11 Things to Consider when Choosing a Gym ...

A gym membership is both an investment and a serious commitment. It is an investment you make for your health and you invest in terms of time, effort, and of course money. You are also making a commitment with yourself to exercise, to be more active, and to be healthy. These days money is hard to come by and gym memberships are not always cheap. That is why it is extremely important that you take time to carefully choose the gym you join. Take note of the eleven things to consider when choosing a gym.

1. Location

The first thing you need to consider is the location of a gym. Location is important because it can contribute to your motivation to exercise. You are more likely to exercise at a gym that is 10-15 minutes away than at a gym that requires an hour-long commute.

2. Fees

Before signing up for anything, determine the fees you have to pay. There are many payment schemes and plans that a gym might enforce. You should also know the methods and schedule of payments. It is important to take note of any promotions and discounts offered. Don’t be afraid to ask questions to clarify things you don’t understand.

3. Contract

If a gym requires you to sign a contract, then make sure that you read the terms before signing anything. You need to know what you are getting into. What happens if you terminate the contract? What happens if you become injured or ill and can’t use your membership? Can you workout at their other branches or are you limited to the one you sign up with? Make sure that a contract also protects you and not just the company. Again, don’t be afraid to ask questions.

4. Operating Hours

You should also take note of the operating hours of a gym. Look for a gym that can accommodate you during your free time. You shouldn’t have to reschedule your whole life to fit a gym’s operating hours.

5. Atmosphere

Every gym has a unique atmosphere and vibe. You will be able to get a sense of what that is the moment you enter the place. Don’t sign up for a gym if you don’t get good vibrations from the place. You want to exercise in a place that gives you a sense of comfort; not some place where you feel ill at ease.

6. Members

If you are particular about the people you use the gym with, then be sure to take into consideration the members of a gym. There are gyms that cater exclusively to females. There are also gyms that are co-ed. In gyms like that, you want to check the gender ratio. You might feel uncomfortable at a gym with more men than women.

7. Staff

A gym’s staff can make your gym experience pleasant or horrible. So when you visit a gym, try to observe how their staff treats their clients. You want a staff that is pleasant, approachable, and attentive to the needs of the clients. You also want to make sure that there are people who can assist you if you have questions about operating a machine or about any other services they might have.

8. Gym Hygiene

Because the gym is a high traffic, shared space, it is easy for germs and viruses to spread. Therefore, it is very important that a gym has good hygiene practices. It should provide you with sanitizer and tissue/towels to wipe off the machines and gym equipment before and after use. The locker rooms should be clean and complimentary towels laundered. The staff should also be well-groomed.

9. Equipment

You should always check the equipment and machines that a gym has to offer. Make sure that they have enough equipment and machines to cater to their clients. You should also see if they have the machines you need to perform your workouts, as well as machines that you might want to try out. Don’t forget to check if the machines are well maintained and in good working condition.

10. Classes

If you like the social aspect of exercise, then you should check if a gym offers group classes. If there are any classes you want to take, make sure that they are offered at times you can attend. Classes can be added cost so you should know if you want to pay extra for them.

11. Facilities

Aside from the machines and group classes, it would be good to know about the facilities available for your use. Check the locker rooms, changing rooms, and bathrooms. These are the basic facilities that you want in a gym. If you need a shower room, then make sure a gym has one. There are other amenities that may be found at a gym such as a sauna, pool, spa, etc.

If you are really set on becoming healthier, then signing up for a gym membership, while not necessary, is indeed a good start. Just remember that you should take time in choosing the right gym for you. Don’t settle on the first place that you visit. Before making a decision, always keep in mind your needs, lifestyle, and financial capability, on top of the other things you need to consider when choosing a gym.

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