Apple Fitness Plus is partnering with Anytime Fitness, a fast-growing gym franchise, in the first major push to bring Apple's workout service to in-person health clubs. [Starting December 1, Anytime Fitness members will be able to use Fitness Plus for free and will be introduced to new coaching and recommended classes using Fitness Plus data within the Anytime Fitness app. Existing Fitness Plus subscribers who also belong to Anytime Fitness will be able to merge their memberships, and those who have not yet used Anytime Fitness will be able to try the gym for free for 30 days.

Normally, Apple Fitness Plus memberships cost $9.99 per month or $79.99 per year, with up to three months free with the purchase of a new Apple device such as the Apple Watch. But once you become a member, you have to pay to use Apple's fitness services on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV (or Apple Watch for voice-based content like Time to Walk and Time to Run). The best workout apps have never been better, offering thousands of workout classes of varying times, difficulty, and modalities. Many of these classes do not even require additional equipment.

However, working out at home alone has its limitations. If you are training toward a specific goal, want to diversify your exercise routine, or just want to feel motivated by working out in a group environment, a gym membership can help. Additionally, gyms like Anytime Fitness may have trainers and coaches who can guide you on your fitness journey.

Guidance from the new Apple Fitness Plus and Anytime Fitness resides in the Anytime Fitness app. If you have paired your smartwatch, your profile will show your Apple Watch ring progress (Fitness Plus now works without an Apple Watch) and Fitness Plus class recommendations. In addition, Anytime Fitness real coaches will suggest workout routines that are in line with what you are looking for in a workout.

Anytime Fitness stores already offered GymKit-enabled workout machines, but this new Fitness Plus partnership makes the iPhone and Apple Watch an even better gym accessory than before. What's more, this time around, you won't have to pay for both a gym membership and a workout app subscription at the same time.

As for the price of the Anytime Fitness membership, it varies by location. I checked prices at several gyms near me, and the average for U.S. locations seems to be between $50 and $60 per month. Note, however, that Anytime Fitness has more than 5,500 gym locations in 42 countries worldwide, and the integration with Apple Fitness Plus will initially only apply to members at locations in the U.S. and Canada, effective December 1.