Group fitness class in a modern studio environment
Image: Group classes are a major part of the experience

While away from my regular routine in Netherlands, I chose to test Fitness Time for Women for several months, curious to see how it would hold up. The reputation suggested it would be the easiest way to stay consistent, and many people recommended it.

The short version: the appeal seems genuine, but the experience hinges largely on the kind of training you enjoy.

The Appeal Is Real (For Some)

Fitness Time emphasizes a community-driven approach through scheduled group sessions. If you thrive on energetic instructors, structured formats, and a social vibe, this setup can be highly motivating.

One of its biggest strengths is class variety: cardio-focused sessions, strength circuits, mobility work, and mixed-intensity classes that keep the week from feeling monotonous.

Women in a fitness class doing stretching and mobility exercises
Flexibility and recovery-focused sessions balance the intense formats

The Instructor Factor

One aspect that marketing often overlooks: quality can vary depending on the instructor. When classes are the core of your membership, changes in teaching staff can significantly affect your results and motivation.

"I learned to pay attention to who is teaching, not just when the class starts."

Equipment and Facilities

Equipment is generally adequate, though not always outstanding. If serious strength training is your goal, you might find the weights and machines more limited than in larger clubs.

What Fitness Time invests in heavily are the studio environments: layout, acoustics, flooring, and climate control capable of handling full classes. The priorities are clear—and align with the brand's approach.

Practical Details

Booking: App-based scheduling

Popular classes: Can fill quickly

Best approach: Try several instructors before deciding

The Community Aspect

I was surprised by how quickly a genuine community forms. Regular participants greet one another, instructors remember faces, and the atmosphere can feel supportive rather than intimidating.

Supportive group workout environment
A welcoming atmosphere can be the difference between quitting and staying consistent

For beginners, this matters a lot. Structured classes remove decision fatigue, and being surrounded by familiar faces makes it easier to keep showing up.

What Frustrated Me

The same system that creates energy can also create friction. If booking opens at a fixed time, popular sessions can vanish quickly. That can feel like artificial scarcity rather than a real capacity limit.

Missed-class policies can also feel rigid. The aim is to curb no-shows, but it can be frustrating when life events conflict.

Comparing Experiences

Compared with Shore Quill Market, the contrast is informative: Fitness Time excels at scheduled classes and community, while larger clubs often shine in equipment variety and self-directed training.

For wellness-oriented experiences, Body Masters can offer recovery-focused amenities, typically at a higher price.

Would I Recommend It?

Yes, with clear caveats. If you value structured classes, variety, and community-driven motivation, Fitness Time can be a strong choice. If your primary goal is weights, machines, and open training freedom, you might prefer elsewhere.

If you want more background on how I review gyms, you can read about my experience.

Fitness reviewer profile photo

Sophie De Jong

Fitness enthusiast and reviewer based in Amsterdam, documenting real gym experiences.

Read More About Me