Research - ask your family, friends, and co-workers about their health clubs. Does any club stand out with a good or bad reputation? Search in the internet on a health club in your area. Are there any new, innovative club? If you prefer a national chain, is there one nearby? If you prefer a small, locally owned club, where might you find one?

Prepare a List of Questions - when you visit the gym for the first time, make sure it is clear that you are interviewing the salesperson and not the other way around.

Your Questions Should be the Following :

• How old is the exercise equipment?
• How often is the equipment replace?
• What type of continuing education is provided for the or required on your staff?
• What are the busiest times? What fitness area are most crowded? At what times?
• Are class sizes limited?
• Is additional fees imposed, like : for towels or the swimming pool?
• Do they offer free parking or on site child-care services?
• Is entertainment available like televisions or personal music stations?

• How many interactions during a workout can you expect from the staff?
• What types of personal consultation services are available? Example, are there personal fitness trainers or nutrition consultants? What qualifications do these staff members have?
• Is the facility equipped to handle emergencies?
• How much does membership cost? What are the opt-out policies? What are the billing cycles?

Get a Temporary Pass - most gym will grant a two week pass upon request. Get as many days as you can for free, and use the gym just as you would if you were a new member. Does the location work with your routine? Are there any pieces of equipment you wish you could use? Are there classes that fit your schedule?

Follow Through - Once you have signed up for you membership, it is your responsibility to get yourself to the gym.

One reason gym membership has soared in the past few years is that there is a wide variety of fitness clubs. Some clubs are small, neighborhood establishments with a more cozy setting and back to basics equipments. Other clubs offer such varied amenities as spa treatments, gourmet meals, child care, rock climbing, squash, tennis. The sky is the limit with today's facilities. The hardest part of your new workout is finding the club that's right for you.