5 Things to Consider When Choosing a Gym

Choosing a gym that fits your needs is the difference between going to the gym and paying for a gym membership that you don’t use. 

To simplify the process, we’ve laid out five things that you should consider when choosing a gym. You’ll want to think through your answers and then take them into account before you sign up for a new membership.

That said, let’s dive in!

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1. Cost

The cost of a gym membership is all over the board. You have inexpensive options around $10 per month, and then you have some gyms where you’ll drop hundreds every month (and everything in-between). 

The key is to figure out what you really need in a gym. Does the cost align with what you’re willing to spend, and are you willing to spend that each month based on your personal financial situation? 

It should go without saying, the best investment is in your health. However, stretching yourself thin financially over a gym membership is never a good idea — stay within your means.

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2. Location

Location is a big factor when choosing a gym. How far of a drive is it to the gym? Is it easily accessible? Is it in an area you feel comfortable traveling to? 

Choosing a gym that causes you to look through a windshield for long periods of time to get there may not be ideal and could cause you to frequent the gym less often due to it being inconvenient. 

Think about when you’d use the gym. Is it after work? Over a lunch break? At night? How convenient is it to where you live or work? Take these things into consideration as well as how packed the gym will be at the time you plan to go.

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3. Equipment

Another determining factor when choosing a gym is the equipment. Do they have what you need and are looking for? If you’re looking to lose weight and cardio equipment is important to you, joining a powerlifting gym with prehistoric cardio pieces may not be ideal.

Having options is never a bad thing. The more equipment options a gym has, the better. Changing things up is the spice of life, and using the same equipment all the time can become stagnant and boring — ultimately causing you to go less often.

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4. Classes

Are you looking for classes? Maybe you’re into spinning or aerobics classes? 

If this is of interest to you, when choosing a gym, you’ll want to find out what classes they offer and the available times to see if they align with when you plan on frequenting the gym.

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5. Amenities

What amenities does the gym have? Choosing a gym doesn’t have to strictly be for the use of the weight room and cardio area. 

Would you like to use a steam room, sauna, or pool? Is personal training available? When choosing a gym, see what’s available and the amenities you’d like to use.

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