Japan always puts its own twist on things whether it’s McDonald’s burgers or Starbucks coffees, and Anytime Fitness gyms are no exception.
Anytime Fitness is the ultimate global gym with branches across the world open 24 hours everyday of the year. While that part remains true for Japan’s Anytime Fitness gyms, just about everything else comes with a unique twist.
Amazing Facilities & Hygiene Practices
As an Anytime Fitness member entering a Japanese branch for the first time, you’ll be overwhelmed by the many additional services available.
If you’re a member from Australia like me, you’d be familiar with the common drinking fountain (or bubbler as we call it back home) and tap.
In Japan, you get a full-fledged water cooler with temperature adjustment settings that are operated with one-touch functionality.
Japanese Gym Courtesy
Japan’s Anytime Fitness gyms are unique not just in their additional facilities provided, but also in the rules and regulations upheld.
It’s no secret that Japan is a society that has high standards of courtesy, so it’s not surprising that these practices are cleverly threaded through its gym culture.
The image to the right advises members to slowly return the weights to their original positions after their last rep to avoid making a loud startling noise and potentially damaging the equipment.
Vending Machine Galore
Vending machines are one of the defining features of Japan, with over 5 million operating nationwide. From the streets to arcades and hostels, it’s only natural you’ll find them at Anytime Fitness gyms too!
Unlike most gyms that only sell protein in their vending machines, Japan ensures to sell their usual suspects such as coffee, tea, and juice, but with a greater emphasis on water and sports drinks.
Prices typically range between 100 and 200 yen for a drink, which is equivalent to just 0.75 to 1.50 US dollars!
Don’t worry, it’s not all teas and coffees, because, like any other Anytime Fitness branch, Japan also has its dedicated protein vending machines.
Naturally, you probably won’t recognize any of the brands they have on offer here. SAVAS is Japan’s go-to brand for gym supplements and meal replacements.
Having tried a few flavors of SAVAS protein shakes myself, I can honestly say they’re as good as any other brand. They also have an abundance of unique varieties including coffee, fruit mix, and soy milk options.
Maybe Not For Everyone
Perhaps the one and only downside I could find with Japan’s Anytime Fitness gyms were their lower maximum weights on dumbbells compared to other countries like Australia.
While it’s true that the Japanese generally have smaller builds than many other ethnic groups, I feel this was somewhat of a failure for the franchise.
Some things should be kept consistent and changes should only be made if it’s an improvement to the service.
On the plus side, every other gym machine at Japan’s Anytime Fitness has the usual weight limits you’ll find anywhere else around the world.
Overall, I’d take Japan’s Anytime Fitness over the ones in my home country any day for their awesome facilities and gym courtesy practices which I can resonate with.
Of course, if you are planning to visit Japan, you’ll need a way to get around the country as efficiently and affordably as possible. Japan Rail provides an abundance of travel passes to suit your travel needs. So whether you are travelling individually or as a group, the JR Pass is every traveller’s go-to for getting around and making the most of your time in Japan!