MIND & BODY

Choose the right gym

You’ve heard your friends say, “Hey, you’ve put on weight!” Your spouse refuses to allow you to gorge on chocolate soufflé. The world is talking about getting into shape and healthy lifestyles. And of course, you’ve told yourself a million times “It’s time I joined a gym”.

So that’s where you head. You’re impressed by the wild throbbing music. Bright lights. A line-up of imported equipment. New-age workouts.

In the midst of all this, people swing by in tracksuits pumping sweat, aiming for the perfect well toned body!

And you think, “I’ve found my perfect avenue for fitness”.

You can assume nothing so here are some quick pointers on how to choose the right gym to get that hazard-free fitness into your life.

Three foundations to build your wellness requirements.

Health screening: Health screening can evaluate areas of concerns and needs.

Programming: The goal here is to design a safe, effective workout plan.

Instruction: You need to be provided with clear instructions on exercise technique and usage of equipment prior to and during the exercise session.

When it comes down to joining a fitness centre, you may feel stuck - if you aren’t informed and prepared. Be particular. Talk to friends, and take the tours until you find a place that meets your expectations. After all, finding the right gym can be the key to a healthy body and mind.

Location is crucial to ensure that you are a regular at your gym.

It’s best if you are able to join a centre that is close to your work place or home.

Customer service is more than answering a phone call. It is responsiveness, concern and consistency. The staff should willingly show you around the centre, address your health concerns and be able to answer your queries.

Check if they have all those facilities you are looking for from equipment to steam bath, sauna and pool. You must also check whether the showers, restrooms and locker areas are clean and hygienic.

Every gym has rush and slack hours. Find out if you are able to move around smoothly from one exercise machine to another without waiting endlessly. Slot your time accordingly.

Well-maintained equipment is crucial for effective training. Fitness centres should actually use disinfectant each time equipment is handled. If the gym provides drinking water — it should meet the required hygiene standards.

Weight Training Make sure they have the weight training equipment you need. Look at the condition of the benches, racks, dumbbells, barbells and the overall selection of the equipment.

Cardio Machines Make sure they have a wide variety of cardio machines which should include:

Elliptical Machines

Treadmills

Stationary Bikes

Stair Climbers

Rowing Machines

Spinning Bikes

Look at the current machines and see if they look new and fresh or old and used. Look for "Under Repair" signs on the multiple pieces of equipment. Another thing to look for is an aerobics room where you may want to try out some group classes.

The atmosphere or ambience in a gym can motivate members to live healthy lifestyles. Does your gym promote a positive atmosphere encouraging health and well-being?

Most important criteria….

The heart and soul of a gym lies in its training body. A trainer who has insufficient knowledge on anatomy can cause more harm than good. Injuries can be caused due to wrong technique and inappropriate exercise selection. Many fitness centres declare the certifications of the trainers on their notice boards. This adds to the credibility of the trainers.

Varun found this out the hard way when he strained his already weak back while exercising vigorously on his trainers’ instructions. He says, “I have been following my trainers instructions and my back started feeling worse.” After rounds to the doctor’s clinic, he is disenchanted about re-joining the gym.

Apart from certifications, find out if your trainer is able to address any specific concerns you may have such as a weak back or knees. Your body will require a different kind of attention and exercise routine to address those needs.

Ask if your gym has the following safety measures available:

First aid kit

Ice

Cardio pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) certified staff

Quick access to medical assistance

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