Every year, like clockwork, there seems to be a high number of new gym sign-ins, and suddenly, gym memberships soar for everyone.
The insurgence of influencers and gym vloggers has helped fuel this fitness craze with morning routines and early-bird workouts. As reported by IOL, although fitness is great, the popular gym chains are starting to feel a bit too much for most people. Gym members are collectively complaining about just how unbelievable gym prices are.
Some feel that many of these gym companies are ignorant of the realities which many South Africans are facing. A 30 % to 40% increase is too extreme for the average salary in South Africa. Fitness might be important, yes, but so is paying rent, buying groceries, and surviving.
Gym folks have taken to social media to share their complaints about gym price increases, especially when it comes to popular fitness giant Virgin Active. Some have expressed that these increased prices don’t come with worthy upgrades, just a few R20 to R50 discounts on smoothies and vegan sandwiches.
One social media user shared on Instagram, “paying more, getting less”. “Groups classes nobody attends and machines that keep on breaking and take a long time to get fixed”.
While fitness is important, it’s safe to say that people are feeling the stress of rising gym membership prices, and the same can be said for an increase on most things.
Also see: Redefining what “healthy” means to you in 2026
Feature Image: Gettys
