Gym Memberships Are Not Created Equal

By NACDublin CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

​​Are you planning on getting into shape or looking for a way to burn off some extra calories? You are not alone, and like many people, you are probably considering a gym membership. Gyms are a great option for anyone that needs variety in their workouts, wants a good workout no matter the weather, or anyone looking for professional training sessions.
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​​These days there are no shortages of gyms to join. It seems like new facilities are popping up everywhere. Some offer ridiculous deals that seem too good to be true, and some come with a high price but lack every amenity imaginable. How can you be sure you're choosing the best fit for you? After all, a gym membership is a relationship. You want to make sure you feel comfortable, have support when it's needed, and know that you're not wasting your time and money. Here are a few things you need to think about, before signing a contract.
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Contracts

What happens if you hate the gym you chose? Most gyms just want to lock you into a contract. Look for a gym that will let you leave if you are not satisfied. Believe it, or not many people pay monthly for memberships they never use. Some gyms allow pay as you go plans, but you often pay more. Contracts are usually less per month but only if you are using the membership regularly.
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​Qualifications

It is so important that you ask about the staff's qualifications. Make sure trainers are certified and full-time. If the gym you are considering uses independent contractors, that means they're renting the right to use the gym. How could you be certain of that trainer's skills or knowledge? If you choose a gym that hires their own full time staff, you can be sure that they are knowledgeable and experienced. A major gym will not want to put their name behind an independent contractor the way they will for their actual employees. So full-time employee will be vetted more closely.

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​Quality

Go for a tour before you decide. You want to make sure the gym has modern equipment, services, and classes that will keep you coming back. They should also be clean. No one wants to workout out on dirty equipment. Look for cleaning/sanitation stations near all the equipment. Are the bathrooms and locker rooms a mess? While on tour ask about free trials. Many gyms offer anywhere between 1 day and 2-week passes that are free. You usually just need to give some contact information in exchange for the pass. 24-Hour Fitness, for example, will let you print a free pass that you can take with you to any location. Always tour or try the gym before signing up for a membership.

​Atmosphere

How does the gym feel? You don't want to choose a facility that treats you like a number rather than a person. Look for a place that gets to know you and wants you to succeed in your goals. You should feel welcomed and comfortable. If you are afraid to ask questions, it's just not the right fit. If everyone is wearing clothes that show off their body, you might feel intimidated. You are less likely to go and workout, if you feel intimidated. Many reputable gyms no this and have implemented dress codes. A good gym will want to keep you coming back. They will want you to refer your friends and family, so the last thing they want is to make you feel uncomfortable.

At Active Diabetics, we care about you and your health. If there is a gym that you want to learn more about don't hesitate to post a question to our Facebook page. Get answers from people just like you who have experience with the facility you may be considering. The best way to learn about a gym is through word of mouth and free trials.