Every New Year, thousands of people flock to gyms with the resolution to get healthier. Finding a gym that meets your fitness goals while providing value is essential. Some facilities include amenities like a lap pool, massage therapy, rock climbing walls, and saunas, but if they aren’t things you will utilize, it may not be the gym for you. 

 

To find a gym that works for you, consider these five things:

 

1. Does the facility offer a free orientation before you commit? It’s necessary to get a good look at the provided equipment and learn what the facility provides to members. Many gyms even arrange a free or low-cost one-on-one session for new members to teach you how to use the equipment. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn how to safely use the machines and get the best workout for your health goals. Having a trainer that can help guide you and do follow-up sessions is a huge benefit that not all facilities offer. If this is your first time in a gym setting (or if it’s been a while), this benefit ranks high for the likelihood of achieving your goals.

2. How crowded is the gym at the time of day you’ll be going? It’s crucial to ask about the average number of people using the facilities at different times each day throughout the week. If you always have to wait to use the machines you want to use, you’re less likely to go.

3. Does your gym offer complimentary locker rooms with showers? Having a place to store your belongings and change into and out of your workout clothes is important. Some gyms also offer other ‘comfort’ options like towel service, complimentary coffee, etc. 

4. Is the equipment clean and well maintained? If you walk into a facility and see out of order signs hanging from equipment or the equipment is dirty or in disrepair, turn right around and don’t look back. Properly maintained and cleaned gyms are crucial for your health and safety when working out.

5. Do they offer nutrition training? A nice benefit some gyms offer is nutrition education. Suppose a nutritionist or an online nutrition program is available. In that case, you can bet they care about your overall health and wellness since nutrition is a huge part of leading a healthy lifestyle.

 

Remember, the most effective workout equipment to live a healthier lifestyle includes cardio machines, weight machines, and free weights. If you find a gym with those three components, you are more likely to get the workout your body needs to be healthier. If you keep the five things presented here in mind when searching for the ideal gym, you’re bound to meet your health and fitness goals in no time!