Finding the Best Health Clubs - How they Compare

Finding the best health clubs anywhere can be daunting if you do not know where to start. There are some things you will need to know prior to going on your search and in most cases you will know it when you see it.  Before you go dashing out the door and health club hopping take a deep breath, sit down and define the workout you are interested in.  This will allow you to know what you require from the health club of your choice.  If you will be doing a lot of walking and running then make sure you put the treadmill in your list of requirements, if you think swimming will be one of the things you do, then jot down the swimming pool as a requirements.  How about yoga or pilates?  Will you be lifting weights?  All of these should then go into your list of requirements and will be part of the criteria you will use in finding the best health clubs in your area.

One of the things you will look out for is proximity and convenience.  No-one wants to hop two trains just to get to the gym of their choice.  Get a gym that is close to you and that you can go to at a time that is convenient for you.  Cost is a big factor when finding the best health clubs.  Some of these may be pricey but others not necessarily.  The best health clubs will be trendy, spacious and airy.  They will also come equipped with the latest and best machines.  If you are into spinning classes make sure that you find a gym equipped with machines that are in good working order.

It is said that you get what you pay for.  If you opt for a cheap gym you may find the services there to be substandard.  If you are looking to attend the best and trendiest gyms the cost may be slightly elevated.  Do not let that deter you from at least visiting them and enjoying the services.  It is advisable to talk to the people who frequent the gym and ask them about their experience there.  Enquire about special deals, availability of trainers and more.  Another great idea is to get on the Internet and see if you cannot find reviews and recommendations for some of the best health clubs where you are.

When finding the best health clubs look for those that have a personal touch to them.  Do they notice you when you walk in the door?  Does someone greet you?  The ratio of trainers to people coming to the gym should also tell you how much professional attention you will be getting.  Look for a variety of equipment; bicycles, elliptical machines and cardio equipment.  There should be several of the same kind so that one person does not have to wait for the other.  Find out the classes they have in place.  Most of the health clubs that are considered the best generally have a variety such as yoga, tae bo, boot camp and the like.

Look out for a Jacuzzi and steam room as well.  If the gym offers towels they will need to be soft and smell and look clean.  Most of these health clubs will give you a locker to keep so that you do not have to carry a heavy bag to and from the gym every time you come. The best health clubs will also tend to come with a healthy juice bar or a restaurant that specializes in healthy food.  After your workout, you need to kick back, relax and replenish your energy.