15+ Places to work off the Jerusalem 15 – The good, the bad, and the ugly

1. Posted by: Ezra Butler - 08/13/2008

   I am very sorry to disagree, but I work out at Body & Soul and love it. It was completely redone, they are always buying new machinery, and have amazing classes. They are extremely helpful and friendly, and just great all around people.

   The only thing that I can answer about the usage of the word shady is that I live near there.

   I am sorry if 2 years ago you had a bad experience there, but I can attest that it has changed (apparently) for the better.

   I would recommend Body & Soul to anyone.

2. Posted by: Benji Lovitt - 08/13/2008

   Where is the best place for spinningeem? I can’t decide if I want to take that or pilatim.

3. Posted by: aliyah06 - 08/14/2008

   I dunno–I checked out Body & Soul 18 months ago, and wasn’t impressed. Our problem is that the husband is the weight-lifter/body-builder guy who also does the aerobic machines, and I’m the swimmer, who ocassionally does the aerobic machines. We needed a place with a pool and a gym and close to us AND parking, since if you can’t be close and can’t park, you won’t go…..and we ended up at Ramat Rachel, and love it. Great pool, very nice gym (enough for my husband’s fastidious tastes, anyway) nice staff. Not cheap, but cheaper than the YMCA–which at the time we checked it out, was also closed on Sundays, meaning we had TWO days a week we couldn’t work out, Besides, there’s no parking near the Y. Biggest drawback at RR—slow swimmers in the fast lap lane at times, too crowded on the machines between 0800 and 1100, and crowded pool during summer afternoons, but still okay rather than perfect.

   Glad you posted about Studio 6–my neighbor and I are looking for a dance class and we’d heard there was something but didn’t know where–thanks!

4. Posted by: Danny Brothers - 08/17/2008

   Yes, I’m with you on two counts: no matter which way you slice it, gyms here in Jerusalem suck – and we need Mexican food!

   The gym in Ramat Aviv for Tel Aviv University is actually an American-style gym. I was impressed. It was, however, bloody expensive.

   Still, nothing is going to compare to even a small university’s gym. For example, I went to William and Mary in Virginia, a school with 7,000 kids. The gym was awesome. 3 basketball courts, olympic pool, big weight room, tons of raquetball and squash courts, private rooms for pilates and yoga and stuff, rock climbing wall, aerobics room, etc etc etc.

   Sigh…

5. Posted by: Rebecca - 08/20/2008

   Hi-
   Wow, I wish I had found your website earlier. I just moved to rehavia for the year and joined the YMCA, because I thought it was the only workout option nearby:-( Needless to say, now I’m broke, but hopefully I will be thin:-) Love your site by the way it’s an American in Jerusalem’s dream!

6. Posted by: Molly - 08/20/2008

   Here’s an update: Sunday I walked into Swan and noticed there were finally more machines. Well it turns out that Ego (one of the above mentioned gyms) closed on Sunday. And none of the members even knew. That’s right, on Saturday, a day they are closed, one of the members walked by and noticed all the equipment being put onto trucks. The next day, Sunday, when the normal group of women went to work off Shabbat lunch, there was a note on the door: We closed. Turns out they sent a text message to some of the members saying they would now have their membership with Swan. So that is why Swan has new equipment and 200 new members. Forget asking how this happened…this only happens in Israel!

7. Posted by: Chatch - 09/03/2008

   Just out of curiosity, what is the best gym to use if I just want a treadmill?

8. Posted by: Molly - 09/03/2008

   If you don’t care about price and just want somewhere to use a treadmill then I would say go to the closest gym in your area. First do a free trial and see if the time when you would go to the gym is crowded. If not…then join. Also make sure you can sell your membership (and freeze) it, this way you always have a way out!

9. Posted by: Berrin - 09/22/2008

   I’m so glad I found this website. I was one of those unfortunate souls who was forced to leave EGO (which I loved very much) and I’m wandering around the city, looking for a gym. Swan is way too glitzy for me and YMCA too expensive (although the pool does make me think twice). Since they seem to be the most accessible-do you know anything about JUMP or giraffe?

10. Posted by: Nirel - 09/24/2008

    You are AAAWESOME for putting this together- THANKS so Much! Coming from NY SC (New York Sports Clubs gyms this has been really rough)

    FIrst I went to Giraffe and it sucks!…it has just 5 treadmills, the AC was barely on.. it’s so stuffy and the arrangement is absurd- and just like almost all the gyms- the bathrooms and showers are separate..??!!!….
    I just joined bodyline for convenience ( choosing the best from all the horrible options) but I wish I had read this yesterday and would have joined Razim… oh well I can always sell my membership- (at least that’s one perk)

11. Posted by: Elina - 10/04/2008

    Thank you – your post is very helpful! I’ve been walking around Jerusalem for 5 days (I will be here for 9 months) and I haven’t been able to find 2 things – a gym and a store that sells hangers! Just two questions – what is a reasonable price for a membership at Razim or Giraffe if I join for 8 months? And, how aggressively are you supposed to bargain? Thanks!

