Questions to ask before joining a health club
Savvy consumers are questioning every monthly expensive in this new economy and a health club membership can be tough for some exercisers to justify. But many will pay to join a gym anyway, in an attempt to reach new fitness and weight loss resolutions. It may be a solid investment. To be sure that it is right for you, use this checklist to evaluate the real cost of a gym membership.
First, figure out a “cost per visit” for each time you will actually use the gym. Get out a calendar and mark the number of days that you worked out for more than 30 minutes in the last month. It’s typical to overestimate the number of days that you exercise, so don’t be surprised if the number you come up with is less than you expect. Now divide the monthly dues by the actual number of days you exercise to find out how much you would pay per visit.
With that number in mind, evaluate the following:
- Does the club offer unique services that are worth paying for? Childcare, tennis, golf training or a particular personal trainer might be worth the price of your membership if the service is not available elsewhere and you honestly use the service on a regular basis.
- Are comparable services available at a lower cost elsewhere? If you find yourself walking into the club and leaving after only a 40 minute run on the treadmill, then you might be better served by making a singular investment and purchasing that equipment for your home. Are you a free weight junkie? A well appointed weight room and a heath club quality mirror is available for the cost of 2-3 months of health club dues.
- Will you use the facilities? The health club may have a beautifully appointed locker room and shower area. But if you don’t shower at the club then the luxury isn’t worth paying for.
- Is the club convenient? Time is money. How long does it take to get to the club? Is it on your way home from work? How much time do you spend driving to the club, looking for a parking spot, waiting for equipment and standing in lines?
Many new exercisers will join a gym hoping that the investment will inspire them to use the facility. This is usually not the case. Try to have an exercise habit in place before making a financial commitment to a gym, especially if the cost of joining is significant. Workouts for serious exercisers are available at a variety of price points. Consider investing the money in home exercise equipment. A home gym doesn’t have to be expensive and can be far more convenient for some.
Check out these article for budget savvy workouts:
Staying fit and health on a budget
Stay fit at home with infants and toddlers
