"A Place to Work It Out..."

So you’ve decided that 2014 is the year to join a gym. You want a great place to work out that will motivate you to get there on a regular basis, but where do you begin. if you look beyond the basics most gyms provide their own unique take on your workout. You might even be rethinking the gym you currently belong to. Is it meeting your fitness needs? Too much? Too little? Good classes? Too expensive?
But before we talk about specific types of gyms, here are a few factors you should consider before joining ANY gym:


1. Location and Hours- Ideally you should join a gym near your home or work. If it's too far away you probably won't go. Make sure that the gym will be open at the times you'd be most likely to work out.

2. Cleanliness- Gyms are a breeding ground for germs so look for clean benches, clean handles on cardio equipment, and wipes or spray bottles on the gym floor. And pay close attention to the condition of the locker room, bathrooms, and showers.

3. Equipment- Make sure that the gym has a number of different types of cardio and weight training equipment. Check to see that the equipment is in good condition and that some of it is new.

4. Atmosphere- Do you think the staff seems friendly? Do you see people like you in the gym? Is it too crowded? Too empty?

5. Classes and Services- Do they offer a variety of class types and times? Do they have services you would use like child care, nutrition, spa services, etc.?

6. Cost- What are you actually paying for? What will you actually use? Fees can run from $10 to well over $100 per month, so make sure you know what you are getting for your money.

If you like the idea of working out with a group but don't need the cardio machines or free weights on your own time, check out the growing number of barre training, boxing gyms, cross fit facilities or yoga fusion studios in your neighborhood. Most offer a variety of classes and times that fit into your morning, lunchtime or evening schedule and provide great workouts, most times under an hour. If it fits your schedule, you're more likely to keep up the workout. (Google "Crossfit", "Barre studio", Boxing gym" with your zip code to find the one closest to you and check out their class times).

If you absolutely cannot bear the thought of working out in front of other people, but you need assistance in getting started or getting back on track, a smaller, one-on-one personal training facility might work best for you. Many offer personal training packages, and allow you to come in to use the machines on your off days as well. Some of these smaller facilities also offer specialty programs such as outdoor boot camps that meet in local parks, or specialized packages for brides, new moms, and age specific groups. Google “group personal training “ with your zip code or ask friends or co-workers for a recommendation. (You can also email me for recommendations locally).

Next, there are chains like Club Fitness, Gold’s Gym, and 24 Hour Fitness. Although costs vary from state to state, club to club, and even member to member, chain gyms are usually fairly affordable and offer a variety of services for their members. Gold’s has tried to grab markets beyond the traditional weightlifter by adding classes and partnering with groups like AARP and other organizations to offer “reduced” prices. You’re often left on your own to figure out the equipment. Taking workout classes, or checking out the new programs can help you navigate the best workout for you. To find out more about each individual chain, take a look on their web sites, They will usually let you download a free 1 day or 1 week pass to try the club out.

Then, there are the club-like facilities that offer more lifestyle and luxury with your membership while still keeping a strong focus on your workout. All over the country, YMCAs, JCCs, and even local community centers have worked to refurbish, rebuild and expand their fitness facilities to compete with the high end clubs like Lifetime Fitness, Wellbridge, and others in that category. Most have programs for all ages and offer additional classes to accommodate different levels of fitness. Membership fees vary, but often include swimming pool memberships and access to intramural sports for all ages.

My advice to be sure to try the club for a day or more before signing up, and then be sure to go online to find out about membership specials or package deals that might be available to you.