The New Nation - Internet Edition

The 'gym' - just the word can strike fear into the uninitiated!

We all know that we should probably go to one, but some of us have just never got around to it, and frankly the whole process seems very intimidating. But once you get there, and it's a good one, it can be great fun.

Are you thinking of joining a gym but have been putting it off for ages? Well here is some inspiration for you to get off your buns and take a look at what is out there. There is a process to finding a gym because it must suit you and your needs, likes and dislikes.

First of all you need to know what type of person you are and how much money you are willing to spend before making a purchase. By knowing yourself and your personal needs and being well informed about your options before making a decision you will not end up being one of the high number of people who buys a membership, uses it once and never goes again. Gyms love people like this because you have given them your money and you do not take up their floor space. Nice isn't it? This is why the gym business is a multi billion pound industry. So take my advice that follows and you should feel your money is well spent and, most importantly you will get in shape.

There are many factors to consider before buying a membership. What do you want to get out of being active and what activities do you enjoy. If you love swimming then find a gym with a good pool and the other facilities within will be a bonus for you. Weight training your bag? Find a gym, which has a well-equipped weight training area and professional guidance to support it. Qualifications of gym staff are of high significance and are often a touchy subject in the gym industry. It is important to be aware of the standard of staff and their level of education. The person showing you the machines should have a YMCA instructor award at the very least and if you require a full programme, seeking out a member of staff with at least a sports science degree or higher, preferably also combined with other certifications such as an advanced resistance training course. Under special circumstances a person who has specialty areas such as pregnancy care, rehab exercise experience, or specialized sporting expertise - depending on your needs - should be sought after. The relationship and chemistry between the trainer and client is another factor, which will determine the success of joining a gym.

Other factors to consider are proximity of the gym to work or home, cleanliness of the facility and feel of the atmosphere. Studies show that the closer your gym is to your work or home the more likely you are to attend and stick with it. This really makes sense as most human beings tend to take the easiest route to life. Cleanliness is a big deal for women in particular. Take a good look around when you go for a tour in the gym: do the machines look as though they have been wiped down? Are the mats free of sweat? Can you actually see yourself in the mirror? One thing you may not think of looking at, are the people actually working out. Are they putting a towel or t-shirt between them and the benches when they sit or lie down? If they are, this means the staff has trained them about good etiquette in the facility. Next you should ask to have a wander around the change rooms and check out the cleanliness of floors, counters and showers. Most gyms should carry out a big clean at some point in the day along with an attendant going through after the busy times in the morning and after lunch. Feel of atmosphere is very important too. You will be less likely to attend if the gym does not have the right feel when you walk in for the first time. This is based on the individual's personality and it does not mean that it may not appeal to someone else. Do not get a membership in a cramped basement type gym if you are claustrophobic. You need to feel right at home - like the environment, the colours, and the type of music and most importantly the people you are surrounded by. These may not be obvious things at first, but they are important because over time they may start to annoy you. It's a good idea to write yourself some notes and lists of requirements before you go into the gym.

The last question you should ask yourself is: is a gym really for me? If you think it might be, then use the points given above to write some notes before you start your investigation.

Don't be afraid to check out several places, ask to look around and take their information. Take your time and never sign up before you are ready.

Do not feel obliged to give them your details before they show you around or until you have decided to become a member. Remember you are the boss! Choosing your gym should be a fun process ending in lots of rewarding results.