Checklist to Select the Best Gym

In this new year, the gymnasiums are offering lots of discounts and freebies to attract new customers and retain old ones. Fees are heading southwards for the new, current and former members alike.

Joe Moore, chief executive of the International Health, Racquet & Sports club Association, tells why? "Gyms realize these are tough economic times, for themselves as well as their members." As they say, ‘One man’s loss is another man’s income.’ So make the most of it. Here’s how:

Site
The location or the site of the gym should be of paramount importance to you. Given the hectic schedules and an extremely busy life, the gym should ideally be not more than 10-15 minutes away from the place of work or residence.

Kathie Davis, executive director of the San Diego-based IDEA Health & Fitness Association, echoes this opinion. He says, "Convenience is huge. The main reason people drop out (of a gym membership) is because it's not conveniently located."

Distinguish Between Needs and Wants
There would be a plethora of services that a gym has to offer. Remember to go in for the services that you actually need. Opting for services, classes or alternatives you'll never use is a waste of money.

Pete McCall, an exercise physiologist with the San Diego-based American Council on Exercise, opines, "If you've never played racquetball, there's no reason to spend extra money for a gym that offers racquetball courts."

There is Something for Everybody
This aspect holds water especially if the entire family has to visit the gym. In such a scenario, the timings of the gym should be suitable to the entire family and the gym should be running different activities to cater to the needs of all the family members, be it you children, middle aged people or the elderly. It is a good idea to select a gym which has interactive children’s programs.

Quality Equipment
The health of the equipment will probably determine your health as well. The gym you choose should ideally be using the state-of-the-art facilities and should be replacing old machines as and when required. Do not tread into clubs where "out of order" notices abound.

McCall follows a simple rule. He says, "I always look closely at the base of the equipment. If there's a lot of dust there, you know the equipment hasn't been regularly cleaned or maintained."

Hidden Clauses in the Contract
Ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of the membership agreement, the billing procedures and the cancellation policy. Seek clarifications at the outset. Be wary of extremely persuasive salesmen.

Davis has a piece of advice. He says, "If a gym tries to tell you a price is only good for today, don't succumb. Visit other facilities before you make a choice. The price a gym gives you should be honored at a later time."