Should I Join a Gym?

By Phil Sims

Before you decide to join any gym in particular, you need to do thorough research. Consider the most important factors inherent in your decision before you decide on a gym that is right for you.

Your Individual Needs

Figure out what your specific goals are in regards to exercise. Are you looking to lose a little weight or a lot of weight? Or are you looking for overall toning? Perhaps you are looking for ways to relieve stress through exercise or ways to lower your blood pressure?

Seek out a gym that caters to your needs. For example, water aerobics are a good choice for an individual who suffers from arthritis.

Do not sign a membership at a gym before you have toured it and found out what type of classes they offer, as well as the kind of exercise equipment that is available there.

Questions to Ask

Ask all of the right questions and pay attention to the answers you are given.

Are the trainers at the gym qualified?

In the United States there is no one association or board that sets down qualifications for gym trainers. The qualifications therefore can vary widely from one gym to another. Some faculties deem it a necessity for their trainers to be certified by the College of Sports Medicine, which happens to be the largest sports medicine and exercise science organization across the globe. Find out if the trainers at the gym in question are certified. Certified trainers are recommended over those who are not.

What is the payment requirement for classes?

Is there one monthly fee that covers all classes taken or is members required to pay separate fees for each class that they choose to attend? Do classes have to be paid for in advance (such as weeks or months) or not? Does the gym offer a free class to interested parties or a discounted class so potential members can decide if it is something they wish to become a part of?

Is the facility clean?

This is a question you can answer for yourself by simply looking around the facilities. Be aware that there are no nationally recognized health codes for gyms. Pay close attention to the showers, locker rooms and changing areas. Also take note of the condition of the equipment and the rooms they are housed in. Piles of dust in the corners of rooms or under the machines are not a good sign at all.

Please note, once you do join a gym, be fastidious about cleanliness. Wipe down exercise equipment with antibacterial wipes and refrain from going barefoot anywhere! Wear flip flops instead.

When is the gym the busiest?

Most gyms have peak times. Find out when these are. Avoid the busy times when your schedule allows. Don’t pay good money for a gym membership and then arrive to find out that all of the machines are taken whenever you wish to use them.

Final Thoughts …

It never hurts to find out from the Better Business Bureau if a complaint has ever been lodged against the gym you are considering. In turn, before you sign a contract, make sure you read it over thoroughly. Even if you need to enlist help or need to use a magnifying glass, read the fine print. It is written small for a reason. Do not be caught unaware.

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