Fitness centers – how to choose one

There is an enormous amount of choice in the modern fitness industry, so it is worth spending time researching what is available before you commit. It is also a good idea to see your doctor for guidance before starting any new fitness program.

A good quality health or fitness center provides a safe environment for exercise and is supervised by trained staff. It should let you use specialist exercise equipment and offer the kinds of activities you enjoy and that meet your personal fitness goals. With a little research and patience, you can find a service that suits your individual needs.

Before you join, shop around and visit several facilities (or locations, if you are choosing outdoor programs).

Take a tour and ask questions#

Observe the classes and programs they run, and take notes on what you like and dislike about the facility. Where you can, talk to existing clients about their experience.

Key points to consider include:

• Is the fitness center, gym or outdoor provider a registered or accredited business?
• Is the location easy for you to reach?
• Are the staff members friendly and helpful?
• Is there a good selection of the type of equipment you want to use?
• Is the business very busy at the time of day when you want to attend?
• Is the equipment clean and well maintained?

Location and convenience#

For your fitness routine to succeed, exercise has to be convenient. You are more likely to use a club or service if it is close to your home or workplace. Joining somewhere inconvenient makes it easier to find an excuse to stop going.

If lunchtime is the only time you have to exercise, consider a center or program near work. Check opening hours and timetables so you know whether you can attend the activities you want.

Activities, programs and equipment#

Make sure the center caters for the activities you like and that meet your goals – for example, personal training, free weights, aerobics classes or Pilates.

Boredom can set in if there isn’t enough variety in your program, so look for a range of equipment, programs and classes that will keep you interested. Also consider how important other facilities are to you, such as child minding, parking or a coffee shop.

Support and staff#

The facility should have professional staff with education and training appropriate to the duties they perform. Consider:

• Do staff members have appropriate training and qualifications?
• If you have special needs, do staff understand your health conditions and can they meet them?
• Can they modify equipment, facilities and programs if required?
• Is the gym floor constantly supervised, or monitored by electronic surveillance in the case of 24-hour facilities?

Atmosphere and image#

Make sure the club offers a comfortable environment for you. Would you feel relaxed and at ease working out there, or self-conscious and embarrassed? As you tour the club or observe a program, pay attention to details such as:

• The state and working order of the equipment – too many ‘out of order’ signs may indicate poor maintenance.
• How clean the facility, change rooms and other amenities are.
• The general fitness level and age spread of other members.
• The type and volume of music played.
• The posters, pictures or branding on display.

Take a class before you join#

Don’t sign up just yet. Visit the club at the times you intend to work out and check the numbers and wait times for equipment. Take a casual class or two during the times you plan to attend.

Business practice and reputation#

Any fitness center or provider should operate in accordance with consumer and business laws and recognized industry standards. It is also important to protect your investment by joining a center that is reputable and financially sound. Consider:

• How long the service has been running. Generally, a long-established service is less likely to go out of business.
• Talking to current members about their experiences before you join.
• Whether the center has adequate insurance, in case you are involved in an accident.

The benefits of exercising with a registered fitness business can include appropriately qualified staff, professional insurance cover, and recognition by some private health insurers who offer a fitness rebate. Many registered businesses also go through regular quality accreditation processes and display their accreditation branding.

Signing up#

When you decide to take out a membership or enroll with a service, consider:

• Exactly what the membership fee is and what it includes.
• Whether there are different membership options, with all fees clearly stated.
• Whether you will receive a fully detailed membership agreement.
• Whether you have to pay extra for childcare and towels.
• Whether discounts are offered to concession holders or for off-peak training.
• Whether a fitness assessment and personalized exercise program are part of your membership, how often the program is reviewed, and whether extra charges apply.
• Whether new members receive an orientation and instruction in using the equipment and facilities.
• Whether you receive a written set of rules and policies covering the responsibilities of members and the facility.
• The payment options available – find a schedule that suits your budget and take advantage of any sign-up specials.
• Whether there is a ‘cooling off period’ after purchase, in case you change your mind.
• Whether you can suspend or transfer your membership.

Is a fitness center the right choice for you?#

Before you join, stop and think about whether it is the right activity for you. Don’t assume that spending money on a membership will motivate you to exercise – it probably won’t. Joining a center doesn’t make you fit and healthy; exercise does. Evidence suggests that expert supervision can enhance the health benefits of exercise.

If you are not interested in the activities offered through fitness providers, find activities that you think are fun and convenient. You might enjoy inline skating, dancing or playing sport, or you could speak to a personal trainer who offers outdoor or mobile services.

Getting started doesn’t have to involve machines or equipment at all. Walking is one of the easiest forms of exercise available, and it’s free. If you haven’t exercised in a long time or have a chronic medical condition, complete an adult pre-exercise screening and see your doctor first.

Key points#

• Spend time researching what is available so that you can make an informed choice.
• Check that equipment is in working order; too many ‘out of order’ signs may indicate poor maintenance.
• Protect your investment by joining a center or provider that is reputable and financially sound.

Where to get help#