San Diego’s Best Gyms, Health Clubs and Fitness Centers

San Diego is known to outsiders as a mythical land of health, wellness and fitness. These fabled perspectives of our city are actually well–founded: San Diego is consistently ranked in the top ten fittest cities in America. Gyms are an integral part of our local society and culture. We log hours every week on treadmills, weight benches, and in classes, our sweat dripping to the thumping beats of our headphones and instructors. We’ve rounded up the best gyms and health clubs in San Diego so that those dreaded sweat sessions can turn into heralded, blissful excursions.

1. FIT Solana Beach & Carmel Mountain Ranch

Locations: fitathletic.com

For several years, FIT’s East Village location has been a dominant force on the San Diego gym scene; with rooftop views overlooking the Padres field and state–of–the–art facilities, it’s no surprise that FIT East Village is a local favorite. Now, FIT offers two new locations: 

• FIT EAST VILLAGE
• FIT LITTLE ITALY
• FIT MISSION BEACH
• FIT CARMEL MOUNTAIN

FIT claims to be much more than just a gym: "It’s about cultivating a lifestyle that encourages healthy and inspired living." FIT’s new locations deliver that promise with ease. Both new clubs offer access to the most qualified personal trainers in the nation and top–rated group exercise classes, including yoga, kickboxing, and cycling, all in an environment outfitted with the highest quality, most advanced equipment. They also provide members with access to healthy foods and post–workout snacks and supplements, not only in the gym but online, as well.

FIT is far from the conventional, stuffy gym to which you’re accustomed; indoor workout areas have high ceilings and fun lighting, but if you’re in the mood for fresh air, move to the outdoor workout area or walk the few steps to the beach for sprints. FIT Carmel Mountain Ranch, on the other hand, offers users an Olympic outdoor pool for exercising and even fun summertime events. This location also boasts some of the best childcare facilities in the gym world, even offering special programs and fitness classes for your little one.

2. Oceanside CrossFit

4040 Calle Platino #116, Oceanside, CA 92056

(760) 388-9464

oceansidecrossfit.com

The CrossFit craze hit San Diego and the nation several years ago; since then, dozens of the eponymous gyms have popped up over San Diego. But one of those CrossFit meccas, CrossFit, is a step above: with 3,650 square feet of training grounds and personalized, tiered group class programming, Oceanside offers a unique and tough training program. We sat down with the owner, who's been training for years, to learn why CrossFit is more than just a trend and why Oceanside CrossFit is the place to do it.

For anyone new to CrossFit or looking to reenter the community, the first question is: why choose CrossFit? "It makes fitness a lifestyle and it helps create balance," says Coopman. "You become excited to go to the gym. CrossFit becomes the reason to get to sleep early, to pay attention to what you eat, and to take quiet time to stretch. It becomes a huge catalyst to living a healthy, sustainable lifestyle." And regarding balance, he says, "If you only do strength training or you only run, then you are leaving huge gaps in your fitness. Within CrossFit, you use the best ideas from strength training to get stronger, with a barbell and gymnastics, at the same time as you become more anaerobic and aerobically fit. When you create a balance between proper movement, strength, and conditioning, you just live better."

According to Coopman, CrossFit isn’t just a workout, it’s a lifestyle and a community. Your whole life becomes healthier and happier and the pride you feel in your new self is practically palpable. So, why choose CrossFit, specifically? "The idea that sets us apart from all other gyms, CrossFit or not, is that everyone is unique and that a gym should not try to mold everyone to the same set program," Coopman says. "The gym should be able to flow with everyone’s uniqueness so that each person gets the appropriate training for them." With an unparalleled consultation and assessment program that ensures each member is set up with the best-personalized program, CrossFit offers the best CrossFit programming in San Diego. 

3. Tri-City Healthcare District Carlsbad

6250 EL CAMINO REAL CARLSBAD, CA 92009

(760) 931-3171

tricitywellness.com

Carlsbad’s Tri–City Wellness Center offers a unique gym experience. As part of Tri–City Medical Center, the Wellness Center is grounded firmly in health from a medical perspective. When you step into Tri–City Wellness Center, it isn’t just about getting buff or sweaty; they focus on health, wellness, and clinical integration, creating an environment that improves your entire well-being. The Wellness Center recognizes that there is often a gap between fitness and medicine, but they try to bridge that gap with unique programming and certified instructors with qualifying degrees.

Tri–City Wellness Center Carlsbad offers a huge variety of fitness classes. With over 130 classes to choose from, both in the gym and in the water, there’s sure to be a class to please even the most fastidious member. Only the highest–qualified, certified instructors are allowed to coach you through these classes. The Health Education Conference Center, also on-site, offers an array of personalized, medically–minded education programs led by interdisciplinary teams of professionals, from trainers to doctors.

If you need gear, the Wellness Center has you covered with their Pro-Shop and if it’s a snack, try out the Tri–City Cafe. With one of the best play care programs in the region, you’re kids are covered, too. In truth, Tri–City Wellness Center offers everything you could possibly look for in a fitness club. 

Here are Some Other Articles Related to Your Search:

Tips in Staying Fit and Healthy

The Types of Stretching Fitness Experts Recommend

Chic Fitness Gear for Any Workout

6 Unconventional Fitness Trends in San Diego

The Importance of Oral Health When Getting Fit