Where to train: The best gyms and fitness studios in Montreal

Founded by former Canadian Kickboxing Champion Herby Whyne, Hard Knox channels over 30 years of fighting and coaching into classes that challenge and transform. Boxing fundamentals, high-intensity Muay Thai and kickboxing, women's-only classes for strength and self-defense, kids' and teen programs teaching discipline and resilience, bootcamps, HIIT Box, and kick-start circuits. The intimate weight room and personal training serve individualized goals. It makes the list because Whyne's Caribbean heritage and commitment to community service—particularly in Saint-Henri—create more than a gym. It's a proving ground where technical expertise, unwavering energy, and genuine care for members' growth come together.

In operation since 1881, the MAA carries serious weight in Canadian sports history—from hosting Stanley Cup-winning teams to producing Olympic champions. The recently renovated Peel Street location offers HIIT, spinning, yoga, Pilates, plus luxury services like laundry and premium instructors. It makes the list because this is heritage meeting modern fitness: a space that's witnessed generations of Montreal athletes while continuously evolving to serve the next. The combination of historic significance and cutting-edge facilities creates something rare—a gym with genuine roots and contemporary relevance.

This Outremont retreat sprawls with luxury and functionality. Over 100 weekly group classes across four specialized studios, including spinning in the Rev studio and resistance training on cutting-edge machines. Six world-class indoor tennis courts, squash and racquetball courts, aquatics facilities with lap pool and whirlpools, a spa, health-forward café, and childcare. It makes the list because the scale and diversity serve everyone from serious athletes to casual gym-goers to parents who need flexibility. The combination of athletic rigor and family-friendly amenities creates a destination where fitness becomes part of a larger lifestyle.

Since 2013, Waverly has built its reputation on community and personal growth. The gym balances high-intensity group classes—HIIT, cross training, boxing, weightlifting—with the kind of supportive atmosphere that keeps people coming back. It's made the list because the culture here is genuine: experienced trainers who coach rather than just instruct, private sessions for tailored guidance, and a two-week trial that lets newcomers find their fit without pressure. It's where encouragement trumps competition, and fitness becomes part of a larger support system.

This boutique downtown boxing gym offers 45-minute full-body workouts burning up to 1000 calories per session, designed for all fitness levels from complete beginners to experienced athletes. The emphasis on community over competition creates a supportive environment, with flexible scheduling from early morning through evening classes. High-end, eco-friendly amenities, full towel and shower service, automated lockers, and convenient location across from the Eaton Centre make it accessible. It's here because Boxxing makes the sport welcoming—free trial class, glove rentals included, no experience required—while delivering serious results through structured programming.

This clinic-meets-training-studio hybrid makes the cut for its multidisciplinary approach. Athletic therapy, massage, Muay Thai, personal training, sport-specific conditioning, and concussion management all operate under one roof, guided by registered therapists and certified coaches. The range here addresses real needs—whether you're recovering from injury, pushing toward peak performance, or balancing high-intensity training with proper recovery. It's the kind of place where a HIIT session with Mike or Yuki can be followed by targeted therapy with Stephanie or Li, creating a complete ecosystem for athletes and everyday movers alike.

Established in 1926 as the Montreal Badminton & Squash Club, this private members' club occupies a historic Tudor mansion with 35,000 square feet of bespoke space. World-class squash and badminton courts anchor the athletic offerings, complemented by a fitness center, personal trainers, and group classes. The Hanford Cocktail Lounge, dining room, Café Atwater, and private Cellar elevate the social experience. It makes the list because few places blend athletic excellence with refined hospitality—this is where racquet sports meet culinary craft, wellness services meet concierge support, and membership means access to both championship-level facilities and curated community.

Epix reimagines bootcamp as extreme interval training: 60-minute sessions alternating between treadmill sprints and functional strength that deliver hours-worth of traditional training results. The music-driven, inclusive environment welcomes beginners and athletes alike, led by top kinesiologists and trainers who balance expert guidance with group motivation. Private and small-group sessions offer tailored refinement. It makes the list because the energy is contagious, the results are undeniable, and the judgment-free atmosphere makes high-intensity training accessible rather than intimidating—where pushing limits feels celebratory, not punishing.

