Sport And Health Club

Health clubs and sport clubs of all sorts remain extremely popular. Some people have been committed to them for years. Others join up for a couple months after the holidays to shed a few of those extra pounds put on at that time of year. Many who join benefit greatly, while others could have accomplished the same feats at home without having to pay a new bill. It would be helpful for most people to recognize if they really desire or need a membership to a sport and health club before they sign a contract. The best way to do this is to go in to several and ask for a tour or a trial membership. Not all clubs are equal and some are very specialized. If one club doesn’t suit you, it doesn’t mean they are all not for you. Here are some of the most common types of clubs:

• Sport club or athletic club – These are usually the largest of health clubs available. Most will have a wide range of amenities and features, along with a variety of specialized activities and classes. Most sports clubs include an Olympic-size pool, basketball courts, racquetball, tennis, jogging tracks, and field sports. Popular classes include yoga, spin, and step.
• Health club or gym – These medium to large-sized facilities are usually geared toward muscle-building/toning and cardio workouts. They offer very few frills and require a lot of self-motivation. They are usually less expensive than sports clubs.
• Personal trainer studios – These are usually smaller facilities because they are made for one-on-one training. Fees are normally based on the experience and proficiency of the trainer. For those who have the money and lack motivation, this is a good choice.
• Pilates – This form of specialized studio has become very popular over the past years. Pilates is a modern form of moving yoga that improves mobility, strength, and flexibility.
• Yoga – Yoga is based on holding postures and breathing to promote physical well-being, build muscle control, and improve flexibility while reducing stress.
• Aerobics – Aerobics gained popularity in the 1980s but has since diminished somewhat over the years. Home aerobics videos have largely replaced aerobics studios
• Martial Arts – Martial arts helps to develop flexibility, muscle, and coordination while learning a valuable, confidence-building skill.

After deciding which type of sport and health club you would like, check out a few. Stay close to home. Having to travel to a workout greatly reduces the chances you will actually go. Ask for tours and/or trial memberships. Look over the pricing and see how the cost matches up to the offerings. Don’t look at all offerings. Look at just the ones you plan to use. Don’t forget to check if there are any specials or discounts. Some companies have a corporate discount plan for a particular gym as an employee benefit.

Although the best deals usually come from “volume” gyms, their staff may be trained more as salespeople than fitness experts. Test their knowledge with valid questions and ask to see credentials. A yearly or half-year membership is often enticing, but month-by-month will usually save you money when you are just beginning. Make sure you will stick to it before committing to long-term membership.