Workout Clothes
Don't choose a gym where the staff tries to sell you pricey designer leotards. Inexpensive cotton workout clothing is acceptable in gyms, and more expensive gear doesn?t improve your workout. If the staff tries to convince you otherwise, choose a health club where the emphasis is on fitness. If the members who are working out all seem to be wearing clothes you wouldn't be comfortable in, consider whether that would distract you, but don't feel you need to buy into their uniform. If you do want to wear the latest in workout clothes, go for it!
Long-Term Membership
Finding a gym is a decision where a problem with commitment is actually good. In general, it?s probably best not to buy a membership at a gym for more than a year or two. The gym may change or a better one may open closer to you. Be suspicious of "lifetime memberships" unless you think it?s a really good deal. Keep your gym selection options open.
Locker Room Cleanliness
When you choose a gym, check out the locker room. Look in the showers. This is where cleanliness is most important in a gym, because germs are most easily transfered in a damp environment. In the workout areas, make sure there is no trash lying around. If it's dirty, move on and choose a health club with emphasis on "health."
Try It Out
If you want to choose a health club, try out your gym selection at the time of day you will be using it. Ask for a free pass, or pay if you have to. You can ask the members what they like about it.
Health Screening
When you choose a health club, make sure they have a health screening procedure. Your gym should screen new members for heart disease, always have a CPR-certified staff member on duty, and have an emergency response plan. This is important if you have heart disease, or if you just want to make sure an expensive club does its job.
Get the Right Equipment
When choosing a gym, see that they have the equipment you like to use. If you like free weights, make sure the area is big enough for several people to work out. If you want weight machines, make sure that your gym has them for all muscle groups. Be sure they have more than one of your favorite cardio machine.
Older Members
Joining a gym is no longer just for the young. Most health clubs are now trying to attract members in older age groups. If you want to choose a health club where you can work out around people of your age (or sex, or size), ask the membership representative about demographics of their members, and when the group you?re interested in tends to work out. As you work out more, you will be more comfortable exercising around other groups.