Gym Membership

Will joining a gym be the right choice for you?

• Are you the type of person that will really enjoy going to the gym, or will you struggle to motivate yourself to going regularly?
  
  
You can now often opt for a short-term gym membership if you just need a little push to get back to a more healthy lifestyle and to lose those extra pounds. It will also give you a chance to see if you enjoy the experience and whether you are happy to make a regular commitment to getting fit.

For others gym membership can be an enjoyable leisure activity that can become part of a healthy lifestyle, so signing up for annual membership is an easy choice. Many health and leisure clubs offer Open days where you can try out the facilities before you sign up. Or if you have a gym bunny friend you can often get a guest pass to accompany them and so decide if it is for you.


• Will you be more motivated by attending fitness classes rather than working out by yourself?
  

Check the gym runs regular and varied fitness classes and that they are included in your membership package. There are new and exciting crazes in fitness all the time, so you want a gym that offers these to their members.

Zumba classes are very popular at the moment (Latin rhythms to an uplifting beat), but you'll want the option of the traditional fitness classes, such as Step, Aerobics, Spin or Boxercise. Attending a fun, motivational fitness class is a great way to burn calories and get you to the gym regularly. Check there are different levels for beginners and intermediates. Enquire about the booking system for classes - it's important if you want to attend a popular class, as there may be a waiting list system.

• When would you want to go to the gym?
  
  The hours you plan to attend a gym are important to consider before you choose your membership package. Off-peak gym membership is usually cheaper, than if you opt to go at the peak hours - after work from 5pm to 8pm. Check the weekend hours - these are often unrestricted.
  
  If you opt for a cheaper package you may be asked to pay an entrance fee when you attend, but make sure you check whether you might be better off with the next membership package up if you plan to visit more than a couple of times a week.
  
  Are children welcome and catered for, such as special classes, set swimming hours, etc. Make sure, if you want a quiet swim as part of your work-out, that there is a child-free pool period for members. Many gyms keep the lunch hours free for adult members.
  
  Take into account how far away the gym is
as far as travelling from home or work is concerned. Does the closing time allow you enough time to get there after work for a workout, and leave time to shower afterwards?

Are there plenty of free, secure parking places available? Quick easy access is important when time is limited.