How to find the gym that works for you

In this article, we’ll look at the questions to ask to discover a gym that works for you… and trust us, there’s one out there for everyone.

How can someone who’s not so familiar with gyms find a gym that works for them? All those weights, machines, classes, and fit people can seem intimidating. If you’d like to find a gym but aren’t sure where to start, try these tips.

1. Define what you enjoy

Most people join a gym to get fitter, stronger and healthier through exercise. Yet, with so many different ways to exercise at the gym, our tip is to begin with activities you enjoy and an environment that makes you comfortable.

If learning something new like Pilates, yoga, Zumba, or boxing sounds appealing, then choose a gym that offers these classes. Decide if you would you prefer a smaller gym or a larger one. And if you need one-to-one guidance from a personal trainer, it’s worth seeking out a trainer with whom you click.

Ask yourself this question: how do you want to feel at your gym, and where can you find that vibe?

Make a list of anything else you need from your gym like childcare, parking, particular opening times or accessible facilities.

Once you know more specifically what it is you want from a gym it’s easier to find what you’re looking for.

2. Seek personal recommendations

The best way to find out about the gyms in your neighbourhood is to ask others about their experiences attending them.

If you’re a Facebook member, then it’s likely there’s a community page devoted to your area where people ask for recommendations on all sorts of things – restaurants, services, babysitting, you name it. Create a post asking for gym recommendations. The more specific you can be about the type of gym experience you’re after, the better.

For some, information about a gym’s equipment and class offerings might be most important. However, if you’re new to the gym, then asking about the gym’s community and culture might take priority. Affordability is also something you may wish to understand before you check a gym out in person.

If Facebook isn’t your thing, there are other ways to learn more about the gyms in your area. Talk to friends and acquaintances; also check Google reviews online.

3. Make an appointment to visit

Next, it’s time to check out your preferred gym in person. It’s worth phoning first to make an appointment, that way you can be sure a staff member is available to show you around the facilities and run you through classes and membership offers.

When you show up at the gym remember to check out the parking, who else is there and ‘the vibe’. Are the staff kind and friendly? Do the yoga mats smell clean? Do you think you’ll feel comfortable exercising there? You could even bring a friend to this visit for company and a confidence boost.

What’s important to know about gyms, especially if this is new territory for you, is that they are all different. They may look similar in terms of equipment, but each will have a different feel. Try to visit more than one gym at this stage, that way you can compare and make an informed choice.

4. Get the right deal

Affordability is a factor in every person’s decision to join a gym and there’s a lot to weigh up.

When visiting gyms, make sure you ask about cost – here’s a few questions you may wish to include:

• What is the membership fee? Is it annual, or monthly?
• Is there a sign-up fee?
• Is there a minimum term, or can I cancel at any time? Is there a cancellation fee?
• What does it cost to visit on a casual basis?
• Instead of a longer membership, are there entry passes with a set number of visits or days?
• Do they have concession prices?
• Are there any specials or discounts on offer?

Most gyms will also offer trial memberships at reduced rates (or even free) for people to try before they buy. If you like the ‘energy’ of a gym then ask if they offer a trial deal and take advantage of it before signing up for a longer membership.

And, if you are interested in a membership, ask for a copy of a sample contract, including the terms, fees and charges, that you can study at home before committing.

And finally…

Remember that asking the right questions will help you find a gym that works for you, helping you to feel more motivated and get active.

To learn about the experience of joining a gym, check out this article that shares a more personal story. There’s also tips for gym newbies!