Scouting The Right Fitness Program

When it comes down to achieving your fitness goals, finding a good gym that meets your needs can be a big part of the process, not to mention having a major influence on your willingness to dig in and work hard in order to get where you want to be. Before committing to any gym membership program, take a tour of the facility and look for a number of things that will indicate whether or not it is a good choice.

Location, location, location. You want a gym that is easily accessible from either your home or your work. Not much takes the wind out of your sails when it comes to working out much like having to face a thirty or forty minute drive when you aren’t in the mood for it. This will become your first, best excuse for missing exercise opportunities.  Make the gym as easy to get to as possible.

Hours of operation. Say you like to exercise early in the morning, or perhaps late at night. Then a gym that is open from 9 to 6 is not going to be of much use to you. Also look at the weekend hours, as they will also have an impact on your workout schedule.

Pricing and fees. Ask what all is included in the membership fee and monthly dues. Do you have access to a personal trainer? Fitness assessment? Does the gym offer any kind of classes? Ask about discounts and other special packages. By all means do not allow yourself to get locked into a long term contract with expensive termination fees.

Much as you would shop for any other product, take time before choosing a fitness establishment.

Keep it clean.  Check the bathrooms and the corners of any gym you are considering, as these are two of the telltale signs of just how well the facility is maintained. There should also be provision for disinfecting equipment after each use, so look for wipes or spray bottle and towels located near the equipment, and see how often folks are actually using them.

Equipment and education.  Ask about the various types of equipment being offered, as well as any classes that the gym may have available. Ask about the instructors, their education and experience, and scarf up a copy of the class schedule to see if they are at a time that is convenient for you.

The Devil Is In The Details

Amenities.  How well equipped is the gym when it comes to comfort and convenience. Outdoor fields, location parking, child care facilities, and locker rooms may all be major pluses depending on your current lifestyle needs.

A trial run. Ask for a period of access to the gym before committing to a membership. This gives you a chance to get a feel for the location, the staff, other members, and the overall atmosphere of the establishment.  You wouldn’t commit to buying a car without a test drive….apply the same principle to your gym.

LeaseQ is one of the leading providers of fitness equipment financing and leasing in the United States.