Some people are self proclaimed gym rats.
Others would be happy to never step foot in a gym. Either way, many people see the benefits associated with a fitness club membership. The International Health, Racquet Sports Club Association reports that nationwide 21 million Americans currently belong to health club of some type. This figure is projected to reach 40 million by the year 2010. If you are one of the 19 million who will join a health club in the next four years, there are some simple criteria and steps that will help you make the right choice.
Criteria For Choosing A Health Club
1) Location
– Choose a health club that isn’t too far from home and work so that you don’t have an extra excuse not to go. Think about how far you are comfortable driving for other tasks in your life such as the grocery store or the dry cleaners. Choose a club that is located within your driving comfort area, and you’ll be more likely to add a trip to the gym into your daily or weekly routine.
2) Programs
– Examine your fitness goals and preferences, and choose a club that offers what you desire. If you need to lose weight, choose a club that offers programs on weight loss and nutrition. If you enjoy swimming and tennis but don’t want to perfect your dead-lift technique, a local swim and tennis club or YMCA might be right for you.
3) Staff
– Find out if the club hires professionally certified fitness instructors. Also, if you are interested in nutrition counseling, massage therapy or physical therapy, see if the club offers trained professionals in those fields.
4) Equipment
– Choose a club that has a wide variety of well-maintained equipment. Consistent fitness often relies on variety, and you will want access to several types of machines and workout tools such as mats and fitness balls.
5) Maintenance
-The entire club should be clean and safe. briansclub Make several visits to the club to see how well-lit the parking lot is. Examine the locker rooms to make sure they are well staffed and cleaned regularly. The club should provide cleanser and towels in the workout area so that members are encouraged to clean up after their workouts.
6) Contract Terms
– Health Clubs vary greatly in their contract offerings. While some clubs will ask you to sign a contract for a year (or more), many clubs offer month-to-month memberships if you sign up with an automatic monthly payment. Determine what your ideal contract term would be before signing on the dotted line.
7) Child Care
– Many clubs offer free child care. If this is a concern for you, choose a club that hires trained child care professionals, and has a clean, well-maintained child care facility.
8) Hours
– Many clubs are open 24 hours a day, and offer discounted rate for those who will come at off peak hours. Examine your schedule and determine when you are most likely to work out. Visit the club at several different times during the week to determine the busiest hours, and whether there will be a wait for equipment.
Steps To Take To Find A Health Club
1) Research
– Ask your family, friends, and co-workers about their health clubs. Does any club stand out with a good or bad reputation? Also, conduct an internet search on health clubs in your area. Are there any new, innovative clubs? If you prefer a national chain, is there one nearby? If you prefer a small, locally owned club, where might you find one?
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