Set in a converted Plateau church, Espace Thomas transforms fitness into an experience. High ceilings, natural light, top-tier equipment, and certified trainers create an environment where cardio, agility, and strength work feel elevated. Beyond the gym floor, the facility offers boutique-style classes with form corrections and personalized attention, therapeutic massage, a Scandinavian-inspired thermal spa with hot and cold baths, and a year-round rooftop terrace. It's here because the combination of architectural beauty, comprehensive wellness services, and thoughtful programming makes working out feel less like a chore and more like self-care.

Firas Zahabi's legendary gym is globally recognized for producing champions like Georges St-Pierre and David Loiseau, but its real value lies in making world-class instruction accessible to everyone. The class lineup—Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, wrestling, boxing, MMA—emphasizes technique, strategy, and respect over brute force. Tristar earns its place because the coaching roster includes some of the sport's greatest minds, the training philosophy builds both physical skills and mental discipline, and the atmosphere fosters camaraderie whether you're stepping on the mats for the first time or preparing for competition.

Led by Head Coach Richard Ho and home to pros like Olivier Aubin-Mercier and Michael Dufort, H2O MMA represents the top tier of mixed martial arts training in Montreal. The gym integrates Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Muay Thai, Olympic Wrestling, Judo, and Boxing into comprehensive programs that serve everyone from aspiring fighters to fitness enthusiasts who want to train like the best. It's here because the coaching pedigree is undeniable, the 9,000-square-foot facility is purpose-built for combat sports, and the community balances serious competitive training with welcoming instruction for all levels—including women's-only kickboxing bootcamps and specialized youth programs.

Pro Gym sprawls across enough space to eliminate the frustration of waiting for equipment. Strength training, cardio, group classes, functional fitness—the options are extensive and the equipment abundant. But the amenities push it beyond standard gym territory: luxurious locker rooms with saunas, an incoming health bar, an on-site hair salon, two boxing rings for sparring, and the Hygie Clinic for neuro-vertebral decompression. It's here because the scale and services create a true wellness hub where you can train, recover, and handle everything from back pain to a haircut without leaving the building.

KINECT blends expert coaching, group energy, and hands-on physical therapy into a space built around movement, recovery, and community. Members can push limits in dynamic group sessions, refine technique with personal coaches, or address pain through targeted therapy. It makes the list because the approach prioritizes long-term health and performance over quick fixes—training smarter rather than just harder, with independence and support balanced in equal measure. It's where fitness meets lifestyle, and every member contributes to a welcoming team atmosphere.

Locomotion's comprehensive approach balances training and recovery. Athletic™, Metabolic™, and Composition™ group classes emphasize functional movement and cardiovascular health. Personal training breaks plateaus, while therapeutic massage, fascial stretch therapy, osteopathy, and nutrition consultations support overall wellness. The 3D body composition scans provide concrete progress tracking. It earns its spot because every element connects: strength and endurance build on the gym floor, recovery happens through qualified practitioners, nutrition guidance creates sustainable change, and precise tracking shows exactly where you're improving.

As one of Montreal's CrossFit pioneers since 2009, Abattoir has spent over 15 years proving that intensity and longevity aren't mutually exclusive. This 5,500-square-foot converted Mile End factory houses classic CrossFit WODs, specialized weightlifting, beginner introduction courses, and team-based workouts that emphasize community over ego. The Sweatbox on Boulevard Rosemont offers 45-minute HIIT sessions for those wanting CrossFit energy without the complexity. It makes the list because the programming serves everyone from Games competitors to first-timers, and the commitment to proper coaching ensures people build fitness that lasts.

This upscale downtown center merges fitness with spa-like luxury. Private yoga studios, saunas, steam rooms, rainfall showers, and plush towel service create seamless transitions from workout to recovery. The roster of world-class trainers brings specialized expertise: Mymouna Nasrin focuses on functional fitness and injury prevention, Charif Saad on physical and mental health restoration, Charlie Picard on powerlifting and weight management, Jordon Gomes on cardio-strength integration. It's here because the pristine facilities and expert coaching cater to people who want both performance results and premium experience—where working out feels less like obligation and more like indulgence.