12. Posted by: Molly - 10/05/2008

    While I have never been to Giraffe, I heard they do good deals and the monthly rate is something like NIS 150, but go there first and check it out. I have heard people complain that it is dark and there are no windows…get a free trial and see. Razim, when I went there two years ago was about NIS 220. Make sure you try to get student deals. Also, if you are going to be here for 9 months, you should try and bargain to get the year rate for 9 months. If that doesn’t work then I think it would be better to get a year plan and then try to sell the last 3 months…you might even make money off of that. But make sure you are allowed to sell your membership before you agree to a contract. As fair as bargaining goes…it isn’t the shuk. Prices are as is in most cases, so I don’t think you will have too much luck trying to get them any lower. Hope that helps!

13. Posted by: aliyah06 - 10/05/2008

    Home Center at Malcha Mall sells hanger–they’re on the wall towards the back near the wood.

14. Posted by: Molly - 10/06/2008

    Hi Berrin,
    I don’t think Swan is glitzy…in fact I just complained about how dirty everything is there…i.e. I found toliet paper on the work out map…ewww! I have never been to Jump or Giraffe…but like I wrote in a comment above, you should just go there and try it out for a day to see if it is your style.

15. Posted by: Timea - 10/14/2008

    Just moved to Jerusalem (Baka) and am looking for a good place to do arobics. An add went by which offered latin dancing workout that sounded fantastic but I lost the add…Any ideas???

16. Posted by: Molly - 10/15/2008

    Hi Timea,
    I don’t know about latin dancing, but Studio 6 in Talpiot which have awesome dance classes. Also, Swan on Emek Refaim has a lot of classes. You should also check out Janglo.net and do a search for gyms or classes. Hope that helps!

17. Posted by: Ilan - 10/20/2008

    Does anyone know of a gym in jerusalem that is the equivalent to David Lloyd, LA Fitness, Holmes Places, Virgin Active, e.g. a large commercial gym that has a pool and steam/sauna/hot tub…

18. Posted by: aliyah06 - 10/23/2008

    The ONLY place we found that had a gym, pool, sauna, steam room and hot tub was Ramat Rachel. The gym is smaller than the big commercial gyms in the States but its still your best bet in Jerusalem.

19. Posted by: amy - 11/02/2008

    hi! Thanks for the info, so helpful! Do you know if there is a yoga studio anywhere near Baka? Preferably Ashtanga..! And also what is the general weekly/monthly gym price?Thanks!

20. Posted by: Molly - 11/03/2008

    Hi Amy,
    I think there are studios in Baka for yoga, although I am not sure exactly where they are located. My advice is to post the question on Janglo and do a search there, you are bound to find info there.

    As far as monthly gym rates: It depends on if you have membership for 3 months, 6 months or a year, if you want to be able to freeze you membership, if you are a student, etc. There are a lot of variables, but prices generally range from NIS 190 to NIS 300. Obviously there may be some cheaper and some more expensive places. ALWAYS MAKE SURE TO TRY OUT THE GYM before you commit.

21. Posted by: amy - 11/04/2008

    Thanks Molly. Janglo is awesome! So so helpful! I am coming in January so I’m on a mission to find out lots before I arrive in the land of chaos!I will definitely try out the gyms first.. (I used to be a PT..so I’m pretty fussy!!)Thanks again, your whole site is fabulous!

22. Posted by: daniel - 11/09/2008

    I don’t know about the past, but I just returned from my first workout at Body & Soul and currently (Nov 9, 2008) there is nothing shady about. Sure, the free weights are a little cramped together and are always in disarray, but the equipment is fairy up to date. They have 15+ treadmills (fairly new), each with its own TV set with cable channels, plus 5 or 6 elliptical machines and as many bicycles.
    The place is well lit (at least the top floor, where the cardio and weight room is), well ventilated, and clean. It is a non religious, men and women setting.
    Price, depending on the deal and length of contract, hits 500 shkalim at highest per month. Longer deals are considerably reduced (1200 for three months I believe).
    I did NOT see the studios and rooms where classes are held. They are on different floors.
    I also checked out Iron Gym on Keren Hayesod. I did not work out there, just looked around. That one is definitely shadier, and wanted the same money. Only a couple of dated treadmills. The equipment can use some upgrading too. Not impressed. It is a lot closer to my place (walking distance), but not worth the money. Actually, I am impressed with prices. Gyms are charging $100+ per month on 12 month memberships. I use to go to a gym in Salamanca, Madrid (great location) for about $60-$70 per month. In my home town in Costa Rica a month in a top gym will run at about $50-$60.
    I will be checking out the one in Malcha Mall later this week.
    One last correction, Razim is for women only. I went over there and was not very impressed with what I saw (from the entrance). B & S is way nicer.

