Shop around. The fitness business is very
competitive, and you'll probably find several
gyms near where you live. Visit as many as you can.
Visit at the times you're most likely to use the
gym.
Look for bargains and promotions. Many gyms will
offer promotions or incentives to encourage you to
sign up.
Be aware of long-term commitments. Many gyms will
want you to sign a contract for a membership lasting
a year or more. This is sometimes a good deal--but
only if you're sure you'll stay with the
program.
Location is important. No matter how good a deal you
are offered, a gym that's far from you will be
harder to get to, and the cost of gasoline or public
transportation might negate what you're saving on
your gym membership. If you want to keep up your
exercise regimen, find a gym that's somewhere
between your home and workplace.
Does it fit your schedule? Hours of operation must be
consistent with when you'll want to use the gym.
Get to know the staff. Are they knowledgeable and
courteous? Do they seem to have sound ideas about
training methods?
Ask about workout classes. Does the gym offer classes
in specialized activities? Are they included in your
membership, and are they held at convenient times?
Find out about the members. Do they tend to be much
more (or less) serious about fitness than you are?
Inspect the showers, steam baths, toilets, and
lockers. How clean are they? Are plenty of towels
provided to wipe off the equipment?
Inspect the equipment. Is the equipment modern and in
good shape, and is there enough of it to go around?
Are there time limits, or times when certain
equipment is off-limits?