First, make a list of things that are important to you, for example, hours of operation, childcare, parking, classes, and staff qualification. Then ask your friend to take a tour with you to find the gym that would meet all your expectations. What do you need to take into account when considering a gym?
It is clear that the gym should have a variety of cardio-training equipment and weight machines to accommodate all the club members at any time, especially at peak hours. Make sure the gym has all the equipment you need for your sessions.
Cardio-training equipment like stationary bikes, stepper units and treadmills will help you burn calories, tone your body and improve your heart rate. Lifting weights will help you gain muscle mass and reduce body fat.
Weight machines are great for beginners as they are easy to use and reduce the risk of injury. If you prefer weight machines, make sure the gym has machines for all muscle groups. If you like free weights, make sure there is enough space for several people to work out.
Payment schedules vary from gym to gym. Compare not only prices but also the service you will get for the price. Pay attention to the terms of the contract. Ask if there is a joining charge and any additional costs for classes. Make sure that you do not have to pay for extra facilities that you will hardly ever use. Many gyms offer a free trial pass. Use the advantage of the free pass to check out the gym before signing up.
The staff of the gym should be qualified, ready to answer your questions and help you make the most of your workouts. Before letting you on the equipment, the gym instructor should explain you how it works and suggest the program for you to begin with. You should be confident that you will get qualified help.
You should feel comfortable in your gym. Fortunately, you can find people of different age, sex and size in health clubs. If you feel shy to work out among bodybuilders, you may ask club management to put you in a group of your fitness level. Surround yourself with people who have achieved success, and this will motivate and inspire you to succeed too.
Good health clubs provide a great variety of training programs like aerobics, spinning, step, body shaping. Health clubs may also offer relaxing exercises, sauna and massage. Make sure that the gym offers classes you want to take at the time suitable for you. Ask the sales staff whether the cost for these classes is included in the club membership or you have to pay additional fee.
If your gym is too far, you may be tempted to skip workouts. It is great when the gym is close to your work place. This makes it easy to train before or after work or even at lunchtime. Find a gym located near your house or office. This will encourage you to attend the gym regularly and increase your chances of success.
Most gyms are open from early morning till late night. Some health clubs are open 24 hours a day. Try out a gym at the time of the day you will probably attend it. Check out whether it is overcrowded during the hours you want to train. For the first two weeks, you may work out there at different times of the day. Try morning and evening workouts to get a feel of the atmosphere in the gym.
Remember that cleanliness is the crucial factor in choosing the gym. Make sure that all equipment is clean, in good working order, and there is no dust or trash around. Check out the locker rooms and showers: fresh towels and soap should be available there. Look for spray bottles and towels around the gym to wipe the equipment down after use.
Before signing up the contract, read carefully all terms and conditions. Ask for a free trial pass to inspect the gym. If possible, talk to other club members. If you feel comfortable in your gym, you will enjoy your workouts.