Anytime Fitness Equipment: The Definitive Guide for 2024
Walking into a new gym can feel like a gamble. Will they have a proper squat rack, or just a lonely Smith machine? When it comes to anytime fitness equipment, the answer isn't always black and white because of the franchise model. However, having trained at over a dozen locations across the country, I can tell you there is a core standard you can rely on.
Whether you are a powerlifter needing heavy iron or a cardio enthusiast looking for streaming capabilities, knowing what gear is available prevents that awkward moment of walking in and realizing you can't do your programmed workout. Let’s break down exactly what you’ll find on the floor.
Quick Summary: What to Expect
If you are looking for a fast answer regarding the equipment at Anytime Fitness, here is the standard loadout you will find in 95% of their clubs:
- Cardio: Precor or Life Fitness treadmills, ellipticals, stair climbers, and concept2 rowers.
- Free Weights: Power racks (usually 1-3), barbells, and dumbbells up to 100lbs.
- Selectorized Machines: A full circuit of pin-loaded isolation machines (chest press, leg extension, etc.).
- Functional Training: The "purple turf" area with kettlebells, TRX straps, plyo boxes, and medicine balls.
- Plate Loaded: Usually a leg press and a Smith machine; larger clubs may have Hammer Strength plate-loaded upper body gear.
The Free Weight Area: The Real Iron
Let's tackle the biggest question first: does Anytime Fitness have free weights? Yes, absolutely. This isn't Planet Fitness; you are allowed to grunt (within reason) and lift heavy.
Does Anytime Fitness Have Barbells?
Every location I have visited stocks standard 45lb (20kg) Olympic barbells. You will typically find these in the power racks or half-racks. Most clubs have at least two racks, though smaller footprint locations might only have one. If you are serious about the big three (squat, bench, deadlift), you are covered.
Anytime Fitness Dumbbells and Benches
The anytime fitness dumbbells usually run from 5lbs up to 100lbs (sometimes 120lbs in older clubs) in 5lb increments. They are almost exclusively rubber-coated hex dumbbells or urethane commercial bells. You won't find those cheap plastic ones here. You will also find plenty of adjustable benches, usually nestled in front of the mirror for your pressing and rowing movements.
Selectorized Machines at Anytime Fitness
If you prefer guided motion, the anytime fitness machines are generally top-tier. The brand has strong partnerships with Life Fitness and Precor. These aren't the rickety machines that stick halfway through a rep.
You will find a complete circuit designed to hit every muscle group. This includes:
- Lat pulldowns and seated rows
- Chest and shoulder presses
- Leg curls and extensions
- Assisted pull-up/dip machines
For beginners or those rehabbing an injury, the workout anytime equipment list is safe and intuitive. The pin-loaded systems allow for drop sets and quick weight changes without the hassle of loading plates.
Cardio and Functional Training
The anytime fitness gym equipment setup heavily favors cardio. You will rarely wait for a treadmill. Most modern locations feature machines with integrated screens, allowing you to watch Netflix or track your heart rate while you move.
The Functional "Purple" Zone
In recent years, the brand has pushed hard into functional fitness. Look for the designated turf area. This is where you will find the anytime fitness workout equipment geared toward HIIT and mobility:
- TRX Suspension trainers
- Kettlebells (usually up to 50-60lbs)
- Medicine balls and Slam balls
- Battle ropes
My Training Log: Real Talk
I want to share my personal experience with anytime fitness equipment to give you a realistic picture. I’ve traveled extensively for work and used my key fob in four different states.
Here is the nuance you won't see on the corporate website: The plates are usually the grip-style, not bumper plates.
When I was deadlifting at a location in Ohio, I noticed they used those urethane-coated plates with the handles cut out. They are great for loading the bar easily, but they are not perfectly round like competition bumper plates. If you are pulling heavy from the floor, the bar tends to roll or shift slightly when it hits the ground because of the flat spots on the plates.
Also, the knurling on their barbells is usually "commercial gym medium." It’s not the aggressive cheese-grater knurl of a powerlifting bar, but it’s not smooth chrome either. You might need straps if you're pulling over 400lbs because chalk use is sometimes frowned upon depending on the franchise owner's strictness.
Conclusion
So, what equipment does Anytime Fitness have? Enough to build a serious physique. While it may lack the niche machinery of a bodybuilding dungeon (like a pendulum squat or a reverse hyper), it covers the fundamentals perfectly.
You have access to heavy anytime fitness weights, reliable cardio, and clean functional areas. It is a gym that works for the 6 AM executive and the 8 PM powerlifter alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Anytime Fitness have squat racks or just Smith machines?
Most Anytime Fitness locations have at least one, often two, standard power racks or half-racks for free-weight squats. They also typically have a separate Smith machine for assisted lifting.
Is the workout anytime equipment list the same at every location?
Not exactly. Since they are franchises, individual owners can choose specific pieces. However, the core items (treadmills, dumbbell racks up to 100lbs, and power racks) are mandatory standards across the brand.
Does Anytime Fitness have deadlift platforms?
This varies by club. Newer clubs often have designated lifting areas or rubberized flooring suitable for deadlifts. However, dedicated wooden Olympic lifting platforms with bumper plates are rare outside of newly renovated locations.
