About Pure Gym
Pure Gym stands as one of the UK's largest and most recognizable gym chains, operating over 500 locations across the country since launching in 2009. The brand revolutionized the fitness industry by introducing the no-contract, low-cost gym model that's become incredibly popular with British fitness enthusiasts. What makes Pure Gym particularly appealing is their 24/7 access policy, allowing members to work out whenever suits their schedule, whether that's 3am or 3pm.
The gyms typically feature a comprehensive range of equipment including cardio machines, free weights, resistance equipment, and functional training zones. Most locations also offer group exercise classes as part of the membership, though some premium classes may incur additional charges. Pure Gym has built its reputation on providing no-frills, affordable fitness facilities without the pressure of long-term commitments that traditionally plagued the gym industry.
Members appreciate the flexibility of being able to freeze their membership when needed and the ability to access any Pure Gym location nationwide, making it convenient for those who travel frequently for work or pleasure. The chain has particularly strong presence in urban areas and town centres, making gym access convenient for commuters and city dwellers.
Plans, features and pricing
Pure Gym operates a straightforward pricing structure that varies by location, with gyms in central London typically charging more than those in smaller towns. The pricing model is refreshingly transparent compared to many competitors, and there's genuinely no joining fee at most locations, though this can occasionally change during promotional periods.
Membership options and costs
The standard membership gives you 24/7 access to your home gym, with prices typically ranging from £15 to £35 per month depending on location. Most importantly, these memberships operate on a rolling monthly basis with no fixed contract term, meaning you're not locked in for 12 months like traditional gyms used to require.
Pure Gym Plus represents their premium tier, usually costing an additional £5-10 per month. This upgrade grants you access to all Pure Gym locations nationwide rather than just your home gym, plus you can bring a friend for free once per month and access premium classes that aren't included in the standard membership.
| Membership Type | Typical Monthly Cost | Key Features |
|---|
| Standard | £15-£35 | 24/7 access to home gym, standard classes |
| Pure Gym Plus | £20-£45 | Access to all UK gyms, bring a friend monthly, premium classes |
| Off-Peak (selected locations) | £10-£25 | Access during quieter hours only |
Additional features and services
Beyond basic gym access, Pure Gym offers personal training sessions at additional cost, typically starting around £25-35 per session depending on your location and the trainer's experience level. Many locations also have partnerships with physiotherapists and sports massage therapists who operate from the premises.
The Pure Gym app has become increasingly sophisticated, allowing members to book classes, track their gym visits, and access workout plans. Some locations feature virtual classes displayed on large screens, providing guided workouts even when live classes aren't scheduled. Keep in mind that while most group classes are included, specialized sessions like HIIT or yoga workshops might require separate booking and occasionally additional payment.
Terms of service and cancellation policy
Understanding Pure Gym's cancellation policy is absolutely crucial before you even think about joining, and it's where many members encounter unexpected frustrations. The company has specific requirements that must be followed precisely, otherwise you'll find yourself paying for additional months you didn't intend to use.
Notice period requirements
Pure Gym requires a minimum of 30 days' written notice to cancel your membership. This is a legal requirement under their terms and conditions, and there's no way around it regardless of your circumstances. Critically, this means if you submit your cancellation on January 15th, your membership won't end until February 15th at the earliest, and you'll be charged for that full period.
The notice period starts from the date they receive and process your cancellation request, not from the date you send it. This is precisely why using recorded delivery is so important – you need proof of when they received your letter. I've seen countless members get caught out thinking they'd cancelled, only to find they're still being charged months later because their letter went astray or wasn't properly recorded.
Payment obligations during notice
You remain fully liable for membership payments during your 30-day notice period, and Pure Gym will continue taking direct debit payments as usual. Additionally, if your cancellation notice arrives after your monthly payment date, you'll need to pay for the following month as well. For example, if your payment comes out on the 1st of each month and you submit cancellation on the 3rd, you'll pay for that current month plus the next full month as your notice period.
Most importantly, cancelling your direct debit without following the proper cancellation procedure doesn't actually cancel your membership. This is a massive mistake I see repeatedly. If you simply cancel the direct debit, Pure Gym considers you still a member with outstanding payments, which can lead to debt collection procedures and damage to your credit rating.
UK consumer rights and protections
Under UK consumer law, specifically the Consumer Rights Act 2015, gym memberships must be fair and transparent. Pure Gym cannot refuse a properly submitted cancellation request, nor can they make the cancellation process unreasonably difficult. However, they are entitled to enforce their 30-day notice period as long as this was clearly stated in your membership terms.
The Consumer Contracts Regulations also provide some protection, though the 14-day cooling-off period only applies to new memberships. If you've just joined and haven't yet visited the gym, you might be able to cancel within 14 days without penalty, but you'll need to check your specific joining agreement.
Cancelling by post - the complete guide
Sending your cancellation by post, specifically via Royal Mail Recorded Delivery, is hands-down the most reliable method for cancelling your Pure Gym membership. While Pure Gym does offer online cancellation through your member portal, postal cancellation provides irrefutable proof that you've fulfilled your legal obligation to give written notice. This proof becomes invaluable if any disputes arise about payment or cancellation dates.
Why postal cancellation is most reliable
First and foremost, Recorded Delivery gives you a tracking number and signature confirmation, creating an indisputable paper trail. If Pure Gym ever claims they didn't receive your cancellation or tries to charge you beyond your notice period, you have legal proof that they received your letter on a specific date. I've personally dealt with hundreds of cases where members who cancelled online or by phone had no evidence when billing disputes occurred.
Additionally, postal cancellation satisfies the \
