Let me just say this now – you are not likely to find the magical mix of athletic club, golf club and social club that you are hoping to find if you’re expecting something like the MAC or the Olympic Club. You can have two out of three and compromise on a bunch of stuff. We toured three clubs in Vancouver and would have toured a fourth if it was closer. Here are my opinions:
Lakeshore Athletic Club – This is a really nice club that has so much potential to modernize. They are a little stuck in the past with their lack of digital payment options and their limited Sunday operating hours. They are good enough that their outdoor pool gets too crowded in summer and they don’t have a large enough grassy area, so it’s very ‘concrete’ feeling…but they have a cool slide 🙂 They win a million points for really really nice on-site child care and a relatively new and lovely adults-only locker room. They have indoor and outdoor pools, a really good gym that is never crowded, in-person classes, plenty of indoor basketball for the 13-21 crew to hang out around, martial arts, swim lessons, sauna, hot tub (but IN the locker room, so kinda weird). They have digitized driving range indoors but no proper golf. If they had more social opportunities, golf and a larger outdoor pool area, I’d forgive them for making me hand write a check every month. Anyway, they’re solid, but they could really shine especially given the lack of competition in the area.
Club Green Meadows – This one has it all but feels quite dated. They have a huge golf course, huge gym, indoor pool, outdoor pool, social opportunities, dining. It’s everything all in one, but when we toured, it needed a bit of a facelift and due to that and proximity to our house, we didn’t join. But it really does have everything and we know that people who are members have a really positive experience here!
Royal Oaks Country Club – On the more upscale end of the spectrum, this is the most traditional feeling golf and social club that we toured in the area, although there are others, not all have the amenities that Royal Oaks has, with it’s outdoor pool area. The gym is tiny though and geared for golfers. If an indoor pool or a gym is a priority, this might not be the place for you, or you might just need to join a gym separately, which makes sense because the experience here is much more golf-forward.
Cascade Athletic Club – This is the only athletic club we did not tour. It looks AWESOME but it’s slightly farther than I’d want to drive for a workout. If we do tour, we’ll be sure to update this!
In the end, we left Lakeshore because the Sunday hours made it impossible to work out first thing in the morning, and even though the kids loved the play area, we just were not using it enough. I ended up signing up for Planet Fitness for convenient and affordable gym access. Still not sure what our summer pool strategy is though – that’s where Lakeshore, even with the crowding, still comes in handy. There’s always Battle Ground Lake for sunshine and paddle boarding! Not too shabby.
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Elevate Your Fitness: Exploring Athletic Clubs in Vancouver, Washington
Vancouver, Washington, is a city that embraces a healthy and active lifestyle, and its array of athletic clubs reflects this commitment. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete, a fitness enthusiast, or someone looking to jumpstart their wellness journey, Vancouver’s athletic clubs offer a diverse range of amenities and activities to cater to every fitness level and interest.
- Holistic Wellness Facilities: Vancouver’s athletic clubs often go beyond traditional gym setups, offering holistic wellness experiences. Many clubs provide not only state-of-the-art fitness equipment but also spa services, sauna rooms, and relaxation areas. This combination of fitness and relaxation creates a well-rounded approach to health, allowing members to unwind after a challenging workout.
- Group Fitness and Classes: Athletic clubs in Vancouver offer an extensive array of group fitness classes to keep members motivated and engaged. From high-energy spinning sessions and intense HIIT workouts to calming yoga and meditation classes, there’s something for everyone. These classes provide opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and enjoy expert-led guidance.
- Indoor and Outdoor Facilities: With the city’s natural beauty in mind, many athletic clubs in Vancouver feature both indoor and outdoor facilities. From swimming pools and tennis courts to jogging tracks and outdoor exercise areas, these clubs allow members to embrace a variety of fitness activities while enjoying the region’s temperate climate.
- Personalized Training and Coaching: For those seeking personalized attention, many athletic clubs offer one-on-one training sessions and coaching. These tailored programs are designed to help individuals set and achieve their fitness goals, whether that’s weight loss, strength building, or overall wellness improvement.
- Community and Social Connections: Beyond physical fitness, Vancouver’s athletic clubs foster a sense of community and camaraderie. Members often form bonds through group activities, social events, and wellness challenges. These connections create a supportive environment that encourages members to stay committed to their fitness journey.
Vancouver’s athletic clubs provide a diverse and comprehensive approach to fitness and wellness. With their holistic wellness facilities, group fitness classes, indoor and outdoor amenities, personalized training options, and strong sense of community, these clubs offer individuals the opportunity to elevate their fitness levels while enjoying a well-rounded lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to break a sweat, relax after a long day, or connect with others who share your health goals, Vancouver’s athletic clubs are the ideal destination to embark on your fitness journey.
