Health Club - Is It Right For You?

by Heather McLaughlin

When you decide that it’s time to get healthy or lose some weight, a no brainer question you might ask yourself is whether or not joining a health club would prove beneficial to achieve your weight loss and fitness goals.

There are many reasons that joining a health club make sense.

Most health clubs offer more than just one way to get fit. Depending on the health club, you’re likely to find free weight equipment, weight machines, cardio machines like elliptical trainers, stationary bicycles or treadmills. They might also have personal trainers available to help you target problem spots or just give helpful advice.

Big Box health clubs like Bally’s Fitness and Gold’s Gym offer extensive options for their members. They likely have organized fitness classes like spinning, step aerobics, and cardio kickboxing, along with cardio equipment, weights, free weights and personal trainers. Some people like the camaraderie and energy of being involved in a motivational exercise class, so this could be enjoyable for someone that likes this type of atmosphere. You’re also likely to find an indoor swimming pool, a hot tub and a sauna in many locations. For people that enjoy walking, running or jogging an indoor track is another feature that helps sell the health club. For those that have kids, you might also find childcare available. Of course, amenities vary per location so it’s always a good idea to tour the health club and get clarification on what the
club offers and if there are additional charges for participating in group classes.

If Bally’s or Gold’s Gym isn’t right for you, you might consider joining a YMCA or a ladies only gym like Curves.

..and if none of them appeal to you, there is always the option of going it alone with an exercise DVD or other home fitness plan.

I hope that this helps you make the right decision on whether or not a health club is right for you.

If you’re looking for support and conversation about weight loss, exercise and fitness, I invite you to join the fun at the Featherish Weight Loss Community.