Portland metro area gyms and fitness centers have been buzzing this New Year with bees.

• “I want to BEE 20…30…40 pounds lighter.”
• “I want to BEE able to fit into my wedding gown come summer.”
• “I want to BEE more energetic throughout the day (not to mention the bedroom).”
• “I want to BEE healthier and feel sexier.”

And the list goes on and on.

As gyms have become overcrowded the last couple of weeks with new and old athletes alike jumping on their resolutions for a healthier lifestyle success at this commitment are shown by a study at the University of Washington to be only 40% by year’s end, with most people dropping off in three months.  If a gym membership is part of your plan, considering switching facilities, or maybe you have a steady playground here are some tips all can use to get the most enjoyment in your health investment. 

The value of your dollar? 

January can account for 12-15% of new gym memberships.  Id Magazine toured many clubs and surveyed their readership and found that these prices range $12.50/month (10^th Ave Fitness downtown) to $70/month many of these rates in addition to initiation fees ranging up to hundreds of dollars.   What is interesting in our “shopping” is the tactic of sale representative holding off on the prices until the very end of the presentation.  It should be like a menu or car sales sticker–here are the features and cost together right up front.  If you are concerned about cost, especially with the current economic situation, demand it up front.  Remember you have the buying power.  Also, don’t be shy to shop around and take your time making the decision to purchase.

Attractiveness in variety of equipment, classes, and overall facilities has occurred in many of the current health clubs around town as new ones like L.A. Fitness have been opening up locations in the last year.  Neiland Fitzgerald admits that he switched to L.A. Fitness because his previous gym was not as clean as he desired with visible signs of poor hygienic maintenance.  Clubs keep this in mind when trying to attract you as a new member.  For example, 24HR Fitness in the Pearl has seen renovations in its floors, new paint on the walls, and the addition of a series of “Rockit” weight training machines.  The Hollywood location has also completed its 3^rd renovation adding 10,000 square feet with a new floor for all cardio equipment and group exercise classes in addition to adding a towel service. 

Consider also how the health club of interest may fit into your current lifestyle and schedule.  Kyle Nesbit and Adrian Haughton are both proud members of 24HR Fitness because of the convenience and location of the clubs to where they live and the ability to go anytime.  Variety of exercise classes and time availability for exercise classes is important to others to avoid the stagnation of constant routine.

 Check back on Monday Jan.18^th, to learn how the health club’s culture can make or break your success this year.

Posted by MatthewFree on Friday, January 15th, 2010 at 1:06 pm.