Beyond the Workout: The Science-Backed Benefits of Holistic Gym Memberships

Most people join a gym hoping to transform their bodies, boost their energy, or simply feel better day to day. But how often does the typical gym experience deliver true, lasting results? For many in Carlton North and Clifton Hill, the answer is often underwhelming. That’s driving a growing shift towards holistic gyms—a new generation of fitness centres reimagining what it means to support your health.

Let’s explore what sets holistic gym memberships apart, why they’re worth every cent, and how integrated models like 5th Element Wellness are giving members the edge not only in fitness, but in lifelong wellbeing.

Why Are Gym Prices So High?

It’s a question everyone asks at some point: why does a quality gym membership cost more than you expected? The answer can seem simple at first—rising rents, better equipment, more classes—but beneath the surface, there’s more to it.

Conventional gyms often charge a premium for little more than access to treadmills and weights. You’re left to figure out what works for you, with minimum support. Add-ons such as personal training, nutrition advice, or recovery therapies generally attract additional charges, meaning your monthly spend can increase significantly—sometimes even triple or quadruple what you first anticipated once you factor in all the extras.

Holistic gyms, however, structure their pricing differently. You’re investing in a comprehensive approach, guided by skilled professionals who see the whole picture: your mindset, your nutrition, your biomechanics, and your recovery. Instead of just renting floor space, you’re joining a programme backed by expertise and tailored service. These costs reflect a commitment to long-term success, not fleeting motivation. Importantly, holistic gyms like ours are never overcrowded—members consistently praise the relaxed atmosphere and the convenience of never needing to queue for equipment, a stark contrast to standard gym experiences.

What Makes Australia’s Most Exclusive Gyms Different?

Exclusive gyms aren’t just about polished lockers and boutique branding. The top-tier spaces prioritise results and wellbeing through every detail. At the highest level, gyms like 5th Element Wellness combine science backed assessments, targeted coaching, and an atmosphere that supports consistency.

Here’s what stands out:

  • Personal coaching starts with a full analysis of your movement, posture, and over 40 holistic health parameters.
  • Progressive, custom-fit programmes are delivered via a dedicated app, blending technique, nutrition, stress management, and recovery.
  • Facilities include unique features such as infrared heated yoga studios, organic wellness bars, and private recovery zones with sauna and cold tub access.
  • Community events, workshops, and small group personal training foster accountability, inclusiveness, and ongoing education.
  • Our intimate environment ensures you can focus without overcrowding—members relish the freedom, privacy, and access to all equipment at any time.

Instead of a generic fitness script, you get a blueprint for age-defying vitality, led by some of Australia’s Top Acclaimed Personal Training Experts.

How Much is a Month of Gym? Comparing True Value

Membership at a conventional fitness centre can start from $20 to $50 per week for basic access only—without personal support or wellness integration. Add a session or two with a personal trainer, and costs can often triple or even quadruple. Factor in extra payments for yoga, Pilates, or recovery sessions, and the price rises rapidly.

At a holistic gym, your monthly fee reflects the sum of integrated services: personalised training, yoga and group fitness, nutrition guidance, recovery sauna, and ongoing coaching in one streamlined membership. For example, at 5th Element Wellness, you gain premium access to expert-led small group training, unlimited yoga, and state-of-the-art recovery therapies under one roof.

Just as importantly, our memberships are not one-size-fits-all. While we offer all-inclusive access to a holistic range of services, we also recognise that every client’s goals, preferences, and history are unique. From the outset, we engage in a consultative process—working with you to identify your specific needs and goals. This informs a bespoke membership tailored precisely for you, ensuring both value and relevance without compromise.

When you compare what you pay for piecemeal services across different venues, the real question shifts from “How much is this per week?” to “How much transformation am I really getting for my money?” At a Carlton North gym like 5EW, you’re supported at every step, making your investment go further.

What is the Most Expensive Gym to Join? Is It Worth It?

Some of Australia’s most exclusive gyms can cost upwards of $200 to $500 per week for ultra-premium memberships, offering everything from bespoke training to spa treatments, members-only amenities, and in-house wellness practitioners.

But price alone does not guarantee value. What makes a high-end gym truly worth it is the return: greater accountability, reduced injury risk, and proven, sustainable results. At 5EW, every aspect of your wellness—training, nutrition, mental resilience, recovery—is managed by seasoned professionals passionate about your lifelong transformation, not just short-term gains.

Members consistently praise the life-changing atmosphere and results, noting that this support goes well above what even the most expensive standard gyms provide. It’s not about flash—it’s about a system that actually works, and a community where overcrowding never stands in the way of your performance or progress.

Why a Holistic Gym is More Valuable Than Standard Offerings

Conventional gyms focus on access: show up, work out, hope for results. Holistic gyms offer a partnership: assessment, coaching, community, and accountability.

At 5th Element Wellness, here’s what you can expect that’s hard to find elsewhere:

  • Functional blood chemistry analysis that uncovers precisely where you can optimise health (not just fitness),
  • Behavioural health coaching that addresses habits, mindset, and motivation for consistent progress,
  • Custom nutrition planning, stress management, sleep optimisation, and posture correction woven into every programme,
  • The best coaches blending expertise in fitness, nutrition, and rehabilitation for an integrated pathway to results,
  • Advanced DNA analysis that enables creation of a personalised nutrition plan, eliminating all guesswork and empowering genuine, science-backed transformation.

What truly separates holistic gyms from standard models is their power to reshape lives. Members report not just physical change but profound improvements in their overall wellbeing, energy, and confidence

The Practical Advantages of Everything Under One Roof

Imagine walking into a facility where your coach knows your unique limits and goals, your yoga instructor helps you recover and relax, and your nutritionist answers questions on the spot—all as part of one seamless plan. No frustrating handovers, no confusion, no “additional fees”.

Holistic wellness centres such as 5EW bring together everything you need: group classes, bespoke programmes, advanced therapies, and a like-minded community, right in your neighbourhood. If you’re looking for the ultimate blend of progress and enjoyment, it’s never been easier to try Collingwood fitness classes or unwind in an infrared sauna Collingwood session, all conveniently located with expert support.

Key Takeaways: The Future of Fitness is Holistic

Moving beyond the workout, a holistic gym becomes a cornerstone of your entire lifestyle—not just a place to sweat. The premium cost reflects more than access, it’s an investment in transformation, longevity, and unwavering support.

If you’re ready for more than a fleeting burst of motivation, and want a gym experience that supports your mind, body, and long-term goals, exploring a holistic approach is the smartest change you can make. In Carlton North and Clifton Hill, 5th Element Wellness isn’t just a gym—it’s your wellness partner for life.

About the Author: Matt Hoo

I started working in the fitness industry since 2001 and have a very broad range of experience having worked across +40 facilities in various counties. I have a deep passion for all aspects of health and human optimization and enjoy helping others unlock their true potential.
By Published On: August 12th, 2025Categories: Fitness, Health Optimisation, Holistic Health, Mindfulness, Performance Optimisation, Personal Training, Recovery, Strength & Lean Muscle, Stress Management, Sustainable Progress, WellnessComments Off on Beyond the Workout: The Science-Backed Benefits of Holistic Gym Memberships