Unite Fitness named in top 50 U.S. gyms by Men’s Fitness, Yelp

Known for offering a full body workout in a fun social environment, Unite Fitness Studios recently were recognized as the #1 gym/fitness studio in Pennsylvania and in the Top 50 across America by Men's Fitness and Yelp.

According to Men's Fitness, what earned Unite such high kudos was its three core workouts in one 75 minute routine, as well as its personal training and nutrition programs and the fact that it is a one-stop fitness destination.

The rankings were determined by the Yelp ratings and reviews of people who work out regularly.

"That is what is so cool," Unite owner Gavin McKay told Philly.com, "the fact that it was based on people's Yelp reviews."

Here is what one reviewer said in the Men's Fitness article:

Jose Rainier C.: "Unite has plenty of classes and you will never get bored of your workouts. I highly recommend Unite to anyone who wants a new start, get healthy or just looking for a challenge! They will kick your butt!" -Jose Rainier C.

While today, fitness studios are cropping up all over the place, when McKay started out eight years ago, there were only yoga and specialty studios and they were mostly geared towards just women. This drove him to create his own studio that emphasized an intimate social environment and group workout.

"There is an amazing energy that comes out of working together with a coach. It becomes easier to motivate and work harder. There is no comparison," McKay explained.

"What sets us apart is first our philosophy-- Heart.Muscle. Mind -- that guarantees complete fitness workouts and balanced eating programs. "

He added, "The second part is the social, fun environment.  We take the 'work 'out of workout."

At Unite, the instructors offer fun challenges and individual attention and help everyone get to know each other.

Unite also has a big nutrition component. McKay said that although changing eating behaviors is essential, it is the tougher part for most people, so that is why they offer customized nutrition plans and fun nutritional challenges to help their clients both look and feel good.

On receiving this national recognition, he said, "This accolade could not have come at a better time as we are in a growth stage, opening another studio in Philadelphia and franchising outside of Philadelphia with plans to go nationwide. We have our first franchise studio coming in the Fall to the Main Line."

If you have never been to Unite, take advantage of their free trial to see if it is the right fit for you. Just sign up on their website.  If you would like to know about joining the fitness business by becoming a Unite franchisee, click here.

Read more Sports Doc for Sports Medicine and Fitness.