How To Make The Most of Your Gym Membership
Many people think that shelling out a reasonable amount of money for a gym membership could push them to get in shape. Most of the time, people who want to shed off some weight hope that this could be enough reason to go on a regular gym visit. But sometimes, no matter how hard you try to stick to your fitness goals and routines, you suddenly become sluggish and unmotivated.
Aside from locking in your gym membership for a year, fortunately, there are tons of other reasons to look at to stay motivated. Whether you are about to look for the “right gym” near you or you just simply need to keep yourself driven, below are some tips from personal trainers and fitness coaches on how you can maximize your gym membership. Remember that you pay a certain premium for its services so make sure that you make the best use of them!
Choosing the right gym
Check the amenities
If you are the kind of person who easily gets bored using the treadmill or riding a stationary bike, you must take into consideration the variety of machines and the number of classes. Some people prefer variety rather than sticking to a particular routine to stay motivated. But if you are a person who just wants to swing by to the gym to sweat out for thirty minutes to a maximum of one hour, a smaller gym may work for you. If you have a child, opt for a gym that offers an on-site childcare service.
Go for a gym that’s conveniently located near you
A gym’s location is very important to those who always skip gym day because they are pressed for time and don’t want to travel much longer. Choose a gym near your office if you plan to work out during your lunch break or after work. If you prefer to work out in the morning before heading to the office or at the weekend, a gym that is near your home is the best choice. Staying within three to five miles of your chosen gym location is highly suggested by personal trainers and coaches.
Take note of the gym’s operating hours
If you plan to exercise at the same time each visit, join somewhere that has limited hours. Joining this kind of facility will also save you a few bucks compared to joining a twenty-four-hour gym. The twenty-four-hour gym or the ones that have longer operating hours are only ideal for those whose schedule is scattered or working on a night shift.
Review your contract
Upon your first visit to the gym, make sure to get a copy of your contract first. Before signing the contract and deciding if it is the right gym for you based on your preferences and needs, you need to review all the terms and conditions including rates and use of amenities.
At the gym
Maximize your free personal training sessions
A free one-on-one training session with a personal trainer is usually included in today’s gym subscriptions. Take advantage of these perks as it helps you maximize your gym membership. This usually includes a fitness evaluation and a tailored-fit workout routine recommended by the personal trainer. Ask as many questions as you can because this is the time you will get to familiarize yourself with the proper techniques and the use of each machine.
Read more: Are Personal Trainers Worth It?
Take advantage of the equipment
Plain and simple, using the same equipment each visit will probably bore you and will make you sluggish. Get off that treadmill and try using a different machine. Ask your personal trainer which equipment you can use aside from the one that you are currently using. Besides, trying different machines targets various muscle groups which results in a more holistic workout.
Read more: Free Weights vs Resistance Machines – Which Is Better?
Join classes
Let’s admit it, it is more exciting to plunge into a workout if you have a gym buddy. Joining group fitness classes like Pilates, yoga, or spinning opens an opportunity to meet new friends. If this is your first time to attend such classes, don’t get intimidated! You will soon get the hang of it and keep in mind that everyone started as beginners. All you have to do is check the class schedule, sign up, and fit to a class that best suits your busy lifestyle.
Read more: What To Wear To Your First Fitness Class
Don’t skip a visit and don’t quit
As advised by personal trainers, make exercise a part of your everyday routine. Make it your habit until it becomes part of your lifestyle. Do not let several days go by without swinging by the gym and sweating off all your stress and unwanted pounds. Going to the gym makes you healthy physically, mentally and emotionally so make the most out of your gym membership! Besides, it is exciting to see results both from your perseverance and hard-earned money.
About the author: Bec Lim has worked in the fitness industry for the past 7 years. As a mother of a young child, she understands how difficult it is to get the gym and how important it is to feel good about yourself.