Before You Join A Gym

Many people join a gym without thinking much about it. But before you spend money on a gym membership, there are several factors you need to consider.

Joining a gym is just what many people need to jumpstart their fitness program. A gym provides a great atmosphere to work out in. You can feed off the energy of those around you. All of your fitness needs can be met at a gym. You can use different types of aerobic exercise equipment, you can lift weights using free weights or weight machines, and you can participate in various exercise classes. Gyms have personal trainers available to help you figure out the different equipment, answer your questions, and conduct personal training sessions.

But for some people, joining a gym is not a good decision. Family and work responsibilities might not allow you enough time to get to a gym. You might be uncomfortable working out in public. You might prefer solitude when working out. If any of these situations apply to you, having a home gym would be a better option than belonging to a gym.

If you do decide to join a gym, you need to determine what particular gym is best for you. Depending on where you live, you might have several gyms from which to choose from.

Factors To Consider When Evaluating A Gym

Location - This is probably the most important consideration. Even if you join a fantastic gym, if it's too far away, you probably won't go. Be realistic when deciding how far you're willing to travel to go to the gym.

Size - Mega-gyms are the latest trend. They offer a huge selection of equipment and classes and a large staff of personal trainers. But for some people, a mega-gym might be somewhat overwhelming. A smaller, cozier gym might be a better choice, even if it has less equipment, classes, and staff.

Ambiance - How do you feel in the gym? Is the staff friendly and professional? Are the members your "type"? Do you feel comfortable?

Cost - Membership fees vary greatly. The cost of a mega-gym is usually lower than the cost of a smaller gym because they have more members. Here are some cost related matters to consider before you join a gym:

• Are there any costs besides the membership fee? Many gyms charge an initiation fee. Many times this fee covers services such as a fitness test, a body fat test, or one or more personal training sessions. If the initiation fee doesn't include any special services, you can usually get it waived if you insist stongly enough. Some gyms charge extra for specialty classes, such as yoga. Most gyms charge for any personal training sessions not covered by an initiation fee.

• Does the gym require a contract? If so, check out the terms carefully. Find out if the gym offers month to month memberships or if you have to sign up for a year. Don't get locked into a multi-year membership. Find out the terms for canceling your membership.

• Are trial memberships available? Many gyms offer a two week trial membership, or let you purchase day passes. This will let you check out the place and decide if it's right for you. Visit the gym at the time you'd be most likely to work out to see how crowded it is and what classes are available.

• Can you get a price break? Many gyms make special deals if you ask, although they don't advertise this fact. The best time to ask for a special deal is during slow sales periods like summer and the end of the month. You might also be able to get a price break if you join a gym with a family member or a friend.

Hours - Make sure that the gym will be open at the times you'd be most likely to work out. Generally, the larger the gym, the longer the hours.

Equipment - Make sure that the gym has a large quantity of different types of equipment. Make sure that the equipment is in good condition and that some of the equipment is new.

Classes - Make sure that the gym offers the types of classes you want. Some no-frills gyms don't offer any classes.

Cleanliness - Is the gym clean and well ventilated? Pay special attention to the locker room, bathrooms, and showers.

Now that you know what factors to consider before you join a gym, you can make an informed decision about whether belonging to a gym is right for you, and if so, choose the best gym for your individual needs.