23. Posted by: Molly - 11/09/2008

    Daniel-
    Thanks for your input. Like I said, I have not been to Body & Soul in over a year and I am sure a lot has changed…but when I was there it was awful and it left a bad taste in my mouth. You kind of don’t want to do business with someone who lets you inhale paint while you work out. I never heard of Iron Gym so thanks for the update. Let us know how the Malcha Mall gym is. I have been there but never worked out with the equipment.

24. Posted by: amy - 11/11/2008

    does anyone know if there are Les Mills classes available?

25. Posted by: daniel - 11/12/2008

    I went to the Malha Mall gym (Bodyline) and don’t want to waste too much time on it. Very similar setting to Body & Soul. Very similar equipment, size, light, cleanliness, price, etc. Pro: The mall has more parking and its nicer than Body & Soul’s area. They also told me that they have a running team or group that meets twice a week, if you like to run.

    What I do want to tell you is that a friend showed me a perfect place to workout yesterday. It is a community center called Beit Hanoar Ha’lvri on Herzog street, between (I’ve been told) Katamon and Rasco. I live in Rehavia, and for me it’s a 15 minute walk down Aza street which turns into Herzog.
    This place has it all. A nice gym with lots of light, good cardio equipment each with its own TV screen and cable, fairly decent bodybuilding equipment, indoor pool, indoor full size basketball court, dance lessons, aerobics, jazz, the works!
    And it’s way cheaper than any of the others I visited. This week they had a special of 2000 shkalim for 12 months (give or take). I opted for the three month 975 shkalim choice.
    They have ample parking, great bathrooms/facilities, etc.
    Best option hands down.
    105 Herzog St. Buses 6,17,19,31,32, Tel: 02-6494111

26. Posted by: Judy - 11/14/2008

    >> This is the kind of gym I see myself growing old in. That sounds strange, but what I mean is, when I am 45 and up, I will spend my days workin’ that 30 minute routine, but until then it just isn’t for me.>>
    Hey, watch it please! I’m 60 and lift weights for an hour 3X/week. (Great Shapes – Raanana)
    Judy

27. Posted by: Dawn - 11/24/2008

    I have had a membership in Giraff, it was a horrible experience. The trainers never paid attention or helped with anything unless you were extra hot or paid them for private lessons. As for the membership it’s bloody expensive, they are asking for 350NIS a month, it’s a small place and very crowded and sometimes really dirty. Check any place you are thinking of having a membership in by using the trial time and talking to people to go there.

28. Posted by: Nuts - 12/13/2008

    Having tried and tested a few gyms since making aliyah, i have to agree that decent gyms just don’t exist in this city.

    I joined Jump in September, and while its bomb-shelter setting is far from the nicest place to work out, its definitely conveniently located, esp for inter-city commuters like myself(binyanei hauma right by begin exit), free parking galore, and lets say pretty cheap.

    i got offered 175shek/month, which was a fair bit cheaper than i was paying at Body and soul, but you get what you pay for i suppose, or what the sleezy salesman feels like quoting you. The sales guy was fairly shady in his dealings, not able to give me a price over the phone, and offered me a price on a piece of paper, take it or leave it..

    The place could do with a serious makeover – for all the new customers they bring in, all they’ve managed so far is some new paint and light fittings and lino in the bathrooms. i was told by the shady salesman they would be very soon upgrading the very old and often breaking cardio equipment. no changes 4 months later. 5 tvs at the front, with bad channel selections.

    What makes this place so popular -well the location seems to be the draw card for its significant dati-charedi clientele, plus there’s a separate woman’s section for those that way inclined. if you just want a weights workout, this place will do the job fine.

    There is a dietician, beauty therapist, and plenty of classes, though many are woman-only.

    Body and Soul – i was with them for a year, and wasn’t disappointed. very well-run, friendly front-desk and always modifying their equipment. the instructors didn’t seem too interested in you unless you were mates with them (although i’ve felt this in all israeli gyms). Just a bit expensive, and no parking facilities.

29. Posted by: jim - 01/01/2009

    why not try the kosher gym even though it is seperate the place has plenty of equipment is probably the cleanest gym i have ever been to and most everyone is nice.

30. Posted by: chaya bracha - 02/20/2009

    Michael Berezin JERUSALEM FITNESS!!!

