In Fantasy Healthball, you’ll see we give the biggest bonus for consistent exercise. You’ll get 10 extra points if you exercise three times a week and a huge 25 point bonus if you can fit in an exercise each day. On our exercise page, you’ll see “what counts” as an exercise. It is really not that much. The secret is consistency. Another tip is joining a gym. I would be lost without mine. Sure, it is an expense that has to be budgeted for, but it pays off in so many ways. You might call it – your “sure thing” investment.
Your Needs
Think about your needs before you start taking a look at gyms. I find the closer the gym is to your house or your office the better. But proximity is not the only factor. What is the monthly rate, what deals do they have going on, do they have enough of the type of equipment you would like to use? Take a look during the time period you would typically go. Are there long lines for the things you’d want to use? If you are motivated by a group, do they offer group exercise classes that fit your schedule (spinning class, pilates class, aerobic dance, kick boxing, yoga)? Can you shower there? Do they supply clean towels? Are the bathroom/shower facilities clean or do they make you feel like you may become a host organism for some crafty fungus looking to “see the world” while attached to your foot or worse.
Signing the Contract
One reason why you want to check it out so thoroughly is that you want to know you are sure before getting into the contract. Most gyms will let you work out one or more times for free while you consider joining. You should do that. Most will give a free orientation and maybe even a free training session. Beware, the membership coordinator is likely to be the kind of smooth operator that makes “Square Deal Sam” down at the used car lot look like Mother Teresa. Just stick to what you want and you’ll be fine.
Square Deal Sam
You can bargain. Especially in these economic times. Ask for no initiation fee. Ask for a senior discount, a student discount, a Virgo discount, whatever. Some gyms have variable rates based on how often you will use it for what time of day. Look on-line for savings. If you have a 24-hour Fitness near you and are considering it, Google “Costo 24-hour Fitness.” As of this writing, you can get a $12.50 monthly rate by signing a 2-year contract. That is a key buy if you are okay signing up for 2 years.
DO NOT worry about your current body size when starting out at a gym. You WILL find people there of all shapes and sizes. You are all there to get healthier. Talk to your doctor if you are new to an exercise program. Gyms/health clubs are a great way to help you establish routine in your exercise. Sure, you can walk outside or do sit-ups in the basement, but it is nice to get to a place too where you can get motivation from the people working out around you and maybe has some equipment you enjoy. If you can’t afford it now, start saving up and reward yourself with a membership when you can.
Remember, joining a gym isn’t the only way to exercise. But, for many people, it offers the resources and environment that inspires them to exercise. Also remember just being a member isn’t enough. You have to use the gym (more tips to come) and practice the other healthy lifestyle points at our site. Good luck, and write us a comment or email if questions. — Jim Ballard.
Subscribe to our RSS
