Wednesday 15 December 2010

Tips for Making the Most of Your Gym Membership

Here are some ways you can get the most out of your bucks:


1. USE YOUR MEMBERSHIP
Monthly fees can be a significant chunk of your disposable income, so going to the gym regularly is probably the best way to get some return on your investment.

2. GO DURING OFF-PEAK HOURS
Use this option if it fits your schedule. Off-peak hours mean less people in the gym so you won't waste time waiting to use machines which will, in turn, make working out a more pleasant experience.

3. GET THE RIGHT MEMBERSHIP PLAN
Assess what features of the gym you need and want. Find out which classes you can attend, and if you don’t want to go to the classes but just want to use the equipment, see if there’s a cheaper package. Usually, dropping some features--like special classes or physical trainers’ service--or lessening the frequency of visits make for a more affordable and practical membership. For example, a passport membership allowing you access to all branches of a gym may not be necessary if you only plan to frequent one particular branch.

On the other hand, if you travel a lot and still want to have the benefits of going to the gym, it might be just the thing you need. Which brings us to our next point.

4. UTILIZE THE INTERNATIONAL PRIVILEGES OF YOUR GYM
Some local gyms have branches in other countries or provinces. Find out about discounted rates or free entry to its international branches or partner gyms.

5. FREEZE YOUR MEMBERSHIP WHEN YOU GO ON HIATUS
Learn the policy on freezing your membership. This basically allows the club member to skip the monthly fee or at least enjoy a discount for a period wherein you foresee a short hiatus from visiting the gym.

6. TRY EVERYTHING OUT
Try each of the gym equipment. You’re entitled to! This way you get the chance to see how each of them works and what muscle group is targeted. Plus, this can prove to be a very entertaining project! Try all the dance and group classes to see which one you enjoy the most. All this can add variety to your work outs and can help you remain motivated.

7. USE THE OTHER FACILITIES
Switch up your fitness routine by making use of each of the gym facilities included in your membership package. Take advantage of the sauna, swimming pool, boxing ring, spa, and even the salon.

8. SIGN UP FOR FREEBIES
Gyms usually offer regular physical fitness assessments, health check-ups, consultations, and product sampling of health products exclusively for members.

9. GAIN SOME GYM BUDDIES
Make working out fun by having friends who can help support you in your fitness goals. So you can pass on the love to family and friends whom you want to invite into the world of health and fitness while they accompany you on your workout, grab those guest passes that come with your membership and pass them out. Who knows? They might just sign up, and you'll have a buddy for the duration.

10. PARTICIPATE IN EVENTS
Gyms often hold promos and contests like Biggest Loser-type programs, marathon aerobics and spinning contests, and referral programs. These are strategies to retain its members while recruiting new ones.

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