Choosing a gym often comes down to things like price, crowds and equipment. Some East students who have used local fitness centers say that these factors lead to different gyms depending on what you value the most.

Teens prioritizing equipment and amenities may lean toward Vasa despite the crowds while people looking for a cheaper option may prefer Crunch. MPG is best for serious lifters who are willing to pay more for a quieter, 24-hour gym.

Cameron Tande, junior, who has worked out at Vasa, Crunch and MPG Fitness, said Vasa can be good for somebody who doesn’t mind a crowd.

“Vasa gives you the best bang for buck in terms of equipment and amenities, but it can be pretty crowded compared to Crunch and MPG,” Tande said.

Tande said Vasa’s $15 a month pricing is great compared to MPG’s $89.99 a month, so he works out at Vasa.

Quinn Peters, junior, has been to Crunch, Vasa and MPG, as well. He said the right gym depends on how serious you are about lifting.

“Crunch is alright but definitely more of a beginner’s gym, while Vasa gives you all you could ask for in a commercial gym,” Peters said. “MPG is nicer than both, but with its price I’d say you can stick with a commercial gym like Crunch or Vasa unless you’re super serious about lifting.”

Peters currently works out at MPG Fitness because he wants a less crowded gym full of serious weightlifters, like himself.

Will Whitted, a junior who now goes to the new crunch location after attending the old Eola location, said Crunch offers everything he needs at a low cost, especially since the new location opened.

“I would rather avoid a crowded gym and stick with Crunch than pay more for Vasa or a nicer gym like MPG,” Whitted said.

“I would rather avoid a crowded gym and stick with Crunch than pay more for Vasa or a nicer gym like MPG,” Whitted said.

Vasa, at 3010 U.S. 34 in Aurora, offers a pool, classes and a basketball court for $15 a month. Crunch, at 704 Route 59 in Naperville, offers classes and a sauna for $10 a month. MPG Fitness, at 3600 Thayer Court, Suite 500, in Aurora, is open 24 hours and offers classes for $89.99 a month.

Written by junior Lucas Kadolph. Edited by staff writers for Oswego East’s online news magazine The Howl.