MAXIMIZE YOUR Health Club Membership

Most health clubs offer much more than just a place to exercise, so take advantage.
If you're a new member of a health club, chances are you'll visit it this monthand the next and the next. But, come April, when the urgency of your New Year's resolutions wears off, will you still be working out or attending fitness classes regularly ‘Health club usage and membership typically peak in the first quarter and drop off after that,’ says Rosemary Lavery, a spokeswoman for the International Health, Racquet & Sportsclub Association in Boston. ‘But it's not because gym-goers have specific complaints about their clubs or bad experiences. Rather, their attendance drops off because their motivation wanes or they don't feel like they're reaping enough benefits.’ Lavery offers these tips for becoming a gym regular year-round and getting more out of your membership. Choose the Right Club To get the most out of your club, you'll need to go often, at least once or twice a week. If the club you've chosen isn't close to your home or work, consider joining one that is. ‘Convenience to work or home makes it a lot easier to get to the club and increases the likelihood you'll stick with it," says Lavery. ‘If it takes too much time to get there, you may go at first, but you'll eventually stop.’ After using convenience to narrow your options, identify your fitness goals and select a club that offers programs and services that will help you achieve them. ‘If, for example, your goal is to become active in racquet sports and swimming, choose a workout facility that offers these options,’ says Lavery. Likewise, if you have young children, a club with child care is potentially a plus. Keep in mind that health clubs often are marketed toward certain niches, such as baby boomers, men, women, families, or professionals. To become a regular, join a club where you feel comfortable. One of the benefits of working out at a club compared with exercising at home is that you're not alone. Making friends at the club or regularly seeing the same people who share similar fitness goals can give you a sense of belonging and accountability. ‘Social support can increase your motivation to use the club regularly," says Lavery. So don't just hop on the treadmill and go home. Take advantage of the club's community by adding group exercise classes or the club's volleyball league to your fitness repertoire. Think Wellness, Not Workout The range of fitness classes many health clubs offer has expanded considerably to include yoga, karate, spinning, and group weight training, among others. Trying something new can renew your commitment to exercise and help beat boredom and burnout. ‘Many health clubs now offer amenities and wellness services, such as massage, nutrition, and weightmanagement counseling,’ says Lavery. ‘Tapping into these extras can give you more reasons to go.’”

Vitality Magazine