So you've decided to join a gym. The question is what do you do now?
There are so many to choose from, and they can look rather intimidating from the outside – full of guys in muscle vests and classes of babes executing complex step routines.
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It's easier than you think to find one that suits your needs, that won’t have you stressing out before you set foot inside, and is comfortable enough to encourage you to attend every day.
What to look for in a gym
Here are some important questions to ask when choosing a gym:
Is it convenient to your work or your home? If not, you'll find too many excuses to avoid going.
Is it open during the hours you want to exercise? Most of them are open from dawn until the evening, but check to ensure they fit in with your schedule.
Is it clean? Some aren't. Look at the equipment (if yesterday's sweat spots are evident, that's a bad sign), locker rooms (especially the showers) and floors.
Is the equipment in a good condition? Do a few minutes on a treadmill, a bicycle, a rowing machine, an elliptical trainer - or listen for the squeaks and clacking when they’re being used by other people. The state of the gym's equipment will give you a good indication of how well maintained it is.
Also check the weights room for maintenance, quality equipment, and variety of weights.
Are there classes on offer? The days of aerobics are over. These days you could expect anything from Pilates to kata boxing, so check what's on offer, and at what times.
Are the staff friendly and helpful? Supportive and affable gym employees make your experience more enjoyable, and help you reach your fitness goals.
Does it have a good reputation? Ask other members about their experiences at the facility.
What type of gym suits you?
There are single-sex gyms, small private gyms, and groups with facilities throughout South Africa.
The selling point of small private gyms, is that you usually gain access to them exclusively through sessions with a personal trainer. This guarantees excellent equipment, no crowds, and highly personalised treatment. If you reckon a regular appointment with a trainer is likely to be your best motivation to get to gym, this may be an option – the cost of the personal trainer is offset by the fact that you don't pay gym subscriptions.
Ask around, check community newspapers and keep an eye open in centres to find these.
However, if you prefer the social element and the anonymity of a major chain gym, then there are also plenty of choices available. The benefit of joining a national chain, is that if you travel, you can organise national membership which gives you access to the chain, wherever you are.
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