It’s almost that time of year again, you know, the beginning of a new year. That time when we make all kinds of resolutions that we can keep, yet rarely do. One of the most popular resolutions is to join a gym so you can get proper exercise and lose that bowling ball you’re carrying around your waist or all that extra “junk in the trunk.” In addition, exercise – especially weight training – can help alleviate lower back pain. 

But how do you choose the right gym to join? Cost is usually a consideration, but there’s a lot more to think about than that. Here are some things to consider when shopping for a gym.

• Ask for a trial run – since most gyms have you sign a contract that locks you into membership, usually for a year, you may want to “try it on for size” before making any lengthy commitments .
• Check into discounts on any initiation fees or promotional “deals” that can reduce this fee substantially. This is usually a prime time for gyms to make special offers.
• See if they offer “off-peak” memberships if you can come during the slower times of the day for a reduced fee.
• Check into what equipment is available and if there is training on the machines. Does the gym offer classes as well? This might be important to you.
• Take a look at several gyms. Go into them and get a feel for the type of people the gym attracts and whether or not you will feel comfortable there.
• Many gyms today offer male only or female only membership – is this something that would appeal to you?
• Do you like to exercise in a pool? Make sure the gym you are interested in has one if laps or water aerobics are your thing! Do shower facilities matter to you? If so, not all gyms have them.
• What about the hours? A gym that is open from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. doesn’t work well for you if you commute an hour each way and work from 9:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. What about weekend hours?
• If you need to take extended breaks, for travel or school breaks, find out if the gym can work with you to put your membership “on hold.” 
• Be realistic about how far you are willing to travel to the gym. If it’s too far away, you will probably find many excuses not to “drive all that way.”
• Know the rules on early cancellation, especially if you have to move, become unable to exercise due to a health problem, etc.

Gym memberships are certainly recommended to get the exercise that is crucial to living the wellness lifestyle. We encourage you to get fit and stay fit to stay healthy. 

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