If you're thinking about making exercise part of your daily routine, there's a good chance you're also thinking about purchasing a gym membership. You're excited and anxious to get going, which is great. But don't let your enthusiasm cloud your judgment.
Choosing the right gym can enhance or hinder your exercise experience. Before you sign a contract or make a payment, use this checklist to get the most out of your gym membership.
Get the grand tour: Regardless of what you're looking for in a gym membership, you have to go see the place before you sign up. Ask the tour guide a lot of questions. Talk to other employees you see; ask them what they think of the gym. Don't leave without seeing the locker rooms. Do leave with copies of the contract and class schedule. Then use the rest of this article to make an informed decision.
Choose a gym that's close: It's best to choose a facility that integrates seamlessly into your life and schedule. If you have to go out of your way to get a workout in, that will become an excuse not to exercise. Look for a gym that's close your house of place of work. In either case, fitting in fitness will become less of a chore and more like a part of your day.
Check the hours: You likely won't create an exercise habit if the gym is always closed when you're ready to workout. Are you a morning person or a night owl? Make sure that the fitness center is open early or remains open late enough to accommodate your schedule. And be sure to check out the weekend, holiday and seasonal hours.
