In its December 2023 issue, Men’s Health magazine unveiled its highly anticipated list of the best gyms across the United States, spotlighting a new generation of fitness spaces redefining how Americans train, recover, and connect. This comprehensive feature went beyond aesthetics or equipment; it focused on innovation, community engagement, and the evolving preferences of modern fitness enthusiasts—especially men seeking more dynamic and meaningful workout experiences.
At the forefront of this national spotlight was Finao Fit, a standout facility based in Smyrna, Georgia, earning praise for its cutting-edge, hybrid approach to training.
Finao Fit: Hybrid Training with Heart
Finao Fit (an acronym for “Failure Is Not An Option”) represents a fitness model that’s gaining rapid momentum: workouts that fuse high-intensity athletic drills with foundational strength movements. The gym’s programming includes dynamic elements like box jumps, sled pushes, tire flips, sprint drills, and Olympic lifts—blended into structured sessions designed to challenge and inspire.
What sets Finao Fit apart isn’t just the intensity of its workouts, but the culture it cultivates. Group classes are characterized by high energy, mutual encouragement, and an atmosphere that blurs the line between competition and camaraderie. In a fitness landscape often marked by isolation—think solo cardio or impersonal big-box gyms—Finao Fit’s tight-knit, community-first vibe offers a refreshing contrast.
According to Men’s Health, the gym’s commitment to inclusivity and results-driven coaching has helped it develop a loyal following of diverse clients, from former athletes to busy professionals rediscovering fitness. Trainers emphasize form, consistency, and mental resilience just as much as performance, reflecting a holistic understanding of health.
Redefining the Modern Gym Experience
The feature also shed light on a broader trend: Americans are moving away from traditional gym models in favor of spaces that prioritize personalization, variety, and connection. The gyms highlighted in Men’s Health span the country—from high-tech facilities in Los Angeles and New York to underground fitness clubs in Austin and Chicago—each representing a distinct ethos and approach to wellness.
Gyms like Dogpound in NYC, Onnit Gym in Austin, and Alchemy 365 in Minneapolis were also celebrated for offering functional training, performance tracking, group accountability, and recovery-focused add-ons like cold plunges, infrared saunas, and mobility coaching. These facilities aim not just to change bodies, but to elevate daily living through mental clarity, emotional balance, and sustainable habits.
This approach is particularly resonant with male gym-goers in their 30s and 40s who are redefining masculinity through health and wellness. Men’s Health reported that men today are increasingly seeking workouts that go beyond aesthetics—favoring routines that support longevity, injury prevention, and mental health.
Fitness Meets Community and Mental Wellness
Across all featured gyms, a central theme emerged: community is king. From small-town gyms like Finao Fit to elite urban performance centers, the best fitness spaces in 2023 are those that foster belonging. This evolution mirrors a post-pandemic shift in priorities—where the mental benefits of exercise and the value of social support are more recognized than ever.
Many of the top gyms now offer community events, wellness workshops, and digital coaching platforms that extend their reach beyond physical walls. The rise of hybrid memberships—offering both in-person and virtual classes—has allowed gyms to serve broader audiences while maintaining personalized experiences.
A New Standard for American Fitness
By recognizing gyms like Finao Fit and others across the U.S., Men’s Health has spotlighted a turning point in American fitness culture. The best gyms are no longer defined solely by equipment or square footage, but by their ability to adapt, inspire, and serve as hubs for personal transformation. For today’s fitness-minded men, the ideal gym offers more than just gains—it provides purpose, connection, and a path to holistic well-being.
