There might not be a fancy, schmancy, in-person ceremony this year — thanks, COVID — but the W42ST Best of Awards 2021 (sponsored by Wells Fargo and supported by HYHK Alliance and The Durst Organization) are underway. We will be out on the streets surprising and delighting our category winners over the next week…
Manhattan Plaza Health Club (MPHC) is the winner of Best Place to Work Out in 2021, beating off strong competition from Hell’s Kitchen gyms, personal trainers and even the outdoor space of Hudson River Park.
Felicia Lamb, Membership Director at MPHC, received the award yesterday afternoon. “We are ecstatic. Thank you so much to everyone who voted for us. Yeah, we really hustled for this one. It was like we were running for office,” said Felicia explaining how they had worked hard to get votes.
Manhattan Plaza Health Club – 482 W43rd St (between 9/10th Ave)
This is what W42ST readers said about the team at MPHC:
“Rock climbing gym and pool! Feels like a real local spot,” said Lu Han.
“They have everything you need to get your exercise on and the staff is so kind and caring. They have cleaning protocols in place to make this a safe place to exercise. My biggest reason for going to this particular gym is the pool — it’s fantastic! It’s a surreal experience for me to be in the pool enjoying a swim while looking out at the tall buildings of NYC,” said Leanne Buckley.
“It’s so New York. you have fabulous retired ballet dancers along with sexy male actor-models — all sunning on a concrete roof next to a tennis bubble,” said Isaac Halpern.
RUNNERS UP
Equinox – at Hudson Yards, W50th St and Columbus Circle.
“Top cleaning standards. Felt very safe. Great staff and equipment. Best gym by far,” said Ashley G.
Hudson River Park – Battery Park to W59th Street.
“Between the free fitness classes and miles of continuous esplanade for biking and running, HRPK is my go-to for exercise,” said Cheryl Herman.
Studio 16 – 402 W51st St (west of 9th Ave)
“It’s a private, judgement-free, gym. Space is always clean and is always stocked with towels. Gym is accessible to everyone and their needs!” said Eliana Sandoval.
TMPL Gym – 355 W49th St (bw 8/9th Ave)
“Lots of equipment, great classes, sexy lighting, very nice pool, sauna, and steam room,” said Jeffrey Fontana.
SHORTLISTED
Crunch – 250 W54th St (between 8th Ave and Broadway)
“The signature club locations have the best aesthetic and classes,” said Jonny Molyneaux.
Life Time at SKY – 605 W42nd Street.
“Lots of space to work out. Not too crowded and has a lot of natural light. Amazing sauna and steam room area too,” said Derek Toney.
Mark Fisher Fitness – 411 W39th Street (west of 9th Ave)
“There is no better gym on EARTH than Mark Fisher Fitness. Open. Inclusive. Loving. And a kick ass workout on top of it all! The greatest humans I’ve ever encountered,” said Ashley Timm.
Mercedes Club – 550 W54th Street (between 10/11th Ave)
“This has been my gym for about six years. Great environment, amazing instructors (and the outdoor pool isn’t bad either!)” said Brian Mastroianni.
Planet Fitness – 423 W55th Street (between 9/10th Ave)
“Affordable! Staff is knowledgeable and very friendly. Sufficient number of machines. Gym and locker room are super clean,” said Adrianne Welt.
@planetfitness
Surprised to see only a “shortlisted” status for LifeTime at Sky. I have lived in HK for 30 years and LT is, by far, the best facility, service and workout experience. Yes, it is $$$.