1. Proximity
Choose
a gym that's either close to home or work if you can: you'll be more
likely to go if you don't have to travel to get there. If your gym is close to
the office you could go during your lunch hour, before or after work, which is
practical.
2. Activities and Equipment
The range of machines, classes and activities on offer
varies greatly from one establishment to the next. Some gyms are always
offering new classes as fads and trends come
along, whereas other, smaller places may have a more limited choice and
timetable.
3. Management
Professionalism is important. Make sure the instructors are
qualified. Many gyms offer a personalised training programme which is defined
at the beginning of the contract.
4. Facilities
Take a guided tour before you sign anything to get an idea
of what facilities the gym has, how well maintained and clean it is. Look at
the size of the training rooms, number of machines and quality of the changing
rooms. More and more centres now include access to a pool, jacuzzi, sauna,
TV room, tennis courts...and
some even have beauty therapy
areas with à la carte treatments (massage, facials
etc) or crèches for kids.
5. Chains
The advantage of going with a well-known chain is that the
membership card allows you to go to whichever gym you want, most of the time without
having to pay a supplement (extra motivation if there's one near your house and
office!).
6. Machines
Check whether the machines are in good condition and well
maintained. Technology moves on fast!
Check how busy the gym seems and how many machines there are, so you know you
won't have to wait for hours to get on a bike!
7. Frequency
Packed classes are no fun: you can't see or hear the
instructor properly and get little personalised help in doing the exercises properly.
Check how full the gym is and how many classes they have on, so you can attend
less busy ones if you need to.
8. Atmosphere
Check out the feel of the place. This will, of course,
depend on the area and the staff. Take time to chat to the users and staff.
Small gyms tend to be more user friendly than the big chains.
9. Contract
Before you sign, ask for a free trial. Check the flexibility
of the contract and make sure you're covered if you move
house, lose your job or get sent abroad.
10. Price
Prices vary enormously, so ask for a quote, negotiate, and
compare the offer to the competition. Remember gyms battle it out to get new
members, so make sure you're getting the best deal before you hand your money
over.
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