How to Work Out for Free: 9 Gyms Offering Free Trials in April 2023

If you want to get fit before summer, but don't want to cough up the annual dues and membership fees required to join a gym, there's a cheaper way to sweat -- free trials. 

Most gyms -- from nationally recognized brands to local fitness centers -- offer first-timers a free "look" period lasting anywhere from one to seven days. Often, you just need to show a local driver's license, tour the gym with an employee (or sit through a spiel on the gym's benefits), and you can work out for free.  

Some local gyms near you may offer their own free trials. For national brands, here are nine popular gyms that will let you work out for free in April. 

7-day trials 

Anytime Fitness 

• Where to sign up: Online. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: 2,349 locations.
• Cost of basic membership: The average price is $41 per person for a monthly membership. You also have to pay a one-time fee for a key fob ($35) and yearly membership dues that vary by location. 
• Any promotions? Couples can sign up together for $59.99 monthly + $60 for their key fobs. Individual gyms may also offer promotions, such as two months for free after paying for one month. 

Gold's Gym 

• Where to sign up: Online. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: 226 locations. 
• Cost of basic membership: $35 to $40 monthly. You also pay a $49 annual maintenance fee. 
• Any promotions? Some locations will let you sign up for a 12-month membership at $1 for the first month with two months free. 

YMCA

• Where to sign up: Find your local YMCA's website and search for free trials there. You can also call your local YMCA and ask about a free consultation. Note: YMCA free trials typically range from three to seven days. 
• Number of YMCAs in the U.S: 2,650 fitness centers. 
• Cost of basic membership: Memberships range from $50 to $150 per month. Check your local YMCA for precise pricing information. 
• Any promotions? Students and military usually receive 10% to 20% off a yearly membership. Occasionally, YMCAs will also offer a 10% to 20% discount if you sign up with a friend. 

3-day trials 

LA Fitness

• Where to sign up: Online. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: 547 locations.
• Cost of basic membership: $39.99 per month and $99 initiation fee. You could also pay $49.99 per month with no initiation fee. 
• Any promotions? No, the free trial is the only promotion. 

24 Hour Fitness

• Where to sign up: Online. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: Roughly 300 clubs. 
• Cost of basic membership: $19.99 per month. You'll also pay a $59.99 initiation fee. 
• Any promotions? Pay $1 for the first month of a Platinum membership ($48 per month after).

Workout Anytime 

• Where to sign up: Find a location, then sign up on its webpage. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: Just under 200 locations. 
• Cost of basic membership: $19.99 per month and a $39 annual club fee. 
• Any promotions? Some clubs will let you enroll for $1 instead of the $39 annual club fee. 

1-day trials

Planet Fitness

• Where to sign up: Online. Note: You get one free day pass per club every 90 days. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: 2,317 locations. 
• Cost of basic membership: $10 per month. You'll also pay a $1 start-up fee and $49 for annual dues. 
• Any promotions? Individual clubs may offer a $0.01 start-up fee for new members. 

Snap Fitness  

• Where to sign up: Find a gym, then sign up for free trials on its webpage. 
• Number of U.S. gyms: 559 gyms. 
• Cost of basic membership: $40 to $45 per month, plus a $40 upfront fee. 
• Any promotions? No, Snap has no promotions in April. 

Want more fitness discounts? 

Check your health insurance first. Some health insurance policies will cover part or all of your fitness membership. You might also get discounted fitness equipment, or free sessions with a nutritionist. 

Another way to save on gym memberships is to get a cash back credit card. Some cards, like the Chase Freedom Flex℠, will offer more cash back on a gym membership charged to the card. Others, like the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, will give you extra cash back for purchasing gym equipment, like a Peloton bike.