How to Find the Right Gym/Health Club

Everybody is unique. Finding a gym or health club that fits your needs and personality will take some research. You'll have to look for things at appeal to you in terms of equipment, environment, and the personality of the staff.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• a list of local gyms and health clubs.
• a checklist of things you want to find in a gym.

How to Find the Right Gym/Health Club

1. Visit the gyms and healthclubs in your area. Take a good look at the facility. Is it clean? Do they keep the equipment in top shape? Do they offer towels and locks for the lockers?

2. Talk to the trainers and staff of each facility. Are they personal? Do they take their job seriously? Are they professional? Ask to see their credentials. If they don't have any, or they have certifications you are unsure of, move to another facility. Ask if they are trained in CPR and first aid.
   Get to know the staff first hand. Ask questions.

3. Look closely at their equipment. Is it new? Do they do regular maintenance checks? Find out when the last upgrade to their equipment was. Do they have video or security cameras?

4. Do they offer classes? Many gyms and healthclubs will offer pilates, stretching, or other aerobics classes.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't take somebody's word for the reputation of a facility. Do your own research.
• Be hands on. Try out some of the machines and other equipment.
• Before starting any exercise program, get a check by your family doctor.