2torial #0713:
Learn2 Choose a Health Club (continued)

Conduct on-site visits

You've done the initial research, but there's still a lot to observe when you visit in person. You may be able to set up a guided tour or just ask to look around on your own. The ideal would probably be to do both, with a guided tour as the introduction, and your own sleuthing to supplement it. Make sure you visit each club at a time when you're likely use it, so you can get an authentic feel for the environment you'll be working out in. Look for these things:

Cleanliness. Are the facilities clean enough for your tastes? Are equipment rooms orderly and well-kept?

Locker room. Is it clean and well-stocked (does it offer soaps, shampoos, conditioners, lotions)? Along with showers, does it provide special amenities, like spinners for wringing out wet swimsuits, hair dryers, or enough counterspace for women who want to apply make-up after their workouts? Is there plenty of room in the lockers for storing your things? Are the lockers available on an assigned basis so you can keep gear there if you want?

Staff. Is the staff knowledgeable and friendly? Will they have enough free time to answer your questions or show you how to use the equipment? Does someone oversee the weight room at all times? Does the swimming pool have a competent lifeguard on duty whenever it's open?

Are instructors certified by reputable professional programs or do they have educational backgrounds in physical education, physical therapy, or kinesiology? Take note of any certifications and look them up on the Internet, or check with a university, sports college, or national sports governing body for information on what various certifications mean.

Atmosphere. Is there an atmosphere of cooperation or competitiveness in the weight room and classes--and which type of atmosphere do you prefer? If you can't be comfortable (or stimulated) at the gym, you're far less likely to go there and work out.

Are the other club members friendly? You also might ask them what they like about the club--and if there's anything they don't like.

Equipment and facilities. Is the equipment well-maintained? If you plan on using the pool, sauna, or Jacuzzi, is it crowded at the time of day when you'll be visiting?