Right Stuff Health Club

I've used Right Stuff for about ten years now. Here are my observations. Pro: For the most part, this gym is okay. The staff is helpful and knowledgable, and this gym has a wide variety of machines. Weekdays, they open at 5 a.m. Con: Any time you have a billing issue, or anything else that the onsite folks can't handle, expect problems. The "back office" operation is NOT user friendly, and often forgets to fix problems they're already agreed to fix -- so the customer's problem often persists annoyingly. The maximum weight on quite a few of the machines on the main floor is too low for a normal-sized man (no, not for a normal weight lifter.) There are a few 5- and 7.5-lb, rubber covered add-on weights, but they're often all in use. In Nov. 08, I asked the Campbell store manager, Billy, if more of the built in weights could be added to the machines' stacks. He said no; they are what they are. I'm no mechanical engineer, but just looking at how the machines are built, it's clear to me that you can add to the stacks. You'd need a longer lift tube and of course the extra weights, but these are surely available from the manufacturer. I also asked Billy if he could purchase more of the add-on weights. He said they're no longer made. I don't know whether this is true, but if so, when the existing ones get too worn and are thrown out ....... I'm guessing the employees simply aren't allowed the initiative to do much. Maybe when they suggest improvements, they even risk their jobs. If so, that's not a very enlightened "way to run a railroad." D. (San Jose) more

Right Stuff is a small local Gym chain with only three locations. It's not as big as the national chains but offers much of the same equipment and often a shorter wait time for the machines. They have treadmills, bikes, stairs and several types of elliptical machines. They also have an assortment of weights, and a free-weight room. Classes such as pilates and yoga are offered throughout the day. The down side is that if you are looking for the less standard aerobics machines (such as actual moving stairs or rowing machines), Right stuff will either not have them or have just one or two. Also, there is no pool. Despite the cons, I would highly recommend this gym because you get a lot for you money. It's definitely one of the cheapest options around, especially if you are willing to commit for three months or more or if you are a student. more

Right Stuff on Campbell Ave. has a lot of ellipticals and treadmills, which is what most people use. Their kickboxing class is a really good workout too. The women's locker room is clean and well-lit. Haven't ventured into the weights area yet, but I have been to the weight machines--they're standard. They have a couple of abs-workout stations and a small area where you can use the exercise ball or stuff on the floor mat. They usually have specials for $19/month. more