Some of the Planet Fitnesses around are pretty nice (Orange and Middletown are my favorites; Hamden isn’t bad). However, the equipment is limiting (no squat racks or barbells onto which you can load your own plates - you’re confined to a lot of smith machine, dumbbell, and fixed-weight barbell work). I appreciate having the Black Card for the value and convenience (especially when traveling). Good hours, too (24/5)! I’ll always keep it, at least as a secondary gym.

I, too, am in the market for a reasonably-priced gym that suits my more advanced lifting needs. I’m going to do a trial at Surge Fitness Center (North Haven) this week and will report back. I’ve heard only excellent things, and they seem to have decently-priced memberships ($20-30/month). Their hours are a bit limited, for my liking. But I’m hopeful that this could otherwise be a good fit. You get a free workout during your first visit, so I’d encourage you to give it a go, too!

I’d discourage you from the Edge. For me, it’s a bit of a “meathead” environment. Very busy. Lots of people taking up space to take pics, socialize, etc.. I had a hard time getting my workouts in efficiently, and the overall energy wasn’t a match for me.

Wishing you health and happy workouts. (: