I’d like to discuss some key factors and important things to look for when joining a gym or health club.

Joining a health club can be a great way to help you begin or maintain a regular exercise program, but it can also turn into an exorbitant expense, if you're not careful about choosing a club that meets your particular needs.

If you have been thinking about joining one of the large, high-end health club chains, you must think not only about losing body weight, but also significant wallet weight loss! It may sound funny, but it’s pretty incredible how much some of these places will charge you for a simple membership.

Remember, bigger is not necessarily better and when it comes to joining a gym, this holds even more true. You will find that many of your large gyms are more like corporations rather than private clubs…This is something that you might like, however receiving proper service and the guidance of an attentive staff would seem more important to most people.

Small to mid-size gyms are sometimes better choices. With smaller and better controlled environments, come better relationships, more organization and unparalleled service.

Being a fitness expert and former gym owner myself, here are some insightful guidelines that you should consider before joining up:

• What's the condition of the equipment…Is it new? Refurbished? Or old?
• Is the environment clean, well maintained and comfortable?
• Do they have attentive and considerate staff members? A well-trained staff can surely help you avoid the pitfalls of giving up or injuring yourself… If you're a beginner, it is vital that you get proper coaching in the techniques and form of strength training.
• Does the gym offer the services you need? Do they have a variety of aerobic machines, weight-lifting machines, and aerobics classes…Do they offer Babysitting services?
• When are the peak times for members…The best equipment in the world means nothing, if you have to wait for long periods of time!
• Traveling time and convenience?…The gym should be close to your home.
• Do they have towel service for both your workouts and showers?
• Do they arrange sporting activities outside the gym, such as walking clubs, boot camp training or hikes?
• Make sure that all instructors are Nationally certified by one of the major fitness organizations.
• Ask for a copy of the contract you would be signing.
• If the salesperson tries to use high pressure tactics, such as “the deal is only good today,” be wary. Ask if “the deal” can be extended a few days, or when it will be available again. If they are not helpful, there’s your sign!
• Avoid signing up for a multi-year membership; consider a month-to-month membership or one that lasts no longer than a year.

So there you have it…One final tactic that will help close the deal on your decision…Give it a taste test! Call your particular club of interest and ask the salesperson for a trial membership (usually one week) and give it a whirl!

 
Good Luck and train Hard!

James Villepigue CSCS