REBL transforms boxing into an inclusive, full-body experience. Low lights, high music, and a vibe that erases intimidation—whether you're learning the six classic punches in a 45-minute Burn Boxing class or diving into complex combinations in REBL ONE. The Heavyweight semi-private sessions blend boxing with serious weightlifting. It's here because the approach democratizes a traditionally gatekept sport: free glove rentals, towel service, membership perks including guest passes and local discounts, all wrapped in an atmosphere that prioritizes fun and fitness over fighting. LFG.

The Université de Montréal's CEPSUM serves as both the Montréal Carabins' home and a public sports hub with exceptional range. Olympic-sized pool, recreational leagues, kickboxing, beginner climbing, Zumba, semi-directed training—memberships grant access to state-of-the-art facilities with packages for students, staff, alumni, and the public. Newcomers can try activities for free. The physiotherapy and sports medicine clinic supports health and performance. It's on the list because the combination of competitive athletics infrastructure, affordable accessibility, comprehensive programming, and medical support creates an environment where movement is genuinely available to everyone.

This boutique studio makes movement feel like a celebration. Classes range from the high-energy Signature ride to the metrics-driven Performance challenge, the rhythm-focused B.eat sessions, and the Body classes incorporating barre, TRX, and HIIT. What earns b.cycle its spot is the intentional design: immersive music, inclusive programming for all ages and fitness levels, and spa-like amenities including Oneka organic products, fresh towels, and a snack bar with Mandy's salads and smoothies. It's where working out becomes energizing rather than exhausting, and the community vibe keeps you coming back.

Since 1996, Allez Up has been Canada's climbing destination. The 20,000-square-foot facility near the Lachine Canal features traditional top-rope routes, bouldering walls, and outdoor silos stretching 125 feet into the sky—a chance to scale Montreal's industrial heritage. Indoor walls reach 15 meters and routes are continuously updated for all skill levels. It makes the list because climbing here is accessible and inspiring: Climbing 101 for beginners covers fundamentals, lead climbing courses push advanced climbers, and the state-of-the-art training facilities let you build complementary strength and cardio. It's where vertical movement becomes community.

This reimagined fitness destination balances boutique style with practical wellness. Unlimited access to group classes and Atlantis machines with integrated TVs, exclusive offerings like Hot Booty Ballet and TreadFit, plus the "Open Gym" formula for flexibility. What sets it apart—and why it's on the list—is the onsite PhysioExtra clinic offering physiotherapy, osteopathy, and massage therapy. The health bar serves smoothies and espresso. It's designed for people who want their training and recovery under one roof, wrapped in a stylish package that takes fitness seriously without the intimidation factor.

This Westmount wellness haven offers over 50 weekly classes including Reformer Pilates, Rhythm Rides, Functional Circuits, and Hot Yoga, housed in a facility with state-of-the-art gym equipment, spacious locker rooms, showers, and sauna. Personal training aligns with individual goals through bespoke programming. It makes the list because Vic Studios creates seamless integration of fitness and relaxation—every visit is designed to revitalize rather than just exhaust, with best-in-class amenities and expert instruction that makes movement feel essential rather than obligatory.

Founded by Coach Justin Etheridge in 2014, this 5,500-square-foot Verdun gym has evolved from a private Lachine Canal studio into a community-driven martial arts hub that's produced K-1 champions. Boxing, Muay Thai, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, cross-training, private sessions, and open gym access serve beginners through competitive athletes. Beyond the mats, Angry Monkey hosts the annual Fight For Sud Ouest charity event and runs youth after-school programs. It makes the list because the commitment to martial arts excellence is matched by dedication to community—whether your goal is fitness, competition, or simply belonging to something bigger.

B52 offers 52 weekly group classes spanning pilates reformer, circuit training, boxing, spinning, barre, and yoga, all in a 20,000-square-foot facility designed for luxury. State-of-the-art workout stations, private locker rooms, steam rooms, saunas, plus specialized services like massage therapy and osteopathy ranging from sports and deep tissue to Swedish relaxation. It's on the list because the sheer volume of options combined with high-end amenities creates a lifestyle hub rather than just a gym—a place where training, recovery, and self-care exist in equal measure under one beautifully appointed roof.

