I used to be a member at the Pure Gym in Charlton, but decided to switch to the Kidbrooke branch as it is closer to my home in Blackheath. It turned out to be the worst decision I could have made.
The atmosphere is deeply unwelcoming. The staff carry themselves with an air of arrogance, and any request for assistance is met as though they are doing you an enormous favour.
The manager, Franklin Naranjo, is particularly unapproachable. He appears unwilling to address legitimate concerns, whether about the excessive heat in the gym, the cleanliness of certain machines, or the policy — or apparent lack of one — regarding groups of teenagers monopolising equipment for extended periods.
I will be cancelling my membership at this branch. In my view, a gym should be a welcoming environment where staff are willing to help when needed — and I say this as someone who is perfectly confident using the equipment and does not require much assistance in the first place.