How many times have you skipped a workout because the gym is too far away
or will be too crowded when you get there?
If you’re like a lot of people, the answer is “too many.”
Cut the excuses by doing your homework and choosing a club that’s right for you.
It’s no secret that picking a quality club is key to sticking with your program.
But choosing a health club can rank high on the confusion meter.
Sign-up specials scream in all forms of media,
and it seems there’s a new club on every corner.
Before you jump on the latest two-for-one membership deal,
take the time to consider these helpful tips:
- Location—For your fitness routine to be successful, exercise has to be convenient. You’re more likely to use a club if it is close to either your home or workplace. While you don’t want to choose a health club only because it is close to your home or work, joining a club that is not convenient will make you more likely to find an excuse to stop going.
[When I had my gym membership in Rockwall [10 minute drive] there was actually another gym walking distance from me. Yes it would have been soooo much easier just because it was closer to home. However It was closer to my job. It was opened 24'7 so it fit my crazy schedule. It was convenient. But then when I decided to work from home on my own business, this was not so. I did make excuses to not go. So wave your options, think about where you're not only now, but on your days off too.]
- Classes—If classes are what keep you motivated, make sure the club offers an eclectic mix of classes you like and that they are offered at a time of day that fits your schedule.
[Classes were not a priority of mine when I had my membership. But I can tell you, If they were, I was out of luck. Every time I went to the gym, never was there one going on. The classes ran at the times 90 percent of people were at work. 9-12 and 3-5.]
- Staff—Staff members should be CPR and AED trained. Personal trainers and group fitness instructors should be certified through a certification organization accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies like the American Council on Exercise (ACE). Credible certification can assure you that the instructor meets the guidelines to provide a safe and efficient workout.
[might sounds crazy but tell me this. If you ended up passing out or having something happen to you where you needed CPR, do you want to be crap out of luck? I didn't think so.]
- Hours—Lots of health clubs open early and stay open late. Before you join, though, make sure your club is open when you plan to go. Then visit the club at the times you intend to work out. Check whether the club is too crowded or if there are long lines for equipment at that time.
[this is a huge thing for me! Mentioned before my old gym worked out best for me because of my schedule. So having a gym that was 24'7 helped soooo much !!! However there were times when I knew I was getting off at 5 (like everyone else) I would have to go before work. The gym at 5-7 was beyond PACKED and I would be knocking someone out for some weights! So know your gym, know the hours you'll go and what works best for you!]
- Try it before you buy it—Salespeople are trained to hype the benefits of their health club, but you need to actually try out some of the equipment and get a feel for the club’s atmosphere before you sign up. Request a day pass or a trial membership, which is a good way to ‘’test drive’’ the health club’s services.
[Agreed! Before you sign on the dotted line, try it out. Ask for a tour (if not given to you already) really look into the equipment. There are sooo many gyms I looked into where there was only one set of each weight ! You ever tried sharing weights with 10 other people?]
- Payments—Many clubs have a variety of payment options. Find a payment schedule that meets your budget needs and take advantage of any sign-up specials. Find out exactly what the membership fee is and what it includes. Will you have to pay extra for childcare and towels? Don’t forget to ask if they require an initiation fee. And if you are joining a new club that hasn’t opened yet, make sure that any deposits or payments are held in an escrow account until they officially open.
[ This is usually everyone's first thing they look into. Which is good. The gym I mentioned by my house was almost twice the fee of my old gym and also did not have HALF of the equipment. Having a military spouse card also got me a discount (going to miss that lol) so I got drawn into saving money! Know what you are putting your money into. Know your options!]
- Reputation—Before you join, talk to current members about their experiences with the club. The Better Business Bureau or state Attorney General’s office can tell you if the club is a member or if any complaints have been registered against it. Added security comes if the club is a member of the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). IHRSA clubs must oblige by a code of ethics that protects the health and safety of their members, as well as protects consumers from unscrupulous business practices.
[The gym I went to was 24 hour fitness. (yes we have all heard of this gym) You would have seen many good and also bad reviews on this. As any other gym but hey you pick your battles. hahaha. However just because it is a well known fitness chain does not mean it is always the best. Find your groove, find what you like.]
- Little details—As you tour the club, pay attention to details. How clean is the facility? Is the music too loud? Is most of the equipment in working order? Too many ‘’out of order’’ signs may indicate poor maintenance. Are new members provided with a club orientation and instruction on how to use equipment? Make sure the club is a place where you would enjoy spending time.
[YES, YES and YES! This is key, seriously. When getting a tour, do not just walk with thinking 'yeahhhh. that's cool.'. ask questions, really know what you're looking at!]
So know with a little research and patience,
you will be rewarded with a membership at a health club
you can call “home.”
More importantly,
you will be reaping the long-term benefits
of a structured exercise program that perfectly suits your lifestyle!
GOOD LUCK!
International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association: http://www.ihrsa.org/
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