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Dallas, Texas |
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Health: Body by Jer |
By: Jerry Warburton (Certified Personal Trainer ISSA) |
Have you been thinking about getting in shape but aren't really sure where to start? Relax. No one's born knowing how to use exercise equipment. So here's a new step-by-step series to guide you through the bulging world of health and fitness.
This month's feature will help you choose the right gym. Future articles will help you to understand what types of exercise programs are available and best suit your needs. I'll also show you how to develop a healthy eating plan (I don't like the word or connation of 'diet'), pick supplements and tackle other fitness issues.
HOW TO CHOOSE A GYM:
• LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: If you have to drive too far you probably won't go, or won't go as much. You may want to consider a location near your workplace so you can go on the way home. If you go home first, it will be more difficult to get the drive to get up and go out again. Also, make sure the hours of operation, child-care, (if applicable), types and times of aerobics classes fit into your schedule.
• NO PAIN NO GAIN: Make sure the gym is well equipped. Waiting in line to use a machine will quickly grow old! Look for a gym that has more than two machines that target the same muscle group. Make sure the gym is clean, and the equipment is well maintained. Check out the locker rooms--ask opinions from some of the patrons on the bikes (they will be more willing to answer questions than those working out with weights).
• ORIENTATION IS A MUST: This is very important to help you to get on a program that best meets your needs. Additional sessions are recommended as a follow up. The orientation should be free (part of the membership signing fee). Most trainers in the South Florida-area charge between $35 - $50 per session and may give a discount for session packages of 10 or more.
• MEMBERSHIP FEES: You want to build the muscle and trim the fat - not break the bank. Most gyms membership fees range from $250.00 per year to $600.00. Some include an initiation fee and some wrap it up in the monthly dues. Notice, I listed this last, because while it is obviously very important the other requirements above will turn out to be more important. If you are saving $200.00 per year, but driving 10 miles to that gym verses 2 miles to the more expensive one, the extra time, gas expense, and wear and tear on the car will more than offset the extra $3.84 per week for the less expensive one.
IN SHORT: Remember to shop around before making a decision. Gyms, like everything else, are competitive and by shopping around you will be able to get the best deal but remember DON'T make the yearly membership your main requirement.
CHOOSE A GYM AT A GLANCE
Equipment
Convenience
Certified Trainers
Cost
Some Ft. Lauderdale Health Clubs:
Bally Total Fitness
(954) 764-8666
750 W Sunrise Blvd.
Curves For Women
(954) 916-1718
1737 N University Dr.
European Fitness Addiction
(954) 565-0606
2747 E Oakland Park Blvd.
Gold's Gym
(954) 741-5511
4545 N Pine Island Rd.
Inshape Fitness & Pilates Studio
(954) 564-4459
3020 N Federal Hwy.
Lady Of America Fitness Center
(954) 577-9004
10197 W Sunrise Blvd.
24 Hour Fitness
(954) 472-9998
700 S Pine Island Rd.
World Gym
(954) 321-0333
7067 W Broward Blvd.
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