We checked out the prices online first, it's pretty expensive to be a member of a gym, but they have some off-peak plans which can be more suitable too. When we arrived to join, the salesperson didn't mention the other plans and tried to get us on the most expensive one. It was lucky we'd done our research, otherwise we'd be £20 a month down.

Anyway, we were both impressed with gym facilities, there's lots of running machines, weights, a 25m pool, spa, sauna and loads more. Everything is modern, high-tech and clean.

When we got inducted, the staff member "didn't have time" and only showed us a couple of cardiovascular machines, not the best intro to the gym, we would have liked to be shown more but everything is simple to pick up.

The gym can get busy, especially at the weekends and during the first few days of the week when people can be bothered to go, but there's enough machines for everyone and I've not been left waiting for anything so far.

The missus thought she wouldn't enjoy the gym at all, but now she actually enjoys it and says "it's easier than boring dieting". I enjoy it too, and would recommend Virgin Active to anyone wanting to get fit.