This is a good fit if you want your workout combined with a proper wind-down routine, or if you prefer a quieter, more upscale environment.
Swimming pools as fitness
Municipal swimming pools are a cornerstone of Icelandic fitness culture. Almost every town in Iceland has a public pool, and many locals use them daily for lap swimming, relaxation, and socialising. Pools typically include a main swimming pool, hot tubs (heitir pottar) at various temperatures, a steam room, and sometimes a cold plunge.
In Reykjavik, adult single admission costs 1,430 ISK. A 10-visit card costs 6,520 ISK, a 6-month pass costs 26,100 ISK, and an annual pass costs 48,000 ISK (as of January 2026, per the official Reykjavik fee schedule). Children under 16 swim free. Several of the larger gym chains, including World Class and Katla Fitness, include pool access in their memberships.
For many new residents, the local pool becomes a central part of daily life and a natural place for making friends in Iceland. The etiquette is important: you must shower thoroughly without a swimsuit before entering the pool area. Signs in the changing rooms explain the process, and staff enforce it.
Gym memberships and how to save
Union reimbursements
If you work in Iceland, you are almost certainly a member of a trade union (stéttarfélag). Most Icelandic unions operate a sickness and wellness fund (sjúkrasjóður) that reimburses a portion of gym membership costs. A typical benefit is up to 40,000 ISK per year, covering a maximum of 50% of the cost. The right usually activates after six months of union membership.
The exact amount varies by union. Check with your specific stéttarfélag or look for the "styrkir" (grants) section on your union's website. This benefit also typically covers swimming pool passes, dance classes, yoga memberships, and other fitness-related expenses.
Employer subsidies
Many Icelandic employers offer gym subsidies as a workplace benefit, either covering a flat monthly amount or reimbursing part of a membership. This is separate from the union benefit and the two can sometimes be combined. Ask your employer's HR department what fitness benefits are available.
Municipal leisure card
Reykjavik and other municipalities issue a frístundakort (recreation card) for children and adolescents aged 6 to 18. The annual subsidy is 75,000 ISK (as of 2026) and can be applied toward sports, fitness, and after-school activity fees. If you have children, this is a significant benefit worth claiming. Details are available on the Reykjavik recreation card page.
Gyms outside Reykjavik
Most towns around Iceland have at least one gym, often located in or adjacent to the local swimming pool. These community gyms are typically smaller and less expensive than Reykjavik chains, with monthly fees often in the 5,000 to 8,000 ISK range.
In Akureyri, the largest town in North Iceland, you will find Bjarg (a fitness centre), CrossFit Norður, and the local swimming pool Sundlaug Akureyrar. Selfoss, Ísafjörður, and Akranes all have community fitness centres attached to their pool complexes. If you are considering where to live in Iceland outside the capital, you will not lack for fitness options.
Gym etiquette in Iceland
Icelandic gym culture is friendly but understated. A few things to keep in mind:
Wipe down machines and benches after use. Most gyms provide cleaning spray and paper towels at stations throughout the floor.
Leave outdoor shoes at the entrance and change into indoor-only shoes. This is standard practice at nearly every gym in Iceland and helps keep facilities clean.
Re-rack your weights. This is expected everywhere, and most gyms post signs reminding members to do so.
Respect personal space. Icelanders tend to be polite but private during workouts. Brief greetings and conversation are normal, but extended socialising on the gym floor is uncommon.
Gyms in Iceland with links
Here is a list of gyms in Iceland with links to their websites. Prices and availability change, so check the gym's own site for current membership options.
Most smaller towns also have a community gym at or near the local swimming pool. These are not listed here but can be found through the municipality's website or by asking at the pool reception.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a gym membership cost in Iceland?
A standard chain gym membership (World Class or Katla Fitness) costs roughly 8,000 to 10,000 ISK per month on a 12-month contract. CrossFit memberships run 16,000 to 28,000 ISK per month. Day passes at most gyms range from 3,150 to 3,900 ISK (as of March 2026).
Can I get my gym membership reimbursed in Iceland?
Yes. Most Icelandic trade unions reimburse a portion of gym costs through their wellness fund, typically up to 40,000 ISK per year (maximum 50% of the cost). Many employers offer additional gym subsidies on top of the union benefit.
Do gyms in Iceland include swimming pool access?
World Class includes access to 10 swimming pools and Katla Fitness includes access to 3 pools. These are separate from the municipal pool system. Municipal pools charge separately, with a single adult entry at 1,430 ISK in Reykjavik (as of January 2026).
Are there gyms outside Reykjavik?
Yes. Most towns in Iceland have at least one gym, usually located near or inside the local swimming pool complex. Akureyri has multiple gym options including Bjarg and CrossFit Norður.
What is gym etiquette like in Iceland?
Wipe down equipment after use, change into indoor shoes at the entrance, re-rack weights, and respect personal space. Showers before entering the pool area (at combined gym-pool facilities) are mandatory and enforced.
Last updated: March 2026
