Joining a gym ensures you won't have to exercise in the rain, snow or under blistering hot temperatures. A gym also offers thousand-dollar machines, access to personal trainers and locker rooms so you can work out, shower and get moving. But joining a gym can be expensive. Here are some tips on get the most of your membership.
Instructions
Get a Good Deal on a Gym Membership
1. First, pick gyms in convenient locations that you know you will be able to get to on a regular basis. Take into consideration where you work and/or live, and what time you like to work out (i.e., morning or evening? during the week or on weekends?)
2. Ask the gym for a free one-day (or better yet, one-week) pass. Also, get their best offer and write down the price. Don't forget to get the name of the representative you talked with; if he or she quotes you a price, the gym should then abide by that. Ask if there are additional costs, such as a membership processing fee.
3. After narrowing down your search, visit each gym left on your list. Note the following things: Is it crowded at certain time that would be inconvenient for you? Are there long waits for machines you'd like to use? Is the equipment run down or out of order?Ask other members about their opinion of the gym.
4. Good deals can often be found right after the New Year or right before summer when gyms offer specials and/or take away the initiation fee . If this isn't an option, ask if you can get an extra month (or two) added for free in your contract, or some free sessions with a personal trainer. If you want to join at another time of year, look for an off-peak discount. Ask for a discount even if one is not clearly offered. Lastly, if you are a student, ask whether the gym offers students discounts. In any case, be ready to negotiate.
5. In addition to the different machines offered, look at specific classes at the gym (and find out if classes cost extra.) Joining a class can benefit your workout for several reasons. One, group classes can be a lot more fun than working out alone. Two, the instructor is there to guide you and take you out of your comfort zone, so you train harder. Three, taking different classes keeps you from becoming bored and challenges your body in new ways that keep you more fit.
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