Does Blink Fitness have childcare?

Parenthood seemingly presents endless challenges—I know mom and dad are out there are busy balancing family, work, and personal commitments. What does that often leave out? Finding time for fitness.

Well, fellow parents: here's my advice for the ultimate game changer: A gym with childcare. It's truly a win-win for the entire family—you get a chance to break a sweat for an hour-ish, and my little one gets to mingle and play. 

You got it. Blink Fitness offers up childcare—but only at 3 locations. Though it's not many of their total 93 gyms, those with young kids close to these locations will still appreciate the amenity.

They get the whole package here in Texas, huh? These three gyms from Blink have childcare:

• Fort Worth, Texas
• Keller, Texas
• North Richland Hills, Texas

We're guessing that since these three are quite close to eachother, it's easier to manage schedules with the childcare staff. You also can train and maintain this group easier since they have the same childcare goals and regulations in mind.

That also means there are no Blink Fitness gyms in New York, where half of their clubs are located. Same goes for California, Massachusetts, New Jersey and more.

Info is light! We only get a single paragraph that describes what happens:

Drop your little Blinkers off with our qualified staff, for a variety of play-based learning - because fitness and parenting are better together!

And that's it. Ouch. We really wish they expanded on this more. But, you're in luck. Here's what we found from a job posting for a Kids Club attendant:

• Kids aged 6 to 12 years are allowed
• Child and Infant CPR requirements
• Previous child care experience needed
• Job is to supervise, but also facilitate creative and engaging activities for kids

No info on this either, Blink doesn't specify if childcare is an additional cost. It's worth noting though, that an amenity listed right above Kids Club is towel service—and that clearly has a footnote stating "additional fee required." 

We'd be surprised if childcare is free, but you could always make the case that they don't specify it clearly.

You got it. Here's our quick recap why it matters so much:

• It's convenient! Babysitting service at the gym means parents can reliably get their exercise done without fear or worry of their kids wellbeing. It becomes an actual one-stop for the day to make sure you don't miss a workout.
• It's safe! Daycare facilities require certain health and safety standards, usually mandated by the county or city. This often means at least CPR certification, along with other safety protocols.
• Provides Interaction: Many babysitting/daycare services at gyms focus on engaging playtime activities—giving your kids a stimulating environment where they may play games and with other kids.
• It's flexible: We like when the childcare hours are clear and easily found. This makes planning our workout both flexible and reliable. Parents, you know how it is to juggle schedules—especially around nap time!
• It gives great Peace of Mind: Happy kid = clear mind = great workout. All is intertwined. Knowing that your child is entertained and well-supervised gives you great peace of mind. Your mind is then clear to help give your body a great workout!"

Parents, if Blink Fitness is on your list as you search for a gym, we suggest you visit, talk and interact with the Kids Club staff. Our assumption is that they are friendly and well put together—just like the impression we get from Blink in general. You'll need to ask about toys, classes, games and schedules that they may setup for children who attend—we just wish that info was readily available on their site.

There are also no photos of the childcare amenities on their site, so it's going to be hard to judge. Finally, with just 3 locations with the amenity, parents looking to Blink in California, Illinois, New Jersey, New York and more will have to find a different option.