Fitness centres - how to choose one Part 4

Taking out a fitness centre membership

Factors to consider:

• Find out exactly what the membership fee is and what it includes. Are there different membership options and are all the fees for services clearly stated? You should receive a fully detailed membership agreement.
• Ask questions. Will you have to pay extra for childcare and towels? Some fitness centres offer discounts to concession holders or for members who want to train in off-peak times.
• Is a fitness assessment and personalised exercise program or prescription part of your membership? Is your program reviewed on a regular basis and will extra charges apply? Do new members receive an orientation and instruction in using the equipment and facilities?
• Does the facility provide you with a written set of rules and policies that govern the responsibilities of members as well as the facility?
• Many clubs have a variety of payment options – find a payment schedule that suits your budget and take advantage of any sign-up specials.
• Do you have a ‘cooling off period’ after purchasing the membership – just in case you change your mind?
• Find out if you can suspend or transfer your membership.

Atmosphere and image at the fitness centre

Make sure the club is a place where you would enjoy spending time. Would you feel relaxed and at ease while working out there or is it somewhere you would feel self-conscious and embarrassed? As you tour the club, pay attention to details such as:

• The age spread of the other members
• Whether one sex is predominant or not
• The general fitness level of other members
• What everyone else tends to wear – for example, stretch tights or tracksuit pants
• The type and volume of music played
• The sorts of posters or pictures on display
• How clean the facility, change rooms and other amenities are
• Whether most of the equipment is in working order – too many ‘out of order’ signs may indicate poor maintenance.