If you’ve decided that this year will finally be the year that you knuckle down, get stuck into your training, and really start chasing that all-elusive 6 pack abs, you’ll likely be considering a gym to train at. If you decide that you’re ready to commit to a regular training regime in the gym, one of the first things you need to do is find a gym to train at. Having access to the right gym can make all of the difference for those of you looking to pursue your fitness goals and get in shape. To help make your search for the best gym that little bit easier, here are a few helpful tips along with my thoughts and experience as I’ve changed gyms many times over the years.

The Price

Okay, when it comes to finding the right gym for you, in an ideal world, price wouldn’t be a problem. Sadly, we don’t live in an ideal world, and if you are on a budget you won’t be able to afford to splash out on expensive gym memberships. When looking for a gym to train at, compare prices to get an idea of how much an average gym membership is per month/year, and then use these numbers to figure out your budget. Just be aware that just because a membership is more expensive than others, that doesn’t necessarily mean that the gym is better. Always go into a gym and enquire about prices and free trials, even ask if they can give you a better price – Have an idea what nearby gyms are offering and see if the one you want to go to will match (or better) the asking price. When changing gyms I’ve always come prepared with nearby gym prices and what they offer in mind in order to get a better price. Also don’t forget to make them feel good and make them want your business as a lot of gyms will do almost anything for memberships!

Equipment

The next thing you need to consider when looking for a gym to train at, is the equipment. Stop and ask yourself what type of training you want to be doing. Do you want to build muscle and increase your strength, or are you looking to burn fat and increase your stamina and endurance? Decide on what your goals are, and then look at the equipment the gym has on offer. If you want to build muscle but find that the gym has very little in terms of free weights and resistance machines, it’ll probably be no good to you. Basically, look at what the gym has and decide whether it’s what you need. Be aware that not all gyms are the same! Some gyms have a stronger focus on free weights and weight machines whereas other gyms focus more on weight loss related machines (treadmills etc) and services.

Cleanliness and maintenance

Okay, when at a gym, you’re there to work hard, sweat, and exercise. Gyms aren’t the most hygienic of places, but you want one that is well maintained. If the gym is dirty, has clearly not been cleaned regularly, and the equipment is damaged or dirty, this gives the impression that the owners don’t care. If they don’t care about their own business, they likely won’t care about you. My last employer put very little care in regards to cleanliness and maintenance – Many machines were always broken for months on end and the bathrooms were absolutely disgusting with damaged titles, blocked toilets and broken soup dispensers. When checking out gyms always utilize free trials so you’ll have the opportunity to experience the whole gym experience.

Atmosphere

One of the best ways of gauging whether a gym is right for you is to train there once and determine whether it has the right atmosphere. Some gyms just don’t have the right atmosphere. They can have the best equipment going, they can have plenty of facilities, friendly staff, happy members etc, but if the atmosphere just doesn’t seem right to you, it’ll affect how you train and your motivation levels. Think of it like having a one-on-one personal trainer – If they aren’t showing much interest in helping you achieve your fitness goals, it doesn’t really help your motivation level. Staff at your gym should be motivated, excited and demonstrate they really enjoy their job. And what about lighting? Brightly lit gyms help create more positive energy, encouraging a more focused and less fatigued workout. Along with lighting, good music also helps you increase energy efficiency. Did you know that studies have shown that music with faster tempo subconsciously helps you push harder through your workout? Studies like that is a reason why some gyms play faster tempo music. My gym was recently renovated with new facilities and impressive lighting that not only helps you in your workout but really shows off your work when getting those selfies!

It’s Members

Finally, look at how busy the gym is, try to find out how busy it gets, and look at the average members. If you’re new to training, even though they’re likely the friendliest bunch going, training amongst a gym full of enormous hulking bodybuilders and powerlifters may seem a little intimidating and daunting. I suggest you talk to the gym’s sales people or a personal trainer who can give you more information about their typical members, peak and off-peak periods and best spots to go to that fit in with your fitness goals. At my gym we typically see it being the most busy between 7pm and 9pm, which is a bit unusual compared to a typical gym. This is due to the unusual workouts by our members living in the area. These members are mostly looking to build muscle, with members attending the gym outside these hours are more looking to lose weight and tone. Again, if your new to a gym, outside peak hours would be a good starting point.

As you know I’m a personal trainer working for some of PureGym’s top locations in the London area. PureGym ticks all the above boxes along with round the clock 24 hour opening times, flexible and affordable memberships with plenty of fully working gym equipment, access to the best personal trainers (myself included 😉 ) and heaps of group classes. Check out PureGym here to locate your nearest gym. You’ll find that no matter where you are in the UK, your nearest PureGym will have a full suite of services that will satisfy your exercise needs. If your in the area and are looking for a personal trainer hit me up via the links in my contact card located at the bottom of this post. Also checkout this article where men’s health lists some top gyms in London.

Been to gym you were extremely impressed with or extremely disappointed with? Share your experience in the comments area below!