Fitness for women

The gym as a pseudo pickup club isn't what it used to be. Many ladies are enrolling in women-only fitness centres, and even co-ed fitness facilities are introducing women's sections to accommodate growing demand from its female clientele.

Clubs like Spa Lady in Calgary and Just Ladies Fitness in Vancouver are among a number of women-exclusive fitness clubs. Some are outfitted with posh amenities making these clubs triple-threats: spa, women's social club, and fitness facility all in one. They are non-intimidating, comfortable and relaxing places where you can work out -- and hang out. Here are a few to consider.

GoodLife Fitness for Women
www.goodlifefitness.com

GoodLife Fitness Clubs for women are located in eight provinces across Canada: Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Alberta. Most of the women's facilities are located in Loblaws super stores under the name GoodLife Fitness for Women and GoodLife Fitness for Women and Kids.

Kathy Kaye, vice president of operations for the women's division of GoodLife Fitness says the convenient location of the clubs appeal to women because they can drop their kids off at the day-care centre, shop, run other errands as well as work out all under one roof.

Kaye sees a definitive niche for women's-only clubs. "We've built 44 women's clubs in the last six years. The demand is there but it hasn't hurt the co-ed facilities," she says. "I just think that the women that would never have joined a co-ed facility are now joining the women's clubs."

Facilities/classes: Day care, tanning beds, personal trainers, cardiotheatre, cardiovascular strength equipment, yoga, pilates, spinning, group cycling, pump and step, access to co-ed clubs with swimming pool, women's only section in many of the co-ed facilities.

Membership fees: Monthly fees can range from $30 to $50 depending on individual fitness plans and club location. Initiation cost depends on location of club as well. A free trial workout is available to those who are considering joining the club.