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| Factors to Consider when Choosing a Fitness Club | |
by Renee Kennedy
There are several details that must be taken into account
if you are looking to join a health club or fitness center:
1. Convenience/Location is probably the most important
consideration. If the health club you choose to join is not
convenient to your home or work, how long do you think
it will take before you decide to skip a couple sessions,
especially in bad weather?
2. Price may also be a factor for you.
3. How much do you know about working out? If you
know a lot about strength training, aerobics, flexibility, etc.
you may want to join a club where you can develop your
own individualized program. If you know nothing about
physical fitness, it may be much better for you to join a club
that offers a standardized program.
4. Your specific goals may also have a big influence on
your choice. If you need to tone up, perhaps a Pilates class
may be the answer for you. If you are trying to buff up,
you may wish to join a health club that offers a
strength-training program.
5. Where are your friends going? There's no better
motivation than working out with a friend. You may get to
know some people once you join and that's a good thing.
but if you choose a place where a friend already goes, it may
be easier for you to adjust. It's a lot more fun when you feel
comfortable and have someone to talk to.
6. What is your gender and age? There are fitness places
geared toward a specific gender. For instance, "Curves" and
"Ladies Workout Express" are only for women. Go to each
fitness center within a reasonable driving distance of your
work or home and ask them for a tour. Look at the people
that are working out, are those people like you? Do you look
like you would fit in with these people? "Fitting in" will also
motivate you to keep going.
7. Time is also a consideration. Is your fitness center open
during times that are convenient for your schedule?
8. Do you need childcare? Many fitness clubs offer childcare.
9. Will the staff meet your needs? If you are joining to lose
weight, you may want a nutritionist on staff. Maybe you feel
you need a certified personal trainer to keep you on track.
Also, will there always be a staff member around to help you
learn the equipment?
10. The fitness center may have a contract. Read this contract
or ask questions about it. Some good questions to ask.
- Are there any up-front fees?
- What is the duration of the contract?
- Is there any way to get out of the contract if I need to?
- What exactly does the membership fee cover?
For instance, will it cover childcare, use of the pool,
locker, towels, etc.
We lead such busy lives. Finding time for yourself can be
difficult. If you are a mother, wife, husband, father, or you work,
then you have commitments to other people. To keep those
commitments, you need to make time for your own health.
Come and visit the NutriCounter web site
(http://www.nutricounter.com)
for more information on how nutrition influences weight loss,
diabetes, pregnancy, heart disease and more!
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