    *Personal one-on-one training! Customized exercise program, couples plan! FREE consultation 054-625-0269

    *WOMEN only classes! First Class FREE!
    Mon 7:30-8:30pm Strength Training
    Weds. 9-10 am Cardio Kickboxing
    Weds. 6:30 -7:30 pm Cardio Dance
    Thurs. 1:30-2:30 Power Yoga

    call to reserve spot 054-625-0269
    mnberezin@gmail.com

    PARDES BUILDING, 29 PIERRE KOENIG TALPIOT

31. Posted by: cb - 03/22/2009

    Power Yoga and Budokon Yoga Flow for Women!!

32. Posted by: pol - 03/24/2009

    I have to disagree with Daniel.
    I work out in Iron-gym for more than two years. It’s a small, clean and well-groomed place with nice people. And it’s definitely NOT shady! Yes, there are only a couple of treadmills (in addition to couple of bicycles and one walking don’t_know_what) and only one TV according to the room size. Yes, not all equipment is newest, but all is heavy-duty professional and function properly.
    The real pearl of the place is the coach!!! Michael is reputed to be maybe one the most professional coaches across Israel. And the most professional in Jerusalem for sure. He has a huge experience and published several books by sports medicine.
    Concerning the price… Daniel’s words sounds doubtful to me. I hope he wrote them by mistake otherwise I would admit it’s a lie. The 12 month membership costs about 670-680$ that give us 55-60$ per month! (You can easily verify me by the phone in Jerusalem: 02-6252829.) Besides individually fitted training program, for this money you get unlimited lessons in studio like dances, yoga, pilatis, boxing and whatever. I know, the are some discounts for students, soldiers and morning hours. Price for one month is more expensive, just like in every other gym, I checked.
    Bottom line…
    If you are looking for a 15+ treadmills each with it’s own TV set – that’s not the place. But if you’re don’t afraid of hard work, want to improve you body and health, expecting for individual training and close attention or, God forbid, have some motion diseases – I would very recommend to visit Iron gym and speak with Michael first, before you decide.

33. Posted by: daniel - 03/24/2009

    I hate it when people fight in forums over opinions. It makes no sense to me, so I won’t start an argument. Have you ever heard the term “your miles may vary” or YMMV? You can’t say that my opinion is a mistake or a lie just because you don’t share it. You may and should express a different opinion, if you don’t share mine. I (ME, ANI, YO) find the place to be shady, and the cardio equipment to be outdated. That is my opinion, and it’s no mistake or lie, it’s the way I see things. You added you 2 cents, they are welcome. Unless of course you are shilling for the gym or just plain work for them in which case your post is very very bad form! Anyway, I’m back home across the world by now, so I can’t visit places or check out improvements anymore. I wish you all a Jag Pesaj Sameaj well in advance.

34. Posted by: pol - 03/24/2009

    I don’t fight here for nothing! I shared my own opinion exactly as you shared yours. You found this place shady or outdated – it’s your right. But when you say it costs 100$+ per month – that is not true which you can’t call “your opinion”. Because the price is something measurable and I know exactly how much I pay for my annual membership.
    I’m not shilling for the gym – I’m just one of the satisfied customers. And I think people may know another point of view from somebody inside.

35. Posted by: Greg - 04/22/2009

    Can anyone give more info on the YMCA gym. I happen to live very close to it and was wondering exactly how much it costs and how you would compare the facilities to other in-town gyms. THANKS!!

36. Posted by: Ilan - 04/27/2009

    Someone posted something about a health club in Ramat Rachel, does anyone know the name of this?

    Does anyone have a list of the facilities offered at YMCA gym?

    Why cant Holmes Place open in Jerusalem! they look like the only decent gym/health club in Israel!

    What i am really looking for is not only a gym but a health club…

    I want a club with pool,gym,tennis,hot tub, sauna, steam, weight room, relaxation area, lounge and cafe…

37. Posted by: Sam - 04/27/2009

    The Lerner Sports Center on Har Hatsofim has all of the above items you mentioned and in my opinion is probably the most American-like gym in Jerusalem. It’s down the street from Hadassah and Hebrew University. The author of the article disregarded it because of its location but it’s easily accessible by car (if you have one) and by several bus lines. I used to be a member there but have since joined the Y because I wantd to be within walking distance of my gym. The Y also has everything you mentioned but no tennis courts (they have squash courts) and if you count the restaurant then I guess maybe a cafe but it’s really not a part of the gym. The facilities are also pretty dated but if you don’t care about aesthetics then it will suit your purposes just fine.

38. Posted by: aliyah06 - 04/27/2009

    I belong to Ramat Rachel–that IS the name. The pool/spa/hottub/gym/aerobics/cycling-studio/sauna and steam room are in a building down the hill from the hotel run by the kibbutz. Parking is adequate except on the busiest of days in the summer; there is no ‘lounge and cafe’ in the hi-end gym sense but there is a restaurant/snack bar that I’ve only used once or twice in the summer–NOT health food, more oriented to the kids. I think the pool is the best in Jerusalem and my husband likes the gym, altho it is smaller than Gold’s Gym or World Gym in the States. We like it better than Holmes Place, which we checked out in Modi’in. Check it out. You need a car, altho the 7 goes there.

