Wednesday, May 13, 2009

I *Heart* My Gym!




I finally gave in and joined a gym again this week. I have always been a more workout at home or outside girl. However, I am getting to the point where I need a more intense training plan and I want one where I can focus on a full body workout with cardio as well as strength training. I did a lot of research online in regards to what gym I wanted to join.
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Here are a few things you should consider when looking for a fitness center depending on your personal needs.
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1.) Location/Cost: You want to choose a gym that is either close to home, work or in between. This will cut down on gas, but will increase the odds you will maintain a consistent routine. You want to find an affordable gym, you will pay less per month is you lock into a contract for a year or more but be careful if you break your agreement a lofty fee may be applied. Most gyms allow you to pay month to month for a more hefty monthly cost.

2.) Gym Culture: Are you looking for a family environment with daycare centers or a gym that is catered to hardcore bodybuilders. There are also female specific gyms like Curves and personal training studios. Your options are endless so you can afford to be picky.

3.) Interests: What do you like to do? Are you a cardio enthusiast, weightlifter, spinner or swimmer? Maybe you like soaking in a hot tub or sweating in a sauna after a workout to loose extra calories. Shop around and look for the right gym that meets all your needs.

4.) Traffic: Find out the hours of operation and what hour’s best fit your schedule. You will want to know when the busiest times are generally between 4pm -8pm on weekdays. If you are a night owl or morning person you may want to find a 24 hour gym so you can have the flexibility to go at your leisure.

5.) Trainers: Ask to see the qualifications of the trainers, ask for references from some of their other clients. Be aware of the equipment and make sure it isn’t old and rusty and that the health club looks clean and well-maintained.

*I recommend getting a 7 day guest pass to a few local gyms and pick the one you like best.

Here is a list of fitness centers you can browse through in your city:

If Marilyn did it, so can we! :)

images found - fulcrumgallery.com, references higherbar.wordpress.com

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