If you’re thinking about joining a gym, the cost of membership will most certainly be a major factor in your choice. To ensure that you spend your money wisely, pay close attention to the gym’s services and consider if a membership is really necessary to achieve your fitness objectives.
Here’s what you should know before you join a gym, as well as how you may save money on your subscription.
How Much Does Gym Membership Cost?
Gym memberships typically cost between $10 to $100 per month, with some well-known brands being on the low end of that spectrum. However, charges may rise dramatically, particularly at premium fitness centres.
It might be difficult to determine the exact cost of a gym membership since many facilities hide the data. For example, some clubs demand a one-year commitment with an upfront deposit or would charge a significant fee. Here are some of the standard membership fees we’ve seen offered at big gym chains:
• Planet Fitness: Prices begin at $10 per month plus taxes and fees.
• 24 Hour Fitness: Starts at $10 per month plus tax if you commit to a month-long membership.
• Crunch Fitness: Starts at $9.95/month.
• Gold’s Gym: Membership starts at about $34 per month.
Costs vary widely based on the gym’s location, membership categories, and whether you pay monthly or yearly. Read the small print on a gym’s website or ask a membership representative to provide complete cost information.
What to Consider Before Joining a Gym
The price is significant, but it is just one of many factors to consider while making a selection. Here are some other factors to consider while looking for a gym.
Your Budget
The expense of a gym membership should be weighed against its benefits. Add up the other monthly expenditures you’ll have to deal with, such as food and energy bills, to determine how much space you have in your budget.
This might help you determine if you’ll have enough money for a basic or premium membership, or whether you should put off joining up for the time being. If a membership is not now within your budget, try putting away money each month in a separate savings account until you accomplish your goal.
The Gymnasium’s Location
Convenience is crucial. You’ll probably be more inspired to go to a gym that’s near to your house, job, or school than one in a faraway area. Investigate the choices in places you currently frequent.
Consider if a chain or a single gym is better suitable for you. Some gyms limit membership to a single location, while others enable you to use it at many sites around the network. You can choose a flexible membership if you want access to your gym while travelling or the ability to work out at locations close to both your home and work.
Quality of the Gym
Evaluate the facility. Does the gym have the necessary equipment for the exercises you want to do? Is there adequate equipment to handle a surge of gymgoers during peak hours? Are the facilities clean and well-maintained, or do they seem rundown?
Pay attention to what else the gym has to offer. Perhaps it functions as a bigger fitness facility with courses and a tennis court. Consider if facilities such as a sauna, swimming pool, and child care services are required, nice-to-have, or unneeded.
The Gym’s Hours
Unless you have a flexible schedule, a gym’s operating hours will be a critical factor in your choosing. If you can only exercise late at night or early in the morning, you’ll need to find a fitness club that is open during those hours. It is also advisable to inquire if the entire range of services is accessible at all times.
Alternative Means of Exercising
Consider if it is essential to join a gym at all. There are several free or low-cost alternatives to exercise, such as jump roping or following along with Pilates videos on YouTube.
If you intend to exclusively use the treadmill at the gym, you may save money by going for a daily run instead. Purchasing your equipment might also save you money in the long run.
Alternatives will not always make sense, however. You may not have enough room in your house to accommodate barbells or a stationary cycle. Building a home gym might also be costly upfront.
Your Motivation
How likely are you to use the gym if you join? Consider your motivations for desiring a membership, as well as the difficulty of physically getting to the gym.
If you have a demanding profession or a busy family life, you may not be able to devote enough time to the gym to justify purchasing a subscription.
On the other side, having a designated workout area surrounded by other people who are working out may be just what you need to stay motivated.
Trial periods.
Many gyms provide free trial periods or single-day passes. Testing out a facility might help you determine if it is a suitable match before making a financial commitment. If the gyms you’re interested in offer free trials or guest passes, take advantage of them.
How to Save Money on Gym Memberships
Before enrolling, seek methods to save money.
Get a Recommendation
Do you have a friend or family who works at the gym you’re thinking about joining? Inquire whether there is a referral offer. You might get a discount, such as a decreased price, a gift card, or a free week of membership. The individual who refers you may earn comparable perks as a bonus.
Piggyback on Another Person’s Membership
Certain gym memberships offer guest rights, and other programs are intended for family and friends to enjoy. See if you can go along for free or share the expense with someone.
Utilize Employee Perks
Many employers provide gym stipends or corporate discounts. If you are employed, inquire about any fitness benefits that may be available to you. If your firm does not provide a discount directly, it may have a health insurance plan that covers certain exercise expenses.
Search for Deals
Some gyms offer discounted membership fees at certain periods of the year, such as Black Friday or New Year’s. Past deals have included free enrollment costs and two years for the price of one.
Another possible source of savings is your credit card. The correct rewards card might help you earn points or cash back for your membership payment. Check out some of the finest credit cards with fitness benefits, or see if you can obtain an offer from your existing card.
Ask About Special Deals
Certain categories of individuals, such as students, the elderly, and military personnel, may be eligible for discounted membership costs at certain gyms. Ask around to see if you’re eligible for any discounts.