39. Posted by: Molly - 04/28/2009

    Quick update: A new two-story gym has been built at Hebrew University’s Har Hatzofim campus and will be opening within two months. They have it all in terms of gym and health club, but again for people who do not live in the area or don’t have a car, it is harder to get to.

    Hebrew University also has a gym at their Givat Ram campus, although I have never gone to it, so I can’t give you any details. People I know that went were pleased.

    Go Team Workout!

40. Posted by: What War Zone??? - 04/28/2009

    I got winded the other day going to get the mail. What do you suggest, Felafel ladies?

    Benji

41. Posted by: Molly - 04/28/2009

    I suggest you start working out with those old women work-out tapes before you even consider a real gym!

42. Posted by: Shoshana - 05/12/2009

    I just made aliyah and i am looking for a gym to actually be a personal trainer. but, i cannot train someone in herbrew so it has to be a gym with many olim… do you know of any? and do you know if any gyms are actually looking for personal trainers?

43. Posted by: Molly - 05/12/2009

    You’ll find that most of these gyms on the list will be interested in hiring an English trainer- there are olim at all of these gyms. The best advice is to start making phone calls to each place and see if they are hiring. Mazel Tov and best of luck!

44. Posted by: Ilan - 05/12/2009

    You should try private personal training, I for one would like to have some sessions. I miss my English PT sessions!

45. Posted by: Shoshana - 05/12/2009

    Well to be honest i would love to do private training but i only brought 4 bands with me and some free weights and i like my weights…i mean to be honest if i find a lot of people who want to do private i would invest and buy all mt stuff here…but to start i do want an actual gym..

46. Posted by: What War Zone??? - 05/12/2009

    Daaaaaaamn, falafel ladies! Look at you! Between gyms and Mexican food, you are all over Jerusalem.

47. Posted by: Lucy - 05/15/2009

    it makes me so angry, the way americans move to isreal and expect it to be just like the us. its not.
    israel looks at american culture as a model, but i think its so wrong. not everything has to be the biggest, and with the most machines or whatever.
    so greedy.

48. Posted by: Molly - 05/27/2009

    Hi Lucy,
    I think Israel has always modeled itself off of many countries since it is still such a new country. I don’t see anything wrong with wanting to have nice gyms if I am going to pay more for it here than in America. I agree with you about not having to be the biggest- but on other issues.

    I think it is important to have high expectations for a country but to also be its own unique place.

49. Posted by: Ayelet - 05/31/2009

    Hi I just moved to Baka and I am looking for a kikboxing class. Does anybody know of one? I am also looking for a belly dancing class. I would love some help Thanks

50. Posted by: Molly - 05/31/2009

    Hi Ayelet,
    I know they offer those classes at Swan and Razim- most places will give you a free trial so go to as many places as you can!

    Best of luck!

51. Posted by: sarah - 06/02/2009

    Hi,
    I was wondering if anyone knew where I could find a good spinning class (indoor cycling group fitness) in the Jerusalem area? Or perhaps at least a gym with several of the newest spin bikes available with the rest of the cardio equipment..?

    thanks

52. Posted by: Molly - 06/02/2009

    Most of the gyms do offer spinning classes, but the bikes aren’t so new. Maybe someone who takes classes can give you advice here or you can try out classes at the gyms. I can say from experience: Swan has great teachers and the classes fill up quickly. When I went to Body and Soul, I loved the teacher but the bikes were really old. I went to the YMCA once and the bikes were ok but the class was too easy. Hope that helps!

53. Posted by: Ilan - 06/12/2009

    Lucy,

    Why shouldn’t Israel have the biggest and best gyms? With the amount most of these gyms charge you should be getting a whole lot more. I do not think it is unfair to expect a good work out area, a good weight room, a pool with good showers, steam room, jacuzzi, sauna ect when being asked to pay 400 shekels a month!

54. Posted by: Sophie - 06/16/2009

    Hi-
    I am making aliyah in a couple of weeks, and I am moving to Jerusalem! (aaah!) Do you know of any rec sports leagues, for softball, kickball, soccer – basically anything?

    I’m wary of joining a gym, but want to get in some physical activity!

    Thanks!

55. Posted by: Molly - 06/17/2009

    Mazel Tov on your big move! There two leagues I know about. Every Tuesday a group of girls get together to play soccer, you can contact them at silvialicht@gmail.com. There is also a football league for just girls, and girls and boys. That I don’t know too much about, but you can go on Janglo at janglo.net to try and find out more from people there.

    Good luck and Mazel Tov!

