Resolved: To Join a Health Club and Get in Shape

Photo by jontunn

Did you resolve to join a health club and REALLY work out this New Years? Join the club. 

This most common of resolutions also has to be the most frequently broken resolution. Research shows people who buy annual club memberships overestimate by more than 70 percent how frequently they'll use their club. The average gym user ends up going less than twice a week and five out of 10 new members cancel within the first year. 

But that doesn't mean you can't be the exception, particularly if you take the time to find the right health club for your needs. Here are 10 tips to help you make the right choice in 2010.

1. Location, Location, Location: A health club on the south end of town may be cheaper, but if you live and work on the north end you're far less likely to make frequent visits. Class times should figure into your calculations as well. Many after-workcardiovascular classes start between 5 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. Calculate drive time to the club and how long it will take you to climb into gym togs. Is the location still realistic or will you be more likely to blow off that workout?

2. Member Ages/Types: The second most important factor is the age and type of membership. If you're a middle-aged woman looking to shed 20 pounds, it can be difficult to exercise at a club filled with college girls in skimpy leotards. Likewise, if you're 18 and seeking a six-pack stomach, you may want to reconsider joining that family oriented club.

3. Traffic Patterns: Visit the club during the hours you expect to exercise and gauge how long it will take you to complete a weight circuit, get on the cardio equipment or secure a seat in the spin class. Will you constantly bump arms and legs with neighbors in the classes you're likely to attend? Will you have to wait in line for a shower and can you easily secure a locker? Will child-care workers be so overloaded they'll overlook your child? If you're visiting a club in early January, keep in mind traffic will take at least a 25-percent dive in February.

4. Equipment: Do you need to be entertained? Are you more likely to push yourself on the cardio equipment if you have a choice of TV/music stations or will you sputter out early? Does the club offer a selection of bikes, Stairmasters, treadmills, etc.? Aerobics should be balanced with strength training, so give the weight equipment several test runs. Do you prefer free weights or weight machines? Do they have the equipment you prefer? If you're just starting out, you'll likely prefer the weight machines, so test-run both upper-body and lower-body circuits.

5. Classes: Do you tend to get a better workout in a class? Many of us will stick it out through the entire hour in a class, while it's easy to give up half way through a solo workout. Does the club offer a variety of classes, such as steps, kickboxing, spin (group cycling), yoga,Pilates and body training? Once you get into the rhythm of regular workouts, having cardio options will  keep things fresh. Verify with the front desk that all classes offered on the printed schedules are still offered. Clubs have a bad habit of forgetting to change these schedules and sales reps may not be aware of the latest changes. 

6. Amenities: Is the locker room clean with sufficient room for the anticipated membership? Do they include blow dryers, curling irons, lotion, etc.? How's the parking situation? Do you need a basketball court or swimming pool? Do they offer a lounge area for socializing? The more amenities offered the higher the membership rate, but if you really need a soak or steam after a workout, why bother with a club that doesn't offer these amenities?

7. Upcoming Changes: Is the club considering a major remodel or future construction that could greatly impact your workout? Most importantly, is the club financially sound? In this economy it's possible to end up with a one-year membership in a defunct club. 

8. Negotiate: With an industry retention rate of just 50 percent, clubs are offering concessions to current and new members. You might ask for a rider allowing you to put the membership on hold while on vacation, injured or out of work. Ask about package deals for your family or through an employer. Take notes while talking with the salesperson to make sure everything mentioned is included in the contract.

9. Review the Contract: Some clubs use high-pressure tactics to force you into signing on your first visit. You should never sign on the dotted line until you've paid several visits to the club and used the facilities. The incentives offered on your first visit will likely be available after you've given the club a whirl. Once you've made a decision, take the contract home and read it carefully. Make sure everything the salesperson promised is in the contract. Does the contract include a "cooling-off" period (required in many states), allowing you several days to reconsider? If you need to cancel because of a move or injury, could you get a refund or stop monthly payments? What if you simply want to stop using the club? Knowing the cancellation policies is vital if you're signing a long-term contract. Be sure to keep a copy of the signed contract.

10. Do a Background Search: Before you sign the contract, contact your local consumer protection office, state attorney general or Better Business Bureau to research any complaints or broken laws. If problems arise after you've joined, these offices can help you file a complaint or you can contact the Federal Trade Commission online or at 1-877-382-4357.