When it comes to choosing a fitness club, some people pick the one that is least expensive or closest to where they live or work(both very important). But to get the most for your money and workout, there are many other considerations to make before signing on the dotted line and joining a fitness club.
If you're a woman and feel uncomfortable working out with men, you might consider an all-female facility or at the very least a fitness club with a women's fitness area. Added benefits of all-female health clubs include flexible hours, child care facilities and equipment designed especially for women.
If you simply want to join a fitness class, lift some weights, stair step or use stationary bikes, don't join a fitness club that also offers tennis courts, basketball courts, racquetball courts and a swimming pool. It will be a waste of your money if you don't plan to take advantage of these other services.
Decide where you would feel more comfortable--in a large fitness class where you can easily blend into the crowd, or in a small one where you can get feedback and helpful advice. Also, decide what type of instructor you prefer--upbeat, instructional and nurturing, or the drill sergeant type.
Once you've narrowed down your options, consider fitness club hours and their proximity to your home and office. Check with your local consumer affairs office or Better Business Bureau to see whether any complaints have been made against the clubs. If there are more than 10 for any club, be wary.
Next, take a tour of the potential fitness clubs. If you know when you'll be working out, ask for a tour at that time so you can see if it's crowded. Look around carefully and talk to members. Are they satisfied? Is the equipment clean and in good working order? Is there adequate air conditioning? Are the locker rooms and shower areas clean and secure? Are the rooms well-lit? Also, check to see if instructors are certified by a nationally recognized fitness organization such as the American Council on Exercise(ACE), CanFit Pro or Canadian Personal Trainers Network (CPTN).
Instructors should be punctual and prepared. Fitness Classes should have a definite format such as a 10-minute warm-up, at least a 20-minute cardiovascular workout with abdominal work, and a 10-minute cool-down. Everyone should have adequate floor space. Students should be periodically asked to check their heart rate and evaluate their level of exertion. Take note whether the instructor makes him or herself available after class to answer questions.
All personal trainers and other personn should be trained in CPR, and at least one person on a shift should be certified in first aid. The club should offer baseline fitness testing to aid in creating an exercise program right for you. All members should be offered an orientation that teaches them how to work out safely. You should also be required to complete a health history form that includes past injuries and present medical status.
Find out if the fitness club belongs to a member organization such as the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA), which has more than 1,300 members around the country. Member clubs must abide by a code of conduct and membership pledge. For example, they cannot sell pre-paid lifetime memberships or use deceptive, high-pressure sales tactics.
Be wary of gimmicks and low price offers--signs the club is in desperate need of fast cash. Avoid the hard sell such as a one-day only discount. Insist on a one- or two-week trial membership before committing, or one-week grace period during which you can change your mind.
Examine any agreement carefully before signing. If the fitness club is part of a chain, find out if you're entitled to use other branches. Make sure all agreements are in writing. Sign up for one year only, not several. Even better, ask if the club has a month to month option.Many clubs go out of business, so a short-term contract is safer. If possible, have the club bill you monthly.
Finding the right fitness club isn't hard, it just takes a little time and soul-searching to determine what's right for you. Once you know what you want, it's only a matter of time before you find the club that fits.
RSS Feed