You have plenty of choices when seeking a gym. They range from small to mega, basic to luxurious. They can be run by private companies or by public-sector organizations, such as universities and local governments. Familiarizing yourself with the fitness-club industry is a good first step in figuring out which gym will suit your needs.
Industry
About 45.3 million people belonged to gyms as of early 2010, according to the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association, the trade association serving the health and fitness club industry. The number of clubs totaled 29,750, and industry revenue for 2009 was $19.5 billion.
Selection
For most people, cost is a key consideration when selecting a health club. Fifty-four percent of respondents in a 2009 survey sponsored by the Anytime Fitness club franchise said it is the most important factor for them. Another 21 percent said convenience or atmosphere were tops. And if you are looking for a deal, December is the best time to shop around. "Since there is a lot of competition in the market, fitness centers waive all sorts of fees to attract new customers at the end of the year," FitSugar.com's associate editor, Michele Foley, told ABC News.
Trends
The IDEA Health and Fitness Association survey found that "small and versatile" led the way for gym equipment. About 94 percent of respondents reported that their facilities offered resistance tubing or bands. And 87 percent had barbells or dumbbells. Water fitness equipment also made the list of 25 most commonly offered items, as did stair climbers, indoor cycles and pneumatic machines. Pilates were a popular class offering, available at 68 percent of fitness clubs, and yoga was not far behind, on offer at 61 percent of facilities.
Hygiene
Exercise equipment can harbor germs, as can other surfaces in a gym, such as the changing-room floor. You can pick up a cold, influenza, athlete's foot and other infections. To avoid picking up or spreading pathogens, wash your hands completely after working out and use disinfectant spray or wipes to clean down machines before using them. Just in case you still come into contact with germs, keep your hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth when you are using gym equipment. Also, when it is shower time, wear sandals.
References
- International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association: IHRSA's Global Report on the State of the Health Club
- Anytime Fitness: New Survey Shows Fitness Goals Trump Money Woes for Most
- IDEA Health and Fitness Association: 2008 Programs & Equipment Survey Results
- Cox College: Avoid Germs at the Gym
- ABC News: The New Year Is the Best Time to Get a Deal on a Gym Membership
Member Comments