What to Look for When Choosing a Gym

If you were to ask someone what they looked for when choosing a gym, your answer would most likely be, “I don’t know, they have a lot of treadmills, I guess.” Yeah, that may be nice at times, but there are so many key factors to take into consideration when choosing a gym where you will thrive.

There are a few main things to keep an eye out for when deciding which gym is right for you. When you first walk in, who is the first person to greet you, or is there even anyone that notices you? First impressions are huge when choosing a gym, because it is what sets the standards on how you are going to be recognized while you are there.

If you are interested in a gym, step in and ask for a tour and see what happens. This is your chance to see the gym, what equipment they use and most importantly what the trainers are like. Is the facility clean? Are the trainers personable and how are they interacting with their members? They should make the time for you and have no problem with answering questions you may have.

A movement screen is a must. If a gym doesn’t know how you move how can they create a program that’s going to give you the best results? The FMS, functional movement systems screen, this is one we do at Forward Fitness! If you are looking to do semi-private training, or even group classes the trainer needs a base to build from and the FMS is the way to go. This will allow the trainer to see your strengths as well as opportunities to build a better foundation for your training. Most importantly it will decrease injury, increase movement and strength, and help get you the best results.

Accountability and motivation are key factors when working out. There are some people that are great with holding themselves accountable when working out and there are others that may need the motivation to keep themselves accountable. Either way, you can find what helps you best when sticking to a workout schedule. Does the gym you are interested in call/text you if you miss a session or haven’t been in a while? Do you have to schedule your workout or can you go anytime? Scheduling a workout can be a great tool because then you have to go at the time. You can’t keep saying. “I’ll go later today.” Does the gym that you are interested in have a form of motivation (monthly goals to create and achieve)? Do they have challenges to join to help push you that extra step and hold yourself accountable? There are many ways to help motivate yourself and others and it is a great option to have when choosing a gym.

One last (and huge part of what motivates me) is having the team or family by your side, pushing you to meet your goals and keeping that positive atmosphere. When you walk into the gym, are there members that are mingling? Does there seem to be a sense of comradery? Do the trainers seem involved with the members? If so, that is the place to be! Those are your building blocks and your foundation to keep you positive and to keep you going when you just aren’t feeling it! That is your team, your family!!

I hope you find the perfect gym to help you move forward with your goals. If you live or work near Maplewood, Forward Fitness would love to be that gym for YOU!