Premier Athletic Club

Excellent trainers, but disappointing management for the price.

I joined Premier for six months and really enjoyed the trainers and group exercise classes—they’re talented, kind, and genuinely invested in their members. Unfortunately, the management side of things was very disorganized, especially given the high membership cost.

I was initially signed up by a newer sales associate who forgot to add me to the gym’s newsletter. Because of that, I repeatedly missed important updates—I’d drive over only to find my scheduled class had been canceled, with notice sent only through the newsletter I was never on. Despite several requests to be added, nothing changed until the month I canceled my membership—and suddenly the newsletters started arriving.

I also joined primarily for access to the group exercise room for personal practice as a former professional dancer. Even though I’m only 30 now, years of intense dance training have left me with arthritis in both ankles, and maintaining my strength and flexibility—especially for pointework—is essential for my physical well-being. I specifically needed a safe, sprung floor and open space to continue that conditioning work, which I was told would be available when I signed up.

Later, I learned that members are not allowed in the group exercise room outside of class hours due to theft concerns. When I asked about possible solutions, such as signing a waiver, the manager dismissed my request and told me I should go elsewhere—even though I was not only a paying member but also investing in their higher-priced personal training sessions at about $100 each, on top of a $90 monthly membership (discounted for being under 30 at the time). The least I deserved was to have my unique needs acknowledged, not brushed off.

On a positive note, the cycling room was a great perk—I appreciated being able to use the spin bikes even when no class was in session. I suppose they aren’t as concerned about people stealing bikes as they are about weights and accessories from the group exercise studio.

In the end, I did go elsewhere—I joined New York Sports Club in Croton, which has a far more advanced app and digital system that keeps members informed about schedules and updates. I haven’t had any of the same communication issues I experienced at Premier, and with its younger, more diverse clientele, it’s been a much better fit for me personally.

Premier could be a great choice if you have kids and plan to use all of its features—the pool, tennis courts, and family amenities—but if you’re simply looking for reliable access to workout space, group classes, or standard gym equipment, there are more affordable and better-managed options. At its current price point, the disorganization, lack of flexibility, and outdated 1970s-style facilities make it difficult to recommend.

What a gem this place is! I'll start with the staff, who are very friendly and welcoming. Heck, the general manager knows me by name, which provides a family atmosphere. The workout area is nicely organized, so you won't feel overwhelmed. The trainers are always there to help as well. Speaking of trainers, Danny, you are the man. I've been training with him for several months now, and wow, what a difference. He really knows his stuff and has managed to get me motivated to actually workout even when I'm not training with him. I look forward to future sessions. Also, shout-out to Scott, another amazing trainer who also knows his stuff, and I can't wait for more tips. Both are truly amazing. I'm super glad I joined.

We have a family membership and really appreciate all of the lessons available for our kids as well as the nursery for childcare. The tennis director, Leaf, is fantastic. He and his team are great with kids and adults. My kids have really enjoyed their tennis and swimming lessons and the summer tennis camp. I love the cardio tennis classes. The snack bar at the outdoor pool is great too. The nursery is also a fantastic amenity. My only wish is that they would expand - more nursery hours, bigger outdoor pool, and they could really use more tennis courts and newer gym equipment.

They really need to have certain times for the kids to swim in the outdoor pool and certain times for adults. Way too many kids in the pool making it aggravating for the adults. I was really annoyed last week when they allowed a whole summer camp of kids to come take over the pool. My husband and I along with other adults just got up and left. We pay good money for membership and should be able to enjoy the pool without annoying kids taking it over, screaming, throwing toys, and being loud. I highly doubt we will continue our membership after 6 months. They need to take into consideration the adults that pay the money and not screaming, annoying kids. Also the Sand Bar is too overly priced, $47 for a hamburger, hot dog, and chicken sandwich is pure robbery. We were actually over charged by $10 after I figured out the charges. I believe that Sand Bar staff maybe putting extra tips in their pocket. We stopped eating there after that incident, food is good but too expensive.