How to Decide if You Should Join a Gym

The benefits of regular exercise seem to be endless. From its ability to reduce your risk of cancer and extend your life expectancy, routine fitness appears to be more powerful than any pill available. Many individuals consider joining a gym to help them maintain good health, but there are several factors one should consider before joining. These steps will help you decide whether you should commit to a gym membership, and they may save you from making a costly mistake.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Decide if you can afford a gym membership. Many gyms charge expensive fees just to become a member, and you'll be charged a monthly rate to maintain your membership. Some gyms require a one year commitment, too, so carefully consider whether you can budget for this expense.
2. Determine how often you'll be able to go to the gym. With our busy schedules it is often difficult to workout frequently. If you think you'll only be able to go once a week or only on the weekends, you might want to consider paying the drop-in fee vs. the expensive membership.
3. Determine your fitness needs. If you plan to exercise by way of running, you may not need a gym membership; the great outdoors will suffice. However, if you know you need to join aerobic, self-defense or dance classes to keep fit, you'll most likely want to opt for the membership.
4. Decide if you need the help of a personal trainer. If you want to develop a fitness plan to help you lose weight or tone a specific area, you'll want to join a gym and hire one of their trainers to help you.
5. Give yourself a trial period at the gym you'd like to join. Pay the drop-in rate, or ask the staff if they'll let you pay a flat rate for one month. If after a month you are exercising consistently, you're probably committed enough to purchase a membership.

Tips & Warnings

• Though gym memberships are expensive, keep in mind that your health is extraordinarily important. Going to the gym a few times a month is better than not going at all.
• You'll have incentive to go to the gym if you commit to a membership.
• Gyms with pools, daycares, and theatre rooms tend to charge more for memberships.
• If you're concerned about cost, research numerous local gyms to find the lowest membership price. Listen and watch for deals, too. Some gyms waive processing fees during promotions.
• Don't make a rash decision to join a gym. It could be an expensive mistake, and contracts aren't easy to escape.