Fitness centres - how to choose one Part 5

Take a class before you join the fitness centre

Don’t join up just yet. Visit the club at the times you intend to work out to check whether the club is too crowded or if there are wait times for equipment. Take a casual class (or two) during the times you plan to attend.

Is a fitness centre the right choice for you?

Before you join a fitness centre, you might also want to stop and think if it’s the right activity choice for you. Factors to consider:

• Don’t think that spending money on a gym membership will motivate you to exercise. It probably won’t.
• If you’re not interested in the activities offered at the fitness centre – for example, if you hate the idea of lifting weights or doing aerobics – don’t join. Instead, find activities that you find fun and convenient. You may enjoy inline skating, dancing, jumping on a trampoline or playing sport.
• Joining a fitness centre doesn’t make you fit and healthy – exercise does. Physical activity doesn’t have to involve machines or equipment either – walking is one of the best forms of exercise available and it’s free.