Finding a health club that meets your requirements and your budget can be an overwhelming task. You want to be certain that this is a place you’ll want to come back to again and again, since it is usually a considerable investment. There are some general questions you should be sure to ask while shopping around. Consider these essentials:

1. Amenities. Does the fitness centre have individualized and controlled weight training, aerobic workout classes, yoga, weight control and diet programs? Do you have to bring your own towel? Figure out what you really want from a club – be it classes, personal training, spa services, and/or day care - and look for a place that offers it. If all you need is a set of weights, you may wish to look into a no-frills gym at a lower rate.
2. Location. Unofficial research indicates that five miles is about as much as people will go to workout on a regular basis, so location is ultimately one of the most important factors. Do you prefer to go to the club from home or before or after work? Will a nationwide chain that gives you training privileges in their facilities all over the country better serve your needs if you’re a frequent traveller?
3. Trial Period. Ask if there’s a trial period so that you can check out membership before making a long-term commitment. It’s important to shop around, as with most big purchases. If you are given a free trial period, get confirmation of this in writing. If you can pay a fee and use the facility for a week or two before joining, find out if the fee can be applied to membership if you decide to join.
4. Costs. Look out for hidden costs that can eat into your schedule and budget. Are the classes offered at the times you want? Is the club open early, late or on weekends? Do you have to pay extra for services such as marathon training? What’s included in the membership dues and what costs extra? Try to match the price offered with the value you’re getting.
5. Discounts. Couples, family, single parent and other promotional discounts are often offered by fitness clubs. Membership fees and conditions are almost always negotiable. Ask if the club offers discount guest passes to other clubs or relocation discounts if you travel regularly or might be relocating. If you bring in new members many clubs will give you a three or six-month free membership extension, but you’ll probably have to ask.
6. Equipment and classes. Training equipment should be clean, in good condition, and available. You shouldn’t have to spend all of your time waiting in line to use equipment, and the equipment should accommodate persons of all skill levels and sizes.
7. Employees. Are the employees friendly and obliging? Helpful personnel can help you reach your fitness goals. Don’t be afraid to look at credentials or at least ask what their qualifications are. Just cuz the instructors are buff or cute doesn’t mean they know what they’re doing.
8. Financial Stability. Hey don’t laugh, we know a guy who signed up for a two year membership at a club that went belly up a week after they dinged his credit card. Don’t be afraid to ask or look up the club online.
9. Workout Buddies. Studies show that guys who work out with a friend work out harder, more often and make more progress than those who work out alone. So if you’ve already got a pal with a membership at a gym, join him as a guest and see if you like it. You may also qualify for a “friends” discount.

Do your due diligence so you can workout at a club that makes you want to be there.