If you’re looking for a gym where you can work out, there are plenty of options. But all gyms aren’t the same, and they’re not all going to be equally good fits for you. So, how can you tell which gym is right for you? Here are 3 big things to look for when you’re picking out a gym to make sure it’s a good fit for your needs.
Convenient Location and Hours
The best gym is one that you’ll actually go to. It doesn’t do you much good if you sign up for a gym membership, then realize the hours don’t match your schedule or you hate the drive to get there. Figure out what time of day will work best for your workouts, then try driving to the gyms that you’re thinking of to make sure it’s doable for you.
For example, if you want to work out early in the morning before work, make sure the gym opens early enough and check how long it’ll take you to drive to work from the gym. Or if you like to work out in the afternoon after picking up the kids from school, make sure the gym is in a convenient location for that. Here at Extreme Studio Performance, we have a lot of parents who work out in our gym while their kids’ sports teams use our indoor fields.
The Right Equipment and Amenities
Some gyms just have the most basic equipment. It works, but it might be on the older side or just the bare bones. Other gyms offer a wider selection of equipment. It’s up to you to decide what you want to prioritize. If you’re a beginner, it might make sense to opt for a gym with a wider variety so you can figure out what works best for you. Staff at a good gym will be able to help you figure out any equipment that’s new to you and give you tips for using it safely and effectively.
Modern equipment can also make working out easier on your body and give you more options. For example, free motion treadmills, recumbent and upright bikes, and elliptical machines help you get a great cardio workout while minimizing unnecessary strain. For strength training, torque equipment, motion cages, and power racks can add depth to your workout and provide options beyond standard free weights. Of course, high-end gyms that offer a wide variety of new workout machines also provide more familiar, standard equipment if you want to stick with the tried-and-true.
Options and Atmosphere You Like
The atmosphere of a gym and the options it offers also play a major role in whether or not a gym is the right fit for you. You’ll really have to visit the gym and take a tour to see if you like the place. What kind of people do you see working out there, and how do they treat each other if they interact? Is there enough space between the equipment? Does the atmosphere seem encouraging or judgmental? Does the lighting and audio environment feel like a place you want to work out? What are the locker rooms like? Is everything clean and well-maintained?
If you plan to work with a personal trainer or join a group class, you’ll also want to check out the trainers’ specializations and certifications. Some gyms let non-members join group classes for a fee, which would let you get a feel for the gym without jumping right into a membership.
Extreme Studio Performance offers a wide selection of state-of-the-art equipment in a luxury gym atmosphere. We provide a welcoming workout space where like-minded people from all walks of life can work toward their fitness goals. Contact us today to schedule a tour and free fitness evaluation, and see if our gym space is a good fit for you.