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| How to Choose a Health
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| Are you thinking of joining a health club? How
many times have you skipped a workout because the gym is too far
away or will be too crowded when you get there? If you're like a
lot of people, the answer is 'too many.'
Why give yourself an out? Cut the excuses by doing your
homework and choosing a club that's right for you. It's no
secret that picking a quality club is key to sticking with your
program.
But choosing a health club can rank high on the confusion
meter. Sign-up specials scream in all forms of media, and it
seems there's a new club on every corner. Before you jump on the
latest two-for-one membership deal, take the time to consider
these helpful tips:
 | LOCATION: For your fitness routine to be
successful, exercise has to be convenient. You're more likely
to use a club if it is close to either your home or workplace.
You also don't want to choose a health club just because it is
close to your home or work, but if you join a club that isn't
convenient, you are more likely to find an excuse to stop
going. ACE offers referrals to clubs via it's Web site,
on the 'Find A Club' link.
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| CLASSES: If classes are what keep you motivated,
make sure the club offers an eclectic mix you like and that
they are offered at a time of day that fits your schedule.
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| STAFF: Personal trainers and group fitness
instructors should be certified through a nationally
recognized certification organization like the American
Council on Exercise (ACE). Credible certification can assure
you the instructor meets the guidelines to provide a safe and
efficient workout. ACE offers referrals to certified fitness
professionals via the Web site,
on the 'Find an ACE Pro' link.
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| HOURS: Lots of health clubs open early and stay
open late. Before you join, though, make sure your club is
open when you plan to go. Then visit the club at the times you
intend to work out. Check whether the club is too crowded or
if there are long lines for equipment at that time.
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| TRY IT BEFORE YOU BUY IT: Sales people are trained
to hype the benefits of their health club, but you need to
actually try out some of the equipment and get a feel for the
club's atmosphere before you sign up. Request a day pass or a
trial membership - this is a good way to 'test drive' the
health club's services.
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| PAYMENTS: Many clubs have a variety of payment
options. Find a payment schedule that meets your budget needs,
and take advantage of any sign-up specials. Find out exactly
what the membership fee is and what it includes. Will you have
to pay extra for childcare and towels? Don't forget to ask if
they require an initiation fee; and if you are joining a new
club that hasn't opened yet, make sure that any deposits or
payments are held in an escrow account until they officially
open.
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| REPUTATION: Before you join, talk to current
members about their experiences with the club. The Better
Business Bureau can tell you if the club is a member or if any
complaints have been registered against it. Added security
comes if the club is a member of the International Health,
Racquet, and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). IHRSA clubs must
oblige by a code of ethics that protects the health and safety
of their members, as well as protects consumers from
unscrupulous business practices. To find an IHRSA club in your
area, www.healthclubs.com or call (800) 766-1278.
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| LITTLE DETAILS: As you tour the club, pay attention
to details. How clean is the facility? Is the music too loud?
Is most of the equipment in working order? Too many 'out of
order' signs may indicate poor maintenance. Are new members
provided with a club orientation and instruction on how to use
equipment? Make sure the club is a place where you would enjoy
spending time.
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With a little research and patience, you will be rewarded
with a membership at a health club you can call 'home.' More
importantly, you will be reaping the long-term benefits of a
structured exercise program that perfectly suits your lifestyle. |
This ACE Fit Fact is taken from ACE FitnessMatters®
magazine. Want more information like this delivered directly to your
home? ACE FitnessMatters, the bi-monthly magazine from the American
Council on Exercise (ACE), is the source for the most accurate,
up-to-date fitness information you need to live a healthy, active
life. Subscribe to ACE FitnessMatters Magazine directly from ACE at
http://www.acefitness.org/fitnessmatters/ or call
1-800-825-3636.
The American Council on Exercise® of San Diego,
California (ACE®) does not endorse or promote the companies,
products or services that reside on this Web site. ACE does not
receive revenue generated from any organizations that advertise on
this Web site. Copyright 2003 American Council on Exercise. All
Rights Reserved.
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