5 Tips To Get The Best Value When Joining A Gym

It seems to be an accepted fact that if you want to lose weight and get into shape some form of exercise program is necessary. For many people this will mean joining the local health club or gym. This can be a logical step but unless you think carefully about it before joining this can become expensive. Here are 5 tips to help make sure that you do not waste your money.

Tip 1. Check the options. This first stage is to check out the availability of health clubs and gyms in your area. If any of them have web sites or brochures try and have a look at these to see what facilities they offer and prices they charge. Ask yourself how accessible are they for your home or work and will it be easy for you to attend?

Tip 2. Visit at least 2 or 3 to compared facilities and value. Do not be afraid to ask questions of the staff and other members. However, do not sign up on this first exploratory visit. This should purely be a fact finding mission.

Tip 3. Avoid joining a health club during its peak seasons. There are two times in the year when there will be a rush to join a health club. Just after Christmas and before the summer holidays when everyone tries to get into shape for the beach. At these times it will be hard to get any special deals.

Tip 4. Having decided which club you want to join wait for any special promotions. You can almost be certain that these will be offered in the quieter times of the year and can often represent a real saving. The promotions are often in the form of either a trial membership deal or a reduced monthly fee. While you are waiting for a promotion you may find that some health clubs run by local authorities have a pay as you go system which will allow you to start your fitness program.

Tip 5. Do not be afraid to haggle. At present the health clubs are feeling the effects of the recession just as much as any other business. Many have already dropped the joining fee and you may well be able to get yourself an advantageous deal if you try.

The biggest tip I can give you is to think seriously before you join any club or gym. How serious are you about it? It is a fact that many people join a club visit it a couple of times and never go again. This can be expensive as most clubs will tie you in to a minimum 12 month deal which could make those two visits very expensive indeed. If you think that this might happen to you forget joining a club and go for a walk instead.

By: David Bromley

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