Before You Sign Up For a Gym Membership...

Saturday, 24 October 2009 11:24

It seems 'getting fit' and 'start exercising' have become synonymous with 'joining a gym.' So is a gym membership necessary for getting in shape? In general the answer could easily be no. But since we all have our differences it is not that simple. Let's look at the advantages of joining and using a gym or healthclub.

* Access to a variety of exercise equipment: A gym, healthclub or fitness center will in most cases have a wide selection of both cardiovascular and strength training gym

machines, free weights and accessories plus other types of exercise gear and fitness equipment. This is probably the biggest reason most people purchase a membership.

* Instruction and guidance: A membership could possibly include group classes at no extra cost or the option to hire a trainer in addition to your monthly dues. If you choose the latter you have the opportunity to see the trainers in action, assess their styles, expertise and professionalism, and determine if their personality suits you before making your decision. Pay close attention to detail though, some gyms require lengthy commitments when signing a personal training contract. At the very least your club should offer a complimentary equipment orientation so you have an idea of how to use some of the equipment properly and safely.

* The social aspect: Some people just enjoy being around others, even if they are doing their own thing. The feeling of community should be a critical factor in deciding which gym you choose. If you don't feel comfortable walking through the doors and working out for whatever reason then the membership is probably not your best choice. If you sign on the line most likely you will find reasons not to go.

Personally I have had a gym membership or access to some sort of training facility most of my adult life. My reasons for belonging are because of my exercise goals, preferred exercise mode and limited space to build a home gym. It is more convenient for me to pay what averages to $8.34 a month to use the gym's equipment rather than invest in everything I would need to build a suitable home gym. The gym I belong to is very small with an even smaller member base. The majority of us know each other on a first name basis. It is less than a ten minute walk from my home and it's accessible 24 hours a day. If my only option was to join one of the larger gyms here in San Marcos I would seriously consider building and equipping my own home gym.

So before you decide to join a gym first determine if your goals require the use of the equipment found in a gym or could you do a suitable workout without all the machines and weights. Second, consider your preferences- do you like exercising around others? Do you want access to group classes? Do you enjoy exercising on machines and having the choice to use a variety of equipment?
Also consider the factor of convenience- Is the gym located along the way to or from work or school? Is it close enough to home or work? Can you comfortably afford it?
Most importantly when you walk through the door do you sense a feeling of belonging?