I've given you all my reasons for not exactly loving the downtown location. Here's why I love it uptown. 

The NYSC Hoboken North offers a completely different experience than its downtown counterpart. There are more classes, you're not stuck in a basement, and the crowd is a little more mature.

Located on the second floor or a corner building, natural light floods the long workout floor. After swiping in, members are in the cardio area, where more than 50 machines are more than enough to accommodate the small crowds.

Locker rooms are to the right; weights and machines, to the left. Workout studios are located in two spots: a mind and body studio is in front of the cardio area; two larger studios are up a short staircase to the right. The M&B studio feels more like a yoga studio than a typical gym fitness room.

There are 50 weekly classes, including eight yoga classes in three styles and 18 spinning classes. One class I am planning to try is Jump I.T., decscribed as "Intervals of jump rope combined with cardvascular and strength traing for a complete circuit workout." 

The locker rooms are basic but clean. I've seen a cleaning person at work every time I've been in one and never been grossed out by stray hairs or dirty toilets. Membership consultant Omar Escalante says cleanliness is what sets this gym apart from others in town. They strive to keep the lockerrooms in top shape because many members workout and shower in the early mornings before heading straight to work. 

This gym draws much smaller crowds. I've been in all times of the day and only once had to wait for a cardio machine (all of which feature individual TVs). Even at peak hours, the wait time averages about five minutes.

While the machines aren't always crowded, the classes are often packed. I arrived five minutes late to a step class to find the room at capacity. There was no chance of joining. I didn't mind too much because I just went into the other studio and created my own class. I ran sprints, used the jump rope, exercise ball and free weights. These are all available throughout the day.

There are 24 personal trainers at the ready. If you are looking to get back into a fitness routine after a long time away from the gym, the trainers will be able to put you on the right track. Look for holiday specials on training packages, as they are offered every year.

If you don't want to be tied down to a scheduled training session but want to make sure you're getting a solid workout, try the XpressLine. It is a special section of the workout floor featuring the right combination of machines to work every muscle group. During a free 22-minute, trainer-supervised workout, you'll work all of the muscle groups.

As detailed in part 1, NYSC offers reasonable price packages. New members choose between several packages. There is also currently a $30 for 30 days special trial membership. Stop in to speak with Escalante or another friendly membership consultant that I had the pleasure of meeting last week. 

The club hours are Monday – Thurday, 5:30 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Friday, 5:30 a.m. – 9pm; Saturday and Sunday, 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. Check the website for details on holiday closures, off-peak hours and Xpress line hours.

One definite reason I encourage you to try NYSC: the company is committed to reducing its carbon footprint. Earlier this year, it launched EcoSteps. Not only will you be creating a healthier you by working out at NYSC, you're helping create a healthier planet. If you are already a member, encourage the Hoboken locations to implement more EcoSteps initiatives.

And one last one - don't take the elevator. Nothing irks me more than seeing people on their way to workout take an elevator up one flight of stairs. That's so lazy!