RENAISSANCE CLUBSPORT ALISO VIEJO

The fitness center opened 4 months behind schedule, exactly 11 months and 4 days after we signed up and paid a $200 initiation fee. What a disappointment! In my opinion, this gym is a case study in missed opportunities and poor execution. The strength training area has no 35 pound plates. Astonishingly, the manager on duty said they chose not to order any. WHAT?! Furthermore, there is only one flat bench. The gym has many cardio machines however there are some major gaffes in the placement of some of them. Many of the treadmills and ellipticals face windows and have spectacular views while other face a blank wall. Whether the machines have TVs or not, no one wants to stair at a wall for 30-60 minutes! I have seen this in a few cheesy hotel gyms but not in a fitness center that I paid real money to join. Curiously, the bench presses are lined up in front of a window with a cool view. I guess your spotter can loose himself staring at the Santa Ana Mountains while you hit muscle failure squeezing out your last rep! All of the Precor elliptical machines have those annoying arm bars that go back and forth. Other gyms order a mix of machines with and without the arm handles. For patrons that want to work legs only, these get in the way. Other than the seated preacher curl, the gym has no curl rack. One of the managers said that it was on order. I guess 12 months wasn't enough time to find one. On positive note, the facility is beautiful and they have the best free style ab machine I?ve ever used! Unfortunately, even in south county, style points alone may not cut it. If you want cushy dressing rooms and valet service this is your place, if you want a good workout, go elsewhere. Lastly, my wife loved it so it is a split decision.