CHOOSING A GYM

[Lifted frm: Weight Training Guide 2004]

Choosing a gym

To the uninitiated, all gyms look similar. However, selecting a good gym is not as trivial as it looks. Many of the things you should be looking for are obvious, but there are also a number of subtle factors that many people can overlook, such as the quality of classes, the instructors and the overall atmosphere. This guide will help eliminate the possibility that you will spend money on an unused gym membership.

Location of the gym

This is important, you should choose a gym approximately no more than 15 minutes away from your point of origin (home or work). The reason is simple, you will have a better chance at maintaining your program if you have a gym that is easy to access.

Cost of a gym membership

Joining a gym can be costly so make sure you know what you are paying for. Your gym membership may include the sauna, aerobics, swimming pool and other facilities so if all you need are weights then see if you strike a deal for a restricted membership. The type of membership you choose will also determine the cost. Month-to-month memberships are usually more expensive. So if you are determine with your weight training program, you may want to join quarterly or half yearly gym memberships.

Before signing that gym membership always look for hidden fees. Do you have to pay extra for lockers or towels? Is there a cancellation fee? How much notice do you have to give when you decide to cancel your gym membership? Some gym requires notice in advance!

Hours of operation

Some gyms are opened early while some open late, some even offer 24/7 access. Find a gym that will suit you. Will you be training at 4am in the morning? Some people do! So make sure the gym you choose will have opening hours suited to you.

Population density

You should check out how crowded the facility is during the hours you want to train. Is it so crowded that you are required to wait 20 minutes for a particular machine? The best way to check this out is to actually go to the gym during hours you will go at.

Gym equipment

When you first visit the gym, observe the quality and conditions of gym equipments. Make sure the gym has equipment that you regularly use. Are dumbbells, barbells and bench all that you require? Or do you need the wide variety of machines that are available? Check plates for rust and that all machines are running smoothly. Look for a variety of cardio machines as well.

Staff

Good gyms should have qualified staff to help you answer questions about exercise equipments or exercise routines. When you first walk into the gym, observe how the staffs greet you. Are they friendly? Polite? Are they approachable? If you need to flag someone down to attract their attention then is the gym worth going to?

One of the most important aspects of looking for a gym is that you must feel comfortable. Is it an atmosphere that you would come back to? Remember, if you are unsure about anything, don’t be afraid to ask questions! Now that you have finish reading the “Choosing a gym” guide, go find yourself a gym!