I went for the True Fitness Grand Launch the other day. The consultant called and invited me to go get my free 1 week trial pass. Now, I had been eyeing this gym to open since I knew about it. The verdict? Well, the built-up area is approx 70,000 sq feet. The difference between this spanking new outlet and the other 2 is the layout. Where the previous 2 outlets were located in shop lots, this new gym was located in an office block.
What’s the difference? Well, the difference lies in the building structure and the layout plan. The shop lots that the 2 gyms were located were meant for small shops hence there are a lot of pillars around. So considering that the Taipan gym has a built-up of almost 80,000 sq feet, the place doesn’t feel spacious. When there are 2 to 3 pillars in the studio and every 500 metres away, it automatically makes the studio and around looks and feels smaller even with mirrors all around. And there were just too many levels to go up and down; with the changing rooms straddling in the middle makes it a hassle. I always like those gyms which has just one level so not only does it look more spacious, it’s also more convenient to go to the lockers or to the studios. For FF outlets, by far the one with the best layout are Axis, IOI and Curve.
The decision to make this new outlet their signature club gives it a different look and feel. The club definitely looks classier and more sophisticated. Instead of the usual dodgy darker disco lightings, this one has brighter lights and not so disco-ey feel. Even the flooring uses better polished tiles. Same goes for the showers. They’ve adopted the FF style with the drainage located within the showers instead of outside like their previous 2 outlets, which tends to jammed up the drainage and makes for a puddle of water when you step out of the showers. The showers though, still use shower curtains albeit nicer ones, not those which gets moldy fast. I can see money’s been well spent at least. Lockers were also similar to FF ones with wood panels but still need to bring your own safety lock.
Now the best part; the swimming pool. I have harped on FF to build a pool but was told that pools are not part of the gym facilities offered. The 30 metre pool is located on the 4th floor and is adorned with cabanas which house the spa offering services like massages, pedicures and manicures. There is also a juice bar beside the pool so if you don’t feel like dipping into the waters, you can just lie on the sundecks and sip some juices and visualize holidaying in Club Med looking up the sky. Hahahahaa…..
A slight disappointment to the pool tho’. I was under the impression that it was gonna be an Olympic size pool but it turned out to be only half Olympic size. But oh well, just beats going to other pools still I guess. All in all, I was rather impressed with the entire gym layout. As for their PT sessions, there are 2 free PT thrown in with the membership similar to FF. The only diff tho’ is that these 2 PT sessions includes drawing up a program for you in line with your fitness goals, a concept use by Clark Hatch. I reckon this is a good move as some members may not want to splurge a whole lot of money on PT without knowing whether the PT trainer is good or whether it’s gonna yield the results that they want.
Last but not least are the yoga studios. There are 2 studios with one catering for hot yoga. It’s located right at the back with the rooms being sound-proofed. Now, for those who have been to the Mind & Body studio over at the Curve, the loud music generated from the Laundry bar is clearly heard and felt in the studio. It certainly didn’t make sense to be doing something as relaxing as Yoga and Pilates when you don’t even feel relaxed in the first place with thumping beats accompanying you. Seriously, even the thumping vibrations can be felt in the ladies locker!! Ok, the yoga studios have pre-laid mats on the floor which makes it easier for those yoga practitioners as it eliminates the need to bring your own yoga mats and spaces in between the mats are nicely spaced out already as the shape of the mats are pre-printed on the carpets. If you can’t visualize, go have a tour of the gym!
ladynina Said:
on Sunday August 19, 2007 at 8 40 am
how bout the membership fee?
ultraviolet Said:
on Tuesday August 21, 2007 at 1 54 pm
depends on the package that you sign up for. It’s quite equiv or cheaper than FF…
ladynina Said:
on Tuesday August 21, 2007 at 4 12 pm
i was at celeb last sunday. if we enrol this month (aug), we oni pay rm149 (home) or 169 (passport). proc. fee, adm fee & other fees waived. but this month oni lorr..
too bad celeb is out of my route loop, if not i might wanna give it a try.
