Choosing a health club
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A health club can be a great place to get in shape because it has so much to offer -- a wide variety of exercise equipment, fitness instructors to help with your workout, and other people with whom you can exercise and socialize. Before you join a club, however, make sure it has the services and facilities you want.

Below are a list of considerations you will want to ponder before deciding which health club is right for you. Most of your questions can be answered by the club manager or by trying out the club for yourself before joining. (Always take advantage of free trial visits!)

Talking to current club members is another great way to get information. They will tell you the best and worst aspects of the club.

Here are some questions to consider:

• Are the hours of operation convenient?
• Is the club conveniently located near your home or workplace?
• Are the membership fees fair and competitively priced?
• Is the fitness staff knowledgeable? The instructors should be degreed or certified in exercise science.
• Is the staff friendly? Are they easy to approach and talk to?
• Do the fitness instructors prescribe exercise programs and assist you during your workout?
• Does the club's atmosphere appeal to you? Is it attractive?
• Is the facility clean? Be sure to check locker rooms as well as the exercise areas.
• Is there an extensive selection of exercise equipment, including cardiovascular machines and weight-training equipment? Is the equipment well-maintained?
• Is there an area to do abdominal and stretching exercises?
• Are there group aerobic classes offered that suit your interests and needs?
• Are personal training services offered?
• What about babysitting services?
• Do you feel compatible with the other members ... or out of place?
• What about other on-site amenities, such as nutrition counseling, massage, physical therapy, tanning, etc.?

Disclaimer:
The information, including opinions and recommendations, contained in this website is for educational purposes only. Such information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. No one should act upon any information provided in this website without first seeking medical advice from a qualified medical physician.