56. Posted by: Aviva - 06/30/2009

    Hi,
    This is Aviva who used to work at swan. I left swan about 4 months ago and opened my own Power Yoga studio called FLOW in Rechavia. Come in and check it out! The website is: http://www.flowpoweryoga.org. You can also call me at 0542143450.
    Hope to see you soon,
    Aviva

57. Posted by: gabriel - 07/10/2009

    hi im going to be staying on caspi street in jerusalem for the next month and i wanted to know what was the closest gym from there since i dont know the area… any help would be great. also are taxis expensive there becuase i dont want to spend 400 shekels just to go to the gym for amonth

58. Posted by: Molly - 07/12/2009

    Hi Gabriel,
    I am not familiar with Caspi street, what part of town is it? Let me know and I will try to help.

59. Posted by: aliyah06 - 07/12/2009

    Caspi is a road overlooking the Old City in North Talpiot. The “closest” gym is the Jerusalem Pool in German Colony with a very tiny-always crowded closet of a gym. There may be other newer things that have opened since we moved out of the area.

    Or you could walk two blocks from your apt. to catch the #7 bus and go out to Ramat Rachel, which has an excellent, clean gym with new equipment and a pool, hottub, dry and wet saunas. A 20-ride bus ticket is 59 shekels (a bit under $15.00)–and you can use the ticket for rides other than the gym.

    OR–you can walk. It’s a 45 minute walk to Ramat Rachel. I know because I used to do it every morning.

    There is also the Y but I don’t go there because it’s closed on Sundays, and I don’t swim on Shabbat so I lose 2 days a week. You can get there by bus also, or walk (40 mins walking towards the downtown). I like the pool and equipment at Ramat Rachel better.

    Taxis aren’t as cheap as they used to be…the meter starts at 19 shekels approx and any gym near you is probably 25-30 NIS, easily. ON a daily basis, this gets expensive. Take the bus. Or walk. Both are cheaper and the latter is much more aerobic.

    Good luck.

60. Posted by: Personal Trainer - 07/16/2009

    Hi. I’m a personal trainer for women only and worked as a gym instructor for 7 years in Israel. I’ve worked in 6 of the gyms mentioned above. I think this list is a great idea. Its hard to find the ideal (American equivalent gym) in Jerusalem. Here is my advise…
    1) A gym has to be no more than 5-15 mins walking distance from where you live (or work) – or the chances are you won’t go!
    2) If you want information on the gym talk to the members at the time. Don’t be shy to go up to at least 3 people and ask them their opinion. What to ask:
    * Are the teachers/trainers good? Do you get a personal program and how often? Do the trainers know what they are talking about and are they helpful. Are the trainers the kind of people you have no problem approaching. Is there enough staff available?
    * Equipment – It really does not have to be new and fancy it just has to work!! Are there constant repairs needed? Are the machines user friendly? Women – mixed gyms are usually geared to men (tall and broad) and not to women and the equipment will be too big or the weights will have large increments. Women need small increments.
    * Cardio (treadmill etc.) machines – Is there a limit on usage (eg 20 mins in peak time). Are there enough available or is there a waiting list system? Are there TVs for each person and if not how many people do i share with? Do I need to bring earphones? If you don’t watch TV and there are take this into consideration – you can’t complain about a place that has tvs if you chose to sign up!!
    * hygiene and cleanliness: Bathrooms – Is there always a cleaner. Are there often times with no toilet paper or hand paper? Equipment – everything should be wiped after use (at least once a day!) and are people required to bring an exercise towel?
    * Staff – are they friendly and easy to deal with after you have made your membership? Is it a gym that listens to your suggestions?
    * Is there enough light/air and air conditioning for your needs (don’t over look this one)
    * General atmosphere – in general are people positive about the place? Is it a nice social atmosphere?

    Feel free to email me with any further gym or exercise related questions. fitnessandhealthpt@gmail.com

61. Posted by: Darrell - 08/04/2009

    Hi,
    I’ll be moving to Jerusalem for a year in 2 weeks. I’m an avid runner, cyclist and swimmer and was hoping someone could provide some route reco’s for the run/bike as well as the best/cheapest 25-50m lane swimming pool in the area…Thanks!

62. Posted by: Nate - 09/29/2009

    I’ve tried out a number of gyms since i’ve made aliya, and the Hebrew University Givat Ram Campus Gym/sports club is by far the best thing i’ve seen in the Jerusalem area so far.
    Plusses
    -reasonably priced, standard membership also includes swimming pool (33.3m), tennis courts and athletics track facilities
    -large, clean, modern and bright (the gym is only about a year old), extensive cardio and weight machines. most cardio machines have personal lcd with Yes.
    -Friendly and mature atmosphere – attracts mainly students,university employees etc.

