by Nerissa Miller

Created on: July 25, 2009

Your friend called you up one day to join him on a one week free trial at a gym. Even though you do not exercise regular, and never been to a gym, it is be wonderful to join a friend in exploring a gym at no cost.

You will probably enjoy your first day at the gym, because a fitness instructor will be there to show you what you can do with the equipment, and what kind of group classes you can attend. You will most likely be aching after a introductory workout session with the instructor. Before long, you will see the sales staff approaching you to talk you into buying a gym membership.

Think twice before you sign on! One great experience does not mean you will benefit from the gym membership. There are many things to consider before you sign on the contract.

Lifestyle

Try doing jogging or a sport three times per week. If you are unable to stay consistent with your fitness regime, you are unlikely to be able to make full use of your gym membership. You may enjoy your workout at the gym for two to three weeks, but once the novelty wears off, you will most likely come up with a lot of excuses not to go to the gym.

Location

One of the excuses you may give is that the location is inconvenient. That is why, before you sign on a gym membership, one of the things to consider is the accessibility of the gym. Find out if it is near your work place or your home. You will not be able to find yourself excuses if you have a gym that is easily accessible.

Companion

Do you normally exercise on your own? Will you change your mind about hitting the gym if your friend cannot accompany you? Joining a gym that a friend can accompany you will be of great motivation to you, but you cannot have the habit of relying on your friend as gym companion.

Membership duration, and cost

The monthly membership cost will usually be cheaper if you join for three years, versus joining for just one year. However, you may want to consider taking up a one year membership rather than three years if you are new to gym, and do not have confident that you will stick to your gym routine.

It is true that some people will feel motivated to make full use of the gym once they have invested on the membership, but those are the minorities. Work stress, family commitments, and time with friends are more important to most people, as compared to exercising at a gym.

One week free trial at the gym is not sufficient for you to decide on whether to take up a gym membership. Explore cheaper alternatives if your nearby community clubs offer gym facilities you can use at lower cost. You can always choose to upgrade yourself to a more high end gym, when you think you are ready to commit the time, and money.

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