Ok, so you're thinking about joining a health club. You want to get in better shape and you know that by joining a health club this will be easier to achieve. There are several clubs in town, all with fairly good reputations, and several with names that you know because they are national chains. Should you just go sign up at the one that's closest to your house or work? Should you sign up at one because you know someone who goes there? After all, aren't all clubs the same anyway?

Well, all clubs are not created equal, and there are some things to keep in mind when making your final decision on which club will best suit your needs. Many people join a health club excited and ready to go just to end up disappointed and unhappy because the club simply does not meet their needs. Here are some considerations to help you get the most from the health club you choose.

LOCATION:
Try to choose a club that is at least somewhat close to either your home or work. For any exercise program to succeed, it has to be convenient or it will never last long enough for it to become a permanent part of your life. If it's close and easy to get to, and there are always plenty of parking spaces for your car, that will be a big plus. If you join a club that is not easy to get to, you'll be a lot more likely to use it as an excuse not to go.

DO THEY HAVE WHAT YOU'RE LOOKING FOR:
When talking to the staff and taking the tour of the facility, have a notepad with you with a list of things that appeal to you such as childcare, group aerobic classes, a swimming pool or even spinning classes etc., and make sure the club has these things. If you're looking for group classes or need childcare and the club doesn't have them, you will likely not stick with your exercise program.

TRY IT FIRST:
The club may seem to have all of the things you want them to have, but you really should spend some time trying out the equipment and getting a feel for the atmosphere. Most good clubs will give you a one day or even a one week free pass if you ask them for it. They want you as a member and they have nothing to lose by letting you try them out for a week. Always go at the time you would be going regularly. This way you will have a chance to see how crowded it is and how much wait there is for the equipment. You can see if the equipment is maintained well and kept clean and how helpful and friendly the staff is. You can even talk to a few members and ask them what they like about the club.

MEMBER ASSESSMENT:
Observe the members to see what they are like. You need a comfortable setting in order to enjoy your workouts. If you are a women looking to get in better shape for example, and the club seems to be full of hardcore, male bodybuilders, that club may not be right for you. Pick a club where you feel comfortable and welcome.

PRICE AND CONTRACTS:
You need to know what all of the costs are and what is included with the membership fee. Find out if things like lockers, classes, swimming pool and childcare cost extra above the membership fee. Some clubs charge a one time initiation fee and have a minimum three month purchase requirement. Others require you to sign a six month to a one year contract and require payment to be debited directly from your account.

There are some that will let you pay on a month to month term with no contract. If you do go with a contract, make sure you can cancel without being made to pay if you decide to go with another club or move away. Know what you can afford to pay, and don't let sales staff talk you into paying more by offering you "special" deals on services. Often they will bargain with you to some degree on price. Taking thirty dollars a month from you is better for them than losing you altogether insisting on forty dollars.

If you go out there to look for a health club and you've done your homework using the advice given here, you will be sure to make your selection wisely and belong to a club that you will be happy with and want to go to. Remember, wanting to go to the club is the first big step to getting and keeping you in good health.