Choosing The Right Gym For You

With so many fitness choices available these days, how do you choose the right gym for you?  The right gym or fitness program is the one you will actually show up to! For many, the idea is sincere, but the motivation isn’t there. No matter how wonderful the programs and amenities are or how attractive the price, if you membership card gets dusty in your wallet –it’s not the right place for you. 

Before selecting a gym, ask yourself some key questions: Do you prefer all women or a coed environment? That question will significantly narrow down your choices right way. Do you prefer a location closer to home or work? What time of day do you want to work out? Some gyms get so busy at “peak” times that you may have to wait for your favorite machines, which might add to your reserved work out time. 

Do you like classes? Weight machines?  Cardiovascular equipment?  Do you require a pool? Researching the amenities of the location is key. Chose a location that offers services you wish to use.

Another important aspect of choosing the correct gym for you is assessing your personal knowledge of your weight loss, body type and goals. Do you know how to use gym equipment and how to work all your key muscle groups or are you willing to spend extra money on personal trainers in addition to monthly membership fees? Would you also benefit from nutritional guidance? Being honest with yourself about these key issues will help determine whether you join a large fitness facility or look for something smaller and more personal that can tailor a complete program for your specific goals. 

Will you make time in your schedule to get to the gym a few times per week or do you need a specific appointment?  Are you self-motivated or do you need someone to push you?  Do you know how much weight to use and all
the proper forms for optimal results and avoidance of injury?  Do you like to be social at the gym and have encouragement of others or workout by yourself? 

Even with a solid background in health and fitness and a personal training certificate on the wall, I found my own gym membership going unused. I realized that I needed to be accountable to someone other than myself and I needed someone to coach me without the high price tag charged by personal trainers for a couple of sessions. This is what attracted me to the Get In Shape For Women Model. I got a set appointment time and had to determine measurable goals.  Even after I reached my goal, I knew I needed to keep the accountability piece. After working within this model for two years, I witnessed the transformations of those around me and how thankful the women were to have this program available to them. This is what led me to open up my own studio in Boston.