Open Gym vs Regular Gym: Which is Right for You?

If you are looking for a place to train in Amsterdam, you have more options than ever. Beyond the well-known gym chains, there are an increasing number of boutique concepts, including Open Gym. But what exactly is the difference? And which option best suits your training style? In this article, we compare Open Gym with a traditional gym on all the important points.

What is Open Gym?

Open Gym is a concept where you train independently in a private or semi-private studio. You book a time slot of usually 60 minutes and during that time have access to professional equipment, without having to share the space with dozens of other people. At SculptClub, there are a maximum of 3 people in the studio at any time.

The key differences

Privacy and crowding

The biggest difference is privacy. In a regular gym, you share the space with sometimes dozens to hundreds of people. Waiting for equipment, unwanted stares, and background noise are a daily reality. With Open Gym, you train in a quiet environment with just a handful of people at most. Perfect if you want to focus on your training without distractions.

Cost

A budget gym typically starts at around 20 to 30 euros per month, but you also get a budget experience. A mid-range gym easily costs 40 to 60 euros per month. Open Gym at SculptClub starts from 29 euros per 4 weeks for 2 sessions per week, which is comparable to a mid-range gym. The difference? You get a premium experience for a similar price.

Equipment

Large gyms often have lots of equipment, but it is spread across a huge space and frequently occupied by other members. With Open Gym, all the equipment you need for a complete strength workout is available and always free. Think power racks, cable machines, dumbbells, benches, and accessories.

Flexibility

At a gym, you usually have a monthly or annual contract. With Open Gym, you often work with a flexible system without long-term commitments. At SculptClub, we use 4-week cycles that you can cancel at any time. No lock-in anxiety, no fine print.

Who is Open Gym right for?

Open Gym is ideal for people who:

• Can train independently and know what they are doing
• Value privacy and calm during their workout
• Do not want a long-term membership commitment
• Live or work in the Jordaan and want to train nearby
• Prefer training in a clean, well-maintained space

Who is a regular gym better for?

A traditional gym might be a better fit if you:

• Want to attend group classes like spinning, yoga, or HIIT
• Are looking for extra facilities like a sauna, pool, or spa
• Are looking for the absolute lowest monthly price
• Enjoy the social atmosphere of a large gym

The combination: best of both worlds

Some people combine a gym membership with Open Gym sessions. They use the gym for group classes and cardio, and Open Gym for their strength training in a quiet environment. Since Open Gym does not require a long-term contract, this is an easy combination to try.

Try it yourself

The best way to discover if Open Gym is right for you is to try it. At SculptClub, you can easily book a single session to experience the studio and the concept. No commitments, no pressure. Just a great workout in a great space.