North Country fitness: 5 local gyms redefining wellness and community in 2025

In Northern New Hampshire, wellness isn’t just about gym memberships — it’s about access, support, and spaces where people feel seen. Whether you’re navigating post-injury recovery, building strength to keep up with the kids, or carving out time for your own mental health, the right gym can change everything.

Across the North Country, a handful of fitness centers are quietly transforming what it means to work out — and what it means to belong. From high-tech 24/7 access to deeply personal coaching environments, these five local gyms are helping people across the region move with purpose and feel connected in the process.

1. Littleton Fitness – Littleton

Best For: Anyone seeking top-tier gym access, cutting-edge amenities, and a modern, supportive fitness environment with unbeatable flexibility.

Littleton Fitness isn’t just one of the most advanced gyms in the North Country — it’s also one of the most welcoming. As the only 24/7-access facility in Littleton, it offers unmatched convenience with secure phone-based entry and instant online sign-up. But it’s the atmosphere inside that keeps people coming back.

The space is clean, bright, and thoughtfully designed, equipped with brand-new, commercial-grade machines for strength training, cardio, and functional movement. Members also benefit from access to an on-site physical therapist who supports recovery, mobility, and long-term injury prevention.

What truly sets Littleton Fitness apart, though, is its community-first mindset. Members describe the gym as a place where they feel genuinely seen — not just as clients, but as people. Owner Mari Myers is known for listening closely, responding to feedback, and continuously investing in new ways to serve her members and the broader North Country.

“We wanted to build a space where people of all levels feel confident walking in the door,” said Mari Myers, owner of Littleton Fitness.

That mission is evident in every detail — from the high-quality vending options to the culture of respect and encouragement that fills the space. At Littleton Fitness, modern amenities meet heartfelt service, creating a gym that feels less like a transaction and more like a trusted part of your day.

2. ACE Fitness – Littleton

Best For: Individuals serious about training, athlete development, or goal-driven fitness programs with expert support and structure.

ACE Fitness Center in Littleton isn’t your average gym — it’s a full-service training facility designed for people who want to train with intention. Whether you’re a first-time lifter, a competitive athlete, or simply someone ready to get serious about their health, ACE provides tailored coaching and structured programs to help you progress.

The facility offers a wide range of services including one-on-one personal training, boot camp classes, sport performance coaching, and even specialized Strongman and Powerlifting groups. Programming is designed to meet people where they’re at — with a clear plan for where they want to go.

“We build programs around each person’s goals — then give them the structure, feedback, and coaching to actually reach them,” one trainer shared.

Student athletes, in particular, benefit from ACE’s development programs that include strength, explosiveness, and injury prevention — prepping them for high school and collegiate competition. Nutrition coaching and virtual training options round out the support, offering additional flexibility for clients on-the-go.

Classes are small and focused, with clear progression models and hands-on guidance — ideal for anyone who values structure, feedback, and results over flash or fads.

3. White Mountain Fitness – Lincoln

Best For: Locals and visitors seeking a modern, 24/7-access gym with a laid-back atmosphere and dependable equipment.

Located in the heart of Lincoln, White Mountain Fitness offers 24/7 access to a clean, well-equipped space where consistency is the name of the game. Whether you’re squeezing in a run before work or lifting after dark, this facility is built to fit your schedule — no matter how unpredictable.

Inside, members will find commercial-grade cardio equipment, strength machines, free weights, and functional training zones. The environment is friendly, welcoming, and refreshingly no-pressure — perfect for those who just want to show up and move.

“The 24-hour access is a bonus to maintaining a steady routine,” one regular shared. “And it doesn’t hurt that the gym dog Oscar is always there to brighten your day.”

Day passes are available through an easy-to-use app, making it a great option for travelers or weekend warriors. With a reputation for cleanliness, friendliness, and convenience, White Mountain Fitness is proof that simplicity, done right, goes a long way.

4. RizFit Fitness Studio – Lancaster

Best For: Individuals seeking 24/7 access to serious training tools, expert-driven programming, and a gym culture built on support, progress, and real results.

Founded in 2004, RizFit is a cornerstone of the Lancaster fitness community. This 24-hour access gym combines serious equipment, evolving programming, and a deep commitment to client results — whether you’re strength training, pursuing bodybuilding, diving into CrossFit-style workouts, or focused on cardiovascular health.

What sets RizFit apart is the leadership of owner Peter Riz—whose constant pursuit of new research, tools, and strategies keeps the gym dynamic and effective. His programming isn’t just about reps and routines—it’s about empowering members with knowledge and personalized paths to long-term health.

“Peter’s approach gave me the tools to drop from 19% to 14.5% body fat in just 8 weeks,” shared one member. “He teaches you how to build a healthy lifestyle, not just a workout habit.”

The environment at RizFit is goal-oriented but welcoming, with a team-based atmosphere that helps members stay motivated, supported, and committed through every phase of their journey.

5. Core Community Fitness – Conway

Best For: Individuals and families seeking a welcoming, non-intimidating gym with flexible access, inclusive policies, and a strong community atmosphere.

Core Community Fitness is unlike any other gym in the North Country. As a nonprofit 501(c)(7) social organization and the largest gym in Carroll County, CORE exists to make fitness truly accessible — not just physically, but financially and emotionally too.

With over 9,000 square feet of space, 24/7 member access, and no long-term contracts or surprise fees, CORE is designed to support every kind of member — whether you’re a first-timer, a returning athlete, or just looking for a space to move at your own pace.

“People come here to feel better, not to compete,” said one staff member. “It’s about community, not cliques.”

CORE partners with local service providers to offer a range of group fitness classes, independent personal training, and nutrition coaching. Memberships are available for youth, adults, families, military personnel, college students, and more — including programs like Silver Sneakers and Renew Active.

Guest passes, short-term options, and flexible memberships make it easy to try CORE on your terms. And with staffed hours every day of the week, members are supported while still enjoying the flexibility of key-fob access after hours.

Stronger Together

Northern New Hampshire’s fitness scene may be smaller than in major metros, but it’s also more personal — and more impactful. These five fitness centers are showing what’s possible when local businesses invest in real people, real stories, and long-term community health.

So whether you’re starting fresh, returning from injury, or pushing toward a personal best — you’ll find support, strength, and belonging close to home.