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The Best Gym For You
If you are thinking about joining a gym or any type of health club, there are a few things you should know before signing a contract and handing over your credit card. The most important thing, besides making sure the price is within your budget, is to make sure you like the feel of the place, so you are inspired to go often. If you are the type to work out during your lunch break, a gym that is lively, well-lit, and colorful may be the perfect place to exercise and rev up your energy for the rest of the day. If instead you are the type of person who has an active day and uses the gym to wind down, a dark, quiet gym may be more your style. "Try it before you buy it" is a good phrase to remember. Before you sign a membership contract, know what the terms are; some gyms only offer automatic-withdrawal for your monthly payment, others will send you a bill each month which might make you want to set up your own atuomatic payments with your bank or credit card to avoid late fees. Some gyms offer huge discounts if you pay for a year or two upfront. Most membership or sales advisors will offer you a discounted "initiation fee" if you just ask. They may even deny you if you ask, but if you have visited other gyms that offered to waive the start-up fee, tell them that and see if they will offer their competitor's offer. They want your business, so make them earn it. It's a great idea to push for a discount when it's the gym you want, but also the gym that is out of your set price range. Virtually every health club on the planet will give you a free pass for one day if not for one week. Try out the gym, use the showers, take a class, stop by the kids club or the smoothie bar, and make sure you really like the whole package. You'll be glad you did once you see how often you go and how much you enjoy going, and especially how much you enjoy your fitter body as a result.
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Make the Most of a Gym Membership
Most gyms have discounted rates for their members such as discounts on swimming classes or climbing lessons, and a members-only rate for massage and childcare. Ask the front desk staff for pricing information. In order to maximize your workout time, know what you want to do before you head to the gym. It is okay if you change your mind, but have an idea of what you want to accomplish that day, whether it is cardio training to get a good sweat, or strength training to fatigue part or all of your muscles. That way, you will not find yourself wasting time wandering from machine to machine trying to figure out how it works or if you should try it. When planning your workout beforehand, you will have to take into account how you feel as well as your environment. If the only time you have to workout is rush hour at the gym when every machine is full, perhaps you should take a class that day. If it is pouring rain and you were planning on biking outside, hop onto an exercise bike or take a spinning class. Having reasonable backup plans for when things change mid-day will help keep you on track.
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Yoga versus Pilates
A good way to decide whether to take yoga or Pilates is to figure out what you are looking for in a workout. Both techniques offer a combination of mind and body exercises. Yoga adds spirituality to the mind/body equation, while Pilates offers a layer of repetitive strengthening and toning. In yoga classes, there will be some form of meditation. Both Pilates and Yoga studios offer group classes. Pilates studios offer more one on one training and also have equipment that is integral to most Pilates programs. Begin your exploration of yoga or Pilates by signing up for classes at a nearby studio or gym. Many studios offer free or discounted classes for new students. Neither exercise form can be learned in its entirety by taking a few classes or by buying one DVD. In order to become a Pilates or Yoga instructor, individuals undergo lengthy training and intense testing. It is valuable to have knowledgeable instruction and hands on guidance to properly gain all the benefits and to avoid unnecessary injury.
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Free Exercise: Public Parks
Public Parks offer a wide variety of exercise and fitness opportunities. From simple activities like walking to physical activities like baseball, parks are gyms you can attend without paying a membership fee. Many parks and public spaces have numerous amenities to suit your every fitness need. You can find soccer fields, football fields, running tracks, tennis courts, basketball courts, cycling routes, callisthenic bars, swimming pools and so much more. National and state parks also often host fitness events including sports tournaments, walk-a-thons, cycling seminars and swim lessons. You can plan a fun, filled day of activity at the park, but be sure to check ahead of time to see what the rules and regulations are for using park space and what facilities and amenities are open at what times.