So you’ve decided that you need to join a gym.  What are some things to consider in finding the right place for you?

Location.  This is by far the most important factor, because if the gym is inconveniently located, you won’t go.  If you won’t go and use it, it doesn’t matter how terrific it is — and it isn’t a bargain at any price.

Hours.  Is the gym open at the times you can most conveniently use it?  If you need early morning or late at night and the gym is open only 9 to 6, it’s not going to work for you.

Staff.  Are the staff friendly and helpful?  Are they interested in helping a beginner, not just those in more advanced stages of fitness?  If the staff makes you feel stupid and awkward, find another option. This is for YOU, so go where you are helped and valued.

Members.  Different gyms cater to different groups.  Will you feel comfortable working out with buff guys who are training for weight lifting competitions?  Maybe you need a women’s only gym, or one with a women’s only section.  Do you have friends who belong to a local gym and will working out with them keep you going?  Again, this is for you, so you need to choose a place where you feel comfortable and happy.

Classes.  Does the gym offer classes that suit your needs?  Maybe you need a beginners class.  (I loved the beginner Zumba class in the gym where I was once a member.  The instructor patiently showed all of us grandmothers how to do each movement, step by step, and omitted the moves we found uncomfortably explicit).  If the classes are all too advanced or too easy for you, you may want to keep looking.

These are a few questions you should ask before plunking down the money for a membership.  Check back tomorrow for more things to look for when choosing a place to work out.

Eating to live and living for Christ,

Susan Jordan Brown