Choosing a Gym That Works For You

Gym memberships cost money. If you are not absolutely positive that you will use the gym, do not waste your money.

If you have never been to a gym they probably all look the same to you; they are not. And selecting the right gym for you is not as trivial as it seems. Many of the things you should be looking for are obvious and may be overlooked. For example, how qualified are the instructors? Are any of them qualified to work with people who have arthritis? Are the instructors experienced.

Here are a few tips that will help you make sure you are getting the best value for your money when you join a gym.

First, make sure the gym is conveniently located. If it is not close to your home or your place of work chances are you will not take the time to make an extra trip to work out and exercise. You will have a much better chance of maintaining your workout program if you can get to the gym easily. Besides, you can save the money you would have spent on gas for your car.

Secondly, find out what the membership costs and what it includes. If you do not need the swimming pool, aerobic classes, and sauna, find out if you can sign up for a restricted membership. Are lockers extra? Is there a reduced membership fee for seniors? Monthly memberships are usually more expensive than yearly, but a 6-month plan may be more to your liking. Is there a cancellation fee? How much notice do you have to give when you want to drop your membership?

And finally, what are the hours your gym is open and available to you? If you prefer getting there first thing in the morning before 7 A.M, are you comfortable using the gym with members that are 30 years younger than you? If you arrive at the gym mid-morning are you comfortable with the young mothers working out and filling up the aerobics classes? Are there classes that you can take at that time?

Are you comfortable in the workout environment? Are the machines and the locker room clean? Is there an attempt to conserve energy which may mean the air conditioning is not turned on full blast and the soaps and shampoos are environmentally friendly?

Everyone's motivation is different and your cousins gym may not work for you. No matter which way you go, however, keep moving.

by Ruthan Brodsky