We are fully into February; January’s New Year’s resolutions are ancient history. Not surprisingly, the top resolutions include diet, eat healthier, lose weight, and exercise. Nearly all of us would like to see a better version of ourselves. So, how are you doing?
Finding the right fitness facility can play a major role in consistently exercising. Not all gyms are for all people. I love group fitness classes, for example, so that’s a major requirement for me. My husband, Tony, on the other hand, prefers to work out on his own. I interviewed a number of fitness professionals in different locations and came up with nine things to look for to find your perfect gym.
1. Atmosphere: How do you feel when you walk in the door? Everyone is in a different place in their health journey. If you’re just starting out, warm and fuzzy is very important here if you want to actually USE your membership.
- Are you intimidated or do you feel welcomed?
- If you’re a woman, would you feel comfortable working out?
- Do they have everything for your personal needs if you have special requirements?
2. Current Members: Are they your tribe? Different facilities will have different focuses. If you’re already in good shape and are going for a more hard-core workout, you’re going to want to work out with others who can challenge you. On the other hand, if you’ve just had a baby and are trying to get back to pre-pregnancy weight without injuring yourself, you might be looking for an hour of “me time” with other moms. Make sure that you feel like you belong.
3. Cleanliness: Because you want to get healthy and stay healthy. A clean gym doesn’t stink. You shouldn’t see dirt under the machines or dust bunnies rolling like tumbleweed across the floor. The locker rooms, changing areas, and bathrooms should have a regular cleaning schedule. Check to see if paper towels and spray cleaner are readily available in convenient locations around the facility. While we’re on the subject, make sure that you’re not a part of the problem. If you use ANYTHING, please, PLEASE wipe it off. Nobody wants to share your sweat or germs.
4. Equipment: There should be enough variety and quantity to be able to keep you working out without a long wait. This goes for the group fitness classes, too. Don’t be afraid to ask what their maintenance situation is.
- Is it functioning properly?
- Is it in good order – not torn or worn?
- Look to see if there are:
- Free weights (dumbbells, barbells, kettle balls, etc.)
- Strength training machines
- Treadmills, bikes, and other cardio equipment
- Yoga mats, yoga balls, barres, steps, and other class equipment
- Stretching area mats, yoga balls, and other stretching equipment
5. Staff: from the people who greet you as you come in, to the trainers, to the management, all the staff should be professional and knowledgeable.
- Are they friendly and welcoming? You should never feel threatened, intimidated, or ignored.
- Is the manager or an acting manager available while the gym is open? If you have a problem or question, there should be someone with authority to assist you during regular workout hours.
- There should always be someone trained in first aid and CPR in case of medical emergencies.
6. Trainers: You go to the gym to get fit, not injured. This is why personal trainers and class instructors need to be certified.
- The personal trainers should be certified by one of the nationally known accreditation programs such as:
- American Council on Exercise
- National Academy of Sports Medicine
- International Sports Sciences Association
- American College of Sports Medicine
- National Strength And Conditioning Association
- Class instructors should also be certified by their class method (LesMills, Zumba, Yoga, etc.)
- Most facilities include at least one complimentary time with a personal trainer. Use this opportunity to talk about your health and fitness goals in respect to what they offer. See how well the trainer listens to what YOUR needs are.
7. Accessibility: Convenience is crucial to consistency.
- Ideally, the facility should be close to your home or work – no more than 5 miles away.
- One of the most frequently given reasons for not working out is, “I don’t have time.” Find a gym whose hours align with your schedule.
- If you have young children, see if they have an onsite child care included with your membership.
- Another thing to consider is the parking. Go during peak time to see if you will have to fight for a spot or if it’s adequate.
8. What Motivates You? Find what you’re passionate about (or at least what you like to do) and start with that then add on from there.
- Are you a runner, triathlete, or cyclist? Have fun on the cardio machines.
- Weight lifting strengthens and sculpts.
- Group classes can motivate you in both attendance and performance. (AND they’re FUN!)
- Dancers love Zumba, Jazzercise, Barre, and other dance related classes.
- Spin classes for the cycling enthusiast.
- Martial Arts and kickboxing types of classes are another favorite.
- Yoga, Pilates, and other stretching/strengthening classes.
- If the facility has a pool, water aerobics or swim lessons might be a low-impact option.
9. Cost: Your membership should be the perfect balance between budget and value. If you find a gym that’s in your budget but doesn’t offer childcare and you have to hire a babysitter, that’s not a good value. If the gym has everything you want and is in your budget but isn’t logistically convenient, then you’re likely to pay for something you won’t use. Other things to look for are:
- There should not be any hidden fees – ask about annual maintenance or other charges.
- See if they offer corporate, student, military, or senior discounts.
- Some offer different levels of membership that include additional privileges.
- A membership with a 12-month contract might cost less than or have more perks than a month-to-month contract.
Finding YOUR perfect gym is knowing what you want, where you want it, how you want it, and how much you are willing to pay for it. Remember, this is an investment (both time and money) in your health and well being.
Bonus points for making friends! They help keep you motivated.
Whatever you’re looking for, find what will isnpire you to go – and keep going. Become the best version of you starting now.
