by Leann Zotis

Created on: October 29, 2009   Last Updated: February 09, 2010

If you take the time to consider joining a gym or fitness center, you may find yourself coming up with excuses why that won't be the right answer for you.  After all, if you don't have time to follow a fitness program on your own, how will you ever find the time to join, and attend, a gym?  Actually, you probably do have time to join a gym and get on line with that physical fitness commitment you keep making. How do you find the fitness center that's right for you?

* Location

If it's hard to get to, you won't show up. Ff the hours of operation are limited, you will have a hard time keeping a regular schedule. Your chosen fitness center should be convenient in terms of your personal comings and goings and the time of day you feel most predisposed to exercise.

* Personal trainers

Unless you have a lifetime history as a jock, you're not going to achieve maximum benefits from the fitness center on your own. Check into whether a personal trainer is available to help you make the most of your time at the gym. A trainer will help you avoid injury while showing you how to optimize your gym experience.

* Class offerings

Exercise machines can get a little dry. Spice up your fitness experience by joining one of the classes offered. Check out everything while making your decision. Never imagined posing in the Bound Extended Side Angle? Join the yoga class and experience the full range of flexibility you can achieve. Hoping to torch calories fast? Spinning will set your inner furnace on high. 

* Contract commitments

Make sure getting out of your fitness center membership contract is as easy as getting into it.  Sign up for the briefest contract period available, perhaps somewhere between 30 and 90 days, to make sure this experience is right for you.  Understand the fees, expenses and penalties involved in joining and cancelling your membership.  Don't sign any contract that doesn't make its terms completely clear.

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