Greenpoint’s Newest Gym Focuses on Fitness And Community

The new Vibe Fitness location in Greenpoint offers a luxury gym experience at an affordable price for Brooklyn residents.

The gym, at 147 Greenpoint Ave., opened its doors in early January and is the second branch of the chain formerly known as BQE Health Club. The first location opened in Long Island City, Queens in 2020. 

Spanning three floors, the gym boasts state-of-the-art equipment, specialized studios for group fitness classes and a “recovery room” with a CryoLounge and Red light therapy. Classes include HIIT, Zumba, Pilates, boxing, spin and more. 

Additional amenities include a sauna, a juice cafe called Pure Eats, and a roof deck where members will be able to participate in outdoor yoga. Membership starts at $64.99 a month with unlimited classes as well as a free assessment with a trainer. 

While there are a few gyms within walking distance, Vibe Fitness is trying to bring a more tailored, community-oriented approach to fitness than some of the nearby competitors. 

“Greenpoint needed a gym that gave a more elevated experience—something that matched more of the community's energy and interest,” said Ashley Miah, the creative director of Vibe Fitness. 

In an effort to further a sense of community, local artists painted murals on the walls, and have their art hung in a rotating gallery. 

For instance, the second-floor stairwell features a mural by Queens-based artist, AJ LaVilla, that says “Good Vibes Only.” The first-floor stairwell includes a Super-Mario Bros.-inspired piece by Jasmine Scott and Miah who, in addition to being the creative director of the gym, is also a pop artist. 

At the original Long Island City location, Miah promoted health over image in the advertising materials to establish the gym as a welcoming environment. 

“When it comes to joining a gym, people have different insecurities and confidence and perception both play a big role in that” Miah said. “We're in a society where image is so important so people worry about how others will perceive them at the gym. I really wanted people to feel safe and comfortable when they worked out on our products."

To foster a welcoming atmosphere, Miah researched one-star reviews of other gyms in the area to identify gaps in the market. “A lot of the complaints were from women who didn’t feel safe enough to workout or were feeling judged in these workout spaces” Miah explained. 

Miah then partnered with women of diverse body types to create a gym where everyone could have a positive workout experience. Hiring an enthusiastic staff also helps people to return, Miah said. 

Memberships are available online or in person at Vibe Fitness Greenpoint.