In the ever-expanding U.S. fitness industry, one brand is quietly but confidently winning the loyalty of millions: VASA Fitness. With its bold “We Got This” mantra, colorful gyms, and highly flexible membership plans, VASA offers an experience that blends affordability with premium amenities.
But what exactly is VASA Fitness, and how does it compare to other major players like EOS Fitness, Planet Fitness, and LA Fitness?
This article takes a deep dive into VASA Fitness’s origins, memberships, facilities, strengths, criticisms, and future growth plans — providing everything you need to know before joining.
The Story Behind VASA Fitness
VASA Fitness was founded in 2014, originally under the name Gold’s Gym Utah, before rebranding to reflect a fresh identity and broader vision. Today, VASA has grown to 60+ clubs across eight states, including:
- Utah
- Colorado
- Arizona
- Oklahoma
- Indiana
- Kansas
- Wisconsin
- Illinois
Unlike ultra-low-cost chains like Planet Fitness, VASA positions itself as a mid-tier, value-focused gym — offering large spaces, family-friendly amenities, and boutique-style classes at accessible price points.
Membership Options and Pricing
One of VASA Fitness’s strengths is its tiered pricing structure. It allows members to choose based on their needs and budget, without locking them into long-term annual commitments.
| Membership Tier | Price (Monthly) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic | $14.99 | Access to one club, cardio, weights, locker rooms |
| Fitness | $24.99 | Multi-club access, group classes, pools, saunas, KidCare |
| Studio | $44.99 | All-access + premium boutique classes (Studio RED, Studio Flow, Studio LFT) |
👉 No annual contract is required for most memberships, though some fees may apply (such as enrollment or maintenance).
This model positions VASA between budget gyms (Planet Fitness) and premium gyms (Equinox, Life Time).
Facilities and Amenities at VASA Fitness
VASA Fitness facilities are large, modern, and colorful, averaging 50,000 sq. ft. per club. Members often describe them as “spacious playgrounds for fitness.”
Strength & Cardio Training
- Full cardio deck with treadmills, ellipticals, and stair climbers
- Olympic lifting platforms & squat racks
- Functional training turf zones with sleds and battle ropes
- Free weights up to 125 lbs
Studio Classes
VASA offers three premium boutique experiences, included with the Studio plan:
- Studio RED – High-intensity interval training (HIIT) with lights, music, and coaching.
- Studio Flow – Infrared yoga with Far Infrared panels for restorative heat-based sessions.
- Studio LFT – Strength-focused group training with progressive overload principles.
Aquatic & Recovery Facilities
- Heated indoor swimming pools
- Hot tubs and whirlpools
- Steam rooms and saunas
- Cold plunge pools (at select clubs)
- Massage chairs
Family-Friendly Features
- KidCare – Safe, supervised childcare included in Fitness and Studio memberships.
Other Extras
- Basketball courts
- Cycling studios
- Large group fitness rooms
This makes VASA Fitness especially attractive to families, young professionals, and serious athletes alike.
What Makes VASA Fitness Stand Out?
Several features differentiate VASA from other gym chains:
- Boutique-style training at a fraction of boutique studio prices (HIIT, yoga, strength).
- Family orientation with affordable childcare.
- Spacious facilities, reducing the “crowded gym” feel.
- Bright, uplifting brand aesthetic that appeals to younger demographics.
Strengths of VASA Fitness
- Affordable memberships with multiple tiers.
- Diverse amenities (weights, cardio, pools, group classes).
- Premium boutique classes included in Studio membership.
- Family-friendly with KidCare.
- Spacious gyms, often larger than competitors’.
Weaknesses and Member Complaints
Despite its positives, VASA Fitness faces criticism:
- Billing issues: Reddit and Trustpilot users frequently complain about hidden fees and difficult cancellation processes.
- Maintenance concerns: Some members report broken machines and cleanliness problems in busy clubs.
- Additional fees: Enrollment fees, “rate guarantee” annual fees, and late-payment penalties frustrate users.
- Inconsistency: Amenities vary significantly by location.
VASA Fitness vs Competitors
| Feature | VASA Fitness | EOS Fitness | Planet Fitness | LA Fitness | 24 Hour Fitness |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Cost | $14.99–$44.99 | $9.99–$24.99 | $10–$25 | $30–$50 | $30–$40 |
| Free Weights | Yes, up to 125lb | Yes, up to 150lb | Limited (max 75) | Full Range | Full Range |
| Pools & Saunas | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Childcare | KidCare | Kids’ Club | No | Yes | Yes |
| Boutique Classes | Yes (RED, Flow, LFT) | Limited | No | Yes | Yes |
| Unique Perks | Infrared Yoga | Cinema, The Set | Massage chairs | Basketball | Basketball |
📌 Summary: VASA Fitness competes most directly with EOS Fitness, offering a similar value-driven model but with stronger emphasis on boutique classes and family features.
Who Should Join VASA Fitness?
- Beginners: Affordable Basic tier.
- Families: Access to KidCare while parents train.
- Young professionals: Studio memberships with boutique-style classes.
- Serious athletes: Olympic lifting and functional training spaces.
- Budget-conscious gym-goers: Fitness tier offers premium perks without premium prices.
FAQs About VASA Fitness
1. How much does VASA Fitness cost per month?
Plans start at $14.99/month and go up to $44.99/month for all-access studio classes.
2. Does VASA Fitness have a pool?
Yes. Most locations include heated indoor pools and hot tubs.
3. Does VASA Fitness offer childcare?
Yes. KidCare is available at many locations with Fitness and Studio memberships.
4. Can I cancel my VASA Fitness membership online?
Cancellations typically must be done in person. Many users report challenges, so it’s best to clarify policies before signing.
5. How big are VASA Fitness gyms?
On average, around 50,000 sq. ft., making them larger than many competitors.
Conclusion
VASA Fitness has successfully carved out a niche in the competitive U.S. gym market by offering affordable memberships, premium boutique-style classes, family-friendly services, and spacious facilities.
While it faces challenges around billing transparency and maintenance consistency, VASA remains one of the most attractive choices for fitness enthusiasts seeking a balance between price, performance, and perks.
With its continued expansion and innovation, VASA Fitness is well on track to remain a top contender in America’s fitness landscape.