    Minusses
    -bit out of the way if dependent on public transport. though there are bus lines that run to givat ram, like 9,17
    -No real ‘mivtzaim’ unless you have some connection to the university. otherwise as long as you have a batchelors degree you can get the price of a ‘boger universita’
    -

63. Posted by: Molly - 09/29/2009

    Hey Nate,
    That’s great info! I am actually going to start at the Hebrew U Lerner gym and the student prices are kick ass! They just rebuilt their new gym with 3 floors! And the awesome machines and LCDs that you mentioned. Thank G-d for the university!

64. Posted by: Nehama - 09/29/2009

    Hey, coming to town for 3 weeks and want a spining class in jerusalem that I can pay by the class, no memebership…. any thoughts??

65. Posted by: Rebecca - 10/01/2009

    Nehama, I know that Swan has pay per class options and Spinning. I think most places have per per class so you’ll just have to call up whichever gyms are close to you to find out.

66. Posted by: Molly - 10/01/2009

    It’s true most places have special classes and you can pay per class- also you can always pretend to be interested in a gym and try it out for a day- sure it’s more shady but it is the cheaper way!

67. Posted by: cb - 10/13/2009

    B”H

    Women’s and girls 7-12 Budokon classes are now starting at El HaLev!!!

    Budokon translates directly in Japanese as (Bu) Warrior (Do) Way (Kon) Spirit, or Way of the Spiritual Warrior. Founded by yogic and martial arts master Cameron Shayne, Budokon is the first and only art form to combine yoga, martial arts, and living arts into one complete system. The foundation of the Budokon physical practice is precision, alignment and Zen mind. All Budokon techniques are designed to explore the body’s full range of motion while cultivating agility, control, speed, power, balance and flow. It is a true evolution of movement that must be experienced to be understood.

    Budokon conditoning classes will rotate focus : Budokon Basics , Budokon Flow & Flexibility, Strength & Balance, and Power & Agility.

    Budokon conditioning classes are led by Budokon certified instructor

    Chaya Bracha Adelson Zippor

    Call El HaLev for details:

    02-678-1764, elhalev@elhalev.org, http://www.elhalev.org

68. Posted by: Shmuel - 10/17/2009

    Any updates on Hebrew Univ at Mt. Scopus gym? If I am a grad. of Hebrew Univ. do I get a discount?

    Any thoughts on Body & Soul in Talpiot?

    thanks

69. Posted by: Molly - 10/20/2009

    Yes Shumel the gym at Hebrew U. Mt. Scopus is awesome and brand new (again) and cheaper than most gyms! As a student at Hebrew U you can pay only NIS 1300 for the year! That is super duper cheap! Just bring your student ID or acceptance letter when you register. The gym is amazing!

70. Posted by: What War Zone??? - 12/01/2009

    Ok, Felafel Ladies, I actually have a serious question this time.

    I just called Iron Gym which is the closest gym to downtown from what I can find. They said they don’t do free trials unless you agree to sign up after the fact. If I don’t sign a contract, they charge 70 shekels. That’s a crazy amount of money. Do most places do free trials? Or have you found any other places near downtown?

71. Posted by: Molly - 12/02/2009

    Benji- Iron Gym is the only gym I ever heard of that does not do a free trial. Every gym should do that- what’s free about signing a contract? Try the many other gyms in the city center first and try Gan Sachr where you can go for a great run and use those incredibly fun workout machines in the park!

72. Posted by: dovid - 12/06/2009

    Hi
    If you looking for professional results orientated one on one training, with an expert personal trainer which provides you with nutrition programs and monitors your results, in an kosher (men only) gym in Jerusalem.
    Contact : Dovid Ballen 0547214730

73. Posted by: Sivan - 12/06/2009

    I haven’t noticed anyone reponding about the Curves fitness clubs and since I’ve been a member firstly at the Maale Adumim location and now at the remolded Talpiot location (I moved back to Jerusalem# I feel I need to state my opinion. Both locations are amazing!! The staff is so attentive, professonal, warm and inviting. Both clubs are very clean and the up keep is very professional. Both clubs have a very healthy social calender, things are always happening. As far as breaking a sweat: since the equipment and the type is circuit training and they have hydraulic equipment instead of weights; speed of the workout determines the effectiveness or equivalence to a conventional gym workout. The faster you work the more you get out of it. Trust me, try doing a shoulder press as fast as possible in 30 sec. YOU WILL BREAK A SWEAT! You just have to work against your own ability & I happen to be 34 years old and in good physical shape, working out all my life)and I get an amazing all body workout at Curves! It’s also safer than a conventional gym and the trainers are always there by your side, like having a personal trainer at your side all the time without the high cost (their membership is very reasonable for the attention you recieve: It’s 199 a month for a 12 m. membership plus they do weight and measure every month and offer nutritional advise as well. Curves is also very convienent and fast, you come whenever you please for a 30 minute workout which incorporates both strength training and cardio at the same time; the consept is very smart. It’s for women only and I HIGHLY RECOMMAND it. BTW, the reference to comparing clubs to the States, since Curves is a international chain, with a yearly membership you can receive a travel pass and workout at any of the 10,000 locations in the world or in Israel, I think they have 15 branches here). I’ve had a number of opportunities to visit some clubs while in the States and none of them were as nice nor as energetic as the 2 clubs I’ve been a member of in Israel…so there! ;o)

