By Kimberly A. Laux
Gyms and health clubs offer members the opportunity to discover which activities they enjoy most. The quality and diversity of equipment far exceeds machines designed for home use, and most gyms offer a wide range of cardio classes. Helpful staff and personal trainers are usually nearby to answer your questions and offer advice. Plus, the opportunity to meet other fitness-conscious members can be motivating!
What to Look for
Not all gyms are created equal. Before investing in a membership, make sure to consider convenience, equipment/fitness classes, price and staff.
You probably don't live far from some type of gym or health club. Chain gyms are everywhere and do not overlook the local YMCA/YWCA or facilities at universities, hospitals and tennis/racquetball clubs. Some are open early in the morning until later in the evening, while others offer 24-hour convenience. If you have children, consider gyms that offer child care service.
According to the American Council on Exercise, your fitness routine should include aerobic exercise, muscular strength/endurance conditioning, and flexibility. Some gyms offer more general equipment and classes incorporating all of these components while others might focus more on the aerobics or strength training. Equipment should be clean and well maintained. Fitness classes should be safe and effective, not an opportunity for the instructor to get her workout in. You may want a gym that offers other activities, such as swimming, basketball, martial arts or some other sport that you enjoy.
The cost of a gym membership can be ambiguous. Usually the price is quoted as a monthly rate. Additionally some gyms charge initiation fees, monthly maintenance fees and cancellation fees as well as costs for towel and childcare services. Take advantage of specials and discounts, but be cautious against purchasing lifetime memberships.
One third of heart attacks experienced outside of homes or hospitals occur at gyms or health clubs according to the American Heart Association. Staff should be CPR certified and familiar with AED devices. Personal trainers and fitness instructors should be certified by a reputable organization. You need to work with professionals who are knowledgeable about the safest and most effective approaches to fitness, not someone who attended a weekend workshop.
Common Pitfalls
According to Medical News Today, 80 percent of 40 million Americans who have bought gym memberships are not using them. Find out the ratio of inactive to active (visiting the gym at least once a week) members at the gym you are considering. A ratio of 2:1 is a good sign, while 10:1 indicates that the gym is better at selling memberships than keeping members satisfied. If a large percentage of members find reasons to stop going, you probably will too.
Smart Shopping for Gym Memberships originally published on LIVESTRONG.COM
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