As the summertime winds down and vacations come to an end, getting back in shape is on many of our ‘to-do’ lists. Perhaps your gym membership has expired, or you’ve decided to lose a few pounds; whatever your reason for hitting the gym, before running to the nearest one, it’s a great idea to shop around.
When you do decide to narrow down your options, here is a list of things to look for when you visit. You’ll want to read reviews, examine equipment, or gym amenities, and evaluate the location and more when making a final choice; here’s what we recommend you consider:
1. Location Convenience
Choosing a gym near your home or office is a smart choice, but choosing one on your travel route between work and your home is even better – you will have no excuse not to go and work out! Also, consider security measures depending on the area in which the fitness center is located. 24/7 gym access control systems, security cameras, and surveillance of parking areas can be an added plus when deciding.
2. Gym Hours
If you have to balance your home life, family life, work, and other activities, you need a fitness center that opens early and closes late into the evening.
When asking about the hours, also ask about what is specifically offered during the times that fit best into your schedule. For example, is the sauna or pool closed when you can work out? What gym amenities are not available during your preferred hours? Can you arrange your workout schedule around the gym’s offerings?
3. Consider the Cost
Gyms offer a variety of membership types, from one day to a lifetime pass. Unless you are retired and have no plan to move, opt for a one-year plan at the most; many things can change within a year, from important life decisions such as marriage, a new job, a job transfer, or a family or health issue. Who knows what an entire year will bring?
Make it a point to read the fine print on your membership contract, including the cancellation policy and how you can opt-out, if necessary. Signing on for a year avoids having to renew monthly – paying for the membership upfront may also get you a discount and eliminate worrying about payments to be made. Plus, if you’ve already paid for it, it would be a shame not to go and work out.
4. Examine the Space
Gyms can be anything from several thousand square feet to more than 50,000 square feet. The more space there is, the more likely it is that there will be attractive amenities like cycling rooms, boxing rings, or yoga studios; you may even find one with a pool and sauna included. Smaller gyms may offer more customized training, so depending on what your priority is, look for a gym space that makes you feel comfortable when working out.
5. Examine the Equipment
While not every piece of equipment in a gym will be new, it should be in good condition, clean, and well-maintained. Some high-tech options should also be available, such as suspension trainers, ergonomic rowers, gymnastic rings, and newly designed equipment for full-body training should be accessible.
6. Check Out the Weights
Gyms that have a wide assortment of weights or dumbbells, including those weighing more than 150 lbs., indicate that a gym provides serious weight training. A generous number of squat racks is also a positive sign, as this means you will have less wait time when getting in that all-important leg training – look for two or more when visiting.
7. Look for Extra Amenities
You may find that a gym featuring only the basics is sufficient for meeting your workout goals. Still, many fitness centers now offer all kinds of extras to make your visit to the gym something to look forward to. Many now feature nutritionists and massage therapists on staff; a nice massage after sitting at a desk all day, and a heavy workout may be just what the doctor ordered.
If you need to lose weight, a nutritionist can be crucial to maintaining your health while achieving this goal. Swimming pools, saunas and steam rooms can also be big motivators when it’s time to work out.
8. Training Possibilities
Not everyone can work out alone. You may need professional guidance to avoid injury and achieve your goals faster, so check out training options and the services provided, together with the expense involved.
9. Guest Privileges and Complimentary Treats
You may want to bring your best buddy to work out with you, so see if the gym you are considering provides guest passes, and how often you can invite someone.
Many gyms may offer complimentary extras, such as smoothies, water bottles, or protein snacks for members, or have online portals for workout support. Factor in being made to feel part of the fitness center community when evaluating overall value.
A Final Recommendation
Before making that final choice, do your homework and read reviews from other members, as well as past members. The internet offers lots of resources for discovering what other people are saying about the gym you are considering, providing plenty of insight to form your decision upon.