74. Posted by: Molly - 12/08/2009

    Thanks Sivan your feedback is great! Do you know if they give a free trial for our readers that might want to try it out?

75. Posted by: Sivan - 12/08/2009

    I know that they offer a free health and fitness analysis which includes trying out some of the equipment. You really need to be taught how to use the machines so to be responsible they don’t just allow you to come in and jump on the equipment without special guidance like is common at the conventional gyms. The owners of the Talpiot branch are Ruth, Sima and Lorraine and the phone # there is: 6787812. Ruth also ownes the Maale Adumim branch: 5903824. If I’m not mistaken, Lorraine owns the Pisgat Zeev branch as well. They’re all really great ladies, I would talk to them.

76. Posted by: Michal - 12/28/2009

    Thanks for the info on the Hebrew U. Is just a normal student card useful in any other gym for a discount?

77. Posted by: Molly - 12/29/2009

    Hi Michal,
    I know you can get a student discount at Swan- so you should definitely try the other gyms! Good luck and stay healthy!

78. Posted by: Signe - 12/29/2009

    Dear felafel girls and your readers,

    I’m moving to Jerusalem in January and will be working in Queen Shlomzion Street. I am not familiar with the city, so I don’t know the locations of the different gyms. I am looking for a nice gym with lots of good cardio machines close to where I work. Can you help me out?
    And I’m also looking for a pool to do some swimming. Your help would be highly appreciated….
    And while we’re at it: what about at good hair dresser?

79. Posted by: Molly - 12/29/2009

    Hi Signe,
    Congrats on the move and the job! Your street is basically the city center. This means you have a ton of options.There are a few chains of the gym Giraffe right off Ben Yehuda street and near the shuk that you can try out. Also, the YMCA is near you and has a pool. Unfortunately the Emek Refaim pool is being closed down at the end of this month to build more homes for rich people to maybe buy and live in once a year. Your other pool options are both Hebrew U campuses, Har Hatzovim and Givat Ram and I’ve heard there are pools in hotels that you can get membership to. Both campuses are a bus ride, or a bike ride away. A gym that I liked was Razim, located in Rehavia which is about a 10-15 minute walk from your work. I use to go after work from the same area and it was great. Remember that you will be working on Slomzion, but you might live closer to one of the gyms. Good luck!!

    As far as hair goes- unfortunately my trusted hairstylist is moving back to the states, so I too need to start looking. I know there is another molly that does hair from her home and used to work in New York- you can 077-504-7008. If you ask Becca she’ll tell you about Shuki zikri http://www.shukizikri.co.il/English/ which cut hair for cheap because they are a school- I wouldn’t do it, but she does. Other than that you will have to leave it up to our readers to help you out.

    Good luck!

80. Posted by: Jackie - 01/09/2010

    Are any of these gyms open on Saturday?
    I know its Shabbat, but some things are open…

81. Posted by: Molly - 01/10/2010

    You need to check every gym- since they all have different times and rules

82. Posted by: aliyah06 - 01/10/2010

    Ramat Rachel is open on Saturdays. I think the pool closes earlier in the evening than other days but it’s open, as is the gym.

83. Posted by: jasmine - 02/15/2010

    Sivan, thanx for your positive feedback, im thinking of joining curves, You said you’ve been working out all of your life, do you feel you get a better workout at curves vs. conventional weights at regular gyms? Is the membership price you posted in dollars or shekels??

84. Posted by: Yitzhak - 02/19/2010

    For more gyms in Jerusalem and in Tel Aviv, check out http://www.israelgym.com – great place to leave reviews if you find you are impressed or don’t like a gym.

85. Posted by: Sivan - 02/21/2010

    Hi Jasmine,

    I definitly think that the workout at Curves is much more effective than a workout with weights at a conventional gym. Only if you would pay for a personal trainer at a conventional gym to work with you individually each time (very expensive and time consuming) would that workout be comparable to the Curves circuit workout. At Curves the workout is only half an hour & you get both cardio & strenghth all at once for the exact time frame that is needed to overload the muscles and reach an elevated heart rate to achieve a cardio workout as well.

    The price is in shekels of course.

    Good luck & have a great day!
    Sivan

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