Both Barry's Bootcamp and Equinox offer premium fitness experiences, but they cater to different preferences. Barry's Bootcamp is ideal for those seeking intense, high-energy HIIT workouts in a unique environment. Equinox is better suited for individuals who desire a wide variety of classes, luxurious amenities, and a more comprehensive fitness experience, provided they are willing to pay a higher price.
| Attribute | Barry's Bootcamp | Equinox |
|---|---|---|
| Class Variety (Bootcamp vs. General Fitness) | HIIT workout combining strength training with weights and cardio on treadmills; Double Floor classes available; some locations offer RIDE by Barry's (cycling); focuses on different muscle groups each day. | Offers a wide array of classes, including Bootcamp and general fitness options. Types of classes: Strength training (e.g., Circuit Training, MetCon3), cardio (e.g., Cycle Beats, Precision Run), Pilates (e.g., Pilates Fusion, Pilates Mat), Barre (e.g., True Barre), yoga (e.g., Vinyasa Yoga, Restorative Yoga), and more. They also offer dance cardio, boxing, running, walking, regeneration, and stretching classes. Signature classes: Equinox offers classes designed by their own team of trainers, such as Pure Strength, The Cut, The Pursuit, Fully Loaded and Barre + Band. Some locations have functional training areas called "The Playground". Class Formats: Some classes involve stations with timed intervals. Classes like "Whipped" use different equipment at each station. "Stacked!" builds up to longer exercise periods for muscular endurance. |
| Price per Class/Month | Varies by location and package; single class around $34 (2017, L.A. 2021); 8 classes $180, 30 classes $320 (2021); some users mentioned prices in Los Angeles being $475; 3-pack for first timers costing $85. | Considered a luxury gym, so it is more expensive than other gyms. One reviewer mentioned paying $180 per month. However, another reviewer stated that the membership price was $300 a month. The cost can be hard to justify if you don't go at least 4-5 days a week. |
| Location Convenience | Locations in many U.S. states and internationally; some locations (e.g., West Hollywood) offer free parking with validation; many locations do not have on-site parking. | Has 91 locations in Massachusetts, Illinois, Connecticut, Florida, New Jersey, New York, California, Texas, Washington, D.C, Canada and the United Kingdom. Many locations are in major cities. Having many Equinox locations in New York City is a pro for some members. |
| Class Size | Around 50 students; smaller class sizes. | There is a cap on how many people can attend classes. Class sizes are limited, and pre-booking is often required. |
| Instructor Quality and Motivation | Motivational and energetic instructors; provide guidance and encouragement. | Instructors are generally considered top-notch. Equinox Group Fitness Instructors undergo science-backed educations and are fully accredited with a general fitness certification. Instructors are experts in their respective fields. Many instructors are willing to get to know members. |
| Cleanliness of Facilities | Clean facilities, modern showers, and high-end toiletries. | Known for being very clean. Cleaning crews sanitize everything, and staff actively clean throughout the day. The entire place often smells like eucalyptus. |
| Equipment Availability and Quality | Woodway treadmills, free weights, and resistance bands. | Equipment is generally top-notch. They offer a wide variety of equipment, including high-tech cardio machines, weights, and specialized studios. Equipment is well-maintained. Some reviewers noted that the weight section can be limited in some locations. |
| Ambiance and Studio Design | Signature "Red Room" with dim red lighting, mirrors, and loud, curated music. | Considered aesthetic and luxurious. The showers often have a spa-like feel. The gym has a lot of natural light. |
| Community and Social Aspect | Fosters a sense of community through events and encouragement during classes. | Can provide a community for people who want to improve their physical state. The staff gets to know the members. Some reviewers mention a "snooty clientele". |
| Class Difficulty and Intensity | Challenging, high-intensity workouts; accessible to all fitness levels with modifications. | Offers classes for different fitness levels. Some classes, like Tabata, can be very challenging. Yoga classes range from gentle to more intense Vinyasa flows. |
| Availability of Showers and Changing Rooms | Showers with high-end toiletries, hair dryers, and complimentary towels; separate changing rooms for men and women. | Has showers at every facility. The showers and locker rooms are spa-like, with high-end bath products and eucalyptus towels. They provide Kiehl's bath products. Some locations may have private showers. |
| Contract Flexibility | Class packages and memberships available; cancellation requires 12 hours' notice; missing a class without canceling may result in forfeiting the class or incurring a no-show fee; memberships can be canceled due to medical reasons or relocation with documentation; in the EU and UK, you may be able to cancel an online order within 14 days of purchase if the service hasn't been used. | Cancellation policies vary by state and membership agreement. You may cancel in person, via mail, email, or on the Equinox website. A freeze policy allows you to temporarily suspend your membership. Some reviewers mention difficulty canceling memberships. To cancel during the first year, it must be due to a medical condition or relocation. |