When you are joining a new gym, it really can be a big commitment. On one hand, you want to ensure that all of the facilities are there that you need to reach all of your fitness related goals, you want to get an affordable and competitive price, as well as having a good atmosphere to work out in and socialise in. It is important to find the right balance between these three factors, as one without the other will lead to a sub optimal experience in the long run. You want to be motivated by the thought of going to the gym, not dreading it every time whether due to the people who also use the facilities or the lack of certain equipment.
It can be a substantial investment so you want to ensure that you make the right choice the first time around. You can think of the decision process like you would when trying to find a new restaurant, you need to look at options that suit your tastes and desires, rather than simply choosing the one that is closet to your home or the cheapest option that is available to you. This is why you should always have a list of questions to ask at hand when you are checking out a new gym and also make sure that you get a tour of it before joining so you can scope out the extent of the facilities and the people that also use them. Here is some further advice that will help you along during the process.
Think about the area in which the gym is located
While you don’t necessarily have to choose the gym that is closest to your home, you should also not choose one that is way too far from your home or place of work. As you will be far more likely to slack off and skip days at the gym. You want to minimise as many barriers to success as possible, and location is one of the biggest ones that there is. Ideally you will choose a gym that is somewhat conveniently located between both your workplace and your house.
Check the opening hours
Certain gyms only operate during working hours or very limited hours on the weekends, while other will be open twenty four hours a day, every day of the week. You need to determine what times you will be using the gym and make sure that you don’t join a gym that can’t cater to these needs. If you require early morning or late night access in order to achieve your fitness goals, don’t join a gym that means you will be rushing your workouts due to the closing time.
The other members
It is always a good idea to talk with members of your potential new gym to see what they have to say about the place. You should ask them about both the advantages and disadvantages of joining the place, to get a better idea of what it is all about.