Gyms in Taunton, Somerset

“I’m only going to be repeating what all of the other 5 star reviews have said but this is a fantastic independent (non-chain) gym for all ages, sizes and abilities with a great, non-intimidating atmosphere. It’s full of ‘normal’ people i.e. regular people just coming to work out - no influencer tripod setups here that I’ve seen!

I chose Activate Fitness for my fitness journey based on a lot of these reviews, including the fact:
* it’s open 24/7 (it’s staffed weekdays between 11:00 and 17:00/21:00 depending on the day)
* great town centre location - it’s on the top floors of the Coal Orchard building (Morrisons car park is round the corner)
* is a good size (not small but not overwhelmingly huge either - they still have all the equipment I’d want to use - one of every weight/resistance machine, two squat racks, multiple cardio machines of each type, five free-weight benches etc)
* classes are included in membership (3 x circuits, 1 x yoga and 1 x boxing fitness classes each week, which cater to all abilities)
* as well as the usual intro tour of the gym/equipment, membership includes a personalised fitness programme (if you want it)
* it’s such great value for money, even without the classes and workout programme being included

The owner Tom is lovely, friendly and very welcoming and is always available for advice and support. As someone else said, it’s clear he is passionate about helping people achieve their fitness goals. If you want it, he’ll write you a tailored programme and go through it with you over a PT session; then (at your request) this can be updated every 8 weeks or so with a new programme to follow and another PT session to go through it - brilliant!

I’ve been going two or three times a week since I joined five months ago and have found it easy to do so because it’s a comfortable environment and I’m not just attempting it by myself with no guidance; I’m following the programme that has been written for me (and tailored to my injury).

I can’t comment on how busy it is at lunch/after work as I go early mornings - it’s not at all busy then, even with pre-work gym goers.

I haven’t used them but there's also two treatment rooms by the changing rooms (a nail technician and a massage therapist), a sauna in both the changing rooms (turned on at request during staffed hours), and a dedicated boxing personal trainer.

Other random comments:
* to enter the gym, you scan a QR code on your membership card (or the app I think)
* the music in the gym is either a generic upbeat gym playlist or Magic FM depending on the day
* the gym is air conditioned only on the really hot days, and then only during staffed hours (as it’s turned on manually) so no air con for the early crew
* as another review said, it’s a great gym but the equipment is not the newest if that kind of things bothers you - it all works as intended though!
* the photos show the ladies changing room but I think the men's showers have recently been revamped

If you’re unsure, just give it a go! It's a great gym! You can try for a day, 7 days or 30 days or sign up for 3, 6 or 12 months - cheapest option is to pay upfront for 12 months which currently works out at £24.92 a month.”

“Have suffered from hip arthritus and then replacement for 2 years. Had trouble just cutting toenails. Denise has worked miracles on my feet. Feel better than they have in years.Would highly recommend her skills.”

“I’ve recently enjoyed a full Swedish massage, which I highly recommend. I’ve also had a Veno hydra facial which was gorgeous, plus Lisa, the therapist, gave excellent advice regarding toning and moisturising. Based on these great experiences, I then booked a luxury pedi, and again, I highly recommend, especially if you are on your feet all day. Today, I treated myself to a lovely nail session which turned out beautifully. Thank you Lisa. Ooh, 30% off my treatments. Lots of other appealing offers.i will be using Blackbrook Spa again.”

“Fantastic gym with a really welcoming feel. The swimming pool is always clean and well-kept, and the sauna and hydro pool are perfect for relaxing after a workout. Great range of equipment and classes too – definitely one of the best gyms in Taunton”