Choosing a Gym

While it is perfectly possible to get a good workout at home, many people like the idea of going to a gym. There are other people to socialize with, a range of equipment, and often fitness classes that can help them get up and get moving.

 Sadly, for every 100 people who join a gym, at least 25% drop out within a month. They might not have set their fitness goals correctly, or they might have made a mistake about that gym really being the right one for them.

Comfort Levels

Some people are very confident about going to a gym. Others are more nervous. In addition, each gym has a vibe or a certain energy. Some are laid back, while others are paced with highly-competitive people pumping iron.

Start assessing the gym from the moment you walk in the door. How are you greeted? How do the people using the gym treat each other? Do people look like they are enjoying being there?

How Close to Home It Is

It should be within 30 minutes walking time or 15 minutes driving time to your home, so you will not hesitate to go. If you are going to drive, check the parking available in the area.

If you plan on working out before or after work, choose a gym close to your office with good shower facilities and dressing rooms.

Visit the gym the first time at the time you will most likely be working out.This could be before or after work, or on your lunch hour. If the lines are long for equipment and facilities, you might want to check out other options.

Choose a Chain

A chain gym such as the YMCA or Planet Fitness will allow you to use any facility. This is useful if you like variety and/or travel around a lot.

Check for Cleanliness

Some gyms look really run down. Others have dirty bathrooms. Check to see how often staff clean the machines and weights. If you wish to wipe down the machines yourself to kill germs, bring some paper towels dampened with a 1 in 6 bleach to water solution. Also bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands before and after each workout.

Check about Life Saving Protocols

Heart attacks happen, as do accidents. Check to see that staff are all trained in CPR and that the gym also has an AED, an automated external defibrillator that can shock the heart back into a normal rhythm. Make sure they have staff trained to use it on every shift. Check their first aid station as well.

Determine the Culture

Is there a mixture of ages and levels, or are there only 20-somethings pumping iron? You need to choose a place where you will feel you can fit in.

Check Out the Classes

You should be allowed to watch a couple of classes like yoga, spinning or Zumba to see if they are right for you. Make sure the classes are included in the monthly fee, not extras that have to be paid for.
Read the Fine Print

Many people stop going to their gym because they feel scammed by their contract. Be sure you read everything carefully before committing. Look for zero down plans and reasonable monthly fees depending on the facilities, such as, if they have a pool.