The Fitness Factory of Charlotte

The Fitness Factory of Charlotte is the independent gym on North Davidson Street north of NoDa, run by owner Eileen. The floor is enormous, with multiples of nearly every machine, and the equipment is grouped so the weight floor never feels crowded. Longtime members who have tried everything in the city name it their favorite for the simple reason that you never wait. Some of the equipment is old, and that is the trade for the space and the price.

What to know

• A resident dog named Oreo greets members at the door.
• Day passes are available for visitors.
• The air conditioning has drawn complaints in high summer.
• Both new and retro equipment sit on the same floor.