Let’s say you’ve decided to join a gym and get in shape. But.. which one should you choose? The truth is, there are a lot of different options available, from budget gyms to very expensive ones and from CrossFit style or more spa and wellness focused gyms. The truth is, it can be tricky to find one that feels just right.
As I’ve recently moved to a new city (and country) I had to find a new gym myself. And it was harder than I expected. It got me thinking: If it is so hard for me to find the right fit, you could probably use a little help too. That’s why I’ve put together a 4 step process on how you can find the perfect gym for you:
Step 1: Look at which gyms are convenient for you:
Location matters. Pick a gym that is either close to home, or close to work, that’s easy to get to, and is open at the times you’re looking to train. Check their reviews on google, social media accounts and/or their website to get a better idea of the gym. There are gyms in every shape and size and for every budget, so make sure to shortlist a few that might be right for you. I’d suggest you go to google maps and search for ‘gym’ in your area of choice. It will most likely show you all the options in the area. Another option is to simply do a google search with ‘gym + your area of choice. Ask friend and colleagues too, to see which gym they go to, if you prefer to work out with friends.
Step 2: Tour the gym:
Call them up or just go by and ask for a gym tour. This is a great way to see what the gym is like and whether you can see yourself working out there. I’ve added a checklist of questions you could ask and things to look for below in this blog
Step 3: Do a trial:
Most gyms offer a free trial, but even if you have to pay, it’s definitely worth it, as this is THE best way to get an idea of what it’s like to be a member and train there. This is where you find out things you’ll only experience once you actually try training at the gym, like if you don’t have to wait for an empty treadmill or squat rack for too long, how the staff is, or what the gym crowd is like at the time you like to train.
Step 4: Check the gym offers and the fine print:
Most gyms have plenty of offers any time of the year, which can vary from extra months for free, to a reduced rate, to having premium services included for free and giving away freebies. If you travel a lot, ask if there is any option to temporarily freeze your membership for times you’re away. Be aware of what is included in the different membership packages and how long they run for (Especially budget gyms tend to have some tricky terms and conditions and it’s sometimes a hassle to cancel a membership..).
That’s it. Follow these four steps and find the perfect fit. And once you’re signed up, the next step would be to obviously go in with a plan, stay consistent and GET RESULTS! (ps. If you need help with this, have a look at my online coaching)
Gym tour checklist:
This is checklist with things to look out for when you’re doing a gym tour. Maybe there are other things you’d like to check too, but I’ve compiled this list as there are usually the main things to look for:
- Is there enough (free) parking?
- Is the gym clean?
- How are the change rooms: Do they have enough showers, toilets, lockers, benches?
- Do they have enough cardio machines? Do they have the ones you prefer?
- Do they have enough strength machines? Do they have the ones you need/ may need in the future?
- Are there enough free weights (like dumbbells, barbells, kettlebells, etc.)
- Is there enough space to train, or is everything too close together?
- Is everything working? (look for out of order signs etc.)
- Does it look new/well maintained/outdated?
- Is there staff on the floor?
- Do they have personal trainers?
- Is the staff experienced/well qualified? (There is often a list of the coaches/personal trainers on the wall somewhere where you can see their qualifications and expertise.
- Do you feel comfortable being in the gym?
- Do they offer classes that you like?
- Are there any additional services/amenities like sauna, steam room, sports massage, physiotherapy, specialty classes etc., and if so, do they come at an extra price or are some of these included?
- Look at the members. Do you feel like you could fit in, does it seem like your type of gym community?
Hope this helps, and that you can enjoy your workouts in your new gym of choice! (and if you’re unsure how to train, I’m here to help you with online coaching).
