Getting in shape is among the top 10 New Year’s resolutions for most people. But, for many, it’s one of the hardest resolutions to keep.
According to a nationwide Angie’s List poll, 70 percent typically work out. Of those respondents 34 percent work out at a major gym chain.
“Usually, the trip to the gym is the first thing to go when our schedules get tight,” said Angie Hicks, founder of Angie’s List. “But as competition for members grows, fitness centers are taking steps like offering child care and a greater variety of fitness classes to make working out more appealing and convenient.”
Finding time to make it to the gym is difficult for many people. By adding a home gym you can cut out the car ride and bring the gym to you. In fact, 20 percent of respondents in an Angie’s List poll say they’re getting fit in the comfort of their own homes.
“One of the biggest challenges to getting in shape is sticking with the commitment to a regular routine,” said Hicks. “For some, designating space in their home makes it easier to stick with the commitment because they can workout when they want and customize their space to meet their own needs.”
Here are Angie’s List’s 11 tips to help you find the right gym for your fitness goals:
Shop around. Ask friends and coworkers about the gyms they use. The key is finding one that you feel comfortable at, and that is convenient for you.
Ready for the crowds? Ask how the facility plans to deal with the influx of new members. Will they place limits on their cardiovascular machines?
Tour the gym at the time of day you plan to work out. Is it a peak time? Will you have to wait to use cardio machines and equipment you’ll need or get into to fitness class you want?
Ask about a free day pass or even trial memberships. Take advantage of these to find out if the gym offers what you’re looking for and is a place you’ll feel comfortable.
Do they offer complimentary personal training sessions for new members? This is the case for many gyms and it’s a perk you shouldn’t let go unused either. It’s a good way to get acquainted with the gym and get advice on your personal routine.
Does the gym have what you’re looking for? Take a look at the weight machines, cardio machines, aerobics room and the schedule for group fitness classes. The more a gym has to offer, the more likely you’ll be happy as your routine changes and grows to include more variety.
Ask about staffing levels and their qualifications. How many trainers are on staff, and how many are on duty at any given time? Are they certified, professionally trained, etc.?
Make it a family affair. Many gyms offer childcare, as well as fitness activities that are good for your children. They also offer family membership packages if you have older children.
Hours of operation. The goal is to find a gym that fits your schedule so working out is easier for you, and you’ll have few excuses for skipping.
Confirm the costs and what they include. Most gyms require a one-time signup/joining fee, and then charge a monthly membership fee. Find out what is included in these fees. Are there extra fees for group fitness classes? Does it cover parking?
Security. Are lockers available with secure locking devices? Do they offer lockers you can rent for a monthly fee?
If a home gym is right for you, consider these 8 questions before setting your plans in motion:
What is my current level of fitness? If you haven’t worked out since high school, say so. Now is not the time to exaggerate your fitness level.
How much space do I have? Dumbbells take up little more than a corner, but treadmills can require several feet of space.
How much time do I have to work out each day? That will help determine which equipment to buy because some pieces work faster than others.
What do I enjoy doing? Look for something that will be fun and challenging. That way, you’ll want to keep coming back to it over time.
What injuries do I have? Many people suffer from knee, back and joint problems, and those can restrict which pieces of equipment you should buy. Talk to your doctor about possible restrictions before purchasing anything.
What have I used in the past that has worked? If you were in great shape in high school or college and really enjoyed your workouts, consider sticking with a similar routine.
How much money am I going to spend? Most specialty fitness dealers offer financing and layaway. High-quality equipment will last longer, break less and be easier to use.
How many people will be using the equipment? Maybe your spouse and kids want to join in; maybe it will just be you. Regardless, take each participant into consideration before deciding on equipment.
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I never heard of Angie's List, but I think less of whatever it is because I know 70 percent of women do not work out. Gallup estimates that only about 35 percent of Americans participate in moderate or vigorous exercise five or more times each week.
Look around you. Most Rhode Islanders are way out of shape. Gyms aren't overflowing like supermarkets are!
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I find a personal training studio better for me than a regular gym. I get exclusive attention of a trainer who gets to know my strenghts and weaknesses and he can tailer my schedule and routine to best suit me personally. I hightly recommend a personal trainer in a small studio.
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The idea that 70% of Americans work out is complete nonsense, a fantasy! Go to any public place in RI and look around - you will see 70% of the crowd are noticeably overweight -especially the kids. In other parts of the country the situation is even worse. I have just been in Chicago and LA -there are a LOT of obese people marching around. Congrats to everyone who has the self-respect to work it off and give their body a break!
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