How Do I Choose The Right Gym For Me

Before you commit to signing up for a gym there are some very basic criteria that you need to consider prior to becoming a member.

1. Location. This seems obvious, but you won't believe how many people get a gym on the other side of the city that they will never go to. It is imperative that the gym is within close proximity of work or home. If you have to go way out of your way, then you will never go. Even if it is perfect in every other way, if it is too far then do not sign up.

2. Payment options. All gyms allow you to either pay monthly or pre-pay for a specified period. Although most require automatic debit from a debit, credit, or bank account some may allow you to pay over the counter. Be sure to ask several questions to determine the proper method for your needs. If you are unsure if you are going to make this long term, then I highly suggest a monthly plan that you can get out of if you decide not to continue your membership. If you are a gym rat, then I would suggest a pre-pay plan. Although they cost more upfront, you don't have to worry about a monthly fee and then you typically get free or discounted renewal rates. Just be sure to check the cancellation policy.

3.The Extras. Gyms almost always offer something additional to just classes and equipment. Some gyms you have to pay for classes, others do not. Some gyms have things such as daycare, towel service, pools, saunas, steam rooms etc available for your patronage. Sometimes they are included in the membership dues and other times they are additional. Be sure to ask prior to becoming a member.

4. Cleaniness. This seems obvious, but often overlooked. Gyms are notorious for having not necessarily the cleanest environment. Take a look and see if you see bottles of disinfectant, members with towels, a cleaning service. Be weary if you do not see any of these, germs and diseases are lurking.

5. Other members. I highly suggest that you go to the gym at a time that you would normally go prior to actually signing up. All you have to do is ask a representative to show the facilities. If you are new, will a bunch of loud body builders intimidate you?s there a place just for women or is everyonce forced to be in one area? Is it extremely crowded? Do crowds bother you? Is it strictly a social meeting place and can you focus?

6. Personal Trainers. Is personal training included in the membership? If so, is it per session or a package? Some gyms have trainers just walking around that will answer questions for free. Do the personal trainers look like they train themselves? The thing about personal training is that unless you actually do it yourself then you can't tell someone else. I don't know about you, but I don't want someone out of shape training me on how to look good and be healthy. Exercise is something that you have to actively do, not just read about in a book and then tell someone else.

Take these into consideration before you join a gym and you will be less likely to stop going and you will automatically eliminate a lot of excuses of why you do not go the the gym. If you do not, then it will be easier to let excuses to interfere.