4 Questions You Should Ask Before Joining a Gym l Tips for Finding a Gym

Joining a gym seems to be the best thing to do to get fit, right? However, you need to shop around and ask the right questions. Take your time during the process and be a detective in order to find the right gym. Start by asking for a tour to look at what classes are available and how they function. Look into the hygiene of the place, the crowd, the facility and the equipment. In essence, try to do your homework on the gyms that you are attracted to. NPR reported that Planet Fitness has an estimate 6,500 members, and can only hold 300 people at a given location. The outlet shared that people just don’t ask the right questions when they sign up initially, and they become disappointed, are over their heads, and just quit. Gyms know that most people will not stick with it for various reasons, and this is why some gyms (the ones who offer the cheap memberships) keep doing membership drives. You are different, and will take care of any concerns before the plunge is made. For example, you may want to ask about doing a free trial or see what kind of deals they offer and perks given to new members. Here are 4 questions to consider before joining a gym.

What kind of fitness classes do you have?

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See what variety of fitness classes the gym has to offer you to help keep you motivated to attend. Look for yoga, spinning, strength-training, aqua aerobics, or anything else that might inspire you. More people have become more focused on classes like belly dancing classes, boot camp style classes, and Zumba classes, which are gaining popularity. The variety of fitness classes help people from being burned out, National Athletic Trainers’ Association told the Huffington Post in a report. What was interesting is that the once popular Pilates classes are losing ground to these other classes, and to strength training as well.

What is the environment like?

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This is important to consider, there are many gyms that just don’t feel right. If you are looking for something without the bells and whistles--a more laid back environment might be in order. Ask what the ratio of men and women is as well. Some gyms will only cater to women, corporate, beef-cakes, or for those who are overweight. If being surrounded by these people make you feel uneasy, you may want to move on before signing the contract. The people you workout around have the ability to keep you motivated, or comfortable. If you are a first timer, you do not want to go into a gym where you feel awkward. This might make you feel so uncomfortable, you stop attending.

What does the gym look like at peak time?

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We know that going to the gym after work at peak time can be a hassle. Yes, it is a pain to wait for equipment as well. Make sure the gym is not overcrowded so you can plan accordingly. If it is a busy place, try to find another facility. Avoid going on Mondays when everyone wants to get back to the gym after the weekend. "This is generally a gym's busiest time. If there is a long wait for equipment you feel you would be using, you may be wasting a lot of time waiting around," Active.com reported. Something to think about if the gym is busy, is to go early in the mornings and before work. There will be less people, less headaches, and you can take your time using the equipment.