ultraviolet Said:
on Wednesday August 22, 2007 at 12 06 pm
I’m joining TF for RM 113/mth (passport), waived processing and joining fees…but this package applicable during their Grand Launch lar…
comes with a sling bag + bath towel and a tumbler…
yong Said:
on Wednesday August 22, 2007 at 12 57 pm
hi uv,
the package that u mentioned..rm113/mth (passport) need tied with them how long?..2 yrs?
thx…
ultraviolet Said:
on Wednesday August 22, 2007 at 9 27 pm
oh, my package commits me to them for the next 3 and half years! It’s a 2 + 1 thingy…+ another half year for RM199…so average out is cheap lor…anyway, I’m told it’s transferable so I reckon I still wont lose out if I decide to cut it…
yong Said:
on Thursday August 23, 2007 at 8 51 am
uv..so total how much u pay montly?….mean u need to pay 24 months and get another 12 months free rite?
ultraviolet Said:
on Thursday August 23, 2007 at 1 47 pm
Yeah that’s rite…in totality, it’s approx RM4.8k for 42 months.
yong Said:
on Thursday August 23, 2007 at 3 49 pm
thx uv…
actually i went to TF jaya33 ytday nite..then the sales person offer me rm315 pay for 12 months…then i get another 18 months free plus 6 free PT…. i m now still thinking want to take it or not as i actually need to tied with them for 30 months…
if i go for FF…only pay rm135 monthly and then only tied 1 yr…
ultraviolet Said:
on Thursday August 23, 2007 at 7 02 pm
well that works out to RM126/mth which is quite cheap too…that’s passport rite?
In FF, i think urs is the home package? Anyhow, it all boils down to what suits you the best and convenience of getting to the gym too. I find that it is best to find the gym closest to where u live cos ultimately that’s the most permanent place for you not to mention easiest to access during weekends, which doesnt give u the excuse of skipping gym. Don’t get one near your office as you may change jobs later.
For me, cos I joined the gym for quite a few years oredi, the issue of following instructors is no longer primary. What I’m looking for now is cheaper monthly subs for similar facilities since I see myself commiting to the gym for a few more years b4 calling it quits. Also, my primary factor in switching is becos of the pool. Other than that, facilities wise, TF is equiv to FF and maybe more. I used to think that I might not stick to gym for longer than 1 year but time flies so ponder on this point. Note that there is the option that you may transfer the membership in the event that you really dont want it anymore.
Maybe it’s best for you to sit down and weigh the pros and cons of each gym then decide. This is to ensure there are no regrets later.
Dont let the consultants sway your opinions.
Lin Said:
on Tuesday January 8, 2008 at 3 09 pm
Few comments wanna made for TF :
1 – PACKAGE IS DAMN EXPENSIVE! i don’t think TF offering a reasonable good package to the public. It seems that TF is not sincere in selling package. why am i said so, 1st – when i entered for the studio, they will definately bring u tour the studio. Follow by sharing with u for their package. Do u know how much was their 1st package they told me? It’s about RM5k+ which u also need to pay for the membership (RM500) + processing fee etc (2 yrs contract). Then follow by many many packages where they will tell u that it’s now promotion period, or they having another package which is much more worthwhile to sign for etc… until last package they will shared with u where u may only need to pay for abt RM3.5k+ (2 yrs contract) no additional free mths. can u imagine how they are running their biz?
Their package is at least 2 x expensive than other studio…
2 – $$$$$$. Also, if u wanna go for all club, u may need to top up for additional fee, if u wanna transfer btw branch, u have to pay additional fee… FEE, FEE, FEE … they always put $ in their mouth when u wanna start the conversation with them…tiring.
They never thinking abt y they wanna call their TF as a brand name btw branches… they shd offer a similar package to all & allow public to join in whenever it’s convenience for them. If u work & stay in different areas.. that’s cos inconvenience to us.
