During the summer of last year, I had the tendency of going to the gym on and off. Through a free promo at a gym, a friend having free guests pass, or just plain working out with my mom at home (Notice the pattern of stinginess). However, due to being inconsistent with working out and eating properly, I wasn’t’ seeing the ultimate results that I set up for myself. Something had to change! It was time to fully commit to joining a gym! But which one should I go to? Do I have the budget to afford a gym? Should I pick one close to work or home? Decisions, decisions!
These are some of the factors I consider.
- Affordability. You will soon understand soon enough that I’m frugal with my money. If I can cost I will! So finding gym memberships that are $10 to $25 a month. That would be around my alley. I understand others may enjoy luxury or specialized gyms, which is fine. Cost-conscious individuals may want to take into consideration of your budget. However be aware of amenities’ missing, which brings me to…
- Facilities/ Locations. With cost-conscious gyms, it’s left with some disadvantages. For example, Fit for Less doesn’t have any showers. World gym only has three locations which aren’t in the downtown core. This is really important in my eyes. However once there are more locations and showers, the cost for their gym membership will rise as well. So hmmm lose-lose situation maybe? Not exactly just choose wisely.
- Time schedule. Some of these gyms open from 5 am -11 pm, or even 24 hours. This is very handy for people that are or aren’t a morning person or rather going after work or too tired to go after work. You have the option of which time works for you. Set a time schedule that works for you to try to hit the gym for 30 minutes or up to 2 hours (It’s up to you really).
- Partner. Are you working out on your own or with someone else? This could be an important factor in going to the gym. If you have a family or a close friend that’s willing to work out with you. Do you guys have the same goals? Are you guys at the same level? Are you training them? Are they training you? That’s something easy to figure out. But remember there are going to be times when you have to push yourself to go on your own.
With all these factors I did manage to find a gym. The final decision was World Gym. I went based on all the factors that meant the most to me, especially my whole family joining as well. Is there anything else you think is important? (Like cleanliness and classes).
Well, ladies and gents. Enjoy my journey!
Kamille Smith