Choosing a gym can be an overwhelming task. Especially considering how many of them are around these days. Although there are a huge number of considerations you could take into account, we think there are five main factors that deserve the most attention. Read below to find out what matters and doesn’t matter when selecting the perfect gym for you.
#1 Location
Gas isn’t cheap these days. Getting to the gym can be difficult enough without adding a long commute to the mix. If you pick a gym that isn’t accessible or convenient, you probably won’t go very often. Studies show that you are far more likely to do physical activity if there are exercise facilities located in your neighbourhood. It is not difficult at all to find out what your options are because Google Maps does all the hard work for you. Just type in your address and search “gyms nearby”. This will give you a number of facilities to choose from and you can narrow it down from there. Ideally pick a gym that is within walking distance from your house or workplace. Strolling there is a great way to warm up and get in those daily steps.
#2 Demographic
Figure out what kind of demographic the gym attracts before signing up. This is especially important for those with confidence issues. Embarrassment can be one of the biggest barriers to exercise and if you feel out of place at your gym, you likely won’t attend for long. Keep your eyes peeled for gyms that attract like-minded individuals on the same journey as you. An elderly lady wanting to ride on a recumbent bike probably won’t last long at a bodybuilding gym full of twenty year old meatheads. However, she will be in her element in the cardio section of the local ladies fitness studio. Every gym will have its own unique culture and finding one that resonates with you will make all the difference in the world.
#3 Equipment
The type of equipment the gym has to offer is another big deciding factor. It’s not just about what they have available, but also what condition it is in. If the leg press is poorly maintained and looks like it was bought in the 1970’s, maybe don’t sign up. Places that can’t look after their gear likely won’t look after their members. The best gym equipment to look out for will depend on your personal goals. Cardio bunnies should avoid lifting gyms that have a limited number of crosstrainers and bodybuilders should look for places with a vast array of weights. Don’t be afraid to go in for a free trial or ask if you can have a look around before committing. You wouldn’t buy a car without taking it for a test drive first. The same principle applies to gyms. Get in and do your due diligence. Check out if they have the items you are wanting to use and inquire as to how often they get maintained. If the machines are well taken care of then hopefully you will be too.
#4 Additional Services
Consider the extra amenities that you might need. Do they have plentiful showers so you can get clean before work? Maybe you’d like an on-site nutritionist who can help you improve food choices. Always look at the additional extras offered by the gym as these can make or break your decision. Any old gym can offer a few measly treadmills but you might want the option of a post-workout sauna or a range of group fitness classes to choose from. It’s not just about the facility, it’s about the whole package. The competitive nature of the gym industry means that facilities are adding more and more amenities in order to appeal to a wider audience. Some places even have massage chairs available for the members to use whenever they like. Ensure you get the most bang for your buck by selecting a gym that gives you more than just a place to workout.
#5 Word Of Mouth Recommendations
Google reviews aren’t always the most reliable source of information. The people leaving them are either angry Karen's complaining about the poor service they received or overly positive members gushing about how the gym is their happy place. Sometimes other people in the industry even leave fake, unfavourable reviews in an attempt to crush the competition. If you want actual trustworthy advice, ask your fit friends what places they recommend. They are more likely to give honest recommendations and will hopefully know what would suit you best. Alternatively, you could post in the Facebook grapevine groups asking for local gym recommendations that fit your specific criteria. This method will get you more current, detailed descriptions of the exercise facilities in your area. The more information at your disposal, the more likely you are to make the right gym decision.
Something You Shouldn’t Worry About
Contrary to popular belief, the price should never be the first thing you consider. A gym membership is an investment, not a cost. Picking a place that is $2 cheaper per week won’t be worth the savings if you don’t enjoy going. Of course you must put some thought into the financials as we don’t want you in arrears. But it should never be the first consideration. The money you pay to the gym is also going into your health and fitness account. Seeing the amount come out of your account every week might not feel amazing but it will pay dividends in the future when you are a happier and healthier human.
Conclusion
There are countless benefits that come with having your own gym membership. Make sure to do your research before signing up. This will ensure you find the perfect place that meets all of your specific needs. Ask your friends first what they recommend. Then do a free trial so you can check out their gear, amenities, classes and demographic of the members. The perfect gym is out there, you just have to find it.
Written by Lauren Carruthers