Smart Shopping: Fitness Fees

WSVN -- Starting off the New Year with a new workout routine should be stress free. But, for many of us, picking the right gym can be a workout itself. Smart Shoppers know you don't want to spend a lot on gas, so when you go shopping for a gym, look for one in your area.

Ryan: "I was looking for something that's convenient, something that's close to my house."

Janice Muller: "At the beginning of the year, everybody is ready to go, and then two weeks in, not so ready, so closest to home is great or closest to work."

Next, figure out what you can afford to pay.

Lisa Dorfman: "The first thing that I advise people to do when looking for a gym membership is to look for something that's affordable, so don't go over your budget to get in shape."

UM Sports Nutrition and Performance Expert Lisa Dorfman says gyms range big in cost, so you're going to have to shop around. Once you find a gym you think you like, ask for a free trial before making a commitment.

Lisa Dorfman: "Do they offer a trial week, a trial day? Often they will offer a free personal training lesson or two."

That way you can make sure the gym is right for you. It also helps you make sure you are ready to start your new routine.

Joaquin Avino: "I really wanted to be able to get off the medicines that I was taking, mainly for cholesterol."

Lisa says whatever the reason, the best time to start exercising is when you are ready to make a change, and don't forget to do your homework. Check for special offers and don't be afraid to negotiate.

Rick Rodriguez Pina: "I think, in hard times it creates an opportunity for people to barter and negotiate with a business owner in effort to try to get members into the club."

Another money-saver is to ask for a freeze option in the membership.

Lisa Dorfman: "If you travel, you're not always in town. You want to be able to take that time off."

This way, you won't be losing money when you can't make it to the gym, and finally, make sure you know you're working out with someone who knows what they are doing. Don't be afraid to ask for instructor credentials.

Lisa Dorfman: "Make sure the person is certified who is teaching the class, that they absolutely know how to prevent injuries."

Now, if you're a student, you can get great deals at your university's gym facility, often times there may even be no charge, and always check for cleanliness to avoid possible illnesses that can be passed along.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:

Lisa Dorfman
Sports Nutritionist/Adjunct Professor-University of Miami
www.foodfitness.com

House of Fitness
9541 S. Dixie Highway
Miami, FL 33156
(305) 669-1161
www.houseoffitnessgym.com