When it comes to finding new gyms, the most important question you have to ask yourself when signing up is: Do I need to join the gym?
Is it because you’ve been working out at home and want to try something more than push-ups and sit-ups? Is it to put yourself in a position where you’re fit and healthy?
Whatever the situation you’re in, joining the gym is a great choice. Think about your current circumstances. If you love exercising in your house and on your own, regardless of if a local gym is the best available and is recommended by your peers, then it would probably be a waste of money. But if you’re still looking for a new gym to join, here are some key factors to bear in mind.
Price
The important part when finding the best gym for you is the price. Many people looking to get into shape can’t seem to afford high priced memberships. So if you can’t buy a membership in a certain gym, it doesn’t mean you can’t find ways to lower this cost. Even if you can lower the membership price, you may find a gym that suits you better. If you’re unsure, speak with the manager of the gym and discuss your payment options.
Read the reviews
Always read reviews from locals who have attended the gym you are interested in. Do some quick research on that particular gym. If a gym has had a bad wrap in the past, chances are you will find some reviews online from past clients. Although there is a chance that there may be a couple of bad eggs amongst the bunch who want to leave a bad review for the sake of it, it’s still a good idea to read reviews and get a feel for the community at that gym.
Long term agreements
If a gym has a long term agreement where you can become a member for a certain period, make sure to understand the terms associated with the contract.
In general, if you are new to gym memberships, it often isn’t recommended to sign up for gyms that demand you sign up to a 12 or 24-month contract. If you seem quite unhappy with whatever gym you picked, you are still paying regardless of you going or not going. Keep in mind that some gyms tend to grab you in their long term scheme. If possible, ask for a free trial at the gym or ask about their casual or short-term plans.
Location
One of the key factors of navigating a gym that is right for you is, of course, location. But why does this matter?
According to Laura Williams, a former fitness centre manager and owner of Girls Gone Sporty, she believes it is best to eliminate excuses for skipping your workout and choose a location based on your lifestyle.
Are you intending to do some exercises during your lunch break or after work? The best gym for you would be close to the workplace. But if you would rather work out during your mornings or on weekends, gyms that are close to home are better. Wherever you are, if you want to hit the gym and want to be consistent with your exercise routine, always remember to choose a gym based on your lifestyle.
Equipment
One thing you should do is go inside to take a good look around the place. Make sure that there is equipment that you’ll use such as weight machines, stretching areas, cardio machines or dumbbells. Make sure the equipment that you want to use is in good condition and appears to be regularly maintained. The last thing you want to do is join a gym only for your favourite exercise equipment to be removed straight away due to maintenance or repairs.
Cleanliness
It may not be important to you at the moment, but when you get used to the gym environment, there will be certain equipment or places that haven’t been cleaned on a regular basis. Not only is this unhygienic, but it’s also just plain gross! When inspecting a gym, can you see staff members regularly cleaning and wiping down equipment? Or do their staff look too pre-occupied for cleaning tasks?
Make sure to take a good look at whichever gym you want to join and exercise in. Remember to ask a few questions to the gym manager or staff member and be sure to ask what types of memberships are available to you that are affordable. Signing up to a gym is a commitment that you don’t want to lose extensive amounts of money on. With the right research, you’ll find the perfect gym for you in no time.
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