Are You Paying Too Much for Your Gym Membership?

The health benefits of physical activity are now well defined. Not only does exercise provide physical benefits in the form of a healthier heart and a firmer, more toned physique, but also it has a positive impact on mental health. Who doesn't feel less stressed after a vigorous workout at the gym? Unfortunately, gym membership fees can be expensive, and they can take a substantial chunk out of your paycheck every month. This is one area where it really pays to consider your various fitness options before signing on the dotted line, especially when some gym memberships can commit you for an extended length of time. How can you get the best value for your dollar when it comes to gym membership fees?

The most important thing to keep in mind before signing up for a gym membership is that you need to be committed to going if you hope to derive any value from your membership. Otherwise, you're wasting both your time and money. Even worse, if you signed up for a long-term contract, the amount of money you're losing in gym membership fees could be substantial. Many people sign up for a gym membership on a whim, never considering their level of commitment to physical fitness. They may use their gym membership for a few weeks and, when they fail to see immediate results, get discouraged and quit. Unfortunately, if they signed up for the long-term plan heavily promoted by the gym, they'll end up paying each month for their gym membership, whether they use it or not. Before investigating gym memberships, make sure you're committed to actually using the facilities.

Although most gyms and health clubs will try to sell you an annual contract, this isn't always the best choice. If you're unsure as to your level of commitment, always choose the monthly plan with the option to cancel on a monthly basis. You may pay a bit more, but at least you have the option of canceling if you're not satisfied. Another option some gyms and health clubs offer is the pay-as-you-go plan. Using this plan, you pay a flat rate each time you use the gym. This can be a good way to test the facilities to ensure you'll be happy there. This also is an option if you don't plan on using the gym very often. You'll pay more using this plan, but it beats committing to a longer term gym membership you may not use.

To avoid paying too much for a gym membership, always thoroughly investigate your options. Don't be tempted by the flashy ads that show well-toned fitness buffs praising the facilities. Ask yourself if you really need all the advertised bells and whistles, such as a hot tub, sauna, indoor pool and on-site massage. To get the job done, you may only need basic strength training and cardio equipment, which even a rudimentary gym will provide, usually at a substantial discount. Instead of joining the trendiest gym in your area, check out your local YMCA first. It may have everything you need without the burden of paying costly gym membership fees.

Sometimes you can save money on gym membership fees by joining at the right time of year. Many health clubs and gyms run annual or biannual specials where fees are discounted or the initial sign-up fee is waived. If you're not in a hurry, sign up when one of these specials is offered. Just beware of long-term contracts. You never know when the gym will go out of business. You may even be able to negotiate lower gym membership fees if you approach the gym at the right time. Memberships usually dwindle during the second half of the year as people who joined after the New Year cancel their memberships. Don't hesitate to ask for a discount if you feel you can't afford to pay the going rates. If you catch the gym at the right time, it may accept your offer. You may also be able to get a discount on gym membership if you join with other family members or refer a friend or neighbor.

If you work full-time, check with your work site and see if they are willing to pay a portion of your gym membership fees. Your company may be able to call a local gym in your area and arrange a discount for all the employees at your work site. More and more employers are interested in keeping their employees fit and healthy, so it may be in their best interest.

A final option to consider is exercising at home. It really doesn't take a lot of equipment to get a great workout. A jump rope and some resistance bands are far cheaper than any gym membership fees and will help you get into better shape. Fitness is a state of mind; it doesn't take a fancy gym to allow you to accomplish your goals.