Getting fit as a family can be fun! Whether you have young
children or teenagers, joining a family fitness center is a great way to
stay active and enjoy each other's company. With a number of facilities
in your area, choosing the right one may be challenging. Before you
commit to a family fitness center, here are some things to consider.
1. Always begin your search for a facility in your neighborhood. Roughly 67 percent of people with gym memberships never use them. One factor that causes this is the distance. If you choose a facility in a neighboring community, you are much less likely to use it. Choosing a gym that is a quick car ride or a brief walk from your home is a much better option. If it's convenient, you are much more likely to frequent the facility on a regular basis.
2. Shop around for costs. The average monthly gym membership is $58 per person, so buying gym memberships for your entire family can get expensive. Look for gyms that offer a flat rate or offer a very low monthly fee. You are also going to want to consider initiation fees. Some places may have a zero dollar fee while others may charge a fairly high amount. Always check out costs before signing any contracts.
3. Does the gym offer childcare services? Even though the goal of joining a gym together is to spend time and have fun with your loved ones, childcare is important, especially if you have young children. When they become tired or if they are too small to partake in certain activities, childcare services can be very beneficial.
4. Take a tour of the location before making a decision. Studies show that 88 percent of adults won't exercise in an unclean gym. Security and cleanliness are thus very important. Take a tour of the locker rooms and restrooms as well as any classrooms, childcare rooms, and swimming pools the location may offer. Ask for a tour of everything; never settle for what you see at the front desk. Be sure to inquire about security. Can anyone walk in? Is there always someone at the front desk? Will you need to bring your own locks for the locker room? Are there cameras? You can never be too safe when it comes to your loved ones.
5. Inquire about the fitness center staff. Are they certified instructors? Do they have personal training certifications or group fitness certifications? Are they certified in CPR? Are staff members required to know first aid? Asking questions can help to ensure that your loved ones are safe.
6. Make sure you know the facility's hours. Pick a location that has hours that work with your schedule. If the kids have plenty of after-school activities, you are likely going to want a gym that has weekend hours.
The decision to join a family fitness center is a great one for all of your loved ones. From the smallest members to the oldest members, everyone can benefit from physical activity.
1. Always begin your search for a facility in your neighborhood. Roughly 67 percent of people with gym memberships never use them. One factor that causes this is the distance. If you choose a facility in a neighboring community, you are much less likely to use it. Choosing a gym that is a quick car ride or a brief walk from your home is a much better option. If it's convenient, you are much more likely to frequent the facility on a regular basis.
2. Shop around for costs. The average monthly gym membership is $58 per person, so buying gym memberships for your entire family can get expensive. Look for gyms that offer a flat rate or offer a very low monthly fee. You are also going to want to consider initiation fees. Some places may have a zero dollar fee while others may charge a fairly high amount. Always check out costs before signing any contracts.
3. Does the gym offer childcare services? Even though the goal of joining a gym together is to spend time and have fun with your loved ones, childcare is important, especially if you have young children. When they become tired or if they are too small to partake in certain activities, childcare services can be very beneficial.
4. Take a tour of the location before making a decision. Studies show that 88 percent of adults won't exercise in an unclean gym. Security and cleanliness are thus very important. Take a tour of the locker rooms and restrooms as well as any classrooms, childcare rooms, and swimming pools the location may offer. Ask for a tour of everything; never settle for what you see at the front desk. Be sure to inquire about security. Can anyone walk in? Is there always someone at the front desk? Will you need to bring your own locks for the locker room? Are there cameras? You can never be too safe when it comes to your loved ones.
5. Inquire about the fitness center staff. Are they certified instructors? Do they have personal training certifications or group fitness certifications? Are they certified in CPR? Are staff members required to know first aid? Asking questions can help to ensure that your loved ones are safe.
6. Make sure you know the facility's hours. Pick a location that has hours that work with your schedule. If the kids have plenty of after-school activities, you are likely going to want a gym that has weekend hours.
The decision to join a family fitness center is a great one for all of your loved ones. From the smallest members to the oldest members, everyone can benefit from physical activity.