3 – PARKING IS COSTLY…it charged at RM1.50 – RM3/ entry for abt 1 hour class. Which is not like wat they mentioned as RM1.50/ entry. It charged at different rate/ different time/ different days. (Taipan parking fee is FOC if u staying near by or go after work)
julia Said:
on Tuesday January 29, 2008 at 6 26 pm
I went to TF at Jaya33 recently. The salesperson came up with many excuses about packages+prices before brought me on tour to the whole floor. The most irritating part was when he seemed forced me on mono communication, never listen of queries/concerns being raised. Patient enough!
On the pricing part, starts with 500+250(fees -joining and processing) + 195/monthly and bond for 2 yrs. Due to promotion, reduce 50% for all fees and monthly becomes 175. After bargaining, price reduce to 50 (fee), no joining fee, and monthly remains 175. Initially, the salesperson said the promotion package applicaple for that day itself and would last 12 m.night. Later, (without the presence of the salesperson) an assistant manager said that the promotion period is for 3 day. Then, in the middle of bargaining session, she said oh actually the promotion period is 4 days. How does promotion period could easily being changed or it’s just a trick to force potential client in a very subtle way. Yet, I do find uncomfortable with their dishonesty…really.
ultraviolet Said:
on Wednesday March 19, 2008 at 2 16 pm
Well, just to warn those who have yet to join any gyms. Please read the terms and conditions carefully before signing on the dotted line otherwise you might find yourself in a bind like me.
I joined TF middle of last year due to a ‘launching promotion’. As mentioned by those above, I was promised the stars and moon by the consultant before signing. After tempted by the cheaper fees structure as compared to my old gym, FF, I signed up for a 3 and half years membership with TF.
Unfortunately, due to certain circumstances, I changed jobs and shifted house after I changed gyms. Hence, I asked to sell/transfer my membership seeing the location both from my office and house to the gym are now not feasibly near. Imagine my surprise when I was told that I cannot sell/transfer my membership. The only acceptable reasons was if I migrated or got pregnant etc. Moreover, my unpaid dues is now btw me and my bank, nothing to do with the gym as the bank has settled all monies to the gym!
I admit being upset and disappointed with the way this matter was dealt with my the TF management. The consultant who signed me and my friend up was transferred to another branch and could not be contacted on her mobile. When referred to another consultant, we were told that this matter has nothing to do with the sales consultant. It is now being handled by the Operations ppl.
Am not sure but have this feeling that they make it difficult for you to sell/transfer your memberships…
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on Tuesday March 3, 2009 at 9 36 pm
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su3nn Said:
on Monday April 20, 2009 at 12 12 pm
i have TrueFitness Gym membership to sell/transfer, due to i have to move. I will offer good price at 110 pm.. for 3 yrs. free joining/processing fees.. Its platinum membership.. u can go to any branch and use all the facilities inc. swimming pool (jaya33) Its a bargain! Free bag, towel and water bottle. Do contact me if u r interested at su3nn@yahoo.com. Thanks!
hello??? Said:
on Thursday July 2, 2009 at 5 29 pm
i have just came across this posting… abt 600 days too late
anyway, it was surprising to note that the place actually extends to 1/2 a km, as mentioned in 5th line of the 2nd paragraph…
Leena Said:
on Friday July 10, 2009 at 12 08 pm
thank god i read this blog first, cause i am planning on joining truefitness@jaya33 , but i heard so many rumours bout them.
So i decided not to enrol it there.
moose Said:
on Wednesday December 2, 2009 at 3 20 pm
i just come across this post while googling on true fitness spa. i agree with julia that TF is not honest in doing their business. i sign up with TF taipan last month for 12months and had i come across this post earlier, i definately wont join them. the SA told me that i need to pay 500 (joining fee) and another 200 (processing fee) and monthly fee of 215. after i told directly to her face that the price was ridiculous she came up with this promotional package and reduce the price to 175 monthly, 70-processing fee and another 120-joining fee. i didnt negotiate which is my mistake because i felt that the price is within my budget. after that i heard stories from my friends that their monthly fees are only from 99-150. why the difference in price? they should standardize it so that the customers won’t feel cheated!