CHOOSING A GYM

Choosing a gym is vital to your success when beginning a muscle building program.  Making the right choice takes into consideration the facility; atmosphere and location are some of the factors you will want to give some thought to before committing to a gym.  When weighing the factors you may find that the parameters of a traditional gym will not work as well as setting up a home gym.  Still, there are many factors and this is where we will evaluate them.   

LOCATION 

Having to drive a great distance to get to your gym is probably one of the biggest deterrents to working out. When choosing a gym, pick one that is both convenient and accessible. This is critical on those days when you’re not exactly motivated in the first place. The thought of having to drive a long distance can be the last thing you want to do. To avoid this pitfall pick a gym that is either close to home or close to other stores and businesses that you frequent. 

MEMBERSHIP COSTS 

When choosing a gym, there are variances that will determine your overall cost. Things such as the season or the length of the contract will play heavily in your final cost. Typically, the fall season or right after New Years, are the best times for gym discounts. Still, we don’t recommend that you wait, instead, ask for any upcoming promotions and you’ll be surprised how quickly they’ll offer you a reduced rate. Another pitfall is the dreaded contract. Proceed with caution! The gym desperately wants to lock you into a long-term contract and they’ll entice you with a discounted rate. Your savings are great only if you stay for the term. If you’re not sure stay with a shorter term contract and negotiate a good rate. 

GYM PERKS AND BENEFITS 

This is the area that sifts the good from the bad and is worth some extra consideration when choosing a gym.  It’s important to get as many perks and benefits as you can before you sign on the dotted line.  Services and flexibility are key.  Such as, the hours of operation, premium services like a day care center if you have children, massage therapy, personal trainers on staff.  This is not the gritty days of Rocky Balboa.  Go for the perks and you’ll find that you’ll actually want to go to the gym.   

CLEANLINESS 

This is an important area when you consider the dynamics of working out in a public gym.  There are a lot of germs and sanitation is critical to prevent serious infections like Staph.  When choosing a gym, look for things like clean towels, disinfectant bottles and tidy bathrooms and changing areas.   

CANCELLATION POLICY 

When choosing a gym take a look at the cancellation policy before you sign the contract.  Find out what their refund policy is and what your rights are.  If you sign a 2 year contract and you relocate after a year can you terminate the contract or are you bound by it?  Will you get a refund of the balance or lose it?  Inquire first and proceed informed. 

These are the major points to consider when choosing a gym. Once you’re armed with the right  information choosing a gym is a breeze! Find out more about choosing a gym!