bStrong vs. LA Fitness: Choosing the Right Gym for you

Jul 6

Not all gyms are built the same — and that’s a good thing.

If you’re looking for a gym in Bellevue, Redmond, or Kirkland, you’ve probably come across LA Fitness and maybe even bStrong. While both serve the Eastside community, they offer very different experiences. Here's a breakdown to help you decide what’s right for you.

What LA Fitness Offers

LA Fitness is a large commercial gym chain known for:

Spacious facilities with a wide variety of machines and equipment
Open gym access — come in anytime during open hours
Group fitness classes (Zumba, yoga, cycling, etc.)
Low-to-mid-tier monthly pricing
Locations throughout Bellevue and Kirkland

LA Fitness might be a good fit if:

You already know how to design your own workouts
You’re comfortable navigating machines and free weights
You want flexible gym access without needing coaching or accountability
You enjoy group classes but don’t need personalized feedback
You prefer a low-cost, high-amenity gym

What bStrong Offers Instead

bStrong is a personal training gym built for people who want more structure, support, and results — without the stress of doing it all alone.

Here’s what makes us different:

Small group personal training — expert coaching in a group setting
Structured programs that progress week to week
Hands-on instruction every session (we correct your form, adjust weights, and help you level up safely)
Beginner-friendly environment with a strong sense of community
Limited membership to keep the quality high

bStrong might be a better fit if:

You want a coach guiding you every step of the way
You’re new to the gym, or coming back after time off
You value structure and accountability
You’ve tried other gyms and struggled to stay consistent
You want a welcoming, tight-knit fitness community

Quick Comparison

  
      Feature
      LA Fitness
      bStrong
    
      Open Gym Access
      ✅
      ❌
    
      Group Classes
      ✅
      ✅ (small group coaching)
    
      Personal Coaching
      ⚠️ (extra cost, limited)
      ✅ (included every session)
    
      Program Structure
      ❌
      ✅
    
      Community Feel
      ⚠️ (varies)
      ✅ (built-in)
    
      Beginner Friendly
      ⚠️
      ✅
    
      Accountability
      ❌
      ✅
    
      Equipment Variety
      ✅
      ✅ (focused tools for results)
    
      Best for...
      Independent gym-goers
      People who want expert coaching

Final Thoughts

Both gyms serve a purpose — and depending on what you need, either one could be a great fit.

If you’re experienced, self-motivated, and just need access to equipment and space, LA Fitness offers that flexibility at a competitive price. It’s a familiar model, and it works well for people who already know what they’re doing.

But if you’re looking for something more personalized — if you want structure, coaching, and a supportive community that keeps you accountable — then bStrong might be the right place for you.

Want to Try bStrong for Yourself?

We offer a 2-week trial for new members in the Bellevue, Redmond, and Kirkland area. It’s the easiest way to see if our program, coaches, and community are a fit for your goals.

Try a 2-week Trial

Ben Matlak