January 23, 2022: Ask This Before Joining a Gym

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There are so many options for gyms, health clubs, boutique fitness studios, and rec centers out there. How the heck do you know what is right for you? This week, we’re going to talk about the questions you need to ask before joining a gym.

Before you get down to the nitty gritty in my list of things to ask, I’d like you to consider what your needs and wants are. Are you a plain Jane who just needs some machines, free weights, adn treadmills to be happy? Or are you looking for group fitness, trainers, and a social aspect? Or, maybe you prefer a more spa-like experience with fancy amenities and toiletries in the locker room?

Once you find some options for places you’d enjoy going to for your exercise (and that you WILL feasibly go to), bring this list of questions with you. These are my must-knows after working at a high-end health club for years. 😉

What is the Price?

The price is probably the most important aspect you need to know before joining a gym. Some clubs add hidden fees to the membership price…so the price you sign up for may not be the actual price you end up paying. Be proactive about asking about this!

Before you sign your contract, it’s important for you to know what price you’re going to pay for the year—or monthly. You should also know if they raise the price frequently or if there is a special going on. This could impact your budget—which could lead to cancellations and other added fees.

Is There a Maintenance Fee?

Over the last few years, gyms have taken a hit when it comes to memberships, which means a loss of revenue. In order to recoup their losses, they may implement a yearly maintenance fee. Before you sign up, be sure to ask if they charge a maintenance fee—and how much—so it doesn’t come as a big surprise when renewal comes up. In my opinion, you shouldn’t go somewhere with one, but you do you.

Do You Have to Sign a Contract?

Most health clubs offer a contract-style membership. Basically you sign up for a year, or longer, and commit to paying a set amount each month.

The problem with contracts is this: If you have to break your contract—because of a job loss or a move—then it may cost you even more to break the contract than it is to keep it going.

A contract is a great way to ensure they have recurring revenue each month. If you do have to sign up for a contract, be sure that you read the small print so you know if, and how, to get out of your contract is needed.

Contracts aren’t terrible, though. In fact, sometimes investing in something motivates us to use it! Just know exactly what you’re signing up for.

What’s the Cancellation Policy?

If the place you’re looking to join has a contract, be sure you know the cancellation policy. Some health clubs charge a cancellation fee, which can really impact your budget—no matter what the circumstance is.

Cancellation policies are there to protect the club—and to make it harder for you to cancel without jumping through a ton of hoops.

Before you sign anything, and fork over your bank info, make sure you know exactly what you’re facing if you need to opt out for any reason. Also look into what happens if you’re injured and can’t use the gym. For example, the place I worked allowed a member to suspend a membership with a doctor’s note.

What Services Does Your Membership Include?

Some memberships only include the use of the exercise equipment—and classes or specialized services are an added charge. This is why it’s important for you to know what you get when you sign up for your membership.

If you’re paying a lot of money each month, you want to be sure you’re getting everything you want from your membership.

Signing up for a gym membership could be one of the best investments you can make for your health. However, it can be very expensive—especially if there are hidden fees and cancellation policies. Before you sign on the dotted line, be sure you have these questions answered.

Next Sunday, we’ll talk about how long it will take to see weight loss results after starting a program.

Want some expert help with reaching your health goals painlessly? Check out my programs! We’ll get everything taken care of in a way that fits into your current lifestyle so you never have to think about your health again.

Do you have a friend who could stand to G(her)ST? Feel free to forward this!

I hope you have a wonderful week,

Kelly

Kelly Morgan, Ph.D.

Tsirona - www.tsirona.com

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