How to Pick Your Fitness Gym
Posted: Tuesday, September 08, 2009
by Tom Kevin
http://www.betterexercisenfitness.com
Now that you have made the commitment to starting a workout program, the next step is selecting a gym that you will feel comfortable going to on a regular basis. If it isn't, chances are you aren't going to stick with any type of regular plan and will eventually just stop going altogether. By being sure your workout facility is a good fit for you, you help take yourself one step further to realizing your exercise goals.
The top 10 considerations when choosing a health club are:
1. Location Location Location
Pick a fitness center location that is convenient. Who really wants to spend twice as long driving to and from their gym as it takes them to do their workout? Think about either choosing a gym that is located close to your house or else on the drive to or from work. This is a great option since if you have to pass by it every day, you'll be reminded of the fact that you should be working out if you choose to skip it.
2. Variety of Exercise Equipment
Looking at the type and quality of the equipment offered in the gym is another thing you must factor in. If you prefer free weights, make sure there is a large number of dumbbells present because during rush hours, these could be hard to come by. If you prefer doing your weight training on guided machines, you will want to be sure there is a large variety of machines that you can work all the necessary muscles on your body. If you plan on doing a lot of cardio training as part of your exercise routines you will want to be sure there are ample machines available.
3. Membership Demographic
Another factor to consider is the patron demographic that goes to the gym. Some ladies will prefer going to an all-ladies gym because they feel more comfortable exercising in a single gender environment. For others, a mixed health club is the desired environment because a motivation for the gym membership is to socialize and perhaps even find a date. Whatever your desires, this can be an important factor in maintaining your continuous attendance. These can be important factors in selecting the right gym.
4. Convenience Services
You may want to ask if the gym offers any additional services or benefits along with your basic membership and what is there associated fee, if any. Often it is easier for parents to attend their fitness center regularly if childcare is available on site. Also find out what guest privileges you have and is there a fee for bringing a guest, and are you limited to certain hours or numbers of guests?
5. Group Exercise Classes
If you like group aerobic classes, see check when they are available. Make sure the classes you want to take are offered at convenient times. Do not choose a club that focuses on kickboxing classes if you want to do Pilates. When you take a class, see how you like the instructor, the pace of the class, and the room. Is the workout space big enough and suited for the exercise you're doing? For instance, if you're taking a dance class, is there enough room to move about, and a good wood floor?
6. Hours of Operation
Availability is also a key issue in choosing a gym. Find out which fitness center has hours of operation that make it convenient for you to utilize. Find out which center offers the greatest availability. Find out not only if classes are scheduled at times when you can take advantage of them, but also if the instructors are professionals.
7. Personal Training Services
Having some qualified professional trainers on hand is critical to helping you realize your full fitness potential. Even if you are fine with your program right now, consider that in a year down the road you might be plateauing and in need of some change in your routine. The availability of knowledgeable staff will be important at this time. Unfortunately many fitness centers hire almost anyone who has a basic interest in exercise and fitness, so be sure to enquire about the actual certifications these trainers hold.
8. Cleanliness
The entire facility should be safe and clean, clean and well maintained. Check the bathrooms and showers to make sure there are enough clean towels, lockers, and hot water. Verify that the equipment and floors are cleaned regularly and that there is enough room to workout without bumping into others. Be on the look out for dangerous items such as loose carpets, tiles, electrical cords, or other things you could trip and fall over.
9. Membership Cost
Gym memberships can really vary in costs so it's a good idea to look around before making that final commitment. What exactly is covered in the monthly membership fees? Do popular class, such as yoga or Pilates, cost extra? Also consider how long you are signing the contract for as this can vary too. Many fitness centers like to rope you in for years and if you aren't quite sure it is going to be a multi year arrangement, you are better off finding something that is more short-term. Late summer and shortly after the New Year, many health clubs will run special promotions to entice you to join.
10. Contract Termination Policy
Finally take a look at the health club's termination policy. If you sign up for a 2 year membership and then end up changing jobs and moving, are you going to be partially refunded? It will be an unfortunate situation if the contract did not have a refund or transfer policy. Some health clubs are good about this and some are not so you will have to weigh the likelihood of your canceling among other things that are discussed above when making your choice.
Once you sign on, enjoy your club regularly. You have made a worthwhile investment in your health.
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