EMPWR takes a performance-focused, no-nonsense approach to training. Six specialized zones cover injury prevention to high-intensity conditioning, with turf for sled pushes and agility drills. The facility blends traditional strength tools—kettlebells, barbells—with cutting-edge tech like velocity-based training units and laser timers. Expert coaches adapt programming whether you're recovering, getting back in shape, or fine-tuning athletic performance. It's on the list because the systematic approach to building strength, resilience, and movement quality appeals to people who want measurable progress, not just sweat sessions.

For over 30 years, Monster Gym has earned its reputation as the West Island's fitness anchor—a family-owned operation that's grown from 8,000 square feet to a sprawling 70,000-square-foot facility that never closes. The scale here is hard to match: state-of-the-art cardio and resistance equipment, a sky-high indoor track, boxing area, outdoor gym, sauna, pool, and Bistro Fit for post-workout fuel. It's made the list because it delivers on every front—whether you're a beginner finding your footing or a seasoned athlete chasing specific goals, the combination of clean facilities, professional staff, and round-the-clock access makes it a go-to for serious training without pretense.

Montreal's only Megaformer studio earns its spot by offering something genuinely different. The Lagree method blends Pilates-inspired muscle toning with cardio intensity, all while protecting your joints through low-impact movements on specialized M3S machines. Classes like the signature Megaformer and the sweat-heavy Shred & Tread deliver full-body burn and lean muscle development in ways traditional strength training can't replicate. It's made the list because it fills a specific niche—high-intensity results without the joint stress, accessible to beginners but challenging enough for experienced movers looking for their next evolution.

Sablon stands out for its versatility. Situated in the Plateau, this multidisciplinary facility houses dedicated spaces for boxing, gymnastics, swimming, and functional training under one roof—along with an aquatic center and wellness clinic for recovery and rehabilitation. It's here because it refuses to be pigeonholed: group classes, spin sessions, cross-training, independent workouts, all supported by comprehensive resources that prioritize accessibility and adaptability. Whether you're rehabbing an injury or training for competition, Sablon's setup accommodates every approach to movement and health.

This high-performance training center is built around injury prevention and functional movement. Whether you're an athlete mid-season, recovering from injury, or looking to move better in daily life, CoreXcellence combines strength, speed, and flexibility training with movement assessments and sports therapy. The multidisciplinary approach—experienced coaches, personalized nutrition, 3D body composition tracking, and an in-house therapy clinic—makes it essential for anyone serious about sustainable performance. It's on the list because the focus isn't just getting stronger; it's building resilience and preventing breakdown.

Counterback serves Montreal's boxing community with tailored classes and quality coaching. Boxing and Conditioning, Sparring Technique Development, and Intermediate/Advanced Boxing cap at 12 participants to ensure personalized attention and technical feedback. Private and semi-private training provides customized guidance. It's on the list because the focus on proper technique and small class sizes appeals to people who want to learn boxing correctly—not just hit bags, but develop real skills through expert instruction in well-maintained facilities with a welcoming atmosphere.

Since 1997, this 5,000-square-meter facility has been central to campus life and the broader Montreal community, offering a semi-Olympic pool, multi-sports hall with running track, climbing wall, and comprehensive training room. What sets it apart is its history and accessibility—born from post-1976 Olympics momentum, the center even served as an emergency shelter during the 1998 ice storm. It makes the list for sheer versatility and value: basketball, futsal, swimming programs, first aid certifications, and recreational activities all housed in a space that's been adapting to community needs for nearly three decades.

Big Daddy Fitness makes the list because it refuses to choose between training and recovery—it delivers both with equal intention. The main floor houses premium strength and cardio equipment, generous windowed space, dedicated stretching areas, and locker rooms that feel more spa than sweat lodge. A digital kiosk generates customized programs while group classes span bootcamps to reformer and mat Pilates. Upstairs, Vital Energy's treatment area brings cryotherapy, infrared and red light therapy, compression boots, cold plunge, and rain showers together with massage therapy, aesthetics, and on-site bloodwork. Add a healthy bistro and supplement counter, and you've got a complete wellness ecosystem where towel service and rapid turnaround lab results exist in the same building—because serious training demands serious recovery.