Gym memberships cost money. If you don’t need a gym or do need a gym but don’t use the gym, you’re wasting your money. Plain and Simple.

If you’ve never been to a gym they probably all look the same to you; they are not. And selecting the right gym for you is not as trivial as it seems. Many of the things you should be looking for are obvious and others are more subtle and may be overlooked. For example, how qualified are the instructors? Are any of them qualified to work with people who have arthritis? Do you need a master’s degree in aerobics or are there classes in tai chi or healing backs yoga and water aerobics?

Here are a few tips that will help you make sure you are getting the best value for your money when you join a gym.

First, make sure the gym is conveniently located. If it’s not close to your home or your place of work chances are you won’t take the time to make an extra trip to work out and exercise. You’ll have a much better chance of maintaining your workout program if you can get to the gym easily.

Secondly, find out what the membership costs and what it includes. If you don’t need the swimming pool, aerobic classes, and sauna, find out if you can sign up for a restricted membership. Are lockers extra? Is there a reduced membership fee for seniors? Monthly memberships are usually more expensive than yearly, but a 6-month plan may be more to your liking. Is there a cancellation fee? How much notice do you have to give when you want to drop your membership?

And finally, what are the hours your gym is open and available to you? If you prefer getting there first thing in the morning before 7 A.M, are you comfortable using the gym with members that are 30 years younger than you? If you arrive at the gym mid-morning are you comfortable with the young mothers working out and filling up the aerobics classes? Are there classes that you can take at that time?

Everyone’s motivation is different and a gym may not work for all. And the same gym isn’t going to work for everyone, either. No matter which way you go, however, keep moving.

To your healthy aging and staying healthy,

Ruthan Brodsky

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Filed under: Fitness and Nutrition

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