11 Tips To Help You Find The Best Gym

Choosing the best gym for you is an important decision, after all, you are going to be spending a lot of time there.

You need to make sure the gym you choose is one that fits your needs. Failure to do so will leave you paying for something you may not even want to use.

Choosing the right gym is essential if you want to get the most out of your workouts. It isn’t something you should rush into. Remember, you are going to be spending a lot of money, energy and time at the gym so you need to be absolutely certain that you’re investing in the right one.

So how do you make sure you’re joining the right gym? Below you’ll find 11 top tips that can help.[toc]

#1: The Importance Of Location

The location of the gym is one of the most important factors you need to consider. Is it convenient to get to?

Think about how you plan on travelling to the gym. The chances are if it isn’t in a convenient location, you won’t end up going as often as you need to.

A gym close to where you work or live will probably be the most convenient, but there are other factors to consider too.

Also, focus on the hours of the gym. Be sure that it is open at the times you will most likely be able to work out.

#2: Look At Social Media

Even visiting a gym yourself may not tell the whole story, so it is certainly worth browsing social media to see what current and past members have said about the gym.

This is good way of seeing what this gym offers, and whether there are any potential issues without having to speak to a member face to face.

#3: What Are Their Rules?

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Most gyms will have different rules. For example, some gyms may allow its users to bring their children along, while others will ban children entirely.

Some gyms may not even allow deadlifting, so it is definitely worth checking out before you sign up.

#4: Image

It is often said that you should never judge a book by its cover. However, when it comes to choosing a gym you should always know exactly what to expect.

Don’t just drive past and choose a gym that looks nice from the outside; you need to go in and get an idea of what’s there.

Listen to your instincts. Would you feel comfortable coming here to work out? Is it clean? Image is everything when it comes to choosing the right gym.

#5: Cleanliness

This may not seem like a big issue when first visiting a gym, but before long you will start to realise that the gym is not as well maintained or even as clean as it should be.

The equipment should be maintained to ensure no accidents occur while cleaning the machines should be standard practice.

When visiting a potential gym look to see if there are spray bottles available for the members to spray down the equipment themselves. Also, ask how often the machines are maintained.

#6: Size Up The Staff

The staff should make you feel welcome and comfortable. Are they friendly? Are they fully qualified?

Never be afraid to ask about their qualifications; particularly if you plan on hiring a personal trainer.

#7: Look At The Equipment

No two gyms are the same. Each will have different equipment and you need to be sure they have everything you need.

You will need to know what type of machines you are likely going to need, not just now, but further down the track.

Make a list of the equipment that’s there so you can compare different gyms in the area. Also, focus on the condition of the equipment. It should be clean and well looked after.

#8: Additional Services And Amenities

Does the gym offer a personal trainer? If you find it difficult to push yourself and reach your goals, a personal trainer can really help.

You may not need a personal trainer currently, but having one available for the future may be a good idea.

If they do have a trainer available you should ask about their qualifications, perhaps even talk to them to see if they are knowledgeable too.

Other services you need to think about are showers, locker rooms and even saunas.

Think about what you really want from your gym and make a list of the amenities you absolutely must-have.

#9: Cost

The cost is a major deciding factor on the gym you choose. Don’t just look at the membership fee. Take into account any additional fees that may be charged such as equipment maintenance and cancellation fees.

Do exercise classes cost any extra if you decide to try them out? Find out exactly what is included in the cost before you sign up.

#10: Clientele

Another important factor to consider is the clientele of the gym. What type of people typically go there? As you will be spending quite a few hours there each week, you need to know you are going to be working out in a friendly, welcoming environment.

Also, how many members does this gym have? It is certainly worth visiting your potential gym at peak hours just to check how busy it is.

You most certainly won’t want to sign up for a monthly membership if you have to wait for the equipment when you do visit.

#11: Check The Emergency Procedure

Not only should all emergency exits be labelled but the staff should be trained too.

At the very least the staff members should be trained in CPR, but I would also look for those with training with an AED too.

A defibrillator can improve a patients chances of survival, so make sure the gym has one available and that there is staff there who are trained to use it.

In Conclusion

As you can see, there is a lot to think about. Providing you follow the tips above, you should be able to find the best gym to fit your individual needs and preferences.

You most certainly should not sign up for a 3-year membership at the first gym you visit. Many gyms offer trial memberships that enable you to try out the gym before committing to a longer membership.

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