you start.
🚩 Classes that feel more like survival mode than training.
🚩 Coaches who shout across the room without offering feedback.
🚩 A gym culture that celebrates exhaustion over progress.
Finding the right gym is so much more about than location or price. It is about feeling supported, seen, and part of something that helps you grow stronger for the long term.