Upon moving to Dhaka City, nearly two years ago, the first intention I had on my list of agendas was to join a gym in order to continue the fitness regime which I had taken up the previous years. But my intention did not quite lead to adequate action, until I realised my favourite outfits had shrunk, well, actually, truth be told, I had somewhat expanded. Eventually I did join a gym. I want to share my things what I considered before choosing the gym which was right for me.
Fitness goals: This is possibly the most important factor before even stepping into a gym for the tour. What do you want to realistically achieve from your intended fitness regime? Do you want lose excess weight, do you want to put on lean mass, do you want to tone up or put on muscle, do you want to improve your fitness level or do you simply want to maintain a healthy lifestyle? This is an important question you need to ask yourself; otherwise you could find yourself in the wrong gym with the wrong crowd.
Facilities: Once you have decided what you want from your fitness regime, go and check out a few gyms — take the tour. Make sure the gym is adequately equipped for your needs. Are the facilities able to accommodate your goals and fitness level? You may try out the machines. If you are into cardio, make sure they have treadmills, exercise bikes, steppers, cross-trainers. If you are looking to tone up or build muscle then make sure they have adequate weights and machines for all the muscle groups you intend to workout.
Classes: As optional extras most gyms and health clubs offer speciality classes, such as step aerobics, spin classes, pilates, yoga and even from what I have heard salsa. Such classes maybe worth your while considering for various reasons.
The trainers: This is another very important factor to consider when choosing a gym, especially if you are a first time gym goer. A trainer will instruct you in correct form, posture and technique for performing exercises. This is the utmost important factor in order to gain the most from your time and efforts at the gym but also to perform the exercise in a safe way so to avoid injuries. Meet the trainers before you decided upon joining. Tell them about your fitness goals, tell them about any concerns you may have and ask them any questions you may also have.
Cost: Of course this is a factor that is upon all our minds. Fortunately, now-a-days, it is very competitive market. Unless you want to be a trend follower, you can use this fact to your advantage. Play them against each other; try and get the best deal possible.
Before joining a gym, make sure the gym suits you, your needs and your fitness goals. It is worth remembering that you should always consult a physician or expert before modifying your diet or attempting any sort of fitness regime if you have disease or particular condition.