Source Chicago Vine:
Choosing a Health Club
By ChicagoVine.com
Tuesday, Oct 4, 2005 @ 3:41PM
Choose a health club that best suits your needs.
Many of the health clubs in our Health & Fitness directory offer fantastic services: a large selection of high-quality equipment, health and fitness knowledge, and other attractive amenities such as classes, steam room/sauna, jacuzzi, massage therapy, and more. However, health clubs can vary a great deal, not only in services and equipment available but also in pricing.
Most people join a health club with good intentions and then become unhappy or dissatisfied. Starting a fitness program is enough work--don't make it more difficult by joining a health club that doesn't cater to your needs.
Before simply joining the first health club you come across, do a little research using our directory by filtering your search by neighborhood to find clubs near your home or work; this will bring up an alphabetical listing of all the health clubs in your desired area.
Click on the health club's name--this will take you directly to a detailed page where you may learn more about their services, equipment, rates, hours, etc. Once you've narrowed down the list, you should contact the health club's sales staff and schedule a visit to the club. You can just show up, but there may or may not be someone there to offer you a tour.
Consider the following when making your final decision:
Location, Location, Location
For your fitness ambitions to be fruitful, exercising has to be convenient or it won't become a legitimate lifestyle change. The closer and easier it is to get to, the better. Is parking abundant? Is it near your train stop? Of course, you don't want to join a health club that doesn't suit you just because it's close to your home or work, but if you're joining a health club that isn't easy to get to, you're a lot more likely to make excuses for not going.
Take It for a Spin
Sales teams are very good at selling the qualities of their health club, but you need to spend some time trying the equipment and "experiencing" the atmosphere. Ask for a few day passes or trial membership--most health clubs readily offer these to boost their membership. Be sure to try out the club at the time that you would normally workout--you'll get a better feel for how crowded it is. Notice if there is much of a wait for equipment, how helpful the staff is, and if the equipment is well maintained. You may even interview a few members regarding what they like about the club.
You Know You Want It
Make a list of the things that are important to you, such as personal training, childcare, aerobics classes, etc., and make sure the health club has what you need. If classes help to motivate you and the health club doesn't offer the classes you need, sticking with your exercise program won't be realistic. Try the class and make sure it is enjoyable, challenging and educational. Just the same, if you have children, make sure the health club has childcare or it might be tough to make it to the club.
Peep the Crowd
Find out what the members are like; see if the atmosphere is comfortable. If you're a beginner, some clubs may be intimidating. Select a club where you feel comfortable and welcome.
Work the Staff
Make sure there is always someone available to answer your questions, to show you a new exercise, or how to use a piece of equipment. Are they friendly, helpful and knowledgeable?
Getting Committed
Find out exactly what the membership fee includes; personal training, classes, pool, towel service, lockers, childcare, etc. Are there extra costs for additional services? This should play a big part in your decision to join a certain health club.
Some health clubs have a one-time initiation fee and require purchasing a minimum of three months up front. Depending on your budget, you may want to find a club that allows you to go on a month-to-month basis. In addition, find out if the health club debits the funds directly out of your credit card or checking account. This can make it easier to pay membership fees but make sure that it's easy to cancel if you decide you don't like the club. Be sure you read the contract before you sign so you're not "locked" into paying even if you move out of town or change health clubs.
Also, have a clear idea of what your budget is and stick to it no matter what sales incentives are offered. And bargaining is acceptable. If they're asking $49 a month and all you can afford is $39, offer $39 (if they've met previous criteria) and let them know you're ready